Internet sperm banks carry risk of distributing semen with STDs

According to the California Cryo Bank, in order to become one of their sperm donors, a person has to go through a variety of tests and procedures to make sure that they do not carry any potentially transmittable diseases. With a growing number of infertile couples turning to this method of conceiving, it's important that this process remains safe and that only registered cryo banks are conducting the exchange of semen.

Recently, ABC news in Canada warned about the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in donated semen that can be purchases over the internet. Health Canada told the news source that there is no way to be sure that this sperm has been tested properly, which increases that chance that it contains HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and hepatitis {lc} B and C. Additionally, these infections may be passed on to unborn children.

The news provider explained the extensive process sperm has to go through in order to be deemed eligible to be given to couples, a process that many online resources may not adhere to.

"Distribution of 'fresh' semen is prohibited in Canada. Donors are required to be screened and tested before donating and six months after donating. The semen is quarantined for a minimum of six months in order to lessen the risk of passing on any infectious disease," said ABC Canada.