Pursuing Donor Conception in 2026

Choosing donor conception is a deeply personal decision, one that blends hope, practicality, self-reflection, and sometimes challenges. If you’re thinking about starting this journey in 2026, you’re not alone. More individuals and couples each year are turning to donor sperm to build their families, whether due to infertility, wanting to be a single parent by choice, or using donor sperm in LGBTQ+ family building.

But before you take the next step, it can help to pause and reflect. What do you want this experience to look like? What matters most to you in the long run? And how can you make the most informed and empowered decisions for yourself and your future child?

Here are the key questions to ask yourself as you consider donor conception in 2026.

1. Am I emotionally ready to pursue this path?

It’s normal to experience a mix of emotions: hope, sadness, gratitude, and uncertainty. Some people choose donor conception after infertility or pregnancy loss; others prefer it proactively as single parents or LGBTQ+ families.

Take a moment to ask:

• Do I feel excited about building a family this way?
• What support, friends, therapists, and online communities do I want around me?
• How will I care for my mental health if the journey is longer or more complex than expected?

Donor conception is a beautiful option, especially when your emotional foundation feels steady.

2. Are my partner and I aligned in this decision? (if applicable)

• Are we aligned on why we’re choosing donor conception?
• Is RIVF (also known as Co-Maternity) part of our family plan?
• How will we support each other throughout this process?
• Have we talked about how we communicate our family-building story, parenting roles, and other important details?

It’s important that you and your partner are on the same page about what family-building looks like for you before moving forward.

3. What medical and genetic information do I need to feel confident?

Genetic compatibility is a key part of choosing your donor. Donors at Fairfax Cryobank undergo extensive medical and genetic screenings, but it’s equally important to understand your own genetic profile.

Our resource Understanding Risk: What You Need to Know offers a clear overview of why carrier screening matters and how it can shape your donor selection.

Some helpful considerations:

• Have I had my own genetic carrier screening?
• Are there any hereditary conditions in my family that I should be mindful of?
• What genetic considerations matter most to me when selecting a donor?

This is incredibly helpful if you know you are a carrier for something specific, since you can filter that our in our donor search.  

4. How do I feel about talking to my future child about donor conception?

Whether you imagine yourself confidently telling your toddler their story with pride, or you’re nervous about teenage questions, it’s worth reflecting on your comfort level. More families are choosing openness from day one, and research shows it strengthens trust and connection over time.

Consider:

• How do I want to tell my child about their conception story?
• When will I start introducing the idea?
• What worries or excites me about these conversations?
• How will I support my child if they want to explore their donor-conceived identity?

You don’t need all the answers today, just awareness that this may come up in the future as your child gets older.

5. What practical and financial factors should I consider?

Beyond the emotional and genetic factors, there are other specific factors to consider:

• What fertility treatment (IUI, IVF) is recommended for my situation?
• How many vials might I want for potential siblings?
• How does donor availability impact long-term planning?
• Do I need to include financing options in my planning?

Consult with your medical provider on what vial type and procedure is recommended you’re your specific situation. Review our specimen type overview for more resources and information.  

6. What kind of donor do I want to choose?

This is the heart of the journey. Some families want a donor who shares certain interests or personality traits; others focus on specific physical traits or genetic considerations. Some choose donors who resemble them; others choose someone who simply “feels right.”

As you reflect, consider:

• What matters most to me in a donor: health history, identity release status, physical traits, values, or something else?
• Do I want a Non-ID or an ID Donor?
• How do I feel about donor siblings and potential future connections?
• Am I comfortable with my child having access to donor information later in life?

View our How to Choose your Sperm Donor webinar for a deeper dive into consideration when choosing the right donor for your family.

Taking the Next Steps

Choosing donor conception in 2026 is a courageous and deeply thoughtful step. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or preparing to select a donor soon, we have plenty of resources available to help you take the next steps.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before starting; you only need love, clarity about what matters most, and access to good resources. Fairfax Cryobank is here to support you with transparent donor information, expert guidance, and compassionate care every step of the way.

Your family story begins with a choice, but it grows with love, intention, and joy. Happy New Year!