Standard of care requires reasonable screening of any prospective sperm donor
for genetic disease. This is true whether accepting donations to a sperm bank
or accepting a donation for a specific woman. This screening should include
testing when indicated. The availability of easy, inexpensive testing for sickle
cell trait, for instance, makes this test mandatory for all prospective donors
who are Black. The fact that the woman has chosen the donor does not relieve
the physician of the responsibility for using reasonable care. Many people are
unaware of any genetic disease they may carry. The patient and the donor
have a right to expect that proper precautions are taken.