Genetic Disease
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.