Thinking about becoming a sperm donor? In India, donor sperm assists hundreds of intended parents annually—from single women and LGBTQ+ couples to heterosexual couples facing fertility issues. This guide provides a clear overview for 2025: eligibility, medical standards, step-by-step procedure, the legal framework under the ART (Regulation) Act 2021, and donor compensation.
Why Become a Sperm Donor? Motivations & Benefits
- Altruistic contribution: You help hopeful parents fulfil their dream of a family.
- Comprehensive health checks: Free blood tests, semen analysis and genetic screening under ICMR guidelines.
- Expense reimbursement: Typically ₹3,000–₹5,000 per donation to cover travel and inconvenience.
- Genetic legacy: Share your DNA without immediate parenting responsibilities.
Eligibility Criteria: Age, Health & Reliability
Under the ART (Regulation) Act 2021 and ICMR guidelines, clinics require donors to:
- Be aged 21–35: Indian clinics typically set the age range narrower than international standards.
- Be in good health: No HIV, hepatitis B/C or other infectious diseases; no inheritable genetic disorders; BMI under 30.
- Be reliable: Commit to donating once or twice weekly for 3–6 months and maintain recommended lifestyle measures.
Medical Standards & Quarantine
Following ICMR and NARI protocols, a semen sample must have at least 15 million sperm per mL and ≥ 32 % progressive motility. Samples are cryopreserved at –196 °C, held for a 90-day quarantine, then retested before release, in compliance with ART regulations.
Sperm Donation Procedure – Step by Step
- Registration & Interview: Fill out a form and discuss your medical and family history with clinic counsellors.
- Screening phase: Provide blood and urine tests, two semen analyses, genetic tests and undergo a physician examination.
- Donation appointments: Donate once or twice per week in a private collection room; maintain 2–3 days abstinence before each donation.
- Cryopreservation: Samples are divided into vials and stored in liquid nitrogen.
- Quarantine & Release: After the 90-day quarantine and repeat infection tests, approved samples are released for distribution.
- Programme completion & extension: Typically 10–15 donations; extensions may be arranged in consultation with the clinic.
Sperm Donation via RattleStork – Flexible Option
RattleStork is a platform connecting donors to intended parents. You arrange home inseminations and agree terms directly—RattleStork does not contract on your behalf. Ensure all medical and legal formalities are self-managed following ICMR guidelines.
Compensation & Tax Treatment
Reimbursement of ₹3,000–₹5,000 per donation covers travel and inconvenience. This amount is a non-taxable reimbursement under Indian tax laws—retain receipts for compliance.
Preparation & Practical Tips
- Maintain 2–3 days of abstinence prior to donation.
- Limit alcohol and tobacco—improvements often noted after 4–6 weeks.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in zinc, folic acid and omega-3 fatty acids (Nature 2020).
- Reduce stress through light exercise and proper sleep.
- Keep your ID, Aadhaar and family medical history documents handy.
Quick Checklist: Are You Eligible?
- ✓ Aged 21–35
- ✓ BMI under 30
- ✓ Free from major infectious or genetic disorders
- ✓ Able to donate 10–15 times over 3–6 months
- ✓ Agree to 90-day quarantine and retesting
- ✓ Consent to data storage under ART regulations
- ✓ Understand donor-conceived offspring may request non-identifying data at age 18
Conclusion
Becoming a sperm donor in India in 2025 is transparent and secure under the ART (Regulation) Act 2021 and ICMR guidelines. By meeting eligibility criteria and following the procedure, you can empower families with minimal effort, while receiving fair compensation and legal protection.