Choosing a sperm donor is a deeply personal decision that can shape your family-building journey. Beyond medical and genetic considerations, understanding the types of donor arrangements is essential for making an informed choice. In this article, we'll break down the most common donor types—Early Disclosure and Open ID—and what each means for you and your future child.
Early disclosure refers to sharing donor identity or information with the child early in life, rather than waiting until adulthood. This approach is increasingly recommended by mental health experts and donor-conceived advocates because:
Best Practice: Plan how and when you'll share this information. Many families use age-appropriate language and resources to guide conversations.
An Open ID donor agrees to have their identifying information released to the child once they reach adulthood (typically at age 18). This option balances privacy during childhood with the child's right to know their genetic origins later.
| Donor Type | Identity Known | When Info Is Shared |
|---|---|---|
| Early Disclosure | Yes | After a live birth is reported |
| Open ID | At age 18 | When the child turns 18 |
There's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a donor type. Consider your values, your child's future needs, and seek guidance from fertility specialists and counselors. Whatever you choose, being informed and intentional will help you build the family you've been dreaming of.
Browse our donor database or speak with our team to learn more about choosing the right donor for your family.
