Complete Fertility Launches New Sperm Sharing Programme to Address UK Sperm Donor Shortage
In response to a growing national shortage of sperm donors and a decline in sperm quality, Complete Fertility is proud to announce the launch of its Sperm Sharing Programme, a new initiative designed to improve access to fertility treatment and expand donor availability for those in need.
Over the past year, Complete Fertility has seen a sharp rise in demand for donor sperm. This increase comes amid mounting concerns over male fertility, with research showing significant declines in sperm quality[1] over the past decade[2]. In response, Complete Fertility’s Sperm Sharing Programme provides the opportunity for men undergoing IVF to donate sperm and, in return, receive reduced-cost treatment through a benefits in kind arrangement.
According to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), approximately 1 in 170 children born in the UK each year are conceived through egg or sperm donation. As one of the South’s leading fertility clinics serving both NHS and private patients, the Complete Fertility team wants to continue to improve access to fertility treatment and address the ongoing donor shortage.
Helping Families, Reducing Costs
Under the new programme, eligible men undergoing fully funded IVF can donate sperm to help other individuals or couples build their families. In line with HFEA guidance, sperm sharing can significantly offset the cost of IVF treatment, making it more accessible for those who might otherwise struggle to afford it.
Complete Fertility already runs a highly successful fresh and frozen egg donor programme and the new sperm sharing initiative will give more people the chance to become parents.
As a recent donor shared:
“My own route to parenthood was not traditional. I have always wanted children and have had the joy of adopting a child. Along the way, I've witnessed many friends and acquaintances struggle with infertility, and I felt a strong desire to help. Becoming a sperm donor seemed like a perfect opportunity to assist others in starting a family.”
Mrs Polly Ford, Consultant Gynaecologist and Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, explains:
“We are increasingly treating men for low sperm count and poor sperm quality. This programme is about increasing access for those in need of donor sperm and those who struggle to fund fertility treatment. It combines compassion with practical support to help more people realise their dream of having a family.”
Julie Hedges, Donor Coordinator at Complete Fertility, adds:
“We are fortunate that our patients rarely face delays due to a lack of donor sperm. But we know demand is growing, and this programme will allow us to keep meeting that need.”
All sperm donors will receive:
- Comprehensive screening in line with national safety and quality standards
- Access to a dedicated donor coordination team
- Full implications counselling to ensure informed consent and participation
Why Now?
Male factor infertility plays a role in nearly 50% of infertility cases in couples, yet discussions often focus solely on female fertility. With 1 in 14 men affected by infertility and global research confirming a decline in sperm count, motility, and morphology, Complete Fertility is stepping up to meet the moment.
Join the Programme
Men aged 18 to 45 in good health are encouraged to consider sperm sharing - whether they are undergoing IVF themselves or simply want to help others.
To learn more about the eligibility criteria or register your interest, visit www.completefertility.co.uk/sperm-sharing
or contact our donor team at donorcoordinator@completefertility.co.uk to schedule a confidential call.
[1] https://doi.org/10.26402/jpp.2019.3.02.
[2] According to a 2021 study published in The Lancet,
