Self-Directed Home Insemination
Self-Directed home insemination is your path to conceive with donor sperm at home, using only a syringe and without clinical guidance. This page provides you with valuable information and insights to support you on your path, including an outline of what you need, how to schedule, and step-by-step overview of the insemination process.
If you need guidance or have questions about choosing a donor, we encourage you to contact one of our friendly Client Services Coordinators. You can call 1-206-588-1484 or email us at cs@seattlespermbank.com.
We offer free email, telephone, and in-person consultations, free photo matching, and friendly advice from our team of dedicated coordinators, all of whom interact with our donors on a regular basis.
Ordering Your Vials
Once you’ve confirmed your path, it’s time to order your vials, it’s important to make sure you purchase an ample supply of vials. Since at least one vial is used per insemination, and it typically takes more than one insemination to become pregnant, you’ll want to have enough in storage to cover multiple attempts.
We also have several discount and incentive programs to help make this process more affordable.
If you plan to have samples shipped to your home, pick them up from our lab in Seattle, or you live in the state of New York, your care provider will need to complete our Clinical Release Form.
If you need any support during this process, our staff can help you properly purchase, order, and plan for the storage of your samples.
Your At-Home Insemination Kit
With every home insemination purchase, you will receive a complimentary insemination kit that includes:
- Re-usable foam tray for thawing vials in a water bath
- Two plastic needle-less syringes
- Thawing materials
- Alcohol sterilization wipes
- Step-by-step instructions
If using lubricant, choose a fertility-friendly option, as standard lubricants can damage live sperm. ProSeed is a popular brand that can be found at most pharmacies.
Scheduling Your At-Home Insemination
Timing of your insemination is critical, as the procedure is extremely time-sensitive. Success with home insemination depends heavily on timing and it’s important to understand your “fertility window.”
- Your fertility window is typically a 12–24 hour period around ovulation
- For many women, this occurs between days 10–15 of their cycle
- An ovulation monitor is highly recommended, to track your most fertile days
Tip: Track your cycle for 1–2 months before starting to better understand your body.
Note: It’s not uncommon for a donor’s inventory to temporarily sell out, so it’s better to purchase more up front when they are available. If you get pregnant when you still have samples in storage, you can take advantage of our Buy Back Program.
The Step-by-Step Insemination Process
Once you have your vial(s) at home, watch our demonstration video to get a better understanding of the insemination process, and the steps to follow:
1. Prepare the Sample
Thaw the vial according to instructions and be sure to inseminate within one hour.
2. Create the Right Environment
While you wait for your samples to thaw, create a calm, relaxed environment. You can meditate, listen to soothing music, dim the lights or anything else you find soothing.
3. Postitioning
When everything is ready and in place, lie on your back with your hips elevated using pillows.
4. Insemination
Insert the syringe gently into the vagina as far as it will go. Try to aim the tip as close to the cervix as possible. toward the cervix. Gently press the plunger make sure to empty it completely. Leave it in position for 10-15 seconds before withdrawing it slowly.
5. Stay in Place
To best provide an environment for the sperm to travel, remain lying down for 15–30 minutes following the procedure.
6. Repeat as Needed
You may choose to inseminate only once, but repeating the procedure 2-3 times may increase your chances of conception.
Managing Expectations
To properly manage expectations, it’s good to note that, on average, it takes five cycles for most women to achieve pregnancy. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t succeed on the first or second try.
The key is consistency, proper timing, and a well-informed approach. Our team is always here to support you and work with you on your path to pregnancy!