In this week’s episode, we are joined by Lauren Isley, a genetic counselor at California Cryobank. Have you ever wondered how a sperm bank selects and evaluates its donors? Lauren walks us through what genetics counseling is and how it supports clients in their fertility needs. She shares with us the process of selecting sperm donors, supporting clients in selecting the right donor or in making major decisions based on genetics.She lifts the veil of what goes on behind the scenes and helps reveal the mystery that goes on to create a successful program. Lauren also gives excellent advice for those getting started choosing a donor. Tune in today to get a great understanding of how cryobanks work!

 

IN THIS EPISODE: 

 

• [3:35] Welcome, Lauren Isley! Learning about Lauren’s work. 
• [7:39] Under what circumstances might someone need genetic counseling?
• [10:15] What occurs behind the scenes to ensure sperm meets guidelines?
• [13:50] What conditions make someone eligible to be an egg or sperm donor? 
• [16:14] How does California Cryobank look at the risk a potential donor might have vs. the number of donors needed?
• [22:55] What percentage of egg or sperm donors are eligible, and what might make donors unqualified? 
• [25:38] How does California Cryobank keep up with new genetic information? If there is a new genetic mutation, do they go back and remove those donors?
• [28:28] What happens when new medical information is received after a child is born or the donor uncovers information?
• [36:37] How has technology like 23&Me shifted the number of donors? 
• [43:48] What filters and mechanisms does California Cryobank use regarding the number of families who can use a particular donor?

 

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

 

• When starting your search, start with 2 or 3 items that are your primary criteria. Do you want ethnicity? Height, Education? Whatever it is, start small and narrow down. 
• The cryobank goes through a lot behind the scenes to screen donors. They have a lot of guidelines for donors, including genetics. Some genetic testing will be discussed to see if a recipient will want to move forward with the donor, while others will need testing from the recipient to see if they also care about the genetic mutation. 
• Donors are providing people with the gift of life! The process is long for them, so they deserve much love and appreciation for making the gift a reality. 

 

RESOURCE LINKS

 

California Cryobank

 

California Cryobank Instagram

 

Stork'd Facebook Page

 

Stork'd on Instagram

 

Stork'd YouTube Channel

 

About Lauren:

 

Lauren is a genetic counselor by training and after graduating with a Master’s of Science in Genetic Counseling degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, she began her career in the field of assisted reproductive technology, where she has practiced for the past decade. Her various roles include preimplantation genetic testing, gamete donor screening, and reproductive genetic testing. Across these multiple roles, Lauren has focused on educating both patients and healthcare providers about reproductive genetics. Lauren has published several papers and abstracts related to genetic testing and gamete donors and spoken at multiple national conferences on these topics. Lauren previously served as Chair for the Genetic Counseling Professional Group of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Co-Chair of the Assisted Reproductive Technology and Infertility Special Interest Group of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. She is currently a Medical Science Liaison at Generate Life Sciences, the parent company for California Cryobank, Donor Egg Bank USA, and Cord Blood Registry