IQ screening – why we test our sperm donors
Why sperm donor IQ matters
Research estimates a high heritability of IQ: 50-80%. This means your chosen sperm donor's IQ combined with yours will influence your child's IQ to a large degree.
Why is that important?
IQ indicates cognitive abilities that are important for your future child's chances of navigating life's complexities.
How we test IQ
Before we approve a donor, we score their IQ level using Cattell's Fluid Intelligence Test, Scale 2, also known as CFT 20-R.
The test assesses general intellectual ability, or "General Fluid Ability" as defined by Cattell, focusing on recognising figural relationships and solving formal-logical problems of varying complexity within a set time.
Because it does not rely on language or cultural knowledge, it provides a fair and unbiased measure of a donor’s cognitive abilities.
What do the scores mean?
Two thirds of the population scores within an IQ range of 85-114, so this range is what we consider a normal score.
- IQ 100 is the general average
- IQ 85-114: Normal
- IQ above 114: High
- IQ above 130: Very high
- IQ above 140: Exceptional
Choosing a donor with above-average intelligence increases the likelihood that your child will have strong problem-solving skills and a solid learning foundation, which can positively impact their academic and professional future as well as their general well-being.
Heritability of IQ – risks, advantages & ethics
Low IQ can affect life quality, decision-making, and problem-solving, increasing the risk of mental health issues.
We recognize the ethical discussions surrounding IQ-based donor selection. Our approach provides future parents with knowledge and choice, and we maintain the highest ethical standards and respect all individuals involved in the process.
Donors with low IQ may struggle to grasp the full implications of sperm donation, and since IQ is highly heritable, their children could face cognitive challenges.
Recent studies show a heritability rate for IQ of up to 80%. By choosing a sperm donor with an IQ score in the higher end of the scale, you can lower the risk of having a clinically retarded child and improve your future child's prospects of navigating though life smoothly.
The most important single heritable trait explaining socioeconomic success is the general mental ability as measured by a good IQ test like the one Donor Network uses. It's typically more important than any other single heritable trait.
Hence, as well as heritability of criminal behavioural patterns and personality, the heritability of IQ is something you should emphasise when choosing your sperm donor.
Tell me more about...
-
Fertility staff approvals
We collaborate closely with top fertility clinics. Learn more about the advantages of choosing our fertility staff approved donors.
-
Criminal background checks
Criminal behaviour is 30-50% heritable. Learn more about why we only approve sperm donors with clean criminal records.
-
How to choose a donor
Whether you're starting from scratch or stuck in the process of finding the perfect donor, try our step-by-step guide on how to choose a sperm donor.
Any other questions about using donor sperm?
Our FAQ about donor sperm provides a good overview on the most important things to consider when exploring options of fertility treatment with donor sperm.
Free Consultation
We're with you, ready to support in any way we can.
We're available Monday-Sunday 8:00-21:00 on chat, phone (+44 (0)20 7154 1042) or info@donornetwork.com
Or you can book a free fertility consultation.