Find answers to common questions about donor matching and co-parenting through Gene Pool.
What is Gene Pool?
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Gene Pool is a platform connecting sperm donors with intended recipients and co-parents. We help people building non-traditional families find compatible partners based on stated preferences and genetic compatibility.
Who is Gene Pool for?
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Single women and same-sex couples seeking sperm donors. Sperm donors looking for recipients (known-donor arrangements). People interested in platonic co-parenting partnerships. We support all family configurations.
How do you screen donors?
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Donors complete profiles with optional fields for health history, education, and family background. Our staff can verify profiles and issue badges, but users are responsible for independently verifying medical clearance and conducting background checks before entering any arrangement.
What's the difference between known and anonymous donation?
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Known-donor arrangements (the focus of Gene Pool) mean both parties know each other's identity and may have an ongoing relationship - anything from annual updates to active co-parenting. Anonymous donation through sperm banks is a different model not directly supported here.
Is genetic testing required to use Gene Pool?
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No. You can create a profile and search without uploading DNA. DNA data is optional. If you choose to use DNA features, you can upload a compatible raw autosomal DNA file.
How does co-parent matching work?
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Co-parenting matches pair people who want to actively share parenting responsibilities without being romantically partnered. Compatibility looks at parenting philosophy, location proximity, financial stability, long-term agreement on key decisions and well as genetic diversity in your MHC genes.
How can I manage my privacy?
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Yes. Gene Pool is HIPAA-covered under a signed BAA. Genetic data is encrypted and stored separately from profile information. Your donor or recipient inquiries are private and only revealed to people you explicitly choose to message.
How much does Gene Pool cost?
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Plan access and paid features can change. Check the pricing page for current details before you subscribe or pay.
What about legal agreements?
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Gene Pool does not provide legal advice or draft agreements. Ask a qualified family-law attorney in your jurisdiction about agreements for donor or co-parenting arrangements.
How do I report inappropriate behavior?
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Use the Report button on a member's profile to flag suspicious, harassing, or inappropriate behaviour. You can also contact support.
Can I delete my account and data?
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Yes. You can permanently delete your account and all associated data, including any uploaded DNA files, at any time through your Account Settings.
