A couple is experiencing infertility. The husband is unable to produce sperm. Is there any halachic permissibility to artificially inseminate using donor sperm? Thank You.
Answer:
Leading halachic authorities have debated this delicate question at length. According to some authorities, it is permitted to use the sperm of a non-Jewish donor for the purpose of artificial insemination. However, other authorities have not agreed to the use of this option. For further guidance, I would advise consultation with an orthodox rabbi with whom you have a personal connection, who would be better suited to offer counsel for so delicate a question.
Sources: Iggros Moshe (Even Ha’Ezer 1:71) permits receiving a sperm donation from a non-Jew; however, a number of authorities, including Minchas Yitzchak (4:5), Tzitz Eliezer (9:51), and Yabia Omer (8:21), prohibit it.
