Laura Coldman wanted a sibling for her son but became single in 2018. IVF was too expensive, so she turned to a Facebook group where men offered free sperm donations.
“At first I thought it was a joke,” Laura said. She visited the donor’s Sheffield home and stayed in a “waiting room” before receiving the sample. After three more donations, she became pregnant and gave birth to Calum in April 2022.
Now Laura is warning others. “You don’t know enough about the person,” she said. “He could have been a criminal or had mental health issues.” She worries about his medical history as Calum shows neurodivergent traits and has no sense of danger.
“I don’t regret it because I have my beautiful son,” Laura said. “But I wouldn’t do it again.” She is now fundraising for a special bed to keep Calum safe at night. Would you ever risk using an unregulated donor?
