People choose to use donor sperm for a variety of reasons. In some couples, the male partner is sterile and can't provide a sperm sample for intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). Single women and lesbian couples may take advantage of donor sperm to help them achieve the family they desire. In other instances, couples may seek a sperm donor to avoid passing on a genetic disease or disorder that is carried by the male partner.