LGBTQ+ Family Building Part 1: Fertility Care Options for Aspiring Lesbian Parents
Posted on June 24th, 2024
As we celebrate Pride Month, it’s important to remember that having children is a dream for many people, including couples and individuals in the LGBTQ+ community. If you’re an aspiring lesbian parent, there are many options available for growing your family, including intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and reciprocal IVF.
IUI
IUI is a popular fertility treatment for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals. The first step is choosing a sperm donor, which aspiring parents can do with help from a reputable fertility clinic. Once the couple decides who will carry the baby, the sperm is inserted directly into their uterus in the hopes of successful fertilization.
IVF
IVF involves stimulating the ovaries to develop multiple eggs and then fertilizing those eggs with donor sperm to make embryos. After growing for a few days in a laboratory, the embryos are inserted into the uterus of the intended carrier to hopefully create a healthy pregnancy.
Reciprocal IVF
Reciprocal IVF gives both partners in a lesbian relationship the opportunity to contribute biologically to their child. One person will undergo an egg retrieval procedure, and their eggs will be combined with donor sperm for fertilization. The embryos are then transferred to the other partner via IVF, and they will carry and deliver the baby. Couples opt for reciprocal IVF because it’s an enriching experience that allows both partners to connect with their child. However, it’s important to note that this process is more complex and expensive than regular IUI and IVF.
Surrogacy
If both partners don’t wish to carry and deliver a child or have medical conditions that prevent them from doing so, surrogacy is a valid option. Either partner can use their eggs or donor eggs and donor sperm. Once the embryos are ready, they’re inserted into the gestational carrier, who then carries and delivers the baby. Couples interested in surrogacy will work with a surrogacy agency in conjunction with their fertility clinic.
Expert LGBTQ+ Fertility Care
If you’re an aspiring lesbian parent, you have various family-building options, but deciding where or how to start can be an overwhelming process. At Aspire Houston Fertility Institute, we’d be happy to walk you through your options and give you the resources you need to grow your family with confidence. For more information or to schedule an appointment with our expert team, contact us today.
