Reciprocal IVF for LGBTQ+ Couples

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For LGBTQ+ couples, especially same-sex female couples, reciprocal IVF offers a beautiful way to share the pregnancy journey. This fertility treatment allows both partners to play a direct role in conceiving and carrying their child, creating a unique and deeply connected family-building experience.

What is Reciprocal IVF?

Reciprocal IVF (sometimes called co-maternity IVF) is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which one partner provides the eggs, and the other carries the pregnancy. The process is similar to traditional IVF, but instead of transferring the embryo back into the egg provider’s uterus, it is placed into the other partner’s uterus to carry to term.

How Does Reciprocal IVF Work?
  1. Egg Stimulation & Retrieval: One partner undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved.
  2. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with donor sperm in the lab to create embryos.
  3. Embryo Transfer: A healthy embryo is selected and transferred into the uterus of the partner who will carry the pregnancy.
  4. Pregnancy & Birth: The carrying partner undergoes routine prenatal care until delivery.

Who is a Good Candidate for Reciprocal IVF?
  • Couples where both partners want to share in the biological and gestational aspects of parenthood.
  • The egg-providing partner should have good ovarian reserve and egg quality.
  • The carrying partner should have a healthy uterus and be able to sustain a pregnancy.
  • Donor sperm is needed, which can be from a known or anonymous donor.

Benefits of Reciprocal IVF
  • Shared Parenthood: Both partners have a physical connection to the baby—one through genetic contribution, the other through pregnancy.
  • Emotional Bonding: The process fosters a deep emotional connection between both partners and their child.
  • Legal & Parental Recognition: In many cases, both parents can be legally recognized from birth, but it’s important to consult with a family law attorney regarding parental rights.

At RPSD, we are proud to support LGBTQ+ families through inclusive, compassionate, and expert fertility care. If you and your partner are considering reciprocal IVF, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Learn more about our LGBTQ+ family-building options and schedule a consultation today. Your path to parenthood starts here!