Family Building
Understanding Reciprocal IVF: A Fertility Solution for LGBTQ+ Couples
Reciprocal IVF offers a unique opportunity for same-sex couples with uteruses to share the experience of parenthood in a deeply connected way.
Millions of couples face challenges when it comes to conceiving, with estimates indicating that nearly 15% of all couples struggle with fertility issues. Since the inception of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in 1978, many have discovered this method as a hopeful path to parenthood. However, for trans, lesbian, and non-binary couples with uteruses looking to have children that are biologically connected to both parents, traditional IVF has often excluded one partner from the process. This challenge has been addressed with the introduction of reciprocal IVF.
This innovative method was introduced to the fertility landscape in 2009, allowing trans men or lesbian partners to engage in both the conception and pregnancy phases. Essentially, the term “reciprocal” implies a shared experience. In terms of family building, reciprocal IVF enhances the experience for same-sex couples, particularly cisgender women and trans men or non-binary individuals who can provide eggs for donation or serve as gestational carriers. With this approach, both partners can be recognized as scientific parents, fostering a sense of “co-maternity.”
Interested in how it works? Let’s dive into the details!
What Exactly Is Reciprocal IVF?
Reciprocal IVF may also be referred to as partner-assisted reproduction, co-IVF, shared motherhood, or ROPA (Reception of Oocytes from Partner). For this guide, we will stick with the term reciprocal IVF.
To explain further, Dr. Jamie Sullivan, MD, a specialist in reproductive medicine, describes reciprocal IVF as a reproductive option that allows both partners in a same-sex couple to participate biologically and emotionally in the pregnancy journey. “In reciprocal IVF, one partner donates eggs to the other. The eggs are retrieved, fertilized with donor sperm, and the resulting embryo is implanted into the uterus of the other partner,” explains Sullivan. This process enables both partners to be meaningfully involved in pregnancy, birth, and even breastfeeding.
The Reciprocal IVF Process Explained
Reciprocal IVF operates similarly to traditional IVF, but with a key distinction: the embryos are implanted into the carrying partner’s uterus rather than being returned to the egg donor. Here’s a step-by-step outline of what to expect during the process:
- Cycle Synchronization: To enhance the chances of a successful outcome, both partners typically need to sync their menstrual cycles. Physicians often use hormonal treatments for this purpose, ensuring that when the embryo is ready, the carrying partner’s uterus is also prepared. However, if previously frozen embryos are used, synchronization is not necessary.
- Preparation for Egg Retrieval: The egg donor will undergo ovarian stimulation using fertility medications to encourage the maturation of multiple eggs, increasing the chances of successful fertilization. Blood tests and ultrasounds are conducted to monitor progress. The carrying partner will also prepare their body by taking hormones to thicken the uterine lining.
- Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are mature, they are retrieved via an outpatient procedure, ensuring that the egg donor is comfortable and sedated during the process.
- Fertilization and Embryo Development: The retrieved eggs are fertilized in a laboratory setting, after which genetic testing may be recommended to determine the viability of the embryos.
- Embryo Transfer: If fertilization is successful, the carrying partner will have the embryos implanted into their uterus during a quick outpatient procedure.
- Pregnancy Confirmation: Following embryo transfer, a blood test performed 10 to 14 days later will reveal whether the implantation was successful.
How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant Through Reciprocal IVF?
The entire process typically spans around six to nine weeks, primarily depending on the synchronization of the partners’ cycles.
Success Rates and Costs of Reciprocal IVF
While success rates can vary, Dr. Sullivan notes that the age of the egg donor plays a crucial role, with younger donors generally associated with higher success rates—often around 60% or more.
In terms of cost, many couples may need to self-finance the process, with costs ranging from $16,000 to $30,000 for a single round of reciprocal IVF, though subsequent rounds could be less expensive if embryos are frozen.
Potential Discomfort and Risks
Like traditional IVF, reciprocal IVF can involve some discomfort, such as cramping and bloating. Serious side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
Celebrity Couples Who Have Embraced Reciprocal IVF
Many well-known couples have successfully navigated the journey of reciprocal IVF, such as Lydia and Rachel, and Hannah and Jamie. Their experiences highlight the viability and emotional fulfillment of this option.
For more information on home insemination and other fertility options, check out this excellent resource on IVF.
If you are considering reciprocal IVF, you can read more about the topic here and find additional insights from experts at Intracervical Insemination.
Summary
Reciprocal IVF is a groundbreaking fertility option that allows LGBTQ+ couples to share the journey of parenthood. By involving both partners in the process, it fosters a deeper connection and shared experience. From synchronization of cycles to egg retrieval and embryo transfer, this method offers a unique path for same-sex couples wishing to conceive.