LGBTQIA+ FamilyBuilding

Reciprocal IVF (also called co-maternity, shared motherhood, or partner IVF) is a beautiful option for same-sex female couples where both partners participate biologically. One partner provides the eggs (undergoes ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval), and the other partner carries the pregnancy. This allows both of you to have a physical connection to your child. Many couples find this deeply meaningful, as one partner gives the gift of genetics while the other gives the gift of carrying and birthing your baby.

Gay and bisexual male couples typically pursue IVF with a gestational carrier (surrogate) and an egg donor. One or both partners provide sperm to fertilize donor eggs. The resulting embryos are then transferred to a gestational carrier who carries the pregnancy. We coordinate the medical aspects—including sperm collection, IVF, and embryo transfer—and work with trusted surrogacy agencies and egg donor programs to support your journey.

Absolutely, and we strongly encourage discussing fertility preservation before starting hormone therapy or having gender-affirming surgery. For trans women and transfeminine individuals, we offer sperm freezing before estrogen therapy. For trans men and transmasculine individuals, we offer egg freezing before testosterone therapy. These gametes can be stored for years and used when you're ready to build your family. Our staff is trained in working with transgender patients with sensitivity and respect.

Single individuals have several pathways to parenthood. Single women and individuals with a uterus can pursue IUI or IVF with donor sperm. Single men and individuals without a uterus can pursue IVF with an egg donor and gestational carrier. We also support those who want to freeze eggs or sperm now for future family building. Whatever your situation, we'll help you find the right path.

We partner with sperm banks, egg donor agencies, and gestational surrogacy agencies that have explicit policies welcoming LGBTQIA+ intended parents. We can guide you through selecting anonymous or known donors, and help coordinate with carriers who are excited to help queer families. We also work with reproductive attorneys experienced in LGBTQIA+ family law to ensure your parental rights are protected.

We strongly recommend all LGBTQIA+ patients work with a reproductive attorney before treatment begins to establish parental rights. This may include pre-birth orders, second-parent adoptions, or other legal protections depending on your situation and state laws. We can refer you to LGBTQIA+-friendly attorneys experienced in reproductive law who will ensure both parents are legally recognized.