What is Reciprocal IVF?

Reciprocal in vitro fertilization (IVF), also called "shared motherhood" or "co-maternity," is a fertility treatment that lets same-sex female couples make a baby. It involves one partner undergoing ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval while the other carries the pregnancy through embryo implantation. This process is similar to conventional IVF or traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF), but both partners are involved in the treatment and pregnancy.

How does reciprocal IVF work?

In reciprocal IVF, one partner undergoes an ovarian stimulation cycle to produce multiple eggs, which are then retrieved through egg retrieval. The eggs are fertilized with donor sperm, either from a sperm bank or an anonymous donor, after which the embryo or embryos that arise are placed in the other partner's uterus. If the embryo transfer is successful, the partner carrying the pregnancy will go on to carry and deliver the baby.

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Reciprocal IVF process

There are several steps involved in the reciprocal IVF process:

1. Ovarian stimulation: The partner undergoing ovarian stimulation will take fertility medication to stimulate the production of multiple eggs. This medication is usually taken for about 10-12 days.

2. Egg retrieval: Once the eggs have matured, they are retrieved through an egg retrieval procedure. It is a very modest surgical operation that will take place under general anaesthesia.

3. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with donor sperm in a laboratory dish. It is called in vitro fertilization (IVF).

4. Embryo development: The fertilized eggs, or embryos, are then allowed to develop in the laboratory for several days.

5. Embryo transfer: Once the embryos have reached the blastocyst stage of development, they are transferred to the partner's uterus carrying the pregnancy. This is typically done through a simple procedure called an embryo transfer.

6. Pregnancy test: To assess whether or not the operation was successful, a pregnancy test is usually performed about two weeks following the embryo transfer.

Read more: What causes infertility in women?

Benefits of reciprocal IVF

It's important to note that reciprocal IVF is not guaranteed to result in pregnancy. The success rates for reciprocal IVF can vary depending on a number of circumstances, one of which is the egg donor's age, the quality of the embryos, and the receptivity of the uterus.

One of the main benefits of reciprocal IVF is that it allows both partners in a same-sex female couple to be involved in the child-creation process. This can be especially meaningful for couples who want a genetic connection to their child.

Reciprocal IVF is also an option for same-sex female couples who want to use a known sperm donor, such as a friend or relative, rather than an anonymous donor. In this case, the sperm donor must undergo genetic testing to ensure they are a suitable candidate.

It's important to note that reciprocal IVF is not the only fertility treatment option available to same-sex female couples. Some couples may use a gestational carrier, who carries the pregnancy for the team using either the egg of one partner or a donated egg. Other couples may use a combination of these options, such as reciprocal IVF with a known sperm donor and a gestational carrier.

It's also worth noting that reciprocal IVF is not always covered by insurance. Couples considering this treatment option should check if they have an insurance-cover reciprocal IVF plan.

If you are a same-sex female couple considering reciprocal IVF, you must speak with a fertility specialist to determine if this treatment option is right for you. A fertility specialist can help you understand the process and answer any questions. They can also help you navigate the fertility journey and discuss other treatment options that may be available.

It's essential to carefully consider all of the potential physical and emotional impacts of reciprocal IVF before embarking on this fertility treatment journey. The partner undergoing the ovarian stimulation cycle will need to undergo daily injections of fertility medication and likely experience some physical discomfort and side effects, such as bloating and mood changes. There is also a risk of complications during the egg retrieval procedure, such as bleeding or infection.

The partner carrying the pregnancy will also need to undergo regular medical appointments and possibly experience the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy. It's essential for both partners to be aware of these potential impacts of reciprocal IVF treatment and to discuss them with each other and with their fertility specialists.

Read more: What is IVF?

Reciprocal IVF cost

The cost of reciprocal IVF can also be a significant consideration. The price can vary depending on factors such as the fertility clinic and the type of donor sperm used. Some couples may use frozen embryos or eggs, which can be less expensive than fresh eggs and sperm. Discussing the cost of treatment with your fertility specialist and carefully considering all the financial implications before starting the treatment process is essential.

Despite the potential challenges, many same-sex female couples have had successful pregnancies through reciprocal IVF. For some couples, this treatment option allows them to have a genetic connection to their child and be involved in the pregnancy and parenting process. It's a deeply personal decision that requires careful consideration of all potential physical, emotional, and financial impacts.

If you are a same-sex female couple considering reciprocal IVF, you must speak with a fertility specialist to determine if this treatment option is right for you. A fertility specialist can help you understand the process, discuss the potential risks and benefits, and answer any questions you may have. They can also help you navigate the fertility journey and discuss other treatment options that may be available. With the support of a fertility specialist and the right treatment plan, you can increase your chances of having a successful pregnancy through reciprocal IVF.

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Learn more about female fertility on the Welzo Female Fertility Page.