We have helped many lesbian couples achieve their dream of building their family. Donor sperm will be needed in female same-sex family building treatment options. We can happily and confidently recommend several sperm banks that we have had a long history successfully working with. Many times an egg(s) from one of the partners is used and the baby is also carried by one of the partners. In some cases to achieve pregnancy, donor eggs or a surrogate may be needed depending on the situation of the couple.
Treatment Options For Female Same-Sex Couples
At an initial consultation with Dr. Davies, each partner will be asked questions about background, health and other related information. Further fertility evaluation may be recommended to determine the best course of action for the couple.
- Artificial Insemination using Donor Sperm (AID)- is a procedure in which prepared sperm is placed into a woman’s uterine cavity around the time of ovulation.
- In-Vitro Fertilization- Eggs (her own eggs, a partner’s or donor’s) will be fertilized in the lab with the chosen donor’s sperm. Once the fertilized egg(s), now called embryos, has developed in the lab for 3-5 days, the embryo(s) is transferred into the female carrier’s uterine cavity to implant into the uterine lining for fetal development.
- INVOCELL- INVOCELL is a device that holds the eggs and sperm in the woman’s body for fertilization and incubation, allowing for a more personal experience during the fertilization/incubation process. An embryo will be transferred into the uterine cavity of the partner who desires to carry the pregnancy.
Partners will need to consider some important questions related to their situation such as:
- Will a partner or a gestational carrier carry the baby? If a partner, which one?
- If using a gestational carrier, will you be using a known surrogate or go through an agency? We have relationships with reputable agencies that we can recommend if needed.
- Who’s egg will be used or are donor eggs needed? We can help connect you with reputable donor egg agencies if necessary.
- Will the sperm be provided by a known donor or a sperm bank? We work with reliable sperm banks and can help you find a good fit.
- Should you consider preimplantation genetic testing?
- Will insurance cover any of the costs of the treatments?
For more information about our options for lesbian couples or to set up a consultation, please contact us.