Family Planning For LGBTQ+ Couples

Starting a family is a major decision that many couples discuss at some point in the relationship. With new advancements in fertility technology, many couples are turning to assisted reproductive technology (ART) to conceive children. ART involves eggs and sperm cells gathered from donors. The eggs are extracted from the uterus and fertilized with sperm before being placed back into the body. Other options, like surrogacy, allow couples to select donors to carry the child.

Choosing a gestational carrier

A gestational carrier is a person carrying a child for a couple. A gestational surrogate has no relation to the fetus through eggs or sperm. The surrogate is just the carrier and birthing person. The couple or an outside party will donate the eggs and sperm. With traditional surrogacy, the carrier has genetic ties to the fetus and must relinquish parental rights upon delivery. This type of surrogacy can cause legal issues for couples because the carrier has legal rights to the fetus. In-vitro fertilization (IVF) is the most common technology associated with surrogacy.

What is in-vitro fertilization?

IVF is a reproductive technology that helps infertile and LGBTQ+ couples conceive children. IVF is a layered process that takes a few weeks to complete. The first step requires the egg donor to take hormonal medication, which allows the body to grow and produce viable eggs. Doctors conduct ultrasounds to monitor progress and extract eggs in the final maturation stage. Once eggs are retrieved, the eggs are fertilized with extracted sperm cells in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is left to grow for a few days before being placed into the gestational carrier.

Selecting a sperm donor

Finding the right sperm donor is just as important as finding a gestational carrier. Some couples choose an anonymous donor through an agency, while others choose a known donor. People may also select donors based on ethnicity, medical history, and other physical characteristics. Sperm donations are tested to ensure the sample doesn’t contain any infectious or genetic diseases. A sperm analysis is also conducted to evaluate sperm mobility, volume, shape, and motility. Sperm specimens must meet certain criteria to be viable.

Intrauterine insemination

Intrauterine insemination, also known as artificial insemination, inserts the donor sperm directly into the uterus for fertilization. This method works best on patients that have healthy eggs and can safely carry the fetus. The procedure is performed during ovulation when the body naturally releases an egg from the ovaries. Doctors wash the sperm sample before placing into the carrier to ensure safety and viability.

Working with a specialist

LGBTQ+ couples interested in conception should speak with a fertility specialist. A specialist will work with the couple to find the right fertility options. Every situation is unique, and the specialist will counsel patients on the different reproductive techniques and results.