Reciprocal IVF – step by step explanation of the procedure
Reciprocal IVF, also referred to as partner-assisted reproduction or shared motherhood, is a form of fertility treatment designed for lesbian couples. In this blog post, we explain what reciprocal IVF is, how both partners are involved, the different steps in the procedure, and why egg retrieval is necessary.
What is reciprocal IVF?
Reciprocal IVF is an advanced fertility treatment similar to IVF specifically designed for lesbian couples. This unique approach allows both women to participate in the conception process: one as the egg donor and the other as the gestational carrier.
How does it work?
The reciprocal IVF process is similar to traditional IVF, starting with egg retrieval and fertilization using donor sperm. However, it diverges as the embryo is then transferred to the partner who did not provide the egg, allowing her to carry the pregnancy to term.
Facts about reciprocal IVF
- Who benefits from reciprocal IVF: Reciprocal IVF is designed for lesbian couples, as the embryo is created by an egg from one partner, sperm from a donor, and then carried to terms by the other partner.
- How it started: Reciprocal IVF stems from normal IVF, which was first successfully performed in 1978.
- Why it is popular: Reciprocal IVF allows both partners in a lesbian couple to be a part of the fertilization process. This is why it is popular and called shared motherhood.
Reciprocal IVF success rates
Success rates vary from one woman to another and depend on factors like age, fertility, and luck. As reciprocal IVF is a form of IVF, studies indicate high success rates, with a live birth rate of 60% per receiving couple. It is, however, important to note that not many studies have been performed in this area yet, and therefore any future success rates might be different than the one in this study.
The process of reciprocal IVF
Reciprocal IVF treatment consists of six steps. Here is a thorough explanation of the process:
- Step 1 - Ovarian stimulation: Reciprocal IVF begins with ovarian stimulation of the partner donating her eggs. By stimulating the ovaries with hormones, it is possible to “trick” the ovary into creating more mature eggs than usual.
- Step 2 - Egg retrieval: Before fertilisation, the eggs are retrieved from the partner donating her eggs. During egg retrieval, a fertility doctor retrieves the eggs using an ultrasound and a small needle.
- Step 3 - Uterus stimulation: Once the eggs are retrieved, the partner carrying the pregnancy is stimulated to prepare her uterus for the transfer.
- Step 4 - Fertilization and transfer: After the egg retrieval, an embryologist fertilises the eggs using donor sperm. If the fertilised eggs develop into high-quality embryos, a single embryo is transferred to the partner who did not provide the eggs. If multiple high-quality embryos develop, they be frozen and stored for future attempts.
- Step 5 - Pregnancy: Hopefully, the embryo sticks to the uterine wall and evolves into a pregnancy. After two weeks, you can often see whether the treatment was successful or not.
Relevant articles about IVF
How much does reciprocal IVF cost?
In the UK, one cycle of IVF costs between £3,500 and £7,000, with medications possibly adding an additional £500 to £1,500. Compared to IVF, reciprocal IVF tends to have a higher overall cost as the procedure is more complicated.
Other factors influencing the price
It is worth noting that insurance coverage for reciprocal IVF is not always available. If reciprocal is against the law in your country, you may need to receive treatment abroad, thus adding extra cost to the price of reciprocal IVF.
Choosing who donates their egg and who carries the pregnancy
Deciding who will donate their egg and who will carry the pregnancy is a deeply personal choice, often influenced by factors such as medical history, age, personal preference, and genetic considerations. Here’s a guide to help with each role:
Considerations for who will carry the pregnancy
- Medical history: Reviewing medical history is crucial for ensuring a safe pregnancy for both the baby and the partner carrying the child. Consult with your healthcare provider to assess any potential health risks.
- Age: Age can impact pregnancy safety, as certain risks increase with maternal age.
- Personal preference: Each partner’s feelings about carrying a pregnancy are important. Some may feel strongly about experiencing pregnancy, while others may not wish to. It is entirely valid to decide based on personal comfort and choice.
Considerations for those who donate their eggs
- Fertility: High-quality eggs increase the likelihood of creating a healthy embryo. Having your fertility checked can help determine which eggs to use.
- Genetic history: All people are carriers of strains of genetic diseases. If there are known genetic issues in one partner’s family, this may influence your decision about whose eggs to use.
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Legal implication of using reciprocal IVF with donor sperm
When using reciprocal IVF, there are a few legal implications to be aware of:
- Legislation in your treatment country: Reciprocal IVF is illegal in some countries. As a result, we recommend researching the legislation in your treatment country before further planning. If the treatment is illegal in your country, you need to change treatment or travel abroad.
- Parental rights: In most countries, lesbian couples do not have equal parental rights to heterosexual couples. The woman giving birth is often considered the legal mother, while her partner must apply for a status as co-mother.
- Donor sperm regulations: Regulations regarding the use of donor sperm and choice of profile vary from one country to another. If you do not know where to start, contact us to get personal help from our Customer Care Team.
FAQ about reciprocal IVF
Are both parents biologically connected to the baby?
Both parents are biologically linked to the child, but only the mother who provided the egg shares a genetic connection with the baby. The other mother, the one who carried the pregnancy to term, shares a different type of biological connection to the baby. This connection often strengthens through breastfeeding.
What are the risks of reciprocal IVF?
The risks associated with reciprocal IVF are minimal, as egg retrieval and following insemination are completely safe. However, there are risks associated with hormonal injections, both for the partner who donated her eggs and the partner carrying the pregnancy.