Dr Daniel Lantsberg believes that everyone is created equal and entitled to the opportunity to build their family in the way they choose. We understand that life creation is a life-defining journey and we want to be a part of that, together with you.
With the advancement of medicine and the field of fertility, new options have arrived to enable everyone to have a family. For the members of LGBTQ, it translates to encouragement. One of the most popular methods among same-sex female couples is the usage of reciprocal IVF. It allows such couples to relish life by starting a new family.
How does it Work?
In same-sex female couples, both partners become intimately involved in the pregnancy and conceiving of the child. Being physically involved in the process can produce emotional attachment to the child being conceived. One will act as the gestational carrier, while the other woman will provide the eggs.
A sperm of a donor is chosen, and one of the partner’s eggs is chosen for the procedure. The chosen woman will need to undergo a stimulation cycle to retrieve her eggs. The eggs are fertilized, and embryos are developed in the lab. The partner will at the same time undergo preparation to synchronize her endometrium using oral medications so that the embryo can be transferred to her uterus at the best perfect timing to create a pregnancy.
It is important to mention that before any kind of procedure, will want to assess reproductive and general health. Certain factors such as health conditions, as well as age and possible concerns, will need to be taken into consideration before the treatment.
Success Rate
When the eggs originate from a person under the age of 35, they tend to perform the best. As the age advances, the success rate might be also affected. The gestational carrier’s age may be much older with very little to no impact on success rates. Fitness and overall health also plays a crucial role and will be discussed with you at your appointment. Overall, it is a brilliant option for lesbian couples to have that want to bring new life into their family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reciprocal IVF and how is it different from standard IVF?
Reciprocal IVF allows both partners in a same-sex female couple to participate in the pregnancy. One partner provides the eggs, and the other becomes the gestational carrier, making it a shared biological and emotional journey—unlike standard IVF, where only one woman is biologically involved.
Who decides which partner provides the eggs and which carries the pregnancy?
This decision is made jointly by the couple in consultation with the fertility specialist. Considerations include age, ovarian reserve, uterine health, and personal preference. Sometimes, medical tests such as AMH levels, ultrasounds, or general health screenings guide the choice.
Is the success rate of reciprocal IVF different from conventional IVF?
The success rate is largely influenced by the age and health of the egg provider, just like in conventional IVF. The gestational carrier’s age plays a lesser role in success, although uterine health is still essential. Eggs from women under 35 have the highest success rate.
Can both partners undergo fertility assessments before starting?
Absolutely. A full pre-treatment fertility workup is done for both partners, including hormone levels, ovarian reserve (AMH), pelvic ultrasounds, and general health assessments to ensure both are viable participants in the process.
Can we use a known sperm donor for reciprocal IVF?
Yes, known or anonymous sperm donors can be used. Counselling will be provided by Melbourne IVF to inform and establish parental rights and responsibilities before treatment begins.
Are medications required for both partners?
Yes. The egg donor will undergo hormonal stimulation to retrieve multiple eggs, while the gestational partner will take hormones to prepare the uterine lining for embryo implantation. The timing of both cycles is carefully synchronized.
Is reciprocal IVF covered by Medicare or private insurance in Australia?
Coverage may vary. While some aspects of IVF is partially Covered by Medicare. It’s best to consult with your fertility clinic and insurer for a cost breakdown and coverage.