What is Reciprocal IVF?

Reciprocal IVF, also known as partner IVF or co-IVF, is a fertility treatment option specifically designed for LGBTQ+ couples in which both desire a biological connection to their child. In reciprocal IVF, one partner provides the eggs for fertilization while the other partner carries the pregnancy. Here's an overview of the process, along with some pros and cons:

Process of Reciprocal IVF:

1. Egg Retrieval: One partner undergoes ovarian stimulation with fertility medications in order to prepare for an egg retrieval. This typically involves daily injections for about 10-14 days to stimulate the ovaries. During the procedure, eggs are extracted.

2. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are fertilized with donor sperm in the laboratory through a process called in vitro fertilization (IVF).

3. Embryo Transfer: After fertilization, embryos grow until they reach the blastocyst stage. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the uterus of the partner who will carry the pregnancy.

Pros of Reciprocal IVF:

1. Biological Connection for Both Partners: Reciprocal IVF allows both partners to have a biological connection to their child. One partner provides the eggs, while the other partner carries the pregnancy, fostering a shared biological bond.

2. Optimization of the Fertility Process: There are many medical reasons that could contribute to a couple choosing reciprocal IVF to optimize their fertility process. These include:

   1. One partner may not have an ideal uterine cavity for pregnancy, but still desires to have a biological child.

   2. One partner may have poor egg quality.

   3. One partner may have a family medical history that they would like to avoid in their child(ren).

   4. One partner may not desire to ever be pregnant.

   
   

Cons of Reciprocal IVF:

1. Cost: Reciprocal IVF can be expensive, as it involves multiple steps of fertility treatment including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, IVF procedures, and embryo transfer. Costs can vary depending on factors such as the clinic, medications, and additional services required. Finding insurance coverage for fertility treatments is challenging for most.

2. Medical Risks and Complications: As with any fertility treatment, reciprocal IVF carries risks of complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and multiple gestations. It is a more invasive way to conceive than IUI, an alternative for LGBTQ+ couples. It is essential to discuss these risks with a fertility specialist and weigh them against the potential benefits.

   
   

Conclusion:

Reciprocal IVF offers couples the opportunity to both have a biological connection to their child and share in the experience of conception and pregnancy. While it comes with certain challenges and considerations, many couples find that the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks. Ultimately, most couples find that once they have a child, genes and biology are less important than the relationship and love they build with their child.