Reciprocal in vitro fertilization, or Reciprocal IVF, is a method of fertility treatment. It is specifically for same-sex or lesbian couples. In this case, one woman contributes the eggs and the other takes on the role of pregnancy. This method brings them both into the pregnancy process. The process is the same as traditional IVF. It is a great family-building choice for those in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Risaa IVF is a clinic that helps couples make their dreams of becoming parents come true. Dr. Bakshi is a senior fertility specialist, with a capable team of other specialists. We try to make your journey as good as possible by accompanying you. In this post, we are going to provide you with a comprehensive overview of the topic of reciprocal IVF, which is going to cover the necessary steps, the timeline of the process, and some other essential pieces of information.
What is Reciprocal IVF?
Reciprocal IVF is a fertility treatment for same-sex female couples. It allows both partners to take part in the process of having a baby. One partner provides the eggs, and the other carries the pregnancy.
This method is different from traditional IVF treatment because it lets both partners have a special connection with the child. The partner who donates the eggs is the biological mother, as the baby carries her genes. The partner who carries the baby experiences pregnancy and forms a strong bond through carrying and birth. It gives both partners an active role in bringing their baby into the world. It is a beautiful way for couples to share the journey of parenthood.
Which Partner will carry the Pregnancy?
Reciprocal IVF is a process in which two partners play the role equally. One who provides the eggs and the other carrying the baby. The partner who donates the eggs undergoes the ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval processes. The eggs are then fertilized with the use of donor sperm. The created embryos are transferred to the uterus of the other partner, who will carry the pregnancy. Through these processes, both parties are equally involved in the creation of the baby, one through genetic contribution and the other through gestation. It is an awesome option for same-sex couples and couples who have fertility challenges.
Reciprocal IVF Process
Reciprocal IVF is a fertility treatment where lesbian couples play an active role in having a child. One partner provides the eggs, while the other carries the pregnancy. This process enables both individuals to share the experience of becoming parents. Here’s how the process works:
- Ovarian Stimulation: The ovum donor takes hormone injections for around 10-14 days as the first step in the ovum retrieval process. These hormones enable her to generate more than just one egg in her ovaries.
- Egg Retrieval: Once the eggs are ready, a specialist is in charge of the extraction using a minor surgery technique that is performed to collect the eggs from the ovum provider’s ovaries. Doctors do this procedure under sedation for minimal discomfort.
- Fertilization: The sperm from either a sperm donor or a known donor is taken and soaked in the embryology laboratory to fertilize the collected eggs. Subsequently, the fertilized eggs will undergo the whole embryo phase of development.
- Embryo Culture: Then, the embryologist monitors the embryos for a few days to know their growth. The clinic will of course determine the quality of the embryos.
- Embryo Transfer: Once the embryos are fully developed, the best quality, the thickest ones are chosen. These embryos are positioned in the uterus of the gestational carrier.
- Pregnancy Test: A blood test is normally carried out for the partner to see if the embryo is already attached to the uterus and if she is pregnant. This is mostly 10-14 days after the embryo transfer.
Essential Tests Before Starting Reciprocal IVF Treatment
Before starting reciprocal IVF, both partners need to undergo specific tests. These tests are essential to evaluate the health of each partner and to ensure that the process is safe and successful. They include the examination of fertility, hormone levels, and general health. Also, testing helps the doctors to know about any hidden diseases that can stop the IVF treatment to be successful.
- Ovarian Reserve Test: Determines the amount and quality of the eggs from the partner that is providing the eggs.
- Hormonal Blood Tests: A test to monitor hormone levels like FSH, LH, and estrogen to know fertility health.
- Ultrasound Scan: It takes a look at the ovaries and the uterus and locates any problems.
- Infectious Disease Screening: This procedure certifies the disease-free status of both partners who could jeopardize pregnancy.
How Long Does Reciprocal IVF Take?
Reciprocal IVF typically takes a few months, with each step being carefully planned. Your individual situation may contain more or fewer stages, but generally, it takes about four to six weeks from egg retrieval to the transfer of embryo. After that, the partner carrying the pregnancy will need time for their body to be ready for the embryo transfer.
Risks & Considerations for Reciprocal IVF
Reciprocal IVF is a safe entry in the reproductive market, but like other fertility treatments, it carries some risks. There is a possibility that the partner who gives the eggs will undergo side effects from ovarian stimulation. It includes bloating, mood changes, or, in rare cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). The egg retrieval procedure itself can also carry a small risk of infection or injury to surrounding organs.
For the partner carrying the pregnancy, there are the usual risks of pregnancy. This can be the development of gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, or problems during labor. Also, both partners are advised to take into account the emotional and physical demands associated with this. A fertility expert is the one to always reach out to in order to fully understand these risks and work out a plan. You can consult our Senior Fertility Expert, Dr. Rita Bakshi at Risaa IVF.
Closing Line
One partner is the donor of the eggs while the other one becomes pregnant. The donor receives ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval treatment. Then, the embryos are inserted into the uterus of the carrying partner. This method makes it possible for two people to facilitate the birth of a child, one using genes and the other via gestation. Although the procedure is generally safe, there are some side effects related to it.
Expert guidance throughout the IVF journey is being provided by us at Risaa IVF with Dr. Rita Bakshi and our team. We make sure that both partners know the process fully and attend to the concerns they have. We show respect to every individual and ensure to make them feel comfortable in every stage. At Risaa IVF, we are dedicated to making fertility treatments accessible, offering high-quality care at a reasonable IVF cost in Delhi.
For more information, call us at 95555 44421/22/23. You can also send an email to [email protected].
