LGBTQ+ Family Building
Reciprocal IVF for Lesbian Couples
Share the journey of pregnancy—one partner provides the eggs, the other carries the baby
Reciprocal IVF (also called partner IVF or co-IVF) allows both partners in a lesbian couple to participate biologically in creating their baby. One partner provides the eggs, which are fertilized with donor sperm through IVF, and the resulting embryo is transferred to the other partner who carries the pregnancy.
This unique approach enables both partners to share an intimate, biological connection to their child—one as the genetic mother and one as the birth mother. At Palm Beach Fertility Center, we've helped many lesbian couples build their families through reciprocal IVF.
The Reciprocal IVF Process
Medical Evaluation
Both partners undergo comprehensive fertility testing. The egg provider is evaluated for ovarian reserve, while the carrier partner's uterus is assessed for optimal pregnancy conditions.
Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval
The egg provider takes fertility medications to stimulate multiple eggs. When mature, the eggs are retrieved in a brief outpatient procedure.
Fertilization with Donor Sperm
The retrieved eggs are fertilized with carefully selected donor sperm in our laboratory. Embryos are cultured for 5-6 days to reach blastocyst stage.
Embryo Transfer
The healthiest embryo is transferred to the carrier partner's uterus. After a successful pregnancy test, we monitor early pregnancy before transitioning to prenatal care.
Benefits of Reciprocal IVF
Biological Connection for Both Partners
One partner is the genetic mother; the other experiences pregnancy and childbirth
Shared Journey
Both partners participate actively in creating your family
Flexibility
Choose which partner provides eggs and which carries based on medical factors, age, or personal preference
Higher Success Rates
IVF typically offers better success rates than IUI, especially if the egg provider is younger
Genetic Testing Available
Option to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before transfer
Why Choose Palm Beach Fertility Center?
- Welcoming, LGBTQ+-affirming environment
- Extensive experience with reciprocal IVF
- State-of-the-art IVF laboratory
- Comprehensive fertility testing for both partners
- Access to diverse sperm donor banks
- Legal and emotional support resources
- High success rates with personalized treatment plans
Start Your Reciprocal IVF Journey
Schedule a consultation to explore reciprocal IVF and create your family together.
Trusted Partners & Affiliations
We're proud to work with leading organizations in reproductive medicine and fertility care
