Shared motherhood, also known as reciprocal IVF, is an empowering option for same-sex female couples who wish to both be intimately involved in the conception and birth of their child. This blog will guide you through the shared motherhood process and how we support you every step of the way.
What is shared motherhood?
Shared motherhood allows both partners in a same-sex female couple to be involved in the creation and birth of their child. In this process, one partner provides the eggs, which are then fertilised with donor sperm to create embryos. These embryos are then implanted in the other partner, who will carry and give birth to the baby. This unique approach enables both partners to share in the biological and emotional aspects of motherhood.
The benefits of shared motherhood
Biological connection for both partners
One of the biggest benefits of shared motherhood is that it allows both partners to have a biological connection to their child. One partner contributes the egg, and the other carries the pregnancy, creating a profound and shared experience.
Strengthening emotional bonds
Shared motherhood can strengthen the emotional bond between partners. By actively participating in different stages of the conception and pregnancy journey, couples often find that their relationship is enriched and deepened through this shared experience.
Inclusive and empowering
At Care Fertility, we believe in empowering our clients. Shared motherhood is an inclusive option that respects and celebrates the unique dynamics of same-sex female couples, allowing both partners to be equally involved in creating their family.
The shared motherhood process at Care Fertility
Initial consultation
The journey begins with an initial consultation at one of our clinics. During this visit, you will meet with one of our experienced fertility specialists who will discuss your medical history, perform initial fertility tests, and explain the shared motherhood process in detail. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions and understand what to expect.
Egg retrieval and fertilisation
The next step involves stimulating the ovaries of the partner providing the eggs. This process is monitored closely with regular scans and blood tests to ensure the eggs develop properly. Once the eggs are ready, they are retrieved in a minor procedure and fertilised with donor sperm in our state-of-the-art laboratories.
Embryo transfer
After fertilisation, the resulting embryos are cultured and monitored for a few days. The best quality embryo is then selected for transfer to the partner who will carry the pregnancy. This procedure is straightforward and usually painless.
Shared motherhood for those with frozen eggs
For women or individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have previously frozen their eggs , shared motherhood is still a viable and exciting option. Here's how it works:
Thawing the eggs: The frozen eggs are carefully thawed in our laboratory under optimal conditions to ensure their viability.
Fertilisation: The thawed eggs are then fertilised with donor sperm, creating embryos that can be used for the shared motherhood process.
Embryo transfer: Just like with fresh eggs, the resulting embryos are transferred to the partner who will carry the pregnancy. This ensures that both partners are intimately involved in the conception and birth of their child.
Support every step of the way
At Care Fertility, we understand that the journey to parenthood can be both exciting and challenging. We are committed to providing compassionate, expert care to ensure you feel supported throughout the process. Our team includes fertility specialists, nurses, midwives, counsellors, and support staff who are dedicated to helping you achieve your dream of becoming a parent.
Counselling and emotional support
We offer counselling services to support you emotionally through the shared motherhood process. Our counsellors provide a safe space to discuss any concerns or fears, helping you feel heard and understood.
Success stories
Many couples have successfully achieved their dream of starting a family through shared motherhood at Care Fertility. Here are a few inspiring stories:
Lydia and Jenna’s journey: Lydia and Jenna chose shared motherhood after traditional IVF failed with Jenna’s eggs, and Lydia was unable to carry a child due to a medical condition. Lydia provided the eggs, and Jenna carried their beautiful baby girls.
Contact us
We are here to support you on your journey to parenthood. If you’re considering shared motherhood or want to learn more about your options, please get in touch. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to answer your questions and help you take the next step towards building your family.
At Care Fertility, we believe in making family possible for everybody. We are committed to supporting you with compassion, expertise, and respect. Your journey to shared motherhood is unique, and we are here to walk it with you, every step of the way.