IUI for LGBT Couples
Many couples rely on fertility treatment to overcome sources of infertility so that they can realize their dream of becoming parents. However, fertility services are not just for heterosexual couples who are struggling with infertility. Advanced technologies and treatments allow us to offer fertility services to LGBT couples who want a biological child.
IUI for LGBT couples is one option available at our locations in and near Los Angeles, CA. At the Center for Fertility and Gynecology, IUI, or artificial insemination, introduces concentrated sperm directly into the uterus to increase the chance of pregnancy.
The Procedure
Intrauterine insemination, commonly referred to as IUI or artificial insemination, is one of the most well-known fertility treatments. IUI is less invasive and complex than advanced reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
An IUI procedure typically involves just three steps. First, semen is collected from the donor. Second, semen is washed to remove the majority of inflammatory factors and create a concentrated collection of sperm. Finally, concentrated sperm is injected directly into the woman’s uterus via a catheter.
IUI alone increases the chance of a successful pregnancy by timing treatment, concentrating semen down to viable sperm, and eliminating the need for sperm to travel through the vagina and cervix to reach the uterus.
However, some couples choose to further increase the likelihood of a successful IUI treatment by introducing the use of fertility medication. In these cases, fertility drugs can be administered prior to IUI to stimulate the ovaries and promote the release of multiple mature eggs, and again after IUI to thicken the uterine lining for successful implantation.
IUI for Lesbian Couples
IUI is an excellent option for lesbian couples, provided that the couple is okay with a single partner using her eggs and carrying the pregnancy. Of course, the couple will need to have a sperm donor to complete IUI treatment.
Sperm donors may be either a known friend, or an unknown donor from the sperm bank. In either case, sperm analysis will be performed to ensure the sperm is viable, and information regarding the donor’s physical characteristics, race, ethnicity, medical history, and personal background will be available to the couple.
IUI for Gay Male Couples
IUI is also a viable fertility treatment for those of our Los Angeles patients who are in a gay male relationship. In these situations, sperm can be donated by either of the perspective fathers, or, if fertility issues are present, by a sperm donor.
When two males are undergoing IUI treatment, a surrogate will also be needed. Gay male couples may choose to have a separate egg donor and carrier, or they may use the eggs of the surrogate for the IUI procedure. Our fertility team can help patients find a surrogate that meets their specific desires and requirements.
Alternative Options
IUI works well for many LGBT couples, but it is not the only option available. IVF is another popular fertility treatment offered at our Los Angeles practice. IVF is a particularly good option for lesbian couples who want to share the pregnancy experience. In these situations, one partner can donate the eggs and the other partner can carry the pregnancy.
IVF also allows male couples to each provide sperm and fertilize viable eggs, so that both partners have the chance to be biologically connected to their children. Our doctors are happy to provide more information about IVF to those who are interested.
Get in Touch
At the Center for Fertility and Gynecology, we offer many services to LGBT couples who are ready to start a family. To learn more about the treatments that are available and which may be best-suited to your unique situation, reach out to our fertility team at your earliest convenience to schedule a personal consultation.