Reciprocal IVF
Reciprocal IVF, otherwise known as 'the ROPA method' or 'shared motherhood', is a form of assisted reproductive technology for same-sex female couples. Usually, one of the couple provides the egg, while the other carries the child to term. This way, both parents are able to be part of the pregnancy experience. The IVF procedure involves combining an egg with a donor sperm sample in a laboratory and then transferring it back into the female's uterus.
What if you want to have reciprocal IVF abroad?
An IVF cycle typically lasts around 6 weeks. This doesn’t mean you have to spend 6 weeks away from home. Some initial tests and part of the treatment can be done at home, leaving you with the option to only have to be physically at the clinic for egg retrieval, fertilization and embryo transfer, which takes approximately 7 to 10 days.
If you need support finding the right fertility specialist, we’re here for you.
The content has been reviewed for quality and accuracy to the best of our knowledge by Qunomedical and its Medical Board of Experts.
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“Qunomedical helped me so much! Thank you!“
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Reciprocal IVF is a method for shared motherhood
Reciprocal IVF is a method for shared motherhood
QUICK DETAILS
WHO IS THIS FOR
Lesbian couples who want to get pregnant using a sperm donor.
TREATMENT DURATION
IVF takes place in cycles that last between 4-6 weeks.
The first stage of IVF takes around 14 days as egg production is stimulated.
Egg maturation and removal then take around 2-4 days.
Fertilisation with donor sperm then lasts for 3-5 days in the laboratory, before embryos are selected for implantation.
Around 14 days after that, patients return to their specialist to assess whether the process was a success.
RECOVERY TIME
While IVF patients are recommended to rest and take things easy following embryo transfer, they can generally return home immediately following the procedure.
SUCCESS
Success rates vary by age. Women under the age of 34 have a 40% success rate, followed by 31% for those aged 35-37, 21% between 38-40, 11% between 41-42, and 5% for women older than 43.
POTENTIAL RISKS & SIDE EFFECTS
Multiple births and ectopic pregnancies.
Psychological symptoms such as mood swings and anxiety.
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) can result when egg sacks produce excess numbers of follicles.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST
The cost of Reciprocal IVF can vary according to factors like individual circumstances, the clinic you choose and the country it is located in; the range is approximately €2,800 - €7,000. Consult our dedicated IVF cost guide for more clarity on the matter.
ALTERNATIVE TREATMENTS
How does it work?
What is in vitro fertilization?
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a procedure which involves fertilising an egg outside the human body. Instead of sperm fertilising the egg within the uterus, fertilisation takes place in laboratory conditions, and the resultant embryo is then implanted in the woman's uterus. The process is commonly used in cases where women are unable to conceive naturally, which could be due to conditions like endometriosis, damaged fallopian tubes or simply unexplained infertility. IVF is also used in cases where men suffer from low sperm count or sperm motility.
Steps:
1. First consultation with a specialist to assess your individual case and treatment possibility. This can either be in person, or via phone or video call. 2. Preparation of the egg donor with IVF. The patient will be given hormone injections to stimulate oocyte production 3. Egg Retrieval. As with the standard IVF process, the patient will undergo a follicular aspiration procedure to retrieve the eggs from the ovaries. This procedure is not painful, however it requires that the patient go under anesthesia. 4. Fertilization & Embryo Cultivation. The eggs are fertilised in vitro with donor sperm, and are monitored in the laboratory. After a few days of growth, a number of embryos or blastocycts are selected to be transferred into the uterus of the patient who will carry the child. 5. Embryo Transfer. The embryo(s) are transferred into the uterus of the patient who will carry the child. This is a short, painless procedure.
Reciprocal IVF Reviews
Reciprocal IVF Reviews
416.07.2020
Fantastic clinic, the staff made every effort to make us feel comfortable and well informed. My wife felt very well here. To recommend!
Patient manager
Frieda
Your personal Patient Manager
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