Family Building for LGBTQ+ Couples

At Reproductive Specialists of the Carolinas, we are committed to helping LGBTQ+ patients achieve parenthood. We offer a suite of egg and sperm donation and gestational carrier resources designed for same-sex and transgender couples and individuals.

Options for Lesbian Couples

Donor Insemination and IUI, IVF, and Reciprocal IVF

Donor sperm can be obtained from someone the patient knows or from an anonymous donor (a sperm bank). Certified sperm banks require candidates to screen for genetic conditions, infectious diseases, and more. RSC does not own or operate a sperm bank; however, the clinical team will provide guidance in the selection process.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

IUI is when sperm is placed directly into a woman’s uterus during ovulation. This simple procedure is done in the office using a small catheter that passes through the cervix and into the woman’s uterus. Read more about IUI here.

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF is the process where eggs are removed from a woman’s ovaries and fertilized with sperm in a highly specialized lab. Once fertilized, the embryo is transferred back into the uterus. Read more about IVF here.

Reciprocal IVF

In reciprocal IVF, partner A donates her eggs, which are fertilized and then implanted into partner B’s uterus. This option allows both partners to be intimately connected to the baby.

Options for Gay Couples

Donor Eggs and IVF

Gay men can use fresh or frozen donor eggs, provided either by a known family member or friend or an anonymous donor. Once selected, the egg will be fertilized in a specialized lab and placed into a woman’s uterus. Read more about IVF here.

Gestational Carrier

Gay men will require a woman to carry the pregnancy, also referred to as a gestational carrier. We work with a number of agencies that help gay couples and individuals find gestational carriers. Read more about gestational carriers here.

Options for the Transgender Community

Hormone therapy can cause temporary and sometimes permanent changes to the ovaries and testicles. Planning ahead is important for transitioning males and females.

Cryopreservation

Before transitioning, trans men can freeze their eggs and trans women can freeze their sperm to be used at a later time. Read more about cryopreservation here.

In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

When ready, transgender couples can use IVF to fertilize and implant the embryo into the woman’s uterus. If needed, donor egg and/or sperm can be provided as part of this process. Read more about IVF here.