What a great turnout! Thank you to all who attended our first free LGBTQ fertility education seminar hosted by Dr. Carol Anania on July 19th.
Our most recent seminar covered a wide variety of topics relating to LGBTQ fertility education and treatment, and we specifically addressed common concerns and questions regarding IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), ICI (Intracervical Insemination), sperm preparation, and reciprocal mothering.
What is the difference between an IUI and ICI?
Artificial insemination is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) whereby sperm is placed into a woman’s reproductive tract by means other than sexual intercourse. The most common forms of artificial insemination are intrauterine insemination (IUI) and intracervical insemination (ICI). We have found that there is a higher chance of success with IUI. When an IUI is performed at Fertility Solutions, one of our three female, board certified physicians will perform the procedure.
What is the preparation for sperm prior to the ART processes?
At Fertility Solutions, the sperm is prepared in our nationally recognized laboratory, headed by Laboratory Director Mike Lee, for insemination through a process called sperm washing. This is the process in which individual sperms are separated from the semen. Washed sperm is used in artificial insemination using the intrauterine insemination (IUI) technique and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
I have heard the term ‘reciprocal mothering’, please explain.
Reciprocal mothering is a relatively new option for lesbian partners who both wish to participate in the child birth process. This is also referred to as reciprocal IVF or co-maternity. In this opportunity, the ability for both partners to participate in the process increases both individual’s emotional involvement and connection to the pregnancy.
In moving forward with the choice of reciprocal mothering, the first consideration is sperm donation. Once a sperm donor is chosen (either by a donor agency or a friend/family member), the process to synchronize the menstrual cycles begin. This is usually achieved through oral birth control pills. The egg donating partner will also undergo ovulation stimulation through medication to increase the number of viable eggs. The partner receiving the embryo will take medications to help prepare the uterus for implementation. The process to synchronize cycles usually takes about 9 weeks. The cost consists of an IVF cycle (single cycle at Fertility Solutions, all –inclusive and transparent rate of $8200), sperm donation (based upon the sperm donor agency) and medications (based upon each individual).