Artificial insemination

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Fertility treatments

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Whether you’re single or in a relationship there are several treatments you can consider when it comes to assisted reproduction. You must talk to your doctor before making any medical decisions.

Artificial insemination (AI).

This is the preferred method for women who plan on being single parents and don’t have any fertility issues. It involves inseminating the woman with donor sperm during her fertile window.  The procedure can be done with or without ovarian stimulation. 

In-vitro fertilisation (IVF) with donor sperm.

IVF is recommended when artificial insemination has failed before or when there are issues with the fallopian tubes. IVF is also the basis of the ROPA method (aimed at female couples) where the fertilised eggs of one partner are implanted in the other.

The eggs obtained through ovarian stimulation are fertilised by donor sperm or through ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) when sperm is injected directly into the egg. The embryo is transferred into the uterus 2 to 5 days after the ovarian puncture. The rest are frozen.

ROPA Method
This is an ideal choice for lesbian couples. Also called “double maternity”, one is the biological mother (she provides the egg) and the other is the expectant mother (she gets the eggs implanted and gets pregnant).

Egg or embryo freezing.

Through this method, you may flash freeze and store your eggs to use them at a later date.

This option is for women who which to delay motherhood past the age of 35 to 40 or for those who must have medical procedures that might negatively affect their eggs (surgery or chemotherapy).

Treatment rates

ROPA or IVF: 4970€

Artificial insemination: 765€

You can get a 5% discount on any treatment if you book through LesMaternity

*Regular price, rates might change depending on the needs of each patient. For a personal quote please contact our team directly.

Do you want to be a mother? Tell us your story. J

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Single mother by choice

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You want to be a mum and are willing to do it alone? Here at Lesmaternity we think that’s great!  Though adopting is always an option, this post will focus on fertility treatments.

Some procedures to consider:

  • Insemination: AID (artificial insemination by donor) is the simplest method for women with a healthy reproductive system but who lack a male partner. Sperm from an anonymous donor is deposited in the uterine cavity during the patient’s fertile window. It can be done with or without ovarian stimulation.
  • In vitro fertilisation: this is when the egg and sperm are cultured together after ovarian stimulation occurs. This can also be done through ICSI where the sperm is individually selected and placed inside the egg. The resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus 2 to 5 days after the egg retrieval. The rest are frozen. IVF is recommended when artificial insemination has previously failed or when there is a problem with the fallopian tubes.

It’s important to note that all sperm donors are, by law, anonymous. It is the responsibility of the fertility clinic to keep the information about their identity confidential. The law also states that a child born as a result of fertility treatments from donated gametes is legally the son or daughter of the mother who had the procedure done.

Another way is to freeze your eggs. This is done through a method called cryopreservation, where your eggs are cryogenically frozen in order to be used at a later date. This is recommended for women who want to get pregnant later in life (after 35). Also, for those women who will undergo chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a surgical procedure that might adversely affect their ovaries.

Some help

Being a single mother is a brave choice, but it’s becoming a more common one now. In whatever situation you are in, being a mum is a huge responsibility. If possible, try to rely on your friends and family in order to create a support system. Relying on other women that are going through the same experience is very important. It might be very useful to get in touch with groups such as the Single Mothers by Choice Association.

Being a single parent is also expensive since you’re the sole income earner and some help would be appreciated. There are some types of employment, social and economic aids you are entitled to:
The Ministry of Health, Consumer Affairs and Social Welfare has a guide that explains all the benefits and family services available. The last one is from 2018 and you can download it here. We also encourage you to find out what other benefits are available for you in your community.

Fears

  • Will my child have trouble fitting in?

Nowadays there is more acceptance in schools of what the definition of a “family” is. Children think it’s completely normal. However, single parenting still has some barriers to break.

  • Will they need a male role model?

Male-female roles are not the norm anymore. Teaching your children inclusion, values, tolerance, and love is universal and can be learned from a single mother or in a natural way by family and friends.

  • When should I tell them?

If you feel confident, there’s no reason why you should wait. It is recommended to mention it before they are 7 years old.

  • Am I alone in this?

No, there are more and more women that decide to do this. Usually, the decision is fuelled by their biological clocks running out, but now there are also younger women taking this step.

If you’ve made up your mind, then you should go for it! The next step is choosing your fertility clinic. It’s important that you feel safe from the start, somewhere where they will answer all your question and help you overcome your fears. We recommend a medium-sized clinic, where they can offer you the cutting-edge technology of a big centre and the personalised treatment of a small one. If you want to talk to us about it, get in touch, we would love to have a chat with you. J

What if I don’t get pregnant right away?

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When you start a fertility treatment you might feel that you will fall pregnant on the first attempt. When this doesn’t happen you start feeling doubtful and anxious with thoughts like: do I have fertility issues? Am I sick? These thoughts are common in not just lesbian couples but in any woman that is trying to get pregnant and is having some trouble doing so right away.

The success rate of different fertility treatments varies: artificial insemination is around 20-25% (going up to 60% by the third attempt), in vitro fertilisation is 70% and the ROPA method is closer to 90%. Even though the ROPA method has the highest success rate in fertility treatments, a truly successful pregnancy is linked to other factors such as:

The ovarian reserve: every woman is born with a limited number of oocytes. This number decreases in both quantity and quality after a woman turns 35 which makes becoming pregnant more complicated.

The condition of the uterus: the following fertility tests can be useful for lesbian couples in determining the morphology of their uterus and ovaries: transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, and endometrial biopsy.

The condition of the Fallopian Tubes: is another reference of your fertility. Appendicitis, peritonitis or varying levels of endometriosis may have affected the fallopian tubes.

There can also be issues with the pregnant mother’s endometrium.

All these risks factors are screened for in the initial fertility tests. There is also genetic testing in order to ensure the highest compatibility with the sperm donor. The sperm’s quality controls are very strict.

There’s no magic wand that will make sure you are successful but you can prepare yourself physically and emotionally for this journey. A well-balanced life and diet is very important. Some things you can do: reduce caffeine and alcohol, get enough sleep and exercise regularly.

If your particular situation is getting the best of you, don’t hesitate in getting in touch with a specialist who can help reduce your anxiety. Undergoing a fertility treatment is an emotional roller coaster. Do things that make you happy: exercise regularly, go for walks, read, do yoga. Avoid any and all situations that produce stress. Treat yourself!

Shall we start project baby? Get in touch with us and we’ll answer all your questions.

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Spain, the top European country in assisted reproduction

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If your dream is to become parents you should take a look at Spain, since it’s the ideal country to get these treatments done. According to the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), Spain is at the forefront of assisted reproduction treatments in Europe.

In 2014, 116,688 IVF procedures and 40,177 artificial inseminations were performed in Spain. This data was gathered by the Spanish Fertility Society (known in Spanish as SEF), which polls 278 fertility clinics throughout Spain and keeps these records in the National Registry. Assisted reproduction techniques are very common in Spain. According to SEF 7.91% of children in Spain that year were born via these techniques.

Why is this? The reason is their high quality of medical care and clearly cut laws. On top of that, the cost is good value for money considering the services that are offered.

The quality of medical care

The success rate in Spain is one of the highest when it comes to reproductive medicine.

Spanish medicine is well known for assisted reproductive techniques and has an excellent reputation for it worldwide. The medical side of assisted reproduction is highly controlled in our country as it is subject to European laws. Every year, clinics must undergo audits and reviews, which are kept at the Ministry of Health. These records are public (you can view them through the SEF or Ministry of Health website).

The topic of multiple births has always been a controversial one but there’s some good news on that front. The percentage of double or multiple births has been steadily declining and, in 2014 in Spain, the rate went down to 20.4% for IVF and 11.5% for artificial insemination.

Clearly cut laws

Many countries have laws that are restrictive or incomplete. The law in Spain in regards to egg donation is different than other countries when it comes to whether or not it’s an anonymous donation. In the UK and France it’s not anonymous and in Italy, the law has changed but it’s still unclear. Understanding this is important since 30% of the procedures performed require some sort of donation.

Spanish laws allow all reproductive treatments available today to be performed in Spain.

Competitive pricing

Due to the complexity of the procedures (labs, incubators, specialists, research and so on) the cost is high. However, in Spain this cost is considered to be of very good value.

This makes Spain renowned worldwide and therefore many patients prefer to come here to get their procedures done. In 2014, 12,240 rounds of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and artificial insemination were performed on people who were residents of other countries.

Shall we start Project Baby? Do you want more information about treatments or our clinic? Contact us!

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What you need to know to become a lesbian mother

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The decision has been made and you’re sure of it! You’re going to be lesbian mums together, but where do you start? Where do you go first? What methods are there?

We know you are full of questions and in this post we’re going to solve them all. We’re here for you!

Doctor’s visit

Now that you have made the decision to become a lesbian mother you should start by visiting a medical centre.

During this visit, you will undergo general health tests to measure your overall fitness. They will also test different fertility indicators, paying close attention to the ovarian reserve, which is very important to this process.

To ensure the quality of the oocytes, egg freezing is becoming more and more popular. This procedure guarantees that, regardless of the age at which you decide to get fertility treatments, the oocytes will be good quality.

Which method should you choose to become a lesbian mother?

Now that you know your health and fitness you have to decide which treatment or method to use to become a mom.

Traditional method

The traditional method of having sex with a man is one of the options for becoming a mother. However, it does not ensure effectiveness and is not ideal for lesbians.

Artificial insemination

This involves placing the fertile spermatozoa in the uterus at the time of ovulation. The success rate is between 15% and 30%, which is difficult, but not impossible.

In vitro fertilization

In this method the eggs are extracted from one of the mothers; they are fertilised in a laboratory and then put back into the mother’s uterus. It is complex, but it has a 60% success rate.

This option is the one most likely to succeed.

Reception of Oocytes from the Partner (ROPA)

The ROPA method is the same as in vitro fertilization, but fertilised eggs are introduced into the uterus of the other mother.

Using this method both of you will actively participate in the process of becoming biological mothers: one as a genetic mother and the other as a pregnant mother.

The success rate is 60%, and it gives you both the chance of being involved in the process.

It is certainly the best option to become a lesbian mother with your partner.

Legal advice

The legal aspects are also an important part of becoming a lesbian mother. By law, the donation of eggs and sperm is anonymous.

Since 2005, Spanish legislation has allowed gay marriage; this provides lesbians with the same equal rights as heterosexual couples in matters such as assisted reproduction.

Under law 14/2006 of May 26, all women of legal age, under free consent, may undergo an assisted reproduction technique regardless of their marital status or sexual orientation.

This law was amended to recognise that both mothers are the parents of a child born through assisted reproduction techniques, regardless of the marital status of the couple.

However, in the ROPA method, the couple’s situation is important. Since it is not an egg donation, but the use of your partner’s embryos.

The legislation clearly states that these can only be provided “by the woman or spouse”, and therefore you must be married.

This is not the case with other assisted reproduction techniques. However, the ROPA method carries a higher emotional burden for lesbian mothers than other procedures.

If you have any questions you can contact us or go to an LGBTI association to receive all the legal information on this subject.

What is your decision?

We know that there are many decisions to make, but the most important one has already been made: you want to be mums.

You should choose a method depending on your marital status, but remember that the most important thing is mutual support.

Once you have considered both your medical and relationship status, the next step is to choose which one of you will be the pregnant mother and which will be a genetic mother, or both, if you choose the ROPA Method.

Together you will begin one of the most beautiful journeys. It’s time; you’re ready.

How did you start? Tell us your experience!

What is Natural Cycle In Vitro Fertilization?

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For some women, who don’t react well or simply don’t want ovarian stimulation, natural cycle in vitro fertilization may be a good option to become pregnant.

What is Natural Cycle In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)?

In this assisted fertilization technique the extraction of quality oocytes is achieved without the need for hormonal stimulation.

During approximately 15 days, the natural ovulation cycle of the future biological mother is monitored through testing and ultrasound scans.

Follicular and endometrial growth is measured at the clinic in the span of 4 to 5 visits. This testing allows us to determine the ideal time to obtain the egg naturally, without medical stimulation and then the extraction is carried out using the usual IVF techniques.

That is why we say that fertilization is done in the Natural Ovulation Cycle.

The aim of natural cycle in vitro stimulation is to obtain a few high-quality oocytes.

Who is it for?

This technique can be applied to any couple or woman who does not want to undergo ovarian stimulation prior to the extraction of the eggs.

You can also take advantage of it if you have already undergone other assisted fertilization processes without successful multi-follicular growth. Meaning that after hormonal stimulation you have not produced enough follicles to continue the insemination process.

What are the advantages of Natural Cycle IVF?

Natural Selection:

During the process, the best possible egg is chosen, giving priority to quality before quantity.

No risk:

There is no hyperstimulation and no possibility of multiple pregnancies.

No hormones:

Since it does not involve having hormone treatments the side effects are minimal.

Do you know what the ROPA Method is? Do you know its stages?

It’s known as the preferred assisted reproduction method amongst lesbian couples, why?

The reason is that when using this method it’s possible for both partners to be biologically related to their baby. Doesn’t that sound romantic?

Whether you’ve never heard of it or have already read about it on our Facebook page, we will explain the stages of the ROPA Method in this post today.

What is the ROPA Method?

The ROPA Method is an artificial insemination procedure in which two women are biological mothers to the same baby.

It’s also known as double motherhood.

Basically, it consists of obtaining the eggs from one woman, fertilising them and implanting them into another.

That’s why we say that the ROPA Method is ideal for lesbian couples.

Both of you can be biological mothers: donor mother and implanted mother.

If you need more information about the ROPA method, here are some links to two posts we wrote that will clear things up:

About the ROPA Method

Legal requirements for registering the children of lesbian couples

Without anaesthesia:

The egg retrieval is very quick, it only takes a couple of minutes and therefore it doesn’t need to be performed under sedation. However, if you prefer sedation, you can talk to your doctor about it. If there are no contraindications then it’s your decision.

Viable in several consecutive Natural Cycles:

There are no contraindications to performing several procedures in a row. However, when the attempts have been unsuccessful 5 or 6 times, the procedure is usually abandoned, as it is unlikely to work in this case.

More economical:

This procedure doesn’t require ovarian stimulation medication; therefore it’s cheaper than when these are needed.

Disadvantages of Natural Cycle IVF

This technique is more natural than ovarian stimulation, which requires hormone therapy.

However, after 5 or 6 unsuccessful treatments, the procedure is usually abandoned because the chances of it working are low.

We can help you decide

We know that this decision is one of the most important you two will make.

We are aware that the help of a specialist can be very useful in deciding which is the best assisted reproduction technique for you.

That is why we like to be by your side when it comes to deciding what steps to take during the journey you are about to embark on.

From our own experience, we know that psychological support from someone who has been through the same thing as you is very important. We have already made this journey and the result is two beautiful daughters who are thriving.

You can count on us!

Are you ready to consider a Natural Cycle IVF technique?

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