If you and your wife are finally ready to start your family, you may be wondering where to begin. While most opposite-sex couples who aren't dealing with known fertility issues need to do little more than stop using birth control, conception can be much more complex when both you and your spouse are female. Even if you and your wife agree on which one of you (if either) will physically carry your child and whose genetic material will be used, getting started can be a decision-heavy and potentially overwhelming process. Read on to learn more about some of the conception options that may await you and the factors you'll want to consider when making your decision.
Intrauterine insertion with donor sperm
Intrauterine insertion (IUI) is a popular option for many same-sex couples because of its relative simplicity and non-invasive nature. In IUI, the prospective mother will spend a few weeks taking hormones similar to those in hormonal birth control or even undergoing hormone injections to encourage ovulation on a specific schedule. Just before ovulation takes place, a healthy sperm sample will be introduced into the uterus through the cervix. The sperm will then swim toward the chemically-released egg for fertilization.
While IUI may not be appropriate for every woman, for those who don't have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or another disorder that could inhibit fertility, it can be a great way to begin the conception process. If you undergo several IUI cycles but still can't get a positive pregnancy test, it may be time to look at other options.
In-vitro fertilization
In-vitro fertilization, or IVF, involves the implantation of an embryo into a woman's uterus. IVF is more invasive than IUI and also generally requires the prospective mother to take a higher dose of hormones. These hormones are carefully formulated to ensure your body is in prime condition to maintain the embryo -- mis-timing one's menstrual cycle by just a day or two could be the difference between successful conception and a very expensive menstrual period.
IVF can be a pricey option, but can be covered partially or even fully by many insurance policies, so it's worthwhile to check out your coverage options before writing this treatment off on the basis of cost. IVF is also ideal if you and your wife would like to choose the gender of your baby or ensure that only the healthiest embryos are given the chance to thrive.
Share10 January 2017
A few years ago, I experienced a huge health scare with my blood pressure. My doctor at the time didn't offer evening or late night care, which forced me to visit the local emergency room for help. Although it may seem like a small thing to some people, not having access to my doctor when I needed it really bothered me. It bothered me so much that I searched for a new doctor after my child was born. Now, I'm happy with my family's new physician. The doctor offers after-hour care, which is a wonderful thing for us. My blog offers tips on how to find the right doctor for your family, as well as many other services you might need one day. So, please read through the blog for the information you need now.