Two females can have a baby together through a process called reciprocal in vitro fertilization (IVF). This method allows both women to participate in the pregnancy. One woman supplies her eggs, which are retrieved and fertilized by donated sperm in IVF. The resulting embryo(s) are then implanted into her partner, who acts as a gestational carrier.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Egg retrieval and fertilization: One woman undergoes egg retrieval, and the eggs are fertilized with donor sperm in a laboratory.
- Embryo transfer: The fertilized embryos are then implanted into the other woman's uterus.
- Pregnancy and childbirth: The woman carrying the embryo goes through the normal pregnancy and childbirth process.
Reciprocal IVF allows both women to have a biological and participatory role in creating and carrying their child. It is a popular choice for same-sex female couples seeking to build their families.
