No, it is currently not possible to combine two women's eggs to create a baby. A sperm cell is needed to fertilize an egg for pregnancy to occur.
Understanding Human Reproduction
Human reproduction requires the fusion of a sperm cell and an egg cell (oocyte). This process, called fertilization, creates a zygote – the first cell of a new human being. The zygote then divides and develops into an embryo, eventually growing into a fetus. The genetic material from both the sperm and egg contribute equally to the child's DNA.
Therefore, using only two eggs, without the genetic contribution of a sperm, cannot result in a viable pregnancy.
Alternative Options for Lesbian Couples
Lesbian couples who wish to have a child biologically related to both partners can utilize techniques like reciprocal IVF (in-vitro fertilization).
- Reciprocal IVF: In this procedure, one woman provides the egg, which is fertilized with donor sperm in vitro. The resulting embryo is then implanted into the uterus of the second woman, who carries the pregnancy. This method allows both women to participate in creating and carrying their child, albeit with the genetic contribution of a sperm donor.
Several resources detail reciprocal IVF:
Other methods, such as ROPA (Reception of Oocytes from Partner), also allow both women to be biologically involved in the process. A systematic review of ROPA can be found here: ROPA Method Systematic Review.
Misconceptions and Emerging Research
While combining two eggs directly to create a baby isn't currently possible, research continues to advance reproductive technologies. It's crucial to avoid confusing research into creating eggs or sperm from other cells (as discussed in this NPR article) with the possibility of directly combining two eggs for reproduction. These are distinct areas of research.
