Building LGBTQ+ Families: Fertility Options for All Paths to Parenthood

At Fertility Institute of San Diego, Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh and her team champion inclusive fertility care that celebrates all identities and orientations. Every patient receives one-on-one attention, ensuring that each unique journey is met with individualized guidance and compassion.

“There is no universal path to parenthood,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“We tailor our care to reflect each patient’s identity, goals, and story—because families come in many beautiful forms.”

Understanding the LGBTQ+ Family Building Landscape

LGBTQ+ fertility options encompass a wide range of reproductive services, depending on the individual or couple’s medical needs and family goals. These include:

• Sperm donation for lesbian couples, individuals assigned female at birth
• Egg donation for gay male couples or individuals assigned male at birth
• Surrogacy for those who cannot carry a pregnancy
• Reciprocal IVF for lesbian couples who wish to share the pregnancy experience
• Fertility preservation for transgender individuals beginning gender-affirming treatments

Each approach is informed by inclusive reproductive healthcare practices that prioritize respect, dignity, and transparency.

Fertility Treatments for LGBTQ+ Couples: Options and Approaches

IUI for LGBTQ+ Individuals and Couples

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is often the first step for lesbian couples or single individuals using donor sperm. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation.

Ideal for:

• Lesbian couples
• Single individuals assigned female at birth
• Transgender men who are not taking hormones or undergone surgery

IVF for Same-Sex Couples

In vitro fertilization (IVF) offers more control and higher success rates, especially for couples pursuing shared biological parenthood. For lesbian couples, reciprocal IVF allows one partner to provide the egg and the other to carry the pregnancy.

For gay male couples, IVF is paired with egg donation for LGBTQ+ families and gestational surrogacy.

“Reciprocal IVF is one of the most emotionally meaningful options we offer,” shares Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“It allows both partners to participate biologically and physically in the process.”

Third-Party Reproduction and Surrogacy for LGBTQ+ Families

Third-party reproduction includes any fertility treatment involving a donor or surrogate. For many same-sex male couples and individuals unable to carry, surrogacy for LGBTQ+ couples becomes an essential component.

At FISD, intended parents are guided through the legal, emotional, and medical intricacies of choosing the right surrogate and donor—ensuring the process is both empowering and secure.

Transgender Fertility Support

Transitioning individuals often face complex decisions around future family building. Whether before hormone therapy or gender-affirming surgery, options for fertility preservation for LGBTQ+ patients may include:

• Egg or sperm freezing
• Embryo banking
• Ovarian or testicular tissue preservation

FISD is a trusted ally in transgender fertility support, offering a confidential and inclusive environment.

When to Consider Fertility Services

Whether you’re actively ready to become a parent or planning ahead, it’s never too early to explore LGBTQ+ fertility options. Consider booking a consultation if you:

• Are interested in parenthood but unsure where to start
• Considering a medical treatment or surgery that may affect future fertility
• Want to understand legal and financial considerations
• Are in a same-sex relationship and want to share a biological connection with your child

The Importance of Inclusive Fertility Care

True inclusive fertility care goes beyond clinical services—it requires cultural competency, language awareness, and emotional intelligence.

“Our team is trained to provide care that honors each person’s pronouns, partnership, and path,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“It’s about building trust and removing barriers.”

This philosophy makes Fertility Institute of San Diego a premier LGBTQ+ fertility clinic in Southern California, attracting patients seeking affirming care across the spectrum of identities.

San Diego LGBTQ+ Fertility Services at a Glance

FISD offers a full range of San Diego LGBTQ+ fertility services, including:

• Fertility preservation before transitioning
• Donor egg and donor sperm coordination
• Legal referrals for surrogacy agreements
• IVF and IUI options
• Counseling and education tailored for LGBTQ+ patients
• Ongoing reproductive health support

Costs and Considerations

While fertility treatments for LGBTQ+ couples can involve additional costs (e.g., donor compensation, surrogacy agency fees), FISD works with each patient to map out transparent, accessible options. Financing, grants, and fertility benefit programs may be available, and our team helps guide families through every step.