Same sex IVF

How do I get pregnant using donor sperm?

Lesbian couples who want a child, that is biologically related to one of them have the below fertility treatment options available using donor sperm.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) using donor sperm. This involves the direct injection of sperm into the uterus. This is a cheaper and less invasive alternative to IVF, but success rate is lower.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) using donor sperm. This involves fertilising eggs from one female partner using donor sperm. The highest quality embryos are then transferred to the uterus – of either partner – where they will hopefully develop into a successful pregnancy.

To find out more about what’s involved in choosing a sperm donor, visit our using donor sperm page.

How do I have a baby using a surrogate?

Surrogacy involves a woman carrying a baby in her uterus on behalf of another couple. An embryo created using a donated egg, and sperm from a donor or intended parent, is transferred into the birth mother’s uterus. The birth mother cannot use her own eggs to conceive the child

For gay couples who wish to start a family, we can assist you with coordination of a surrogacy arrangement. Legislation in Queensland means we unfortunately cannot assist with finding a surrogate, however, we have a dedicated team to guide you through the surrogacy process – for more information, visit our surrogacy page.

What support do we offer?

We have an experienced donor team dedicated to helping you navigate the complex issues surrounding the use of donor sperm, eggs and embryos. Our donor team are on-hand to offer expert guidance and support for donors and recipients throughout the process.

We offer access to counselling throughout your treatment and after your child is born. Our team of counsellors have a wealth of experience in supporting lesbian and same-sex couples through fertility treatment.

Our fertility nurses are another valuable source of knowledge and support for anyone undergoing fertility treatment. Our nurses can provide you with information about your treatment, demonstrate how to administer medication and any questions you may have throughout the process.

Donor and surrogacy laws

When considering fertility treatment as a same sex couple, it is important to understand the legal framework that applies to same-sex parenting. Queensland Fertility Group follows the National Health & Medical Research Committee (NHMRC) ethical guidelines on the use of Assisted Reproductive Technology in clinical practice and research, 2007.

Under Queensland legislation, the birth parents registering the child are the legal parents, and the donor has no legal rights or financial responsibilities to the child. Our Sperm Donor coordinators will discuss this with you in detail to ensure that you fully understand the legal considerations before proceeding to treatment.

In a surrogacy arrangement, the baby is deemed to be the child of the birth mother until the intended parents’ parentage order takes legal effect, under the Surrogacy Bill 2010

Remember it is very important to note that under Australian law, Medicare Benefits, including Medicare support for infertility care, are only payable for defined medical conditions. In the absence of a defined medical condition, you will be liable for the full cost, including medications, of the treatment. Your costs will vary, depending on your treatment plan, the Medicare safety net and your health insurance fund.

First appointment overview and costs

A Queensland Fertility Group Specialist can assist with identifying the best course of treatment to help you get pregnant, including accessing donor sperm. If you are specifically seeking help to fall pregnant, it is recommended your partner attends the consultation as well. The initial consultation charge with a Fertility Specialist is on average from $220 to $350 and Medicare will reimburse approximately $75.00. 

Typically during a first appointment your specialist will assess your medical history, and will most likely recommend investigations such as blood tests (many of these are bulk billed) and an ultrasound scan.

The results of these will help you and your Fertility Specialist determine the best next steps for your individual circumstances. You should feel comfortable in this first appointment to mention any concerns you may have, and ask questions.

Download same sex couples booklet

For more information about creating a family for same-sex couples, download the booklet below, or visit our Patient Information Booklets page.