One of the possibilities for gay men or trans couples with two sperm providers is pursuing a split-cycle IVF treatment which results in the couple having twins who each hold a genetic link to one of the fathers, within a single pregnancy.
The great advantage of having twins through a split-cycle IVF is that you are essentially setting up a family unit with a complete genetic link through one single process. In fact, if the same egg donor is used, the twins are genetically half-siblings and grow and develop in the same pregnancy which allows both fathers to become biological parents in a single treatment cycle.
Important Considerations for Split-Cycle IVF Treatment
It is important to remember that a pregnancy with twins is a higher risk than a pregnancy with a single baby. This is due to an increased possibility of premature birth and complications during pregnancy. Although pregnancies with twins are considered a higher risk, split-cycle IVF treatment cycles are a very common procedure and are utilized frequently by gay men growing their families. At ORM Fertility, our team is well-versed in these unique journeys to parenthood and provide support and experience to our families pursuing this option.
For our international intended-parents, it is important to make sure both fathers can be registered on the birth certificates of both twins.
Split-Cycle IVF Treatment Process
Although, split-cycle IVF treatment plans involve a few third parties, including your surrogate (gestational carrier) and egg donor, the clinical process for the intended-parents is relatively simple.
- Your journey begins when you first visit ORM Fertility
- Both intended-fathers will leave sperm doses in separate test tubes.
- Typically, our gay male patients perusing a split-cycle IVF treatment plan will utilize the same egg donor for their embryos. Once the eggs have been retrieved from their donor, they are divided into two different vessels and each half is fertilized with the sperm of one of the sperm providers.
- When transferring the embryos to the surrogate’s uterus, one embryo from each sperm provider is used. If a single egg donor is used and both embryos implant successfully, the intended-parents will have genetically related twins, and each will have a genetic link with one father.
