Same sex IVF

Fertility Treatment for LGBTQ+ couples

If you’re in a same-sex relationship and considering starting your family, the experienced team at Queensland Fertility Group would be delighted to help.

We have been helping LGBTQ+ couples become parents for almost 30 years and we have a dedicated donor program available, for those who are seeking donor eggs or sperm to help couples or individuals conceive. We also have an experienced surrogacy program for those who require this to grow their family.

How do I get pregnant using donor sperm?

Same-sex 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 less invasive alternative to IVF and more affordable option, but the success rates tend to be 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 is created using a donated egg and sperm from a donor or intended parent and is then transferred into the surrogate's uterus. The surrogate cannot use her own eggs to conceive the child.

For same-sex 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 same-sex couples through fertility treatment, and are there to help you navigate your journey to parenthood with guidance and support.

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 private health insurance fund.

First appointment overview and costs

Queensland Fertility Group Specialist can assist with identifying the best course of treatment to help you get pregnant, including accessing donor sperm.

The initial consultation for a couple to see a Fertility Specialist varies from $220 – 350, and Medicare will reimburse approximately $95.00. For more information or to book a consultation with your preferred specialist, fill out the form below.

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.

For more information on treatment options for same-sex couples, or help deciding which Fertility Specialist is right for you, call us on 1800 111 483 or complete the form below.

Find out more about using donor sperm...
Understanding the surrogacy process...

Can same sex couples access IVF?