Utilization of fertility treatment and reproductive choices by lesbian couples.

OBJECTIVE

To describe intentions and outcomes of lesbian couples requesting reproductive assistance; and report number of cycles needed to achieve a live birth.

DESIGN

Retrospective chart review.

SETTING

University-based fertility center.

PATIENT(S): A total of 306 lesbian couples who sought reproductive assistance between 2004 and 2015.

INTERVENTION(S): Intrauterine insemination or IVF using donor sperm.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Mean age, relationship status, family size, preconception goals, conception attempts, number of cycles to achieve a live birth.

RESULT(S): Preconception plans were available for 233 couples: 76.4% planned for one partner to conceive and carry (single partner conception); 23.6% planned for both partners to eventually conceive and carry (dual partner conception). Of 306 couples who presented, 85.1% attempted single partner conception, and 68% of these achieved a live birth. Dual partner conception was attempted by 14.9% of couples, and 88.9% achieved a live birth. Of those who conceived with IUI, a mean (±SD) of 3 ± 1.1 cycles were completed. Of those who conceived with IVF, a mean of 6 ± 1.4 IUI and 1.7 ± 0.3 IVF cycles were completed.

CONCLUSION(S): Lesbian couples may improve their likelihood of a live birth if both partners attempt conception. Further studies are needed to understand why one-fifth of patients did not pursue treatment.