For 40 years and counting, we’ve helped LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples across Florida—through IUI, in vitro fertilization (IVF), reciprocal IVF, donor egg, gestational carrier arrangements, and fertility preservation for transgender individuals. The options are real, the team is experienced, and we’re here when you’re ready.
“Every family looks different, and we’ve been honored to help build them for 40 years,” shares Dra. Kari von Goeben “LGBTQIA+ patients are a core part of who we serve—not a specialty category, not an afterthought. If you have questions about what’s possible, we’d love to be the team you ask.”
What treatment options are available for LGBTQIA+ family building?
Our board-certified reproductive endocrinologists work with LGBTQIA+ patients across the full range of family-building paths. Options include:
- Intrauterine insemination (IUI) with donor sperm—often the first-line option for those planning to carry using donor sperm. Minimally invasive, lower cost, and frequently the right starting point.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)—for more complex situations, or when IUI isn’t the best fit. Includes options for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and frozen embryo transfer.
- Reciprocal IVF (co-IVF)—one partner provides the eggs; the other carries the pregnancy. One of the most meaningful ways both partners can be involved in the process.
- Donor egg—selected from leading egg banks or through donor agencies. Our team guides you through the selection process based on your preferences and goals.
- Donor sperm—anonymous or known donors. We coordinate the screening and selection process with you.
- Working with a gestational carrier—for those who are unable to carry. We work with the surrogacy agency of your choice and can provide referrals for reproductive attorneys and psychologists who specialize in LGBTQIA+ arrangements.
- Fertility preservation for transgender individuals—egg freezing or sperm banking before gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery. Coming in early gives you the most options.
What is reciprocal IVF?
Reciprocal IVF—also called co-IVF—is a treatment option where one partner provides eggs, and the other carries the pregnancy. The egg provider goes through an IVF stimulation cycle; the eggs are fertilized with donor sperm to create embryos; one embryo is then transferred to the carrying partner’s uterus. Both partners have a biological connection to the pregnancy—one genetically, one as the person who carries and delivers.
What will my treatment plan look like?
Every plan starts with a consultation with one of our reproductive endocrinologists—a conversation about your medical history, your goals, and what path makes the most sense for your family.
A few things worth thinking about before that first appointment:
- If you’re planning to carry: Who will provide the eggs—you, your partner, or a donor? Will you use an anonymous sperm donor or someone you know?
- If you’re planning to work with a gestational carrier: Do you have someone in mind, or will you work with an agency? Who will provide the eggs and sperm?
- If you’re pursuing treatment as a solo parent: What donor options fit your situation—sperm, egg, or embryo?
Start with a $129 Fertility Awareness Checkup
Not ready for a full consultation? Our Control de fertilidad is a smart first step.
For $129, the checkup includes bloodwork assessing anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), FSH, and estradiol (E2)—the core markers of ovarian reserve—plus a transvaginal ultrasound. It’s available to patients ages 21–44 and requires no referral. For LGBTQIA+ individuals who want to understand their fertility before committing to a full treatment plan, it’s often exactly the right starting point.
Fertility Equity™ care—what it means for you
Our care teams are Fertility Equity™ certified, which means our team is trained to provide culturally competent, inclusive care for all communities—including those who have historically faced barriers to reproductive healthcare. That shows up in how we communicate, how we build treatment plans, and how we show up for every patient who walks through our doors.
What legal considerations should LGBTQIA+ families know about?
Family-building law is nuanced, particularly when third-party reproduction is involved. We strongly recommend connecting with a reproductive attorney before beginning any treatment that includes a gestational carrier or donor arrangement.
Our team can provide referrals for attorneys who specialize in LGBTQIA+ family building and reproductive law. Legal counsel—particularly for gestational carrier arrangements—should be in place before any embryo transfer.
Frequently asked questions
Does Florida have a fertility insurance mandate that covers LGBTQIA+ patients?
Florida does not have a state-level insurance mandate for fertility treatment. Coverage depends on your individual plan. Our team can help you review your benefits and understand what’s covered before you begin—and can walk you through financing options if coverage is limited.
Can a transgender person freeze their eggs or sperm before starting gender-affirming treatment?
Yes. Fertility preservation before gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery is something our care team supports regularly. Egg freezing and sperm banking are both available. The earlier you come in, the more options you’ll have. No referral is required.
Do both partners need to be evaluated before starting treatment?
It depends on the treatment plan. For IUI with donor sperm, the evaluation focuses on the person planning to carry. For reciprocal IVF, both partners will be evaluated—one for egg retrieval readiness, one for uterine readiness. Your physician will outline what testing is needed at your first appointment.
Does IVF Florida have experience working with LGBTQIA+ patients?
Yes—for 40 years and counting. LGBTQIA+ family building is a core part of our practice, explicitly featured across our care offerings. You won’t need to explain the basics at your consultation. Our team already knows them.
What if I don’t have fertility insurance coverage?
We offer financing options and can help you explore what’s available. Our stepped-care philosophy also means we start with less invasive, lower-cost treatment options before recommending more complex approaches—which often reduces overall cost significantly.
Have questions about LGBTQIA+ family building in Florida? We’re here when you’re ready. Schedule a consultation—or start with a $129 Fertility Awareness Checkup.