The route to parenthood for LGBTQ+ community may look very different depending on your fertility status and where you are in your journey.
For some, it involves donor sperm and a straightforward cycle of IUI. For others, it involves egg donation, surrogacy, or fertility preservation before gender-affirming treatment.
A consultation with a doctor who understands each of these paths is where it begins.

The right treatment depends on your anatomy, your partner’s anatomy (if you have one), and your fertility picture. Below is a guide to the main paths — each one is explained in more detail further down the page.
IUI with donor sperm, IVF with donor sperm, or reciprocal IVF (where one partner provides eggs and the other carries the pregnancy).
Surrogacy with egg donation, using one or both partners’ sperm. Medical history and sperm assessment are the starting points.
Options depend on your anatomy. Single women may use donor sperm for IUI or IVF. Single men may pursue surrogacy with egg donation
Fertility preservation before hormone therapy or surgery, or conception options depending on anatomy and current treatment. A consultation with a doctor is the first step.
Plan Your Baby is the only fertility clinic in the UK offering IVF and fertility treatments built around your lifestyle, supported by a holding-hand approach so you never face your journey alone.
There are three main treatment paths for female same-sex couples. Which is most appropriate depends on your fertility picture, your fallopian tube health, and whether both partners want to be biologically involved in the pregnancy.
A doctor consultation — with a full review of both partners’ fertility — is the first step.
What it is: IUI (intrauterine insemination) involves placing prepared donor sperm directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation. It is the least invasive option and requires no egg collection.
When it is appropriate: IUI is suitable when fallopian tubes are open and functioning, there are no significant fertility concerns, and conception has not occurred without medical assistance. It is typically the first option considered.
What it involves:
- Fertility assessment to confirm suitability (AMH, hormone panel, fallopian tube assessment)
- Selection of donor sperm through a regulated sperm bank — anonymous or identity-release donors, matched for blood group and CMV status where preferred
- Monitored natural cycle or stimulated cycle depending on your situation
- Insemination procedure, which takes a few minutes
What it is: IVF (in vitro fertilisation) involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving them under sedation, fertilising them with donor sperm in the laboratory, and transferring one embryo to the uterus.
When it is appropriate: IVF is recommended when IUI has been unsuccessful, when there are fertility factors that reduce the chances of conception, or when genetic testing of embryos (PGT-A) is being considered.
What it involves:
- Fertility assessment - AMH, hormone panel, pelvic ultrasound (more tests might be needed depending on the medical history).
- Stimulation with hormone injections for around 10–14 days, with monitoring every few days - Egg collection under sedation at a partner clinic in London
- Fertilisation with donor sperm in the laboratory
- Embryo transfer — fresh or frozen cycle depending on response
- Pregnancy monitoring from a positive test to 12 weeks
What it is: Reciprocal IVF — also called shared motherhood — allows both partners to be biologically involved in the pregnancy. One partner provides the eggs; the other carries the pregnancy. The eggs are fertilised with donor sperm in the laboratory and the resulting embryo is transferred to the second partner.
When it is appropriate: Reciprocal IVF is an option for couples where both partners want a biological connection to the pregnancy. The egg-providing partner needs adequate ovarian reserve and full genetic test as she is a donor. The carrying partner’s uterus is assessed and standard infection screening before transfer.
What it involves:
- Fertility assessment of both partners
- The egg-providing partner goes through ovarian stimulation and egg collection (same process as IVF)
- Fertilisation with donor sperm
- The carrying partner prepares the uterine lining for embryo transfer
- Embryo transfer and early pregnancy monitoring
Note on legal parenthood: Under UK law (HFEA regulations), both partners in a same-sex female couple can be recognised as legal parents from birth when treatment is carried out at a licensed clinic — provided a formal consent agreement is in place before treatment begins. Your doctor and clinic team will guide you through this.
For male same-sex couples, the path to parenthood can be adoption or involve surrogacy and egg donation. This is a longer and more complex process than IVF — it involves coordinating between legal, medical, and personal decisions.
A doctor consultation — with a full review of both partners’ fertility — is the first step.
What it is: A surrogate carries the pregnancy. Eggs are provided by a donor and fertilised with sperm from one or both partners through IVF. The resulting embryo is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
What it involves — step by step:
1. Sperm assessment — both partners have a semen analysis. the sperm has to be quarantine period of 6 months (180 days), although this can be shortened to a few weeks if specialized screening is used.One or both partners’ sperm may be used during the process. The decision on whose sperm is a personal one; a doctor can advise on any relevant medical factors. both partners have a semen analysis and
2. Plan Your Baby does not provide surrogates directly but can help guide the process, connect you with surrogate agencies and support the medical side throughout. In case you already have a surrogate, let us know during consultation with a doctor.
3. Egg donation — eggs are sourced through a regulated egg donation programme. Donors in the UK are non-anonymous or identity-release depending on the arrangement.
4. IVF cycle — donor eggs are fertilised with the chosen partner’s sperm in the laboratory. Resulting embryos may be genetically tested (PGT-A) before transfer.
5. Embryo transfer — the embryo is transferred to the surrogate after her uterine lining has been prepared. 6. Pregnancy monitoring — the surrogate’s early pregnancy is monitored. Plan Your Baby supports the medical coordination throughout.
Legal note: Surrogacy law in the UK is specific. The surrogate is the legal mother at birth, and a parental order must be obtained after birth to transfer legal parenthood to the intended parents. This is a standard process but requires legal guidance. We recommend taking legal advice alongside your medical consultation before beginning
Choosing to become a parent without a partner is a decision that comes with its own set of practical and medical questions. The treatment pathway depends on your anatomy and fertility picture. Here is an overview of the main options.
IUI with donor sperm is usually the starting point — least invasive, no egg collection required, and suitable when there are no significant fertility concerns.
If IUI is not appropriate or has not been successful, IVF with donor sperm is the next step.
A fertility assessment — AMH, hormone panel, and pelvic ultrasound — gives a clear picture of which route makes most sense.
Donor sperm selection: Through a regulated sperm bank you can choose a sperm donor. Note that UK law requires that all the sperm donors are identifiable.Matching criteria include blood group, physical characteristics, and CMV status where relevant.
The path to parenthood for single men involves surrogacy and egg donation — the same as for male same-sex couples. A sperm assessment is the starting point. A consultation covers the process in full, including surrogacy coordination, egg donation, IVF, and the legal steps involved.
Fertility options for trans and non-binary people depend on your individual anatomy, whether you have started hormone therapy or had gender-affirming surgery, and what your goals are. This is an area where a consultation with a doctor — not a general assessment — is the right starting point.Below is an outline of the main situations we see. If yours is not described here, the same principle applies: book a consultation and bring what you know about your current treatment and your fertility goals.
For trans women and non-binary people assigned male at birth: Hormone therapy (oestrogen) affects sperm production and over time can reduce or end it. If sperm banking has not already been done, this is worth discussing before hormone treatment begins or continues. Sperm freezing is a straightforward process and provides options for the future — whether for surrogacy or for a partner who may carry a pregnancy.
For trans men and non-binary people assigned female at birth: Testosterone therapy suppresses ovulation and, over time, may reduce egg quality. Egg freezing before starting testosterone — or during a temporary pause in testosterone — preserves future options. This is a significant decision and one a doctor can help you think through clearly.
Some trans men and non-binary people choose to carry a pregnancy. This typically requires stopping testosterone to allow ovulation to resume, which takes a variable amount of time. A doctor can advise on what to expect, how to monitor the cycle, and which treatment — IUI or IVF — is most appropriate given your fertility picture. This is a medically supported option. Many trans men have had successful pregnancies. The process is individual and requires a consultation to plan properly.
If sperm was frozen before hormone therapy, this can be used for IVF with a partner who can carry a pregnancy, or as part of a surrogacy arrangement. A consultation covers the current condition of banked sperm, the most appropriate treatment path, and next steps.
%20(1).webp)
.webp)
%20(1).webp)

From your first consultation to same‑day results and treatment recommendations, we guide you through each stage of your fertility assessment.

You attend one of over 450+ partner testing centres nationwide for hormone blood tests, scans or semen analysis, depending on whether you are having a female or male assessment.
Your results are reviewed quickly, with detailed same‑day findings so you are not left waiting for answers.
Your fertility expert explains what the results mean for your fertility, including ovarian function, ovulation, semen health and overall reproductive health.
Together, you discuss whether further fertility support or treatment is recommended and what your options might look like.
Our fertility team brings together leading consultants, nurses, embryologists, and specialists in genetics, nutrition, and wellbeing — providing complete care at every stage of your journey.
A fertility assessment helps you understand your reproductive health and any challenges when trying to conceive, using hormone analysis, ultrasound scans and semen evaluation to identify possible causes of infertility and create a personalised plan.
Home tests give initial insights. Accurate results require a professional clinic.
Options include lifestyle changes, medication, IVF, IUI, and other assisted reproductive techniques.
Semen analysis, hormone testing, and lifestyle evaluation are part of fertility testing for couples.
After 6–12 months of unsuccessful attempts, book a consultation to assess fertility and discuss treatments.
Fertility testing is generally recommended after 6–12 months of trying to conceive without success. Assessment may be considered earlier if you are over 35, have irregular menstrual cycles, known endometriosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or a history of miscarriage.
Most standard investigations can be completed within one menstrual cycle. Our nurses will book ultrasound and blood work appointments for you next to your home, office or arrange a nurse visit to your home (for blood tests only). More comprehensive investigations may require additional scheduling depending on timing and clinical findings.
Male fertility testing is recommended after 6–12 months of trying to conceive without success. Testing may also be advised earlier if there is a known medical history, previous testicular surgery, or hormonal concerns.
Semen analysis provides important information about sperm count, motility, and morphology. However, results can vary between samples. Repeat testing is often recommended to confirm findings.
Reference ranges are defined by laboratory standards. A low sperm count (oligospermia) is typically diagnosed when sperm concentration falls below established reference levels. Interpretation should always consider the full clinical picture.
In some cases, sperm parameters can improve with lifestyle changes, treatment of infection, or surgical correction of varicocele. Outcomes vary and depend on the underlying cause.
Take the first step towards parenthood today. Our expert team is ready to guide you through your fertility journey with personalized care and support.
Available 24/7
No waiting list
Fast response guaranteed
.webp)

Lauren C.
Baby Cora Rose
The biggest thank you to Plan Your Baby for completing our family. They made us feel safe, supported & confident when our trust in the process had been completely destroyed. They also made us feel extremely well cared for & humanised in an industry that can make you feel like a number. I needed a lot of personal support & Marija was always there to give it to me. Dr Sami threw everything at this attempt, knowing it was our last & I am just so grateful that he took no chances with our care. I really felt his human investment in our family, it wasn’t that he wanted the numbers for his clinic, he wanted this baby for us. Thank you again to the PYB team. We are beyond grateful.

Lindsay G.
Baby Katie
Plan your baby provided us with support and reassurance at a very tricky time. Their early pregnancy monitoring was thorough and Marija was always quick to respond to any questions, worries or concerns. I had been looking for exactly what plan your baby offers, someone to guide you through the unknown of a new pregnancy after recurrent loss from the ease of your local area.

Victoria C.
Baby Innis
Since the first interaction with Dr Sami and Marija trying to conceive through to their early pregnancy support we wouldn't be staring at our beautiful 8 day old. Having previous miscarriage and struggles, when I finally saw those double lines I was left feeling anxious and terrified . Immediately, I got support throughout my first trimester and I truly do believe the plan in place meant she is here today. Couldn't be more grateful. Thank you Plan my Baby.

Abigail M.
Baby Rowan
I came to Plan Your Baby after a missed miscarriage, knowing I wanted to do everything I could to support my next pregnancy. I initially had advice on fertility testing, which was thankfully not needed as we conceived quickly the second time round.
I had support from PYB in the first 3 months of my pregnancy — regular blood tests and scans and medication to help the pregnancy. Marija and Dr Sami were supportive, knowledgeable and kind throughout the whole period, providing me with much needed emotional support, especially with some early bleeding in the first few weeks.
I wouldn't hesitate to recommend PYB, especially for the flexible, remote support aspect.
My little boy is here now, so thank you from the two of us.

Veronica E.
Baby Celine
I’m incredibly grateful for the support I received from Plan Your Baby during the early stages of my pregnancy. Their team was always available—no matter the time—to guide me, recommend trusted labs and professionals, and help me navigate this delicate and uncertain period with peace of mind.
One of the things that made a huge difference for me was the convenience of their at-home services, including blood collection and progesterone injections. It took a great weight off my shoulders during a time when rest and reassurance were so important.
I wholeheartedly recommend their services to anyone going through the early phases of pregnancy, especially after an embryo transfer. Their care and responsiveness made me feel calmer, more secure, and truly supported.
A very special thank you to Dr. Sami and Marija—without your dedication and kindness, my journey would have been much more difficult.

Aisling O’K.
Baby Teddy
We came to Plan Your Baby following a number of years of failed fertility treatments. From the start Marija and Dr Sami made us feel supported, heard and reassured. We felt immediately that PYB could be the people to help us have a baby. Throughout the IVF process they were always available to support us and we felt confident in their care.
Their unique approach to fertility treatment made IVF more accessible, less stressful and less of a burden when also trying to juggle work. Our son was born in May and we simply couldn’t be more grateful to them for getting us here.

Jade G.
Baby Vienna
Plan your baby have been amazing with me throughout my time with them and if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be 20 weeks in with my rainbow baby. There very attentive and fast with there replies and quick on helping with all your needs.
Deffo recommend plan your baby if you are struggling with getting pregnant and keeping babies there truly amazing and the support is unreal.
.webp)
Jonny C.
Baby Molly
Dr. Sami and his team were nothing short of incredible. They gave us clarity, care and hope when we were afraid to believe this pregnancy could work out. They are the reason we have our gorgeous girl, Molly.
Choose suitable option
Speak to our senior nurse or fertility coordinator
15 min online video consultation
Initial guidance on our approach and treatments
Treatment options overview and next steps
Price
£0
Price
£0
Choose suitable option
45 min online video consultation
Review of your medical history and personal fertility goals
Expert guidance on all available treatment options
Personalised treatment plan
Price
£125
45 min online video consultation
Review of your medical history and personal fertility goals
Expert guidance on all available treatment options
Personalised treatment plan
Price
£125
Speak to our senior nurse or fertility coordinator
15 min online video consultation
Initial guidance on our approach and treatments
Treatment options overview and next steps
Price
£0
Price
£0
45 min online video consultation
Review of your medical history and personal fertility goals
Expert guidance on all available treatment options
Personalised treatment plan
Price
£125
45 min online video consultation
Review of your medical history and personal fertility goals
Expert guidance on all available treatment options
Personalised treatment plan
Price
£125