IVF for LGBTQIA+ Couples
IVF is one of several paths to parenthood for LGBTQIA+ couples and individuals. Whether you’re exploring donor conception, reciprocal IVF, or gestational surrogacy, Sunfish is here to make the process more accessible—financially, emotionally, and logistically for all types of families.
When should we consider IVF?
At Sunfish, we welcome the opportunity to support any individual, couple, or intended co-parents – regardless of who they love – with their family-building journeys.
What are our options?
Sunfish believes everyone who wants to build a family should be able to. That’s why we provide financial solutions for LGBTQIA+ couples each step of the process, as well as guidance and support.
For same-sex female couples
Family-building typically involves IUI or IVF with a known or anonymous sperm donor. Reciprocal IVF—where one partner provides eggs and the other carries the pregnancy—is also an option. Costs can range from a few thousand dollars to $30,000+.
For same sex male couples
Two biological men can use an egg donor and gestational surrogate. Costs—including IVF, legal fees, travel, and logistics—can be between $200,000 - $300,000. Keep in mind, Sunfish is the only lender that works with multiple surrogacy agencies throughout the country!
For the transgender community
Cryopreservation (egg or sperm freezing) allows transgender individuals to preserve fertility before transitioning. It offers the freedom to live authentically while keeping the option of having biological children in the future.
For single parents
There are many resources to help educate and guide you. For many, the use of an egg donor, sperm donor, or surrogate can be a helpful option. We are proud to partner with the GWK Academy and Men Having Babies for more resources.
What is the IVF Process?
Clinic Consultation
First, you do a consultation with a fertility clinic (not your OB/Gyn). The doctor-called a Reproductive Endocrinologist or REI-will discuss medical history, goals, testing and more. This is the time to ask questions, like, “How many LGBTQIA+ couples have you worked with?”
- The first step is always a consultation with a doctor at a fertility clinic
- This appointment is a great time to discuss goals and ask questions.
Testing + Treatment Plan
Testing includes blood work that measures hormones, genetics and more. A partner providing eggs and/or carrying the baby will get a transvaginal ultrasound (not fun) to count follicles, and a uterine evaluation. A partner providing sperm will do a sperm analysis. After what feels like a million tests, you’ll go over results, a plan and discuss egg/sperm donors and surrogacy if needed.
- From bloodwork to ultrasounds, the testing part is a lot.
- Your doctor will explain the results and next steps.
- For LGBTQIA+ couples, you may discuss sperm/egg donors and surrogacy when applicable.
Get started
After all this, it’s time to start IVF (if that’s the plan with your doc, of course).
We have a whole page dedicated to the IVF process here. We also have info about IVF with an egg donor or sperm donor.
The Finances
When it comes to paying for IVF, there are a few ways to do it.
Paying for IVF with insurance
First, check if your health insurance covers IVF. 42% of U.S. employers offer fertility coverage (source). Some states also mandate coverage. But, even if you have coverage, insurance often doesn’t pay for everything, including egg/sperm donors or surrogacy. Make sure to get a clear explanation of benefits.
Paying for IVF out-of-pocket with a clinic
With little to no fertility coverage, you can pay the clinic directly. Your clinic may have a package price for a cycle, but you will also pay for anesthesia, medications and more. Ask your clinic if they offer any payment plans, and see if you can pay with your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account).
Paying for IVF with Sunfish
At Sunfish, we offer another option- the Sunfish IVF Success Program is tailored to your treatment plan and built to help you become pregnant—with less confusion, more support, and lower costs. We partner with leading fertility clinics nationwide to offer our All-Inclusive IVF Bundle:
- Customized for you, based on your treatment plan.
- Unlimited Embryo Transfers.
- Expert guidance and support for up to one year.
- Discounts and savings up to $9,000 per cycle.
- Even with fertility coverage, there are a lot of hidden and unexpected costs that often aren’t covered, like embryo storage, medications and more.
- The Sunfish IVF Success Program bundles everything into one clear price, with added discounts and no surprises—offering peace of mind, financial clarity, and support from start to finish.
