Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 14, 2026

Collection of Human Follicular Fluid, Follicle Somatic Cells, and Immature Oocytes from Individuals Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization
Published on: October 24, 2025
Utilization of fertility treatment and reproductive choices by lesbian couples
Olivia J Carpinello1, Mary Casey Jacob2, John Nulsen3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut.
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.
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