Laurel Fertility Care recognizes the unique fertility needs of the approximately 3.3 million transgender people in the United States and is committed to providing compassionate, affirming, and inclusive reproductive services.
Fertility Considerations for Trans Individuals
It’s essential to discuss fertility preservation and various family-building options for transgender and non-binary individuals. While gender-affirming care like hormone therapy or surgery may impact fertility, proactive planning can preserve multiple options for reproductive choices through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART).
Egg or Sperm Preservation
Preserving eggs or sperm before starting gender-affirming care allows transgender individuals to maintain the possibility of biological parenthood.
Fertility and Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can affect reproductive functions. Trans women (AMAB individuals on estrogen/anti-androgens) may take 3–6 months to recover sperm production after stopping estrogen and anti-androgen medications. For Trans men (AFAB individuals on testosterone), ovulation may resume within 3–6 months after stopping testosterone, though the timeline varies. Some may need additional fertility treatments if regular ovulation does not return naturally.
Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)
FET is a fertility option for transgender and non-binary individuals who have preserved embryos from a previous IVF cycle or are using donor embryos. This process involves thawing and transferring an embryo into the uterus for implantation. Since frozen embryos remain viable for over 10 years, FET can be an option after an unsuccessful IVF cycle, for expanding a family, or following pregnancy loss. FET cycles use estrogen and progesterone to prepare the uterine lining, making the process less physically demanding while increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is considered the most effective form of ART, in which an egg is fertilized outside of the body. The resulting embryo(s) are then transferred back to the uterus for the duration of a pregnancy.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is an affordable, less-invasive option for those using donor sperm or facing fertility challenges due to hormone therapy or other factors. The procedure involves placing prepared sperm directly into the uterus around ovulation, improving the chances of conception.
Building Families with Laurel Fertility Care
At Laurel Fertility Care, we welcome and support individuals of all gender identities through their fertility journey. Contact us today to learn more about our inclusive fertility services by calling (415) 673-9199.
