Surrogacy for Lesbian Mothers: The Complete Guide

When Do Lesbian Couples Need Surrogacy?

Many lesbian couples can conceive through IUI or IVF without surrogacy. However, surrogacy becomes the best option when neither partner can safely carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions, age, or other factors.

Some couples also choose surrogacy for personal reasons or after unsuccessful attempts with other fertility treatments.

Reciprocal IVF Explained

Reciprocal IVF (also called co-maternity or partner IVF) is a popular option for lesbian couples where one partner provides eggs and the other carries the pregnancy. If the carrying partner cannot sustain a pregnancy, a surrogate can carry instead — combining reciprocal IVF with surrogacy.

This allows both partners to have a biological role: one as the genetic mother and one as the birth mother (or the surrogate as the carrier).

The Surrogacy Process for Lesbian Couples

1. Decide which partner will provide eggs (or use a donor)
2. Select a sperm donor
3. Choose a surrogacy agency
4. Find a gestational carrier through your agency
5. Complete legal agreements
6. IVF and embryo transfer to the surrogate
7. Pregnancy, birth, and parental rights establishment

Legal Rights in Texas

Texas law recognizes gestational surrogacy agreements for married couples. Since same-sex marriage is federally recognized, married lesbian couples have the same legal protections as any married couple in Texas.

Both partners can be named on the birth certificate through a pre-birth order when a valid gestational agreement is in place.

Cost Considerations

Surrogacy costs for lesbian couples using their own eggs may be slightly lower than for gay couples (who must also use an egg donor). Typical total costs range from $90,000 to $140,000 in Texas.

Using your own eggs eliminates donor fees ($8,000–$15,000), though you'll still need a sperm donor ($500–$1,500 per vial).

Finding the Right Agency

Look for agencies with specific experience working with lesbian couples. Key questions to ask:

• Have you worked with lesbian couples pursuing reciprocal IVF with surrogacy?
• Can you coordinate with our chosen fertility clinic?
• What legal support do you provide for same-sex parents?