Featuring Sydney fertility specialist Associate Professor Bronwyn Devine
At Rainbow Fertility, we offer inclusive, affirming fertility care. As a dedicated LGBTI+ fertility and IVF clinic, we provide a comprehensive service that is tailored to the individual needs of trans, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay and intersex couples, families and singles seeking advice and/or medical treatment to create and build their family.
In this blog article, Sydney fertility specialist Associate Professor Bronwyn Devine explores the various fertility options available and how they support the reproductive goals and futures of trans and non-binary people.
While every person’s journey is unique, some medical and/or surgical affirming approaches to transition can impact a person’s fertility. It is a good idea to chat to someone about what those effects might be and what is available to store DNA (gametes—eggs or sperm) or embryos so that the option of having a family using your own genetic material remains a possibility in the future. Medicare rebates are available for many of the services that we offer.
Trans women who wish to preserve their DNA can undergo a process where this is collected, analysed, and frozen for future use. This process can be very straightforward and can be done before beginning hormones if timing permits. Sometimes, people may prefer a minor surgical procedure for the collection, which can be done under anaesthetic. Oestrogen can have a long-term impact on DNA (sperm), so the potential of stored DNA can vary depending on whether the person has been on affirming hormones or not. It is worthwhile having a conversation with your fertility specialist to discuss the available options.
For trans men, DNA or gamete (egg) collection freezing involves stimulating the gonadal tissue with hormones to produce multiple follicles containing DNA (eggs), which are retrieved in a minor surgical procedure and then frozen. It is not essential to have gametes collected before commencing T, as it is possible to do a stimulation treatment and collection by taking two weeks out just before the next T injection is due. This means you don’t have to go off your T for a long time, and you don’t have to start cycling again.
Non-binary people may seek either sperm, egg or embryo preservation, depending on their individual circumstances and future reproductive plans. The procedures are just as described above, depending on the type of gametes needing storage and the needs, wishes and goals of the person seeking advice and care.
For people who have already undergone treatment, that means the use of their own gametes or carrying a pregnancy is not an option; there are still plenty of approaches available. Donor eggs and sperm are available through the Addam Donor Bank and Eeve Donor Bank, which are associated with Rainbow Fertility, and surrogacy is also possible. Altruistic surrogacy is legal in Australia. While the process can be complex, it is certainly an available option, and we would be very happy to discuss this with you if it is something you want to consider
Undergoing fertility cryopreservation or treatment can produce significant emotional and psychological upheaval, and we are very attuned to the challenges our patients may face during a treatment cycle. At Rainbow Fertility, we provide comprehensive support to help individuals navigate this process. Our team of experienced counsellors and healthcare professionals is dedicated to offering a safe and respectful environment, ensuring that everyone feels supported throughout their fertility journey.
At Rainbow Fertility, we are passionate about helping people create and build families. Cryopreservation provides trans and non-binary individuals with the opportunity to make reproductive choices that align with their life plans. Our commitment to inclusivity and support ensures everyone can access the best possible fertility care.
For more information about fertility services available at Rainbow Fertility, please visit our website or contact us directly. If you are considering fertility care or want to learn more about your fertility options, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated team at Rainbow Fertility. Together, we can explore the best path for planning your future reproductive choices and goals.
