Meet Emma and Chris, a same-sex couple who approached their fertility journey with a natural mindset. They chose intrauterine insemination (IUI) as their first step, finding it to be less invasive and more aligned with their desire for a gentle experience. Emma, 30, and Chris, 28, were already parents to their daughter, Mia, from Emma’s prior relationship. As Mia was getting ready to start school, the couple began discussing the possibility of expanding their family.
They decided that Emma would carry the baby since she loved being pregnant and had no known fertility issues. They believed that it would be easier for Mia to welcome a sibling if she had seen her mom go through the pregnancy journey. After researching various IVF options, they settled on IUI. “We wanted it to be as non-medical and natural as possible,” Chris shared. “Fertility treatments can be tough, and we wanted to keep the process as relaxed as we could.”
Finding the Right Clinic
The couple discovered TFP GCRM Fertility in Glasgow and immediately felt a connection. “We really liked the vibe of the clinic,” Chris said. “They were friendly and welcoming, which isn’t always the case when you’re a same-sex couple.” Emma had concerns about being the non-biological parent and whether she would feel included. “In the outside world, I face prejudice. Some people don’t see me as a ‘real mom,’ which is tough,” she explained. “But at the clinic, they always referred to me as mom, which meant the world.”
Choosing a Sperm Donor
For their sperm donor, they chose a Danish sperm bank, and after browsing through profiles, they found a donor they both liked. Emma recalled, “You get to hear a voice note, and it was amazing to hear his passion for helping others through donation. He had dark hair and blue eyes, just like Chris, which was a bonus.” Once they ordered the sperm, TFP Fertility conducted thorough background checks. They learned about the UK law that allows donor-conceived children to contact their donor when they turn 18, which was new information for them. This law was enacted back in 2005, allowing children to access their donor’s name and relevant medical history.
The IUI Process
With everything set, Emma underwent routine checks to prepare for treatment. While IUI is a natural method, medication might be used to optimize the timing of ovulation. The sperm is prepared in the lab and then introduced into the uterus via a catheter, timed to coincide with ovulation. The couple felt anxious during their first IUI attempt, which, unfortunately, did not result in a pregnancy. They took a short trip to relax, only for Emma to start her period while they were in Spain. They called the clinic to discuss their next steps.
On their second attempt, Chris recalled, “The doctor was incredibly kind. He sat down with Emma and reassured us that there was no rush. He made us feel like our journey was unique and valued.” After the second procedure, they returned home and tried to keep their minds off the wait. “Those two weeks felt like an eternity,” Emma said. Every little sensation had her wondering if she was pregnant. They visited Chris’s sister, and even her cat seemed to sense that something was different, as it kept wanting to cuddle with Emma’s belly.
The Joy of Pregnancy
When the clinic finally called with the blood test results confirming the pregnancy, it coincided with Mia’s nursery graduation. “That day was filled with so many emotions,” Chris said. They were overjoyed that the IUI had worked, but Emma noted that it was a different experience for Chris, as she had to rely on Emma’s feelings. “The best part was feeling the baby move when we were both lying together. It was such a magical moment,” Chris added.
Looking Ahead
After a smooth pregnancy, baby Leo arrived, and the couple is already contemplating their next steps. “We’re considering IUI again or possibly reciprocal IVF,” Chris mentioned. “It’s wonderful that we have options, and Emma says she’d feel honored to carry my egg next time.”
If you’re on a similar path and want to explore your fertility options, check out our other resources like this blog on understanding and managing disrespectful behavior in toddlers. Don’t forget to visit Make a Mom for information on at-home insemination kits. Also, consider checking out WomensHealth.gov for valuable insights into infertility.
In summary, Emma and Chris took a thoughtful and gentle approach to their fertility journey, finding support and warmth at TFP GCRM Fertility. With a successful IUI behind them, they now look forward to the future and the possibility of expanding their family even further.