Thinking about starting a family can be a lot to handle, especially for LGBTQ+ folks who might have unique paths to parenthood. If you identify as a trans woman or non-binary person and are considering gender-affirming surgery now or in the future, it’s a good idea to explore your fertility options.
Preserving your fertility as a trans woman or non-binary person is fairly straightforward. It typically involves collecting a few sperm samples. Ideally, you’d want to do this before starting any hormone treatments, but don’t worry—it’s still possible to preserve your fertility afterward. We know that this might mean putting hormone therapy on hold, and that can be a tough call to make. But we’re here to help you navigate your choices, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
How Does It Work?
The process of freezing sperm is pretty simple. First, we conduct a gamete analysis to ensure your sperm is viable for freezing and screen for any infectious diseases like HIV or hepatitis C. These tests won’t prevent you from freezing your samples, but they help us manage any potential risks.
Once you’re ready, you’ll provide a fresh sperm sample, which can be done in one of our comfortable private rooms at the clinic. If that feels daunting, you can even collect it at home—just make sure to bring it back within an hour. If you’re unable to provide a sample, we can also assist through a surgical retrieval process.
When we have your sample, it gets mixed with a cryoprotectant to keep it safe during freezing. We separate it into different containers, so you can use it for multiple treatments if needed. The samples are then rapidly cooled using a method called vitrification and stored in liquid nitrogen tanks.
What Are the Costs?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the expenses involved in the gamete freezing process:
- Fertility Assessment: £205
- Gamete Analysis: Included in the assessment
- Gamete Freezing Cycle: £695 (includes freezing)
- Storage: £370 annually
Our team is ready to provide more detailed pricing information and answer any questions about your fertility journey.
If you’re interested in learning more about the emotional aspects of starting a family, check out our blog post on navigating those feelings after a miscarriage. For hands-on options, consider exploring resources like Cryobaby’s home insemination kit. Additionally, the NHS offers great insights into fertility treatments, making it an excellent resource for anyone considering options like IVF.
In summary, preserving your fertility as a trans woman or non-binary individual is a crucial step if you’re thinking about family in the future. The process is manageable, and support is available every step of the way.