No, MTF (Male-to-Female) individuals who have transitioned through hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries typically cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy. Hormone therapy involving the use of estrogen and anti-androgens typically leads to changes in reproductive function, including a decrease in sperm production and fertility. Additionally, gender-affirming surgeries such as vaginoplasty involve the removal of the testes, which are responsible for producing sperm.

However, if an MTF individual has frozen their sperm prior to transitioning, they may have the option of using assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI), in collaboration with a gestational carrier (surrogate) to achieve a pregnancy and have a biological child. This process involves using the previously frozen sperm to fertilize donor eggs, and the resulting embryo is implanted in the uterus of the gestational carrier for pregnancy and birth.

It’s important to note that the process of pursuing parenthood as an MTF individual after transitioning can be complex, legally and emotionally. It involves careful consideration, consultations with fertility specialists, legal professionals, and medical professionals experienced in transgender care. The specific laws and regulations regarding surrogacy and assisted reproductive technologies vary by country and even within different regions, so it’s crucial to consult with experts who can provide guidance based on the specific circumstances and local regulations.

It’s recommended that individuals interested in pursuing parenthood after transitioning consult with fertility specialists, reproductive endocrinologists, and legal professionals specializing in assisted reproduction and LGBTQ+ family-building options to explore the available options, understand the processes involved, and make informed decisions.

No, MTF individuals cannot get pregnant and give birth after transitioning. This is because hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgery, which are common parts of transitioning, can affect the reproductive system.

Hormone therapy can suppress ovulation and menstruation, and gender-affirming surgery can remove the uterus and ovaries. This means that MTF individuals will not be able to conceive naturally.

However, there are some options for MTF individuals who want to have biological children. One option is to freeze their sperm before starting hormone therapy. This allows them to use their own sperm to conceive through in vitro fertilization (IVF) in the future.

Another option is to adopt a child. This is a great way to become a parent, regardless of your gender identity.

It is important to talk to a healthcare provider about your options for having children if you are an MTF individual who is considering transitioning. They can help you assess your individual needs and develop a plan to achieve your parenting goals.

Here are some additional resources that may be helpful:

  • The National Center for Transgender Equality: https://transequality.org/: This organization provides information and resources on transgender health, including information on fertility for transgender individuals.
  • The Human Rights Campaign: https://www.hrc.org/: This organization also provides information and resources on transgender health, including a helpline that can provide assistance with finding fertility resources for transgender individuals.
  • The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/: This organization provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth, including MTF youth who are struggling with fertility.

MTF (Male-to-Female)

MTF, or Male-to-Female, refers to individuals assigned male at birth who identify and live as females. This term is commonly associated with transgender individuals undergoing a gender transition. Here are key details related to MTF individuals:

  1. Gender Identity:
    • MTF individuals have a gender identity that aligns with the female gender, even though they were assigned male at birth.
  1. Gender Transition:
    • Gender transition is a personal and unique process. It may include social, medical, and legal aspects to align one’s gender presentation with their affirmed gender identity.
  1. Social Transition:
    • Social transition involves changes in gender expression, including clothing, name, pronouns, and social roles, to live authentically as the identified gender.
  1. Hormone Therapy:
    • Many MTF individuals opt for hormone therapy, involving the use of estrogen and anti-androgens, to develop feminine secondary sex characteristics such as breast development and softening of facial features.
  1. Gender Confirmation Surgery (GCS):
    • Some MTF individuals pursue gender confirmation surgeries, including procedures like vaginoplasty, facial feminization surgery, and tracheal shave, to align physical characteristics with their gender identity.
  1. Voice Training:
    • Voice feminization training may be pursued to achieve a more feminine voice, as pitch and resonance can be important aspects of gender expression.
  1. Legal Transition:
    • Legal aspects of transition may include changing one’s name, gender marker, and updating identification documents to reflect the affirmed gender.
  1. Support and Community:
    • MTF individuals often seek support from friends, family, and transgender communities during their journey. Support groups, both in-person and online, can provide valuable resources and connection.
  1. Mental Health Care:
    • Mental health is a crucial aspect of the MTF experience. Accessing affirming mental health care and counseling can help individuals navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
  1. Rights and Advocacy:
    • MTF individuals, like all transgender individuals, may advocate for their rights, including anti-discrimination protections, access to affirming healthcare, and gender-affirming policies.

It’s important to approach discussions about gender identity and expression with respect and sensitivity. Each MTF individual’s experience is unique, and their choices regarding transition and personal identity should be honored and supported. Affirmative and inclusive healthcare, legal recognition, and societal understanding contribute to a more supportive environment for MTF individuals.

 

Transgender Pregnancy

Transgender pregnancy refers to the experience of pregnancy by individuals who are transgender, particularly those assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have undergone gender transition but retained their reproductive capabilities. Here are key details:

  1. Hormone Therapy and Fertility:
    • Some transgender women may choose to undergo hormone therapy (estrogen and anti-androgens) as part of their transition. However, fertility preservation options, such as sperm banking, before starting hormone therapy can enable future pregnancies.
  1. Uterine Transplant:
    • Uterine transplant is an emerging option for transgender women who do not have a uterus. This involves transplanting a uterus from a donor into the recipient, enabling the possibility of carrying a pregnancy.
  1. Gestational Surrogacy:
    • Transgender women who have retained sperm-producing capability but do not have a uterus may opt for gestational surrogacy. In this process, an individual’s sperm fertilizes an egg, and the embryo is implanted in a gestational carrier’s uterus.
  1. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
    • ART, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be utilized for transgender pregnancies. Eggs and sperm can be combined outside the body, and the resulting embryo is then implanted in a uterus for gestation.
  1. Fertility Consultation:
    • Transgender individuals interested in pregnancy should consult with fertility specialists to explore available options, assess fertility status, and discuss potential challenges.
  1. Fertility Preservation:
    • For transgender individuals considering hormone therapy that may impact fertility, fertility preservation techniques like sperm or egg freezing can be explored.
  1. Legal Considerations:
    • Legal aspects, including parental rights and recognition, may vary based on jurisdiction. It’s essential to consider and address legal implications before starting the process.
  1. Psychosocial Support:
    • Transgender pregnancy involves unique emotional and psychological aspects. Accessing supportive healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and peer support can be beneficial.
  1. Health Monitoring:
    • Transgender individuals pursuing pregnancy may need specialized healthcare, considering both their gender transition and the specific needs associated with pregnancy.
  1. Comprehensive Care:
    • Transgender pregnancy care requires a multidisciplinary approach involving reproductive endocrinologists, obstetricians, and mental health professionals to provide comprehensive and affirming care.

It’s important to note that not all transgender individuals desire or pursue pregnancy, and decisions regarding family-building are deeply personal. Healthcare providers who specialize in transgender care can offer guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring respectful and affirming reproductive healthcare.

 

Transgender Fertility

Transgender fertility refers to the reproductive options and considerations for transgender individuals who may wish to preserve their fertility or explore family-building possibilities. Here are key details related to transgender fertility:

  1. Fertility Preservation:
    • Transgender individuals considering hormone therapy that may impact fertility can opt for fertility preservation methods. For example, trans women (MTF) may choose sperm banking before starting hormone therapy.
  2. Egg Freezing:
    • Transgender men (FTM) who have not undergone hysterectomy may consider egg freezing before starting hormone therapy. This allows the preservation of eggs for potential future use in assisted reproduction.
  3. Hormone Therapy and Fertility:
    • Hormone therapy, a common aspect of gender transition, can affect fertility. Consulting with fertility specialists before starting hormone therapy allows individuals to make informed decisions about fertility preservation.
  4. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
    • For transgender individuals interested in family-building after transition, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF can be explored. This involves fertilizing eggs and sperm outside the body and transferring the embryo into a uterus.
  5. Gestational Surrogacy:
    • Transgender women or individuals who have undergone gender confirmation surgery but retained sperm-producing capability may consider gestational surrogacy. This involves implanting an embryo created from their sperm and an egg donor into a gestational carrier’s uterus.
  6. Uterine Transplant:
    • Uterine transplant is an emerging option for transgender women who do not have a uterus. This procedure allows them to potentially carry a pregnancy.
  7. Fertility Consultation:
    • Transgender individuals interested in future family-building should consult with fertility specialists. These professionals can provide information about available options, assess fertility status, and offer guidance.
  8. Sperm or Egg Donor:
    • Transgender individuals who have not preserved their own gametes may consider using sperm or egg donors for family-building through assisted reproduction.
  9. Legal Considerations:
    • Legal aspects, such as parental rights and recognition, may vary based on jurisdiction. Consulting with legal professionals knowledgeable about transgender family-building is advisable.
  • Psychosocial Support:
    • The process of navigating transgender fertility may involve emotional and psychological considerations. Accessing supportive healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and peer support can be crucial.

It’s important for transgender individuals to explore fertility options before making decisions that could impact their reproductive capabilities. Open communication with healthcare providers, fertility specialists, and legal professionals can ensure informed and affirming choices in line with individuals’ family-building goals.

Pregnancy after Transition

Pregnancy after transition refers to the experience of becoming pregnant and carrying a child to term for individuals who have undergone gender transition, especially those assigned female at birth (AFAB) who have transitioned to a male gender identity. Here are key details regarding pregnancy after transition:

  1. Fertility Considerations:
    • Pregnancy after transition is possible for transgender men (assigned female at birth) who have retained their reproductive organs and fertility.
  2. Hormone Therapy and Fertility:
    • Transgender men who have undergone hormone therapy may still retain their fertility, although the impact of testosterone on fertility varies among individuals.
  3. Cessation of Hormone Therapy:
    • Some transgender men choose to temporarily stop testosterone treatment to facilitate conception. However, individual experiences and the impact on fertility can vary.
  4. Fertility Consultation:
    • Consulting with fertility specialists is advisable for transgender men considering pregnancy. Specialists can assess fertility status, discuss options, and provide guidance on family planning.
  5. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
    • Transgender men may explore ART, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), to conceive. This involves fertilizing eggs outside the body and transferring embryos to the uterus.
  6. Egg Retrieval:
    • If needed, transgender men can undergo egg retrieval before starting hormone therapy. This allows for the preservation of eggs for later use in assisted reproduction.
  7. Gestational Surrogacy:
    • For transgender men who have undergone gender confirmation surgery or do not wish to carry the pregnancy, gestational surrogacy is an option. In this case, an embryo is created using the individual’s sperm and a donor egg, and the gestational carrier carries the pregnancy.
  8. Health Monitoring during Pregnancy:
    • Transgender men who become pregnant will receive prenatal care similar to cisgender women. Regular health monitoring and medical supervision are essential.
  9. Social and Legal Considerations:
    • Pregnancy after transition may involve social and legal considerations. Transgender individuals should be aware of legal rights, support systems, and potential challenges related to their unique circumstances.
  • Psychosocial Support:
    • The experience of pregnancy after transition can have emotional and psychological aspects. Accessing supportive healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and peer support can be valuable.

It’s important to approach discussions about pregnancy after transition with sensitivity and respect for the individual’s unique circumstances. Healthcare providers specializing in transgender care can offer guidance and support throughout the process, ensuring affirming and respectful reproductive healthcare.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) encompass a range of medical procedures designed to assist individuals or couples in achieving pregnancy when natural conception is challenging or not possible. These technologies are often employed in cases of infertility, reproductive health issues, or for family-building options for LGBTQ+ individuals. Here are key details on Assisted Reproductive Technologies:

  1. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
    • Procedure: Eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish to create embryos, which are then transferred to the uterus. IVF is a versatile method used for various fertility challenges.
  2. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI):
    • Procedure: A single sperm is directly injected into an egg to facilitate fertilization. ICSI is often used in conjunction with IVF for male infertility or fertilization difficulties.
  3. Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT):
    • Procedure: Eggs and sperm are mixed outside the body and immediately transferred to the fallopian tubes. Fertilization occurs within the woman’s body.
  4. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT):
    • Procedure: Fertilized embryos (zygotes) are transferred to the fallopian tubes. ZIFT is similar to GIFT but involves using fertilized embryos rather than eggs and sperm.
  5. Egg Donation:
    • Procedure: Donor eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory, and resulting embryos are implanted in the uterus of the recipient. This method is common for women with diminished ovarian reserve.
  6. Sperm Donation:
    • Procedure: Donor sperm is used to fertilize the recipient’s eggs, either through artificial insemination or IVF. Sperm donation is utilized in cases of male infertility or same-sex couples.
  7. Surrogacy:
    • Procedure: A surrogate, either traditional (using her own eggs) or gestational (using an egg donor’s eggs), carries and delivers a child for intended parents. Surrogacy is an option for those unable to carry a pregnancy.
  8. Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT):
    • Procedure: Embryos created through IVF are tested for genetic abnormalities before implantation. PGT helps reduce the risk of genetic disorders in the offspring.
  9. Cryopreservation (Egg and Sperm Freezing):
    • Procedure: Eggs and sperm are frozen and stored for future use. This is common for individuals facing fertility threats due to medical treatments, gender transition, or delayed family planning.
  • Uterine Transplant:
    • Procedure: A healthy uterus is transplanted into a woman who does not have a functional uterus. Uterine transplant allows for the possibility of carrying a pregnancy.
  • Artificial Insemination (AI):
    • Procedure: Sperm is directly placed into the reproductive tract, either in the cervix (ICI) or the uterus (IUI), to facilitate fertilization. AI can be used with donor sperm or the partner’s sperm.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies have significantly expanded family-building options, offering hope to individuals and couples facing fertility challenges. It’s crucial to consult with fertility specialists to determine the most suitable approach based on individual circumstances and goals. Legal and ethical considerations, as well as psychosocial support, play integral roles in the ART process.

Uterine Transplant

Uterine transplant is a surgical procedure in which a healthy uterus is transplanted into a woman who either does not have a uterus (congenital absence or previous hysterectomy) or has a non-functional uterus. This medical intervention enables the recipient the potential to carry and give birth to a child. Here are key details on uterine transplant:

  1. Recipient Selection:
    • Ideal candidates for uterine transplant are women with absolute uterine infertility, often due to congenital absence, surgical removal (hysterectomy), or a non-functional uterus.
  1. Donor Uterus:
    • The donor uterus is typically obtained from a living or deceased donor. Living donors are often family members or close friends. Deceased donor uteri may come from individuals who have consented to organ donation.
  1. Pre-transplant Evaluation:
    • Both the recipient and the donor undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluations to assess their suitability for the procedure. Compatibility between the donor and recipient is a crucial consideration.
  1. Surgical Procedure:
    • The transplant surgery involves attaching the donor uterus to the recipient’s pelvic blood vessels and connecting the ureter, which carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. The surgery can take several hours.
  1. Blood Vessel Connection:
    • Establishing blood flow is a critical aspect of the procedure. Microsurgical techniques are often employed to connect the arteries and veins, ensuring proper blood circulation to the transplanted uterus.
  1. Immune Suppression:
    • Recipients are typically prescribed immunosuppressive medications to prevent the body from rejecting the transplanted organ. This medication regimen continues post-surgery.
  1. Pregnancy Attempts:
    • After a period of healing and recovery, recipients can attempt to achieve pregnancy through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Embryos are implanted in the transplanted uterus.
  1. Monitoring and Follow-up:
    • Recipients are closely monitored during pregnancy to assess the health of the transplanted uterus and the developing fetus. Cesarean section is often recommended for delivery.
  1. Transplant Rejection:
    • There is a risk of rejection, and regular monitoring of the recipient’s immune response is crucial. Rejection may necessitate adjustments to the immunosuppressive medications.
  1. Ethical Considerations:
    • Uterine transplant raises ethical considerations regarding organ donation, informed consent, and the potential risks to both the donor and recipient. Ethical guidelines and considerations vary globally.

 

Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which a woman, known as the gestational surrogate or gestational carrier, carries and delivers a child for another individual or couple. Here are key details on gestational surrogacy:

  1. Definition:
    • In gestational surrogacy, the gestational carrier is not genetically related to the child she carries. The embryo is created using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
  2. Role of Intended Parents:
    • The intended parents, often a couple or an individual, provide the eggs and sperm for fertilization. In some cases, donor eggs or sperm may be used.
  3. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):
    • Eggs are retrieved from the intended mother or an egg donor, and sperm is obtained from the intended father or a sperm donor. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the gestational carrier’s uterus.
  4. Legal Agreements:
    • Legal agreements, including contracts between the gestational carrier and intended parents, are crucial. These agreements outline rights, responsibilities, compensation, and expectations during and after the pregnancy.
  5. Medical Screening:
    • Both the gestational carrier and intended parents undergo thorough medical and psychological screenings to ensure physical and emotional suitability for the process.
  6. Embryo Transfer:
    • Once embryos are created and quality is assessed, one or more embryos are transferred to the gestational carrier’s uterus. This is typically done through a minimally invasive procedure.
  7. Pregnancy and Prenatal Care:
    • The gestational carrier undergoes regular prenatal care to monitor the health of the pregnancy. The intended parents may be involved in medical appointments and ultrasounds.
  8. Parental Rights:
    • Legal processes are in place to establish the parental rights of the intended parents. This may involve legal proceedings and the issuance of a pre-birth order or post-birth adoption.
  9. Compensation and Expenses:
    • Gestational carriers are often compensated for their time, effort, and the physical toll of pregnancy. Additionally, the intended parents typically cover medical expenses, legal fees, and other related costs.
  • Ethical Considerations:
    • Gestational surrogacy raises ethical considerations, including the autonomy and well-being of the gestational carrier, the rights of the intended parents, and the potential emotional impact on all parties involved.

Gestational surrogacy is a complex and carefully managed process that involves medical, legal, and emotional considerations. It offers a viable option for individuals or couples facing challenges with fertility or pregnancy. Legal regulations regarding gestational surrogacy vary globally and even within regions, so it’s essential for all parties involved to be well-informed and work with legal and medical professionals experienced in reproductive law and surrogacy.

Reproductive Options for Trans Women

Reproductive options for transgender women, individuals assigned male at birth who identify as female, involve considerations related to fertility preservation, hormone therapy, and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Here are key details on reproductive options for trans women:

  1. Fertility Preservation:
    • Transgender women who have not undergone irreversible fertility-altering procedures, such as orchidectomy (testicle removal), may choose fertility preservation before starting hormone therapy. Sperm banking is a common method to preserve genetic material for future family-building.
  1. Hormone Therapy and Fertility:
    • Hormone therapy involving estrogen and anti-androgens can impact fertility by suppressing sperm production. It’s important for trans women to discuss fertility goals with healthcare providers before starting hormone therapy.
  1. Temporary Cessation of Hormone Therapy:
    • Some trans women may choose to temporarily cease hormone therapy if they desire to conceive. This decision should be made in consultation with healthcare providers, considering the potential effects on mental health and gender dysphoria.
  1. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
    • Trans women may explore ART options such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) using their own sperm. This can involve using eggs from a partner or an egg donor, with the resulting embryos implanted in a uterus (gestational surrogacy).
  1. Sperm Donor:
    • If trans women do not have preserved sperm or are unable to produce viable sperm, they may consider using donor sperm for assisted reproduction. This can be done through intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF.
  1. Gestational Surrogacy:
    • For trans women who do not have a uterus or choose not to carry a pregnancy, gestational surrogacy is an option. This involves a gestational carrier carrying the pregnancy using the trans woman’s sperm and a donor egg.
  1. Uterine Transplant (Emerging Option):
    • While uterine transplant is still an experimental procedure, it is being explored as a potential option for transgender women who desire to carry a pregnancy. Successful cases have been reported, but it remains a complex and evolving field.
  1. Legal Considerations:
    • Transgender individuals pursuing reproductive options should consider legal aspects, including parental rights, surrogacy agreements, and the recognition of their gender identity on legal documents.
  1. Health Monitoring during Pregnancy:
    • If a transgender woman chooses to carry a pregnancy, she will undergo regular prenatal care and health monitoring to ensure the well-being of both herself and the developing fetus.
  1. Psychosocial Support:
    • Reproductive options for transgender women can have emotional and psychological implications. Accessing supportive healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and peer support is important throughout the process.

 

Hormone Therapy and Fertility

Hormone therapy (HT) for transgender individuals can impact fertility, and it’s important for individuals to be aware of these effects if they have an interest in preserving their fertility. Here are key details on hormone therapy and fertility:

  1. Transfeminine Hormone Therapy (MTF):
    • For transgender women (assigned male at birth), transfeminine hormone therapy typically involves the use of estrogen and anti-androgens (such as spironolactone or cyproterone acetate). These medications promote the development of feminine secondary sex characteristics.
  1. Masculinizing Hormone Therapy (FTM):
    • Transmasculine hormone therapy for transgender men (assigned female at birth) usually involves testosterone. Testosterone induces masculine physical changes like voice deepening, facial hair growth, and increased muscle mass.
  1. Impact on Fertility (MTF):
    • Estrogen and anti-androgens can suppress sperm production in transgender women, leading to reduced fertility. However, the degree of impact varies among individuals, and some may still have residual fertility.
  1. Impact on Fertility (FTM):
    • Testosterone therapy for transgender men can result in the cessation of ovulation and menstrual cycles, impacting fertility. However, the effects on fertility are often reversible, and some individuals may still conceive after discontinuing testosterone.
  1. Fertility Preservation (MTF):
    • Transgender women interested in preserving fertility before starting hormone therapy may consider sperm banking. This involves collecting and storing sperm for potential use in assisted reproductive technologies.
  1. Fertility Preservation (FTM):
    • Transgender men who have not started testosterone or are considering a temporary pause in hormone therapy to conceive may opt for egg freezing as a method of fertility preservation.
  1. Temporary Cessation of Hormones (FTM):
    • Some transmasculine individuals choose to temporarily halt testosterone to attempt pregnancy. Resuming testosterone after giving birth can be discussed with healthcare providers.
  1. Time Frame for Impact (MTF and FTM):
    • The impact on fertility typically occurs after several months of hormone therapy. However, individual responses vary, and fertility may persist to some extent even after prolonged hormone use.
  1. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
    • Transgender individuals who have undergone hormone therapy and wish to conceive may explore assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
  1. Medical Guidance and Monitoring:
    • It’s crucial for transgender individuals to seek guidance from knowledgeable healthcare providers experienced in transgender care. Monitoring hormone levels and discussing fertility goals with healthcare professionals is essential.

 

Fertility Preservation

Fertility preservation involves various medical procedures aimed at safeguarding reproductive potential for individuals who may face fertility-threatening situations. This can include transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy, individuals facing medical treatments that may impact fertility, or those delaying family planning. Here are key details on fertility preservation:

  1. Sperm Banking (Cryopreservation):
    • Procedure: Sperm banking involves collecting and freezing sperm for later use. It’s a common method for cisgender and transgender men facing fertility threats.
    • Indications: Before starting hormone therapy, prior to medical treatments (such as chemotherapy), or for those with concerns about future fertility.
  1. Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation):
    • Procedure: Eggs are retrieved, and after fertilization (usually through in vitro fertilization or IVF), embryos are frozen. It’s a common option for cisgender and transgender women.
    • Indications: Before undergoing medical treatments affecting fertility, for individuals with concerns about age-related fertility decline, or before gender-affirming hormone therapy.
  1. Embryo Cryopreservation:
    • Procedure: Embryos created through IVF are frozen for future use. This method is typically used when a person or couple is ready for family-building but wants to delay pregnancy.
    • Indications: Before medical treatments, for individuals or couples who wish to postpone pregnancy, or for fertility preservation in cisgender women.
  1. Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation:
    • Procedure: Small pieces of ovarian tissue are removed and frozen. This method is considered experimental but may be an option for individuals unable to undergo standard fertility preservation methods.
    • Indications: Before medical treatments or for individuals with conditions preventing other fertility preservation methods.
  1. Testicular Tissue Cryopreservation:
    • Procedure: Small pieces of testicular tissue are removed and frozen. This method is still experimental and primarily considered for prepubescent boys.
    • Indications: Before medical treatments for prepubescent boys facing fertility threats.
  1. Uterine Transplant (Emerging Option):
    • Procedure: Uterus transplant involves receiving a uterus from a living or deceased donor. It’s experimental but holds potential for fertility in cisgender women without a uterus.
    • Indications: Absence of a functional uterus, congenital conditions, or after uterus removal.
  1. Medical Consultation:
    • Fertility preservation decisions should involve consultation with reproductive endocrinologists or fertility specialists. These experts can discuss options, assess individual fertility status, and provide guidance.
  1. Psychosocial Support:
    • The decision to pursue fertility preservation can have emotional implications. Accessing psychosocial support, counseling, and information about the potential emotional impact is important.
  1. Legal Considerations:
    • Some jurisdictions may have legal considerations regarding the storage and use of frozen reproductive material. Understanding local laws is crucial.

Fertility preservation allows individuals to have options for family-building in the future. It’s important to discuss these options with healthcare providers early in the decision-making process, as success rates and available methods may vary based on individual circumstances.