Fertility Treatments
For many same-sex couples, the dream is to both play a biological role in parenthood. Reciprocal IVF - or Shared Motherhood - makes this possible, allowing both partners to share in the biological journey and celebrate their shared connection from the very start.
Reciprocal IVF – sometimes called Shared Motherhood or Shared Parenthood IVF – is a fertility treatment designed for same-sex and lesbian couples. One partner provides the eggs, while the other receives the embryo and carries the pregnancy.
This approach can also be an option for couples where one partner is a trans man or non-binary person with a womb and ovaries, allowing both partners to share in the biological journey of parenthood.
For many couples, reciprocal IVF is about more than treatment. It’s about shared involvement, equality and connection. Patients often describe it as a powerful way to both feel fully involved and recognised as parents. Some couples choose it to strengthen feelings of legitimacy and security, while others value the opportunity to promote a strong biological and emotional bond with their child.
Researchers found that both the egg provider and the birthing partner develop equally strong bonds with their child.
Importantly, families reported no rivalry or jealousy between partners about who is the “real” mother. Both mothers felt secure in their roles and children were equally bonded to each parent, demonstrating that shared parenthood fosters a balanced, nurturing environment for the whole family.1
Many couples described shared motherhood IVF as a profoundly meaningful experience, reflecting the unique biological and emotional bond it creates, with one patient saying:
“It was my partner’s egg, but my blood flowed through her.”
These experiences show that children in families formed this way grow up with strong, loving relationships with both parents, thriving in a supportive and nurturing environment.2
Our reciprocal IVF process involves five clear steps, with support from our doctors at every stage:
One partner takes medication to stimulate the ovaries. Deciding who carries the pregnancy can reflect personal or medical preferences.
Mature eggs are collected through a simple, minimally invasive procedure.
Eggs are fertilised in our lab using carefully screened donor sperm.
Embryos are carefully monitored in our laboratories by our experienced embryology team, using advanced technology including time-lapse imaging to support the best possible outcomes.
One embryo is transferred into the other partner’s womb, completing the shared biological journey.
Tash and Jo came to our Bristol clinic as patients and left as part of the family. As two nursery workers who understood care and nurturing deeply, they began their reciprocal IVF journey with our Bristol team - one partner providing the eggs, the other carrying their baby - and in 2025, welcomed their little boy into the world.
Their connection with the Bristol clinic ran so deep that when the Familymakers Show came calling, Tash and Jo were the first to say yes, sharing their story on the panel with other same-sex couples just starting out. If you're a lesbian couple exploring reciprocal IVF, theirs is a story worth watching.
Reciprocal IVF Success in Numbers
In 2018, we conducted the world’s largest study on Reciprocal IVF, confirming the effectiveness and safety of this approach.
A well-established and trusted treatment, our Reciprocal IVF offers pregnancy and live birth rates that match standard IVF*, giving you the freedom to grow your family without compromise. *Bodri et al,. 2018
Want to learn more? Explore our success rates page to see the latest outcomes.
Children thrive in loving, supportive families - no matter the family structure. Some same-sex couples worry that a non-traditional setup might affect their child’s wellbeing.
Research from London Women’s Clinic on families created through shared biological motherhood shows that children enjoy healthy, positive relationships with both parents, providing reassurance about long-term family wellbeing.*
Many couples choose donor sperm for a range of reasons, including medical considerations, practical constraints and personal preferences.
When both partners are women or include a transgender male or non-binary individual, donor sperm is needed to complete the process. At London Women’s Clinic, we have built a close, fully integrated partnership with London Sperm Bank - the UK’s leading provider - giving patients access to a wide choice of fully screened, HFEA-compliant donors.
Reciprocal IVF is one of several fertility options for same-sex couples. Each pathway has its own benefits:
We’ll help you explore which approach best fits your priorities, whether that’s simplicity, cost or shared involvement.
The cost of Reciprocal IVF can vary depending on your treatment plan and whether you choose fresh or frozen embryo transfers. Understanding what’s included can help you plan your fertility journey with confidence.
Additional services such as extended embryo culture, sedation, HFEA licence fees and embryo storage are available at an extra cost and can be discussed with our team when planning your treatment.
For a full breakdown of costs and packages, please contact our team.
Costs start from
Included in the fee:
In addition to your main procedure fee, there are some additional costs you will need to be aware of when planning your treatment. Additonal costs may include:
Exact costs will be discussed after your consultation and once a treatment plan has been confirmed for you. For Reciprocal IVF Package the average total treatment cost is £10,695 - £12,095
‘We started our IVF process with LWC around a year ago. It felt very daunting and a long road ahead, and the entire team were so supportive and explained everything so clearly. When we were undergoing the egg retreival and transfer, the team were so kind and we felt really looked after. We have now welcomed our little girl and after years of trying, we wouldn't have gotten here without the support and guidance given by LWC. Thank you all!’
Alice Maker
22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘Dr Suraya made our appointment a really enjoyable experience. She made us both feel at ease and was so knowledgeable throughout the scan. Dr Suraya is a real asset to LWC’
Liz Troup
22 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘I received excellent care from all the staff at London Women's Clinic, we felt very welcomed as a same sex couple. We are so grateful to have been able to have our wonderful daughter. I would definitely recommend the clinic to anyone starting fertility treatment!’
Megan Knox
21 January 2026, LWC Canterbury
‘I've recently completed a round of egg freezing with London Women's Clinic harrow and I couldn't recommend them as a clinic more. Carla and Ana-Maria quite literally held my hand throughout the entire process, making me feel really relaxed and supported. It's made such a stressful experience super positive and if anyone is thinking of using them, I'd absolutely recommend them!’
Brooke Day
19 January 2026, LWC Harrow
‘I undertook Kind IVF, which even though is nurse led as opposed to consultant led, the care, professionalism and knowledge is there. The nurses consult with consultants during your protocol, so the difference really is you see the nurses instead. The medication doses are less and less medication, but this doesn't mean it will be less effective, it is an option worth exploring, as the cost is less and can open the door when more traditional ivf is out of reach. I am currently pregnant having gone through the kind ivf protocol one time.’
APINTOF MEGAN
19 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘Exceptional service from start to finish. Highly recommend Harley street team for looking after us. Absolutely loved your service and care. Thank you London woman's clinic :)’
Anh Nguyen
19 January 2026, LWC Harley Street
‘The team at the Cambridge LWC branch have been incredibly supportive, encouraging and helpful throughout our journey, and have been with us through the ups and downs. It's a very safe and inclusive space, and we feel very well cared for. We can't recommend them enough! Sarah and Jacqui’
Sarah Peace
16 January 2026, LWC Cambridge
‘We will be forever grateful to London Women's Clinic Bromley for helping us achieve what once felt impossible -- welcoming our beautiful, healthy baby boy in November 2025. Our IVF journey was emotional, overwhelming at times, and deeply personal, but from the very first appointment we were met with nothing but kindness, compassion, and unwavering support. Every step was clearly explained, we were kept fully informed throughout, and there was always someone available to answer our questions or simply reassure us when we needed it most. We never once felt like just another patient -- we felt truly cared for. Dr Malini, Sarah, Nicky (Nikita) and Dom were exceptional and will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Their warmth, patience, and genuine kindness made the process so much easier to cope with. They made us feel safe, comfortable, and supported during some of the most vulnerable moments of our lives. Every nurse, embryologist, and member of staff we encountered was wonderful. We honestly cannot recommend London Women's Clinic Bromley enough to anyone struggling with fertility or facing similar challenges. The dedication, empathy, and expertise of this team has changed our lives forever. We hope to take the clinic up on their offer to visit with our little miracle, who we are endlessly thankful they helped bring into this world. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Lucy & Sayed ’
Lucy morgan
16 January 2026, LWC Bromley
‘My journey with egg freezing in the LWC has been amazing. I had started consultations with another provider before but didn't feel comfortable there, and I'm SO GLAD I listened to my instinct and went to this clinic! The whole team was so knowledgeable and supportive throughout, but also just lovely. I would recommend the clinic, ESPECIALLY if you are worried about the process and feel emotional, the understanding and support here is way beyond what I was hoping for!!!’
Charlotte M
15 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘My journey with the LWC in London Bridge + Harley Street has been outstanding. The team is so lovely, I felt welcomed and understood from the first to the last call and through every appointment in between. I would recommend it to every friend!’
Charlotte M
15 January 2026, LWC Harley Street
‘Nicki has a beautiful and excellent personality, she was so kind, polite and sweet. I felt so happy after the scan . Bless her. Right woman for the job.’
Steave Oyinloye
15 January 2026, LWC Bromley
‘Nikita was fab - really put me at ease with my scan and able to relax. Feel very supported’
S S
15 January 2026, LWC Bromley
‘Just had my scan with Nikki and she was very informative and made me feel very comfortable.’
Lisa
15 January 2026, LWC Bromley
‘Nikita was excellent and mindful during our initial scan/consultation explained everything well.’
james harris
15 January 2026, LWC Bromley
‘Myself and partner have had a lovely experience with LWC Canterbury they are thoughtful and caring. Always made us feel comfort and welcome even through the difficulties that we have faced on our journey, however we will be forever grateful for all they have done and are contiuing to do.’
Natasha Elliott
14 January 2026, LWC Canterbury
‘This was my first fertility treatment, and I cannot express enough how thankful I am to have chosen LWC and to have been treated at the Harrow clinic. I would highly recommend it to anyone considering starting their fertility journey! From the start, I appreciated how transparent the admin team was about all the costs involved at every stage, giving clear ranges when the decision depended on how the treatment would go. I am also extremely grateful for their support in helping with securing financing, even when I decided to move forward at short notice. They took the time to schedule calls to answer my questions, and I truly felt listened to and cared for as a patient. At the Harrow clinic, I experienced an exceptionally caring and positive environment. All the nurses were highly professional while also being incredibly comforting and supportive. I would especially like to thank Ana Maria, who was there throughout the process, offering practical advice based on her own experience, a hug when needed, and making the entire journey feel much more like home. I would also like to thank Carla for her positivity, high energy, and encouragement during difficult moments, and Laura for her empowering and reassuring approach to the injections. Dr Goswami was also outstanding--extremely professional and clear in her advice. She carefully adjusted the treatment to aim for the best possible outcome while prioritising safety and minimising risks. I am also very grateful for the support groups organised by the clinic. Through these, I met incredibly brave and empowered women and couples. Sharing this journey with some of them made the experience far more bearable and positive. Thank you to everyone at the Harrow clinic and LWC for your incredible support!!’
Marina Riabiz
14 January 2026, LWC Harrow
‘We had a very positive experience at this IVF clinic and would highly recommend it. From the very beginning, we felt well supported and looked after throughout the entire journey. A special thank you to Safak, our patient coordinator, who was incredibly helpful and always very quick to respond. We would also like to thank Princess, the receptionist, as well as the Italian receptionist whose name we unfortunately don't remember, for always being kind and welcoming. We are extremely grateful to Dr Suraya, who performed many of our scans and was exceptional throughout the process, and to Dr Rao, who followed our journey step by step with great care, professionalism and attention. Finally, a big thank you to all the nurses, especially Hannah,Ella and Paige, for their support, kindness and professionalism. Overall, we felt very well cared for and supported, and we truly recommend this clinic to anyone considering IVF!’
Alicia Gioia
12 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘The reception staff are amazing nothing is to much trouble. Always answered any queries we had. The whole team were brilliant from our first initial appointment too our very last. They made us feel so comfortable.’
Rachel Powell
12 January 2026, LWC Bristol
‘We don't know where to begin, this place truly is wonderful. So so comforting and welcoming. Every single staff member went above and beyond and really felt like family. We couldn't be more appreciative of everyone who helped us on our way to creat our little one, who is cooking away nicely at 20 weeks. From choosing a sperm donor to my egg collection and then to getting my wife pregnant with the embryos a few months later, it was so stress free and we felt supported every single step of the way. We can't thank all the lovely wonderful ladies at the Brentwood clinic enough for what they have helped us achieve- and of course the amazing people at the Harley street clinic for doing the procedures who were just as welcoming! Thank you all so so much, we can't wait to bring our little man to meet you all when we are ready to try for baby number 2 xxxxx’
molly bannister
9 January 2026, LWC Brentwood
‘Following a seminar I attended at LWC, I arranged a consultation with Dr. Naware who specialises in fertility for women over 40. It was a refreshing experience. Dr. Naware is empathetic, kind and thorough. The follow up from the clinic was excellent, with Safak, Patient Coordinator, providing regular updates.’
A Patel
9 January 2026, LWC London Bridge
‘We are incredibly grateful to London Women's Clinic - Canterbury for their outstanding care and support throughout our IVF journey. Both the Canterbury and Bromley teams surrounded us with genuine kindness, understanding, and constant attention. We always felt listened to and truly cared for, and the level of professionalism was exceptional at every stage. Thanks to their dedication and hard work, we had the chance to welcome our beautiful little daughter into the world. We cannot recommend this clinic highly enough.’
Natalia Twardochleb
8 January 2026, LWC Canterbury
‘We can't recommend the London Women's Clinic enough. My partner and I are a same-sex female couple and are currently pregnant with our baby due in July -- after only two attempts. From the moment we chose the London Women's Clinic, the experience was incredible. The Harrow branch in particular felt so welcoming and supportive. Carla Lang, Ana-Maria, Laura Adagbon, and Dr Gill were absolutely amazing -- accommodating, kind, friendly, and genuinely caring. They went above and beyond throughout our entire journey, even responding to emails outside of working hours, which meant so much to us. We had previously completed blood tests and scans at another clinic but didn't feel it was the right fit. The London Women's Clinic didn't push us to repeat everything unnecessarily -- they accepted our previous tests, which really showed that they are not money-driven. On that note, their pricing is also very affordable compared to other clinics. Dr Gill is incredibly thorough and precise, taking so many factors into account when planning treatment, which gave us complete confidence. Our insemination was carried out at the Harley Street London Women's Clinic by Dr Yogita Date, who was equally wonderful. She made us feel comfortable, supported, and genuinely wished us luck during the procedure. Overall, this clinic felt more like family than a medical service. Even now, they continue to check in on us and our pregnancy, which says everything about the level of care they provide. We are beyond grateful and wouldn't hesitate to recommend the London Women's Clinic to anyone starting their fertility journey.’
Maisie Thomas
8 January 2026, LWC Harrow
‘The team at LWC Harley Street have been outstanding. They have supported my wife and I through our IVF journey at every step, keeping us informed and making the entire journey feel seamless. A special thanks to Dr Serra, Nurse Mimi, Vita and the rest of the LWC team that have helped us along the way. We are now 20 weeks into our pregnancy and LWC have continued to follow up to ensure all is well. A big thank you once again and we highly recommend LWC Harley Street to anyone considering IVF.’
Keyur Nakum
29 December 2025, LWC Harley Street
‘Cannot fault the ladies here at all. I felt so so welcome and looked after during the visit and consultation. The nurses were so compassionate and lovely, and I really felt like I was being listened to and understood. Would recommend to anyone looking to start a fertility journey/make some enquiries into their fertility healthxx’
Ellie Brown
19 December 2025, LWC Canterbury
This is a deeply personal decision. Considerations include medical history, age, fertility potential and personal preference. Our specialists provide guidance on both biological and emotional factors to help you make the choice that’s right for your family.
Pregnancies via reciprocal IVF are generally safe, but research shows there may be a slightly higher risk of conditions such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia or other pregnancy-related complications, particularly in first-time pregnancies or with certain health profiles. Your care team will monitor these risks closely and provide tailored support throughout the pregnancy.
Reciprocal IVF success rates are generally similar to those of traditional IVF - and in some cases, may be slightly higher* - when using a healthy egg and uterus. Factors such as the age of the egg provider and the partner carrying the pregnancy can influence outcomes. For perspective, in 2024, the live birth rate per embryo transferred for same-sex female couples using their own eggs was 39%. Reciprocal IVF, which combines one partner’s eggs with the other partner’s uterus, tends to do even better. *Based on London Women's Clinic 2024 outcomes.
London Women’s Clinic has been a leader in making this treatment an established and trusted option for LGBT+ families.
The best way to get started is with a fertility health assessment for both partners, which includes ultrasound scans, AMH testing and a consultation with one of our fertility specialists.
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David Williams OBE, Chair of JD Healthcare Group, has retired after more than 20 years of transformative leadership, guiding the growth of London Women’s Clinic from a single Harley Street clinic to over 20 UK locations. He leaves a lasting legacy of clinical excellence, mentorship, and dedication to both colleagues and patients.
On Saturday 18th April, 600 people walked through the doors of the De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London for the fourth Familymakers Show — and the energy in the room felt like something that has been a long time in the making. Because in many ways, it has.
"If she hadn't made that phone call, I would never have known that embryo had a chance..." At 46, having already been through three IVF cycles and preparing to begin donor egg treatment, Ella had almost given up on the idea of becoming a mother using her own eggs. Then an embryologist at London Women's Clinic made a call that changed everything. This is the story of one frozen embryo, a DNA swab sent from overseas, and the four-year-old girl who is now the light of her mother's life — and why advances in genetic embryo testing are making the seemingly impossible possible.
Michelle was 39 when she walked into a London Women's Clinic open day, already certain of one thing: she didn't want to waste time. What followed was two IVF cycles, a devastating first round where no embryos were chromosomally normal, a mosaic result, and an embryo that came back from retesting as something extraordinary — euploid, chromosomally normal, and ready to become her daughter.
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