Reciprocal IVF (ROPA method): what it is and why it could be right for you
Reciprocal IVF, also known as the ROPA method (Reception of Oocytes from Partner), is a form of IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) designed for same-sex female couples. It allows one of you to provide the eggs (genetic mother) while the other carries the pregnancy (gestational mother). This way, you share biological motherhood from the very beginning. The technique involves stimulating the partner who provides the eggs, fertilising them in the laboratory with sperm from an anonymous donor, and transferring one embryo — at the blastocyst stage — into the other partner’s uterus.
In our consultations we often hear: “from the very first moment we felt looked after and comfortable.” That is exactly our goal: clear explanations, realistic timelines, and continuous support. Many couples tell us that our all-female team brings reassurance and warmth at the most important moments.
Two biological mothers: genetics and gestation — both matter
One partner contributes her genetic material through the eggs; the other, through gestation, influences the baby via epigenetics — the uterine environment and lifestyle. Put simply: carrying the pregnancy also “leaves its mark” on the baby’s development. You are both part of it.
Real advantages over other options (IUI, traditional IVF)
Reciprocal IVF offers a higher probability of success than intrauterine insemination (IUI) over multiple attempts. It also allows both of you to participate actively: one as the genetic mother, the other as the gestational mother. In our daily experience, many couples tell us: “we’d give 5 stars to the whole team,” and we see that as proof that the human experience — the care, honesty, and support — enhances the results of the technique.
When would we recommend reciprocal IVF — and when not?
It is usually a good option if:
- You want to share motherhood from conception.
- One of you has a better ovarian reserve while the other has a uterus with a good prognosis for carrying a pregnancy.
- There is an age difference and you prefer the younger partner to provide the eggs.
- After previous failed attempts with other treatments (e.g. IUI with donor sperm).
We would suggest a different treatment if:
- Ovarian reserve is very low in both partners.
- There are uterine conditions that need to be treated first, or that make it advisable to use vitrified embryos later.
- Medical conditions point to other alternatives (e.g. egg donation).
The process, step by step
1. First consultation and assessment of both partners
We review the reproductive health of both of you (medical history, ultrasound scan, blood tests, AMH – Anti-Müllerian Hormone, AFC – Antral Follicle Count, serology, etc.) so we can decide together who provides the eggs and who carries the pregnancy. Many couples tell us this appointment is especially helpful because we address practical questions (medication, time off work, travel) and planning.
2. Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval (pick-up) — egg-providing partner
- Ovarian stimulation: daily subcutaneous injections for 10–12 days with ultrasound monitoring. We aim for follicles of 18–21 mm.
- Ovulation trigger (hCG): once the follicles are ready, we schedule the trigger; the egg retrieval takes place approx. 36 hours later.
- Egg retrieval (pick-up): an outpatient procedure under light sedation with anaesthetic supervision; it lasts approximately 20 minutes and does not require hospital admission.
- What our patients share: “the process was very manageable and we felt cared for at every check-up.”
3. In vitro fertilization and embryo culture to blastocyst stage
The eggs are sent to the laboratory for fertilisation with donor sperm, using one of two methods:
- Conventional IVF: eggs and prepared sperm are co-incubated in a culture dish.
- ICSI: a single sperm is selected and microinjected into each mature egg.
We then culture the embryos to day 5–6 (blastocyst). At Love Fertility we offer the HEALTHY EMBRYO PROGRAMME, which includes preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A) — selecting only chromosomally healthy embryos — and the Embryoscope (Time-Lapse), an incubator with a built-in camera that continuously monitors each embryo and helps us optimise selection without removing it from the culture environment, avoiding embryonic stress. Many couples enjoy watching development videos and appreciate knowing the optimal time for the transfer.
4. Endometrial preparation (gestational mother)
Gentle hormonal treatment with oestrogen and progesterone to mimic the natural cycle and achieve a receptive endometrium (adequate thickness and pattern). We adjust doses and timing according to individual response.
5. Embryo transfer
A quick and painless procedure, without anaesthesia: we place the embryo using a thin catheter under ultrasound guidance. We recommend a single embryo transfer for safety. In the days before and after the transfer, progesterone (vaginal or subcutaneous) is prescribed.
6. Two-week wait / Pregnancy test / Pregnancy follow-up
The two-week wait (TWW) lasts 10–12 days until the β-hCG blood test. You will have access to psychological support throughout the process.
- Result: your specialist will call you with the result and the next steps.
- First check-up: if positive, we schedule an appointment in 2–3 weeks for the first ultrasound scan; later we confirm the heartbeat at a second scan.
- Discharge: once the pregnancy is progressing well, we provide a discharge report for your obstetrician.
- Remaining embryos: those of good quality are vitrified for future use.
Success and the factors that make a difference
Age and ovarian reserve
The ovarian age of the partner providing the eggs is key: the younger she is, the higher the chance of competent eggs and quality embryos.
Embryo quality, ICSI/PGT-A, and single embryo transfer
We usually carry out conventional IVF, although we make the decision on a case-by-case basis. We always perform extended culture to blastocyst (day 5/6) and maintain our recommendation of single embryo transfer. PGT-A is increasingly considered, as it helps avoid failed transfers and early miscarriages caused by aneuploid embryos (chromosomally abnormal), especially as the egg-providing partner’s age increases. We always explain the pros and cons transparently.
Care for the gestational mother and epigenetics in plain language
The gestational mother influences the baby through epigenetics: a balanced diet, rest, moderate exercise, and stress management. We work with realistic guidelines (“step by step, with calm”) and close follow-up.
Cost and financing: what is included and how to optimise your treatment quote
The cost depends on prior tests, fertility medication (always dispensed at a pharmacy under medical prescription, as required by law), laboratory strategy (PGT-A, calcium ionophore, vitrification), and the number of transfers. We provide a detailed, itemised treatment quote so there are no surprises.
Tips to optimise your budget:
- Request a fixed treatment quote and review all items included (monitoring, laboratory, additional transfers).
- Clarify the use of vitrified embryos and the associated conditions.
- Ask about financing options and diagnostic packages if you need recent tests.
Pregnancy and Birth Guarantee Programme (Reciprocal IVF / ROPA)
For those of you looking for total predictability, we offer a specific guarantee programme for the ROPA method. Our commitment is clear: if a live birth is not achieved within the programme conditions, we refund 100 % of the programme fee. It is our way of aligning goals with you and giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
What you can expect from the programme (summary):
- Eligibility assessment of both partners (medical history, blood tests, and prognosis) to ensure the plan is realistic.
- Written conditions: coverage period, number of transfers/stimulations, what is included and what is not.
- Full reimbursement if a live birth is not achieved within the agreed conditions.
Want more information about the ROPA method guarantee programme?
Frequently asked questions about reciprocal IVF (ROPA method)
Reciprocal IVF is an IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment for same-sex female couples in which one partner provides the eggs and the other carries the pregnancy. It allows both mothers to participate actively in the pregnancy from conception. It is especially useful when you are looking to become mothers together, if there is an age difference between you (we can aim for better egg quality), or after previous failed attempts with other treatments (e.g. IUI with donor sperm).
It depends on the medication, the laboratory strategy (ICSI, Embryoscope, and culture to blastocyst), the number of transfers, and the prior tests required. We provide a fixed, itemised treatment quote; medication and additional transfers can be quoted separately.
From the start of medication to the embryo transfer, it usually takes 4–6 weeks. The beta blood test is performed 10–12 days later (β-hCG — human chorionic gonadotropin).
They depend mainly on the age and ovarian reserve of the partner providing the eggs, the embryo quality, and endometrial receptivity. At your first consultation we will set realistic expectations based on your individual data.
We assess AMH – Anti-Müllerian Hormone, AFC – Antral Follicle Count, medical history, and uterine health. If both of you have a good profile, we decide together based on your preferences and life plan.
Hormonal and serological blood tests, ultrasound scan, AMH, AFC, and, if appropriate, complementary tests (e.g. hysteroscopy or coagulation studies).
No. It is performed under light sedation, takes about 20 minutes, and is an outpatient procedure. Most patients resume their routine the following day.
Normal life with sensible precautions — treat yourself as though you were already pregnant: a proper diet, hydration, rest, avoiding intense physical effort, and following the prescribed progesterone schedule. We do not prescribe complete bed rest unless medically indicated. We will give you a post-transfer recommendations guide.
We recommend a single embryo transfer for maternal and foetal safety and to reduce the risks of a multiple pregnancy.
Those of good quality are vitrified for future transfers. Their storage and future use are documented in writing.
Donor selection is carried out by the clinic with guaranteed anonymity and phenotypic/serological matching. We will explain what information you will receive.
The Time-Lapse system (Embryoscope) monitors embryo development without removing them from the incubator and helps improve selection. Its use is assessed on a case-by-case basis.
We can transfer vitrified embryos, adjust the protocol, or consider changes (e.g. ICSI, culture to day 5, additional tests). You can also explore our Guarantee Programme if it matches your profile.
Yes. We see patients from all over Spain, Italy, and the rest of Europe. We concentrate essential in-person visits and adjust the calendar to minimise your stay. Whenever possible, we coordinate blood tests and ultrasound scans at your location.
Few and concentrated: initial assessment, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. We will provide a personalised itinerary to help you optimise flights, accommodation, and timing.
Yes, we can coordinate blood tests and ultrasound scans in your country when feasible and synchronise medication with our team, always in compliance with local regulations. You will have emotional support from psychologists who work in Spanish, Italian, and English.
We provide recommendations and schedules so you can organise travel and accommodation on your own, and we adapt the calendar to keep your stay as short as possible.
Yes, it is free and can be held in person or by video call. We review your medical history, answer your questions, request any necessary tests, and outline a personalised plan with a detailed treatment quote and calendar.
Reciprocal IVF (the ROPA method) is a solid path to sharing motherhood — combining science, cutting-edge technology, and close personal support. Our commitment is that you feel heard and at ease from start to finish; many couples tell us they would recommend the clinic to other women who want to have a baby through ROPA. If you are ready, let’s plan it together.
Free first consultation
The team at Love Fertility Clinic is delighted to help you. You can book your free first consultation with our specialists Blanca, Isabel, Sara, and Rocío, who will explain all available treatment options and complementary techniques, success rates for your specific case, your family plan, or your wish to preserve your fertility for the future. Marian and Sonia, our nurses, will support you and answer all your questions about medication.
Our patient care team, led by María and Sole, will help you with the day-to-day at the clinic, providing financial information and financing options. We will make it easy to schedule appointments at the times that work best for you with your designated specialist.
Get in touch with us — we will answer all your questions. You will have emotional support from the very beginning, so you can feel calm and cared for throughout the process. We will be by your side on the path to motherhood — together, we will make it happen.
Shall we talk?
