1. Home
2. Resources
3. NYU Langone Fertility Center Blog
4. Top Questions LGBTQ+ Patients Should Ask About Fertility Treatments

Top Questions LGBTQ+ Patients Should Ask About Fertility Treatments

Starting Your Family-Building Journey with Confidence

For LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, the path to parenthood often involves unique medical, legal, and emotional considerations. Asking the right questions early can help you make informed decisions and feel empowered throughout the process.

At NYU Langone Fertility Center, we combine cutting-edge science with compassionate, inclusive care. Here are the top questions LGBTQ+ patients should ask when exploring fertility treatment options.

1) What Are My Family-Building Options?

Every journey is different. Ask your care team:

• What treatments are available for my situation?
  Options may include:

  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) with donor sperm

  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs or sperm

  • Reciprocal IVF (one partner provides eggs, the other carries the pregnancy)

  • Gestational carrier for individuals or couples who cannot carry a pregnancy

• How do we choose between IUI and IVF?
  Factors include age, ovarian reserve, sperm quality, and personal goals.

2) How Do We Select Donors?

Donor selection is a deeply personal decision. Ask:

• What donor banks do you work with?

• Can we review genetic screening and health history?

• What are the legal implications of donor agreements?

• Can we choose an anonymous or known donor?

NYU Langone Fertility Center partners with reputable donor programs and provides guidance on medical and legal considerations.

3) What Legal Steps Are Required?

Legal protections ensure your parental rights. Ask:

• Do we need a legal agreement with our donor or gestational carrier?

• How do we secure parental rights for both partners?

• Can you refer us to experienced reproductive attorneys?

Our team collaborates with legal professionals to help you navigate these steps with confidence.

4) What Are the Success Rates for LGBTQ+ Paths?

Success rates vary by treatment type and individual factors. Ask:

• What are the success rates for IUI vs. IVF?

• How does age impact outcomes?

• What protocols do you recommend for optimizing success?

We provide transparent data and tailor recommendations to your unique biology and goals.

5) How Do We Prepare Emotionally?

Fertility treatment can be emotionally complex. Ask:

• What counseling or support groups are available?

• How do we manage stress during treatment?

• Are there resources for LGBTQ+ patients specifically?

NYU Langone Fertility Center offers access to mental health professionals and community resources to support your emotional well-being.

6) What Are the Financial Options?

Cost is a common concern. Ask:

• What is the estimated cost for our chosen path?

• Does insurance cover any part of treatment?

• Are financing or multi-cycle packages available?

Our financial counselors provide clear, personalized guidance to help you plan confidently.

7) How Will Our Care Be Personalized?

Inclusive care means more than offering treatment—it means respecting your identity and goals. Ask:

• How will you tailor protocols to our needs?

• Do you have experience with LGBTQ+ patients?

• What steps do you take to ensure an affirming environment?

At NYU Langone Fertility Center, inclusivity is built into every aspect of care—from language to legal guidance to emotional support.

Your Family, Your Future

Building a family as an LGBTQ+ individual or couple is possible—and you deserve expert, affirming care every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with NYU Langone Fertility Center to explore your options and start your journey with confidence.

See all articles