CCRM is made up of a team of world-class fertility specialists who invented and optimized techniques and protocols that are widely practiced in the industry today, including comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS) and in vitro culture of human embryos to the blastocyst stage. We recently caught up with reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Talebian, who offered us some insight into the various Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) available to LGBTQ+ families.
What do the first steps look like in deciding which technology is the best fit for them?
As a reproductive endocrinologist, the first step is getting to know the individual or couple. Who are they? How do they envision their family? What combination of egg, sperm, or uterus do they need? Based on a thorough conversation, I can make recommendations on diagnostic testing and the best treatment options.
The two main fertility treatment options for LGBTQ+ individuals/couples are intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). Depending on the circumstances, there might be the need for a sperm donor, egg donor, and/or gestational carrier. Trans patients may want to consider fertility preservation (sperm or egg freezing), before medical and surgical transition.
What are some important steps that LGBTQ families should take to ensure their fertility journey is safe?
Ensure that they feel comfortable with their team! Make sure they are asking questions and being heard.
Questions you should ask your fertility doctor:
- What should do I to prepare my body for pregnancy?
- What fertility tests will I (and my partner) need?
- What are my treatment options?
- What are your live birth success rates?
- What will fertility treatment cost?
What is the best piece of advice you have for LGBTQ+ families that are looking to become parents?
Educate yourself on all the options! Talk to trained professionals who work in this area, as well as friends and family who may have experience.
Dr. Sheeva Talebian, M.D., a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, joined CCRM New York as the Third Party Reproduction Director after many years of practice (in IVF treatment, IUI treatment, PCOS treatment, gestational surrogacy, and many other areas of expertise) in the tri-state area. She graduated Magna Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Columbia University and went on to obtain her medical degree from Mount Sinai School of Medicine. She continued her medical training at New York University where she completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology and fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.
