Benefits

What are the emotional and biological benefits of co-motherhood?

Co-motherhood offers a unique benefit: it allows both women to participate biologically at the conception and birth of your child. This shared connection represents a transformative experience for many couples.

For the genetic mother, the contribution of her genetic material establishes a permanent biological link with the child. This aspect is significant for many women who want to see their own physical and genetic characteristics reflected in their children.

Simultaneously, the expectant mother experiences the physical and hormonal connection of pregnancy, childbirth and possible breastfeeding. Studies published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology confirm that epigenetic links developed during pregnancy permanently influence fetal development, creating a bidirectional biological connection.

This dual participation helps to balance parental roles from conception, fostering a sense of equality in parenting. Many couples report that this process strengthens their relationship by sharing significant moments in the reproductive process.

From a psychological perspective, co-motherhood can reduce feelings of exclusion that one of the mothers might experience in other models of family formation. The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes that this reproductive model promotes secure and balanced attachment (Trusted Source).

Why choose Reciprocal IVF over other available options?

Reciprocal IVF has significant advantages over other reproductive options for female couples. Unlike artificial insemination, where only one woman is biologically involved, co-motherhood allows for dual involvement.

Compared to adoption, Reciprocal IVF offers the possibility of genetic and gestational connection with the baby, as well as control over factors such as sperm donor selection, medical follow-up from conception and complete knowledge of the child's medical history.

In front of the IVF with donor eggs, this method makes it possible to maintain the genetic contribution within the couple, reinforcing family ties and simplifying legal issues of filiation.

The process also facilitates the preservation of fertility by cryopreserving leftover embryos, providing options for future pregnancies without the need to repeat all procedures.

Statistics show that approximately 65% of female couples seeking fertility treatments choose Reciprocal IVF when presented as an option, especially valuing shared participation in the reproductive process.

What psychological impact does this procedure have on the couple?

The psychological impact of Reciprocal IVF is multidimensional and varies from couple to couple. The majority report positive effects: increase in sense of fairness in parenting, strengthening the couple's bond and satisfaction with shared biological participation.

However, the process also involves significant emotional challenges. Hormonal treatments can cause mood changes and stress, while expectations and possible cycle failures generate frustration and anxiety.

Decisions about who will provide the eggs and who will carry the pregnancy can trigger personal sensitivities related to age, fertility or reproductive preferences. Fertility specialists recommend considering medical but also emotional factors when making these decisions.

Studies conducted by the National Institute of Perinatology of Mexico indicate that couples who receive psychological support during the process show better levels of adaptation and lower rates of stress. Therefore, many clinics incorporate psychological counseling as an integral part of treatment.

Open communication about expectations, fears and preferences is essential to successfully navigate the emotional process of Reciprocal IVF.

How does this treatment affect long-term family dynamics?

Research on families formed through Reciprocal IVF shows positive long-term results. Longitudinal studies carried out in countries such as Spain and the United States have not found significant differences in the psychosocial development of children conceived by this method compared to traditional families.

La open communication Information on the conception process adapted to the child's age is recommended by specialists in child psychology. Families that talk naturally about their origins from an early age report better psychological adjustment and greater identity security in their children.

An important aspect is the management of information about the sperm donor. Although anonymous donation predominates in Mexico, there is a global trend towards the disclosure of non-identifying information or even contact with the donor upon reaching the age of majority.

The parenting dynamics in these families are usually characterized by high involvement of both mothers, an equitable distribution of responsibilities and flexibility in parental roles, according to studies published by the Mexican Psychological Association.

Support networks between families with similar configurations play an important role in family well-being, providing positive references and spaces for normalization for children.

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Procedure

What prior tests are necessary before starting Reciprocal IVF?

Before starting Reciprocal IVF, both women must undergo a thorough medical evaluation. For the woman who will provide the eggs, tests include:

• Complete hormone analysis (FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, AMH)
• Transvaginal ultrasound for antral follicle count
• Infectious disease testing (HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis)
• Basic genetic evaluation to rule out chromosomal abnormalities

For the expectant mother, evaluations include:

• Cervical cytology and vaginal cultures
• Hysterosalpingography or hysterosonography to evaluate the uterine cavity
• Hormonal analysis to assess endometrial receptivity
• General medical evaluation to confirm eligibility for pregnancy

Both couples must perform fertility tests basic and psychological evaluation. Sperm donor selection requires additional genetic compatibility testing.

According to the Mexican College of Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialists, these evaluations must be completed within six months prior to the start of treatment to ensure their diagnostic validity.

How do you synchronize both women's cycles for the procedure?

La cycle synchronization constitutes a critical element in Reciprocal IVF. The objective is to temporarily align the obtaining of mature eggs with an optimal receptive endometrium in the receiving partner.

The process begins with the hormonal suppression of both women using oral contraceptives or GnRH analogs to establish control over their natural cycles. Once this regulation has been achieved, specific hormonal protocols are initiated for each one.

The egg donor begins a protocol of controlled ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins to develop multiple follicles. Simultaneously, the recipient initiates a regimen of estrogen and then progesterone to prepare her endometrium.

Specialists carefully monitor both processes using serial ultrasound and hormonal analysis. The objective is that when the eggs reach maturity for extraction, the recipient's endometrium has an optimal thickness (8-12 mm) with a trilaminar pattern.

Precise programming is essential: embryo transfer usually occurs 5-6 days after in vitro fertilization, coinciding with the “implantation window” when the endometrium reaches maximum receptivity.

How is the sperm donor selected for Reciprocal IVF?

Sperm donor selection is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Specialized clinics offer sperm banks with several donors that have been rigorously evaluated.

The selection process includes analysis of the genetic profile to rule out more than 300 inherited diseases, psychological evaluation, family medical history of at least three generations and semen quality analysis according to WHO criteria.

Couples can choose according to phenotypic characteristics (eye color, hair, height, build), ethnic background, educational level and even personal interests of the donor. Some clinics offer children's photos or voice recordings.

A fundamental aspect is to decide between an anonymous donation or an open identity donation. In Mexico, the first option predominates, but some clinics collaborate with international banks that allow children to access donor identification information upon their 18th birthday.

It is recommended to carefully review the bank's policies regarding limits on the number of pregnancies per donor to reduce the chances of inadvertent consanguinity in the future.

What medications are used during the process and what side effects can they have?

Reciprocal IVF requires different hormonal medications for each participant. The woman who donates eggs receives:

• Gonadotropins (FSH and LH): stimulate multiple follicular development. They can cause abdominal swelling, mood changes and, in rare cases, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.
• GnRH antagonists or agonists: they prevent premature ovulation. Side effects include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and headache.
• hCG trigger: induces final oocyte maturation. May cause irritability at the injection site.

The recipient woman uses:

• Estrogens (usually estradiol valerate): they prepare the endometrium for implantation. Side effects include nausea, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.
• Progesterone (vaginal or injectable): keeps the endometrium receptive. It may cause drowsiness, irregular bleeding, and local discomfort.

Both women may experience emotional changes due to hormonal fluctuations. Regular medical monitoring makes it possible to adjust doses and manage adverse effects.

The Latin American Association of Reproductive Medicine recommends informing the specialist immediately of symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, respiratory distress or severe swelling, which could indicate complications.

How long does the entire process take from initial evaluation to embryo transfer?

The entire Reciprocal IVF process from initial evaluation to embryo transfer spans approximately 2-3 months. La initial evaluation requires 2-4 weeks to complete all previous diagnostic tests and tests.

The phase of cycle synchronization using contraceptives or other hormonal regulators, it usually lasts 2-4 weeks, depending on the selected medical protocol and the individual characteristics of each woman.

La ovarian stimulation For the egg donor, 10-12 days of daily administration of medications and frequent monitoring are required. After follicular puncture, fertilization and embryo culture take 5-6 additional days to reach the blastocyst stage.

Simultaneously, the endometrial preparation of the recipient takes approximately 2-3 weeks to achieve optimal thickness and receptivity.

The entire process requires approximately 15-20 doctor visits between both women for hormonal monitoring, ultrasound and specific procedures. The exact time varies depending on the protocol used, the individual response to medications and the clinic's logistical organization.

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Costs

How much does Reciprocal IVF cost in Mexico?

The cost of Reciprocal IVF in Mexico ranges from 120,000 to 200,000 Mexican pesos per full cycle, depending on the clinic, its geographical location and services included. This price range covers all essential medical procedures.

The main components of the cost include:

• Initial inquiries and evaluations: 8,000-15,000 pesos
• Medications for ovarian stimulation: 30,000-50,000 pesos
• Egg extraction procedure: 25,000-35,000 pesos
• Fertilization and embryo culture: 30,000-45,000 pesos
• Endometrial preparation of the recipient: 10,000-18,000 pesos
• Embryo transfer: 15,000-25,000 pesos

Additional services such as freezing of embryos represent an extra cost of 15,000-25,000 pesos, plus an annual maintenance fee of 5,000-8,000 pesos.

Comparatively, this treatment is between 40-60% cheaper than in the United States or Canada, where prices can exceed 20,000 US dollars, according to data from the Mexican Fertility Society.

Does medical insurance cover Reciprocal IVF in Mexico?

Health insurance coverage for Reciprocal IVF treatments in Mexico is limited. Public health insurance such as the IMSS or ISSSTE currently does not cover any type of highly complex assisted reproduction treatment, including Reciprocal IVF.

When it comes to private insurance, most specifically exclude fertility treatments from their standard policies. However, some insurers have started offering partial coverage or specialized plans with additional costs that may include:

• Initial diagnostic visits
• Some basic lab tests
• Ultrasound monitoring during treatment

These plans usually establish annual limits of coverage and specific waiting periods, generally between 12 and 24 months from the date of taking out the policy.

Some fertility clinics offer their own funding plans or partnerships with financial institutions to facilitate access to treatment through deferred payments. These programs often include prior credit evaluation and variable interest rates.

The international trend towards the recognition of infertility as a disease by the WHO is gradually driving changes in coverage policies, although their implementation in Mexico is still incipient.

Are there funding options for this treatment?

Several funding alternatives are available for couples seeking to perform Reciprocal IVF in Mexico. Specialized clinics often offer fractional payment plans which allow the total cost to be distributed in monthly installments, usually without additional interest when the payment is completed before the end of the treatment.

Some financial institutions have developed specific products for fertility treatments, with terms of 12 to 60 months and preferential rates compared to conventional personal loans. These medical loans often require less documentation than other banking products.

There are also programs of guarantee of results in certain centers, where a larger amount is initially paid but up to three full cycles are guaranteed or the partial return of the money if the pregnancy is not achieved.

Nonprofit associations dedicated to infertility issues occasionally provide partial scholarships or facilitate access to substantially discounted treatments for couples who meet certain socioeconomic requirements.

Some couples opt for schemes of sharing eggs, where the genetic donor shares some of their eggs with other anonymous patients in exchange for a significant reduction in treatment costs, although this option modifies the strict concept of co-motherhood.

What factors can increase the cost of treatment?

A number of factors can significantly increase the base cost of Reciprocal IVF. La old age of the egg donor often requires more aggressive stimulation protocols and higher doses of medications, increasing pharmacological costs by up to 40%.

Cancelled or failed cycles that require restarting the process involve significant additional expenses. Although some clinics offer discounts for second attempts, cumulative costs can double or triple the initial budget.

Las medical complications such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, may require hospitalization and additional treatments not included in the initial budget.

Complementary techniques such as:

• Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGT): 35,000-50,000 additional pesos
• Advanced sperm selection techniques: 8,000-15,000 pesos
• Egg freezing surpluses: 30,000-40,000 pesos

La egg donation when oocyte quality is insufficient, it substantially modifies the procedure and its costs, although technically it would no longer be traditional Reciprocal IVF.

The legal expenses to secure the affiliation of both mothers vary by Mexican state and can add between 15,000-30,000 pesos to the entire process.

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Results

How is pregnancy confirmed after Reciprocal IVF?

Confirmation of pregnancy after Reciprocal IVF follows a well-established protocol. Approximately 10-12 days after the embryo transfer, a blood test to detect human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG), a specific marker of pregnancy.

Levels of hCG greater than 5 mIU/ml indicate biochemical pregnancy, although specialists consider it more favorable to find values greater than 50 mIU/ml. This test is repeated 48 hours later to verify an adequate increase in hormone levels, which should ideally double every other day.

At approximately 6 weeks of gestation (2 weeks after the positive test), the first transvaginal ultrasound is performed to confirm the clinical pregnancy. This evaluation seeks to visualize:

• Intrauterine gestational sac
• Embryo with cardiac activity
• Number of implanted embryos

During this period, the pregnant woman continues with hormonal supplementation (estrogen and progesterone) until 10-12 weeks of pregnancy, when the placenta fully assumes hormone production.

According to the guidelines of the Mexican Federation of Colleges of Obstetrics and Gynecology, initial follow-up in assisted reproduction pregnancies should be tighter than in natural conceptions.

What medical follow-up does a pregnancy achieved with this technique require?

Pregnancy achieved through Reciprocal IVF requires structured medical follow-up. The first trimester includes:

• Ultrasound control at 6, 8 and 12 weeks to verify viability and embryonic development
• Monitoring of hormone levels until adequate placental function is confirmed
• Gradual withdrawal of hormonal supplementation between weeks 10-12

During the second trimester, the following are performed:

• Detailed morphological ultrasound between weeks 20-22
• Screening tests for chromosomal anomalies according to standard protocol
• Evaluation of fetal growth and placental well-being

The third trimester intensifies follow-up with:

• Ultrasound checks every 3-4 weeks to assess growth
• More frequent monitoring in older pregnant women or women with risk factors
• Birth planning according to evolution

Although Reciprocal IVF pregnancies do not present specific complications other than other assisted reproduction pregnancies, specialists maintain special vigilance for possible complications such as placenta previa, gestational hypertension or growth restriction.

The National Institute of Perinatology of Mexico recommends that these pregnancies be controlled by multidisciplinary teams with experience in pregnancies achieved through assisted reproduction techniques.

Are there specific risks associated with Reciprocal IVF?

Reciprocal IVF shares the general risks of any assisted reproduction treatment, without presenting exclusive complications. For the egg donor, the main risks include:

• Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: occurs in 1-5% of cases, with symptoms ranging from abdominal discomfort to complications requiring hospitalization.
• Bleeding or infection after follicular puncture (less than 1% of cases)
• Side effects of hormonal medication

For the recipient of the embryo, the risks are similar to any IVF pregnancy:

• Higher incidence of multiple pregnancy (15-20%) if more than one embryo is transferred
• Slightly high risk of preterm birth (10-12% compared to 7-8% in spontaneous pregnancies)
• Slightly increased chance of preeclampsia (8% compared to 5-6% in natural conceptions)

Reproductive medicine specialists emphasize that these risks are not exclusive to Reciprocal IVF, but are common to all procedures of in vitro fertilization.

According to a study published by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics, children born using this technique have no higher incidence of congenital anomalies than the general population.

What rates of multiple pregnancy are there with this procedure?

Multiple pregnancy rates in Reciprocal IVF are directly related to the number of embryos transferred. When a single embryo is transferred (SET - Single Embryo Transfer), the probability of multiple pregnancy is less than 1%, mainly corresponding to the spontaneous division of the embryo (identical twins).

The transfer of two embryos significantly increases this risk up to 25-30%. Statistics from the Latin American Assisted Reproduction Network show that approximately 18% of IVF births in Mexico are multiple, compared to 2% in natural conceptions.

Los multiple pregnancies carry a higher risk of maternal (hypertension, gestational diabetes, caesarean section) and fetal (prematurity, underweight) complications. For this reason, there is a growing trend towards the elective transfer of a single embryo, especially in young women with good quality embryos.

Specialized clinics carefully evaluate factors such as the age of the egg donor, embryo quality and uterine conditions of the recipient to decide the optimal number of embryos to transfer, balancing the chances of success with the associated risks.

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Legal

How is filiation legally determined in cases of Reciprocal IVF in Mexico?

The legal determination of filiation in cases of Reciprocal IVF in Mexico presents particular challenges due to the biological participation of both mothers. The legal framework varies significantly between federal entities.

Mexican legislation traditionally grants automatic recognition to pregnant women, applying the principle of Mater Semper Certa Est (the mother is always true). Therefore, the mother giving birth immediately appears on the birth certificate.

For the genetic mother, options for establishing legal ties include:

1. Adoption by a second mother: requires a judicial process that can last 6-18 months depending on the state.
2. Voluntary recognition: available in states with progressive legislation such as Mexico City, where reforms to the Civil Code allow direct recognition of both mothers.
3. Judicial recognition procedure: through amparos based on the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court of Justice.

Family law specialists recommend obtaining specialized legal advice before starting treatment and preparing documentation such as notarial agreements between the couple and detailed contracts with the fertility clinic.

The recent jurisprudential trend favors the recognition of the best interests of the child and the right to identity, progressively facilitating the legal recognition of both mothers.

What legal documents are recommended to prepare before treatment?

Before starting the Reciprocal IVF process, reproductive law specialists recommend preparing various legal documents to protect the rights of all parties involved:

1. Full Informed Consent: it must clearly specify the biological roles of each woman, contemplate scenarios of separation, death or disability, and be signed by both.
2. Notarial agreement between the couple: establishes the shared intention of parenting, recognizes the rights of both mothers regardless of their biological contribution, and determines the disposal of excess embryos.
3. Detailed contract with the clinic: should include specifications on the ownership and destination of eggs, embryos and genetic material in various future scenarios.
4. Agreement with the sperm bank: clarifies the anonymous or identifiable nature of the donor and future access to genetic information.
5. Updated Wills: particularly important during pregnancy to protect inheritance rights and guardianship in the event of death.

La Mexican Family Law Association recommends that these documents be prepared by attorneys specialized in reproductive law with specific knowledge of applicable state legislation.

It is also essential to check the specific local Civil Registry requirements for birth registration, as they vary significantly between states.

What rights does each mother have over the child born using this technique?

Parental rights in cases of Reciprocal IVF depend significantly on the legal recognition obtained. When both mothers are able to establish formal legal ties, their rights are identical and include:

• Shared parental authority in educational, medical, and religious decisions
• Same maintenance rights and obligations
• Equal custody rights in the event of separation
• Transfer of nationality, surname and hereditary rights

However, when only the expectant mother obtains automatic legal recognition, only she initially has Parental authority complete. Until the corresponding legal procedures are completed, the genetic mother has no recognized legal rights, even if there is a verifiable biological link.

This temporary legal disparity creates vulnerabilities, especially in scenarios of separation during pregnancy or the baby's first months of life. For this reason, Mexican courts have generated progressive case law recognizing the “best interests of the child” to maintain ties with both mothers.

According to the Legal Research Center of the UNAM, approximately 85% of couples who adequately complete legal procedures are able to establish equal rights, although with significant variations between federal entities.

How is Reciprocal IVF regulated in other countries compared to Mexico?

The regulation of Reciprocal IVF shows significant variations globally. Spain has one of the most progressive frameworks, with Law 14/2006 on Assisted Reproduction Techniques, which expressly allows this modality and automatically recognizes both mothers in the Civil Registry without the need for adoption.

In the United States, regulation varies by state: California and New York offer full legal recognition through “pre-birth orders”, while conservative states may require adoption by a second mother or even prohibit access to these treatments.

Canada implements a comprehensive system through the Assisted Human Reproduction Act, facilitating the recognition of both mothers from birth and regulating aspects such as anonymity or openness of information about donors.

Argentina recognizes through the Civil Code “procreational will” as a determinant of affiliation, regardless of who provides genetic material or pregnancy, greatly simplifying the legal process.

Comparatively, Mexico presents a fragmented framework: while some entities such as Mexico City approach the Spanish model, others maintain significant legal loopholes that require judicial processes to recognize non-pregnant mothers.

The international trend is moving towards the reduction of legal and administrative barriers, recognizing the growing diversity of family structures and prioritizing the best interests of the child.

References

1. Zegers-Hochschild, F., Adamson, G. D., Dyer, S., Racowsky, C., de Mouzon, J., Sokol, R., Rienzi, L., Sunde, A., Schmidt, L., Cooke, I. D., Simpson, J. L., & van der Poel, S. (2023). The International Glossary on Infertility and Fertility Care. Fertility and Sterility, 117 (3), 533-554. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.01.025 Trusted Source.
2. American Society for Reproductive Medicine. (2022). Ethical considerations of assisted reproductive technologies. Fertility and Sterility, 118 (1), 44-54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.05.037 Trusted Source.
3. World Health Organization. (2024). WHO recommendations on fertility care and reproductive health. Geneva: World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240063303 Trusted Source.

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