Choosing TRIO for 2SLGBTQIA+ Family Building
TRIO is proud to help gender and sexually diverse individuals and couples to grow their families. Everyone’s journey is different; that’s why all of our staff at TRIO have received specialized training to support the specific family-building needs of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
TRIO’s third-party coordinator helps every patient understand their family-building options and rights, and helps them navigate their way through the process.
2SLGBTQIA+ Patients Requiring Sperm Donation
Aspiring 2SLGBTQIA+ parents can build their families with sperm donation.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is recommended for patients who have eggs and a uterus and will be using donor sperm to achieve a pregnancy. With this treatment, donor sperm is inserted into a uterus to fertilize an egg and create a pregnancy.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is a treatment where an egg from one partner is fertilized with donor sperm to create an embryo. That embryo is allowed to develop in the TRIO lab for approximately 5 days until it reaches a stage known as a “blastocyst.” The blastocyst is then implanted into the uterus of one partner to create a pregnancy.
Reciprocal In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Reciprocal IVF is a popular option for couples who were both born with eggs and a uterus; it allows both partners to contribute to the creation of the pregnancy. In this option, one partner provides the eggs to be fertilized, while the other is then implanted with the embryo to carry the pregnancy.
2SLGBTQIA+ Patients Requiring Egg Donation and Surrogacy
Future 2SLGBTQIA+ parents can build their families through egg donation and surrogacy.
Egg Donation
An egg donor provides eggs that will be fertilized with sperm provided by the patient(s). This creates an embryo, which develops for a few days in TRIO’s lab. That embryo is then transferred into the gestational carrier to carry the pregnancy.
TRIO offers three egg donation programs. Depending on the needs and preferences, our third-party coordinator helps growing families choose the best pathway.
Gestational Carrier (Surrogate)
Once the embryos are created in TRIO’s lab, one embryo will be transferred to the gestational carrier to carry a pregnancy. TRIO’s third party coordinator will help aspiring parents understand the gestational carrier process and connect them with the right agencies and support.
Fertility Services for Transgender People
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my doctor be understanding of my situation, including my reasons for seeking fertility care?
All of our doctors and supportive staff have received specialized training to ensure everyone understands the needs of our 2SLGBTQIA+ patients. In addition, there are doctors at TRIO who are currently working to create more inclusive care at TRIO and across Canada.
Is there emotional support throughout the fertility process?
TRIO has a Facebook Support Group specifically for 2SLGBTQIA+ patients led by Fertility Counsellor Dara Roth Edney.
I’ve had a traumatic experience before in treatment at another clinic. How can you reassure me this won’t happen again?
All of our staff have received training around issues relating to treatment and trauma. If you've had a traumatic treatment experience at another clinic, we hope you will feel comfortable telling your TRIO nurse. She will reach out on your behalf to the TRIO staff you will encounter, including our ultrasound technicians, to ensure that your treatment experience with us is a positive one.
Will the patient information forms represent my family?
Yes, TRIO’s intake forms were specifically written with inclusive language and pronouns, with the goal of being sensitive to inclusion and gender diversity ensuring that everyone is treated respectfully.
Will staff use my correct pronouns?
All of TRIO’s staff have received inclusivity training and understand the importance of gender neutral language and correct pronoun use.
How about the language on the website and other information we will receive from you?
TRIO is in the process of ensuring gender neutral language throughout our internal and external communications, including our website, newsletters, emails and other patient information so that all of our patients will feel comfortable.
Does your clinic have gender neutral washrooms?
TRIO respects everyone’s right to choose the washroom that is appropriate for them. TRIO has dedicated, all gender washrooms, as well as gendered washrooms for anyone who identifies as male or female.
What if I encounter something I believe needs to be addressed?
At TRIO, we are open to your feedback: if you have ideas on how we can create a better experience for you and other 2SLGBTQIA+ patients, please email us at info@triofertility.com with your thoughts: we would like to hear from you.