Fertility Treatment Options for Single Parents
At Fertility North, we have several fertility options available to single parents that want to start a family on their own.
IVF For Single Parents
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) is a well-established fertility treatment where eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory to create embryos, which are then transferred to the uterus to achieve pregnancy. For single parents, IVF provides a reliable path to parenthood, especially when other methods have not been successful.
IVF offers higher success rates compared to Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), particularly in cases with multiple fertility factors. While DI (donor insemination) or IUI (intrauterine insemination) involves placing sperm directly into the uterus, it can be less effective when there are issues like tubal blockages, poor egg quality or reduced sperm motility. IVF allows for greater control, including the selection of the healthiest embryos, which can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
IVF is often the preferred choice for single parents who have had unsuccessful IUI cycles or face specific fertility challenges, such as blocked fallopian tubes or polycystic ovaries or endometriosis. Additionally, IVF allows the use of donor eggs or sperm, providing essential options for single parents aiming to build their families.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) – or artificial insemination – is a fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation to increase the chances of fertilisation. For single parents, IUI is often considered a simpler and less invasive option compared to In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).
One of the primary benefits of IUI over IVF is its lower cost and reduced physical and emotional demands. IUI typically requires fewer medications and less medical intervention, making it a more straightforward process for those with no significant fertility issues. Additionally, IUI can be performed in a natural cycle or with minimal stimulation, which may appeal to individuals seeking a less intensive treatment.
IUI might be a better choice for single parents who have good overall fertility and are looking for a less invasive and more affordable treatment option. It’s particularly suitable for those who are using donor sperm and do not have known fertility challenges.
Accessing Donor Sperm
Fertility North is home to one of the best and most comprehensive donor programs in Perth, with donor eggs, donor sperm and donor embryos from both local and international donors. Our certified Donor Program is overseen by an experienced Donor Coordinator, and strictly abides by current state and federal legislation and incorporates the care and treatment for recipients, donors and their partners as well as the interests of donor conceived children.
How to Access Donor Sperm
In Western Australia, to be eligible to access donated sperm, you need to be at least 18 years and 6 months old and younger than 50 years and 6 months .
You’ll also need to complete a few steps to ensure you’re ready, emotionally and physically, for fertility treatment.
This includes an initial counselling session with an accredited Fertility Counsellor, as well as some screening tests and medical questionnaires.
You’ll then need to wait for a 3-month ‘cooling off’ period. Once the cooling off period is complete, you’ll be asked to attend a second counselling session at a time of your choosing.
After this, you’ll be eligible to access donor sperm and as soon as a suitable donor becomes available, you will be able to start your fertility.
Choosing your sperm donor
When it’s time to choose your donor, you will be sent a list of carefully selected donor characteristics tailored to your treatment and any relevant genetic considerations. We ask that you select up to five donors to view. All of our donors and recipients undertake genetic testing to avoid transmission of any genetic disorders.
Once a profile is selected and the costs are discussed, a more detailed version of the de- profile is given for viewing, this includes details of the donor’s physical characteristics, age of donation, hobbies, education and whether they have a family of their own.
Egg Freezing & Fertility Preservation
Egg freezing is a fertility preservation technique that involves collecting and freezing a person’s eggs for future use. It’s an option worth considering for single parents who want to delay having children due to personal, career, or health-related reasons. Egg freezing allows individuals to preserve their fertility at a younger age, ensuring better chances of conception later in life.
The scientific consensus suggests that the best age to freeze eggs is in the late 20s to early 30s when egg quality and quantity are at their peak. Factors influencing the decision to freeze eggs include the individual’s health, family history, and the desire to extend fertility options. While the process offers no guarantees, it provides a valuable option for those looking to preserve their fertility for the future.
What are the costs involved?
At Fertility North, we’re committed to transparency in our pricing, which is why we publish our fee structure online without any hidden costs. We also work hard to keep out-of-pocket expenses low, making IVF more accessible for all families.
As these figures are subject to change, we recommend checking our website for the most up-to-date information on cycle fees and Medicare rebates.
Will Medicare cover any of my fertility treatment expenses?
While it won’t cover all costs, Medicare does provide rebates for several fertility treatments, including IVF, to help offset out-of-pocket costs. To qualify, you’ll just need a referral from your GP (or specialist). The Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) will cover a portion of your specialist appointments and other related services, and the Medicare Safety Net offers additional rebates if your annual out-of-hospital medical expenses exceed the threshold. Please note, you are unable to claim an MBS rebate without a diagnosis of ‘medical infertility’. For more information, please reach out to our friendly Administration team.