Fertility Care for Transgender Patients: What You Need to Know
At Main Line Fertility, we believe every person deserves compassionate, affirming, and expert reproductive care — including our transgender and gender‑diverse patients. Whether you’re exploring options before starting gender‑affirming treatment or planning to grow your family in the future, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
This guide breaks down what to expect, what to consider, and how MLF partners with transgender patients to help them build the families they dream of.
Understanding Fertility and Gender-Affirming Care
Gender‑affirming treatments — including hormones and certain surgeries — can impact fertility. These effects vary from person to person, so it’s important to talk with your fertility specialist early, ideally before starting hormones or undergoing surgery.
How hormones can affect fertility
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Testosterone may reduce ovulation over time, but fertility can sometimes return if testosterone is paused.
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Estrogen and anti-androgens can decrease sperm production, sometimes permanently.
This doesn’t mean family-building is out of reach. It simply means planning matters, and we’re here to guide you.
Fertility Preservation Options
Preserving fertility before medical transition is one of the most empowering steps transgender patients can take. Options include:
For patients assigned female at birth (AFAB):
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Egg Freezing: Freezing mature eggs for future use.
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Embryo Freezing: Freezing embryos created with partner or donor sperm.
For patients assigned male at birth (AMAB):
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Sperm Freezing: A quick, minimally invasive option.
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Testicular sperm extraction (TESE): For individuals with little or no ejaculatory sperm.
Our team takes special care to make these processes affirming, private, and as comfortable as possible.
Family-Building Options After Transition
Even if you’ve already begun or completed medical transition, there are still many paths to parenthood, including:
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Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
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In vitro fertilization (IVF)
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Reciprocal IVF for LGBTQ+ couples
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Use of donor sperm or donor eggs
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Gestational carriers (surrogacy)
We tailor treatment based on your unique needs, goals, and comfort levels.
Affirming, Inclusive Care at MLF
From intake forms to clinical protocols, MLF is committed to:
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Respecting your identity and pronouns
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Providing trauma‑informed, patient‑first care
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Creating a welcoming space for all gender identities
You deserve dignity, compassion, and world‑class fertility expertise — and that’s exactly what you’ll find here.
Ready to Start the Conversation?
We know that navigating fertility as a transgender patient can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to support you with warmth, expertise, and respect. When you’re ready, we’re ready. Schedule a consultation to start.