ROPA Method

The ROPA method, also known as “reception of oocytes from a partner,” is a high-complexity assisted reproductive technique. Currently, same-sex female couples can access this method, and both actively participate in the process that can lead to pregnancy, which is of significant importance. While one of them provides the eggs, the other will carry out the gestation. Although only one person in the couple contributes the genetic material, both partners play a crucial role in this method.

In vitro fertilization (IVF)
The ROPA method involves in vitro fertilization with donated eggs, and the donor is not anonymous. The partner providing the eggs is referred to as the genetic mother, while the partner who gestates the pregnancy is referred to as the biological or gestational mother. The genetic mother must undergo ovarian stimulation through subcutaneous medication and receive regular ultrasound checks until the follicular aspiration is scheduled. The IVF is then performed with the use of a donor’s semen in the laboratory.

The embryonic culture is a period of three to six days during which the development and evolution of the fertilized eggs are observed. The gestational mother, on the other hand, must receive a different medication, typically orally, to prepare her endometrium and make it receptive for the embryo transfer. Approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer, the gestational mother should undergo a blood pregnancy test to determine the treatment’s result. It is recommended that the partner providing the eggs be the younger one or the one with a better ovarian reserve, which implies that both partners must undergo the necessary studies, including chromosomal analysis (karyotype). Additionally, the biological or gestational mother should have a normal uterine cavity and an absence of conditions that could compromise the pregnancy’s health.