The ROPA method in Sweden: shared motherhood for female couples

For female couples ready to start a family, modern reproductive medicine offers several paths to parenthood. One of the most sought-after treatments today is the ROPA method (Reception of Oocytes from Partner), also known as reciprocal IVF or shared motherhood.

At Ovumia Stockholm, we offer the ROPA method combined with immediate access to our in-house Nordic sperm bank, allowing you to share the biological journey of pregnancy without the long public-sector waiting lists.

What is the ROPA method?

In a standard IVF treatment with donor sperm, one woman provides the egg and carries the pregnancy. The ROPA method separates these roles, allowing both partners in a female couple to be physically and biologically involved in the process.

In this process:

• Partner A (the genetic mother): Undergoes ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. Her eggs are fertilized in our laboratory using donated sperm.

• Partner B (the gestational mother): Has the resulting embryo transferred into her uterus. She carries the pregnancy and gives birth to the child.

This creates a profound shared experience where one mother has a genetic link to the child, and the other mother shares an intimate biological bond through pregnancy and birth.

Bypassing the sperm donor queues

A major obstacle for female couples in the Swedish public healthcare system is the shortage of donor sperm, leading to waiting lists that can stretch well over a year.

Because Ovumia operates its own extensive gamete bank, we are able to eliminate this bottleneck. Once your initial fertility assessments are complete, our coordinators will help you match a thoroughly screened, legally compliant donor almost immediately.

Step-by-step: how ROPA works at Ovumia Stockholm

1. Dual fertility assessment: Both partners undergo a fertility assessment (ultrasound and AMH blood test) to ensure Partner A has a healthy ovarian reserve and Partner B has a healthy uterus.

2. Donor matching: You will select an open sperm donor from our bank, matched to your desired physical characteristics in accordance with Swedish law.

3. Synchronization and hormone stimulation: Partner A receives hormone medication to mature eggs, while Partner B prepares her uterine lining for implantation.

4. Egg retrieval and fertilization: Partner A's eggs are retrieved and fertilized with donor sperm in Ovumia’s advanced IVF laboratory.

5. Embryo transfer: The highest-quality embryo is transferred to Partner B's uterus. Any additional embryos are safely frozen for potential future siblings.

Start your shared journey towards motherhood

Are you and your partner ready to explore your options towards shared motherhood? Book a first visit at Ovumia Stockholm in Solna. Our doctors will review your medical history, perform the necessary assessments, and help you plan your unique path to shared motherhood.