Decision making of male same-sex couples pursuing pregnancy via assisted reproductive technology: a qualitative study

Decision-making of male same-sex couples pursuing ART is complex and unique to each couple. There are many stages throughout the process that require complicated decision-making; however, decisions are often shaped by the desire for genetic relatedness, risk reduction, control, and financial costs. Male same-sex couples often must make decisions without evidence-based medicine; thus, better clinical guidance is needed to allow reproductive experts to facilitate these delicate conversations and improve the experience of intended parents. The high cost makes the process more difficult for many couples, requiring many to make sacrifices and leaving many unable to pursue ART to build their families. Better insurance coverage needs to be made available to improve care for this marginalized patient population.