Can my partner and I apply for a reciprocal IVF loan together?

Yes, absolutely. Most lenders not only allow but encourage joint applications for this purpose. Applying together allows the lender to consider your combined income and joint credit history. This can significantly improve your chances of approval and may help you qualify for a larger loan amount or a more competitive interest rate than if one partner applied alone. The application process will require financial information from both of you.

What is the difference between RIVF and standard IVF in terms of cost and financing?

The main cost difference is that RIVF involves procedures for two people: one for the egg retrieval and one for the embryo transfer. This often makes it slightly more expensive than a standard IVF cycle where one person undergoes both procedures. From a financing perspective, the loan functions the same way. The key is to request a loan amount that accurately covers the full, higher cost of the two-part RIVF process, including medications for both partners.

Does a personal loan for RIVF cover the cost of donor sperm?

Yes. A major advantage of using a personal loan is its flexibility. The funds are deposited into your bank account, and you can use them for any expense related to your fertility journey. This includes purchasing donor sperm from the cryobank of your choice, clinic fees, anesthesia, embryology services, medications, and even travel or legal costs associated with co-maternity.

How quickly can we get funded for our shared motherhood journey?

The process is designed to be fast. The initial application to check your rates takes only a few minutes. If you are matched with lenders, you can review your offers immediately. After selecting an offer and completing the final verification process with the lender, funds can often be deposited into your account in as little as 1-2 business days. This speed is helpful when clinic payment deadlines are approaching.

What happens if we need more money for a second RIVF cycle?

This is a common concern. If your first cycle is unsuccessful and you need to finance another, you have a few options. Depending on your credit and income, you might be able to apply for a second personal loan. Some borrowers also choose to take out a larger loan initially to cover the potential cost of more than one cycle. It's important to discuss your financial strategy and have a plan in place for this possibility before you begin.

Will checking our rate for an RIVF loan affect our credit scores?

No. Using our platform to check your eligibility and see potential loan offers involves a 'soft' credit inquiry. This type of inquiry does not impact your credit score, so you can explore your options without any penalty. A 'hard' credit inquiry, which can affect your score, is only performed by the lender you choose if you decide to move forward with a specific loan application.

Loans for Reciprocal IVF

For lesbian couples building their family through shared motherhood, a personal loan can provide the clear, simple financing needed to make the journey possible.

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Reciprocal IVF, also known as RIVF, is a beautiful way for two women to share in the creation of their family. One partner provides the egg, and the other partner carries the pregnancy—a process sometimes called shared motherhood or co-maternity. While it's an incredible journey, the costs can be a significant hurdle. A personal loan designed for fertility treatments can bridge the financial gap, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: building your family together.

The unique financial hurdles of the RIVF journey.

Fertility clinic financing can be restrictive and tied to one provider.
A personal loan provides funds directly to you, giving you the freedom to choose your clinic and cover all related expenses, not just the procedure itself.
Insurance coverage for fertility treatments, especially for same-sex couples, is often confusing or nonexistent.
Our marketplace connects you with lenders who understand medical financing, offering a straightforward alternative to navigating complex insurance policies.
The total cost of RIVF is more than just the IVF cycle; it includes medications, genetic testing, and legal fees.
Get a single, predictable loan to cover the entire process, from initial consultations to post-transfer medications, with a fixed monthly payment.
Applying for financing as a couple can feel complicated.
We simplify the process, allowing for joint applications so you can leverage your combined financial strength for better loan options.

Understanding Reciprocal IVF Loans

A reciprocal IVF loan is an unsecured personal loan used to cover the costs associated with the shared motherhood journey. Unlike a credit card or a home equity line of credit (HELOC), a personal loan provides a lump sum of cash upfront with a fixed interest rate and a set repayment term. This predictability is crucial when managing the already stressful process of fertility treatments. You'll know exactly what your monthly payment will be and when the loan will be paid off, with no surprises.

Financing for RIVF is specifically tailored to the unique financial landscape of this procedure. Lenders in our network understand that these are medical expenses for building a family, not discretionary spending. The funds can be used for every step of the co-maternity process, including donor sperm acquisition, egg retrieval for one partner, lab fees for fertilization and embryo development, and the embryo transfer to the other partner. It can also cover crucial associated costs like fertility medications, genetic screening for the embryo (PGT-A), and legal fees for establishing parentage.

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A quick check won't affect your credit score.

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Your RIVF Financing Process in 3 Steps

1
Complete a single, simple form.
Tell us about your financing needs for your RIVF journey. The online form takes just a few minutes and is secure and confidential.
2
Compare personalized loan offers.
If you pre-qualify, you'll see real loan options from multiple lenders in our network. Compare APRs, terms, and monthly payments side-by-side.
3
Receive your funds.
Once you select an offer and are approved, funds are typically deposited directly into your bank account in as little as one business day.

The Cost of Reciprocal IVF: A Financial Breakdown

The cost of reciprocal IVF can vary significantly based on your clinic, location, and specific medical needs. However, understanding the components can help you budget and determine the right loan amount. Unlike standard IVF, RIVF involves procedures for both partners, which can influence the total cost. It's essential to get a detailed estimate from your chosen fertility clinic.

Estimating Your Reciprocal IVF Costs

Egg Retrieval Cycle (Partner 1) Monitoring, retrieval procedure, anesthesia	$10,000 - $15,000
Fertility Medications (Partner 1) Hormones for ovarian stimulation	$3,000 - $7,000
Donor Sperm Varies by sperm bank and donor profile	$800 - $1,500
Embryology & Lab Fees ICSI, fertilization, embryo culture	$3,000 - $5,000
Frozen Embryo Transfer (Partner 2) Uterine prep, monitoring, transfer procedure	$3,000 - $5,000
Optional Genetic Testing (PGT-A) Screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities	$3,000 - $6,000

Estimated monthly

$543/mo

Estimated monthly payment for a $25,000 loan with a 5-year term at 11% APR.

Loan amount: $2,000 – $50,000
APR: 7.99% – 35.99%
Term: 24 mo – 84 mo

Your actual rate depends upon credit score, loan amount, loan term, and credit usage and history. The APR is the cost of credit as a yearly rate. Not all applicants will be approved.

Figure out your budget and see your rate.

Knowing your numbers is the first step. Get pre-qualified offers without impacting your credit score.

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Financing Options for Shared Motherhood

When planning how to pay for reciprocal IVF, it's wise to consider all your options. While a personal loan offers significant flexibility and predictability, other avenues might be available. Evaluating the pros and cons of each in the context of your shared financial situation will help you make the most informed decision for your growing family.

Personal Loans vs. Other RIVF Financing

	Personal Loan	Clinic Financing	Credit Cards
Interest Rate	Fixed; typically 8-35.99%	Can be low introductory, then high	Variable; often 20-30%
Flexibility	High; funds can be used for any related cost (meds, legal, travel)	Low; usually limited to specific procedures at that clinic	High; can be used anywhere
Repayment	Fixed monthly payments over a set term (2-7 years)	Varies; can have short terms or balloon payments	No fixed end date; minimum payments can prolong debt
Best For	Couples wanting a predictable budget and freedom of choice	Those using a single clinic that offers a competitive package	Covering small, unexpected costs, not the entire procedure

Key RIVF Terms to Know

RIVF (Reciprocal IVF): A type of In Vitro Fertilization for couples with two uteruses, where one partner provides the eggs (genetic mother) and the other carries the pregnancy (gestational carrier or birth mother).
Shared Motherhood / Co-Maternity: Terms used to describe the RIVF process, emphasizing the shared biological and physical connection both partners have to their child.
Partner Assisted Reproduction: A clinical term for RIVF, often used in medical and legal contexts.

Qualifying for a Reciprocal IVF Loan

Lenders assess several factors to determine eligibility and loan terms. Because RIVF is a significant investment, lenders look for a stable financial profile. Applying as a couple may strengthen your application, as lenders can consider your combined income and credit histories. Before you apply, it's helpful to review your finances together and gather the necessary documentation.

What Lenders Typically Look For

Credit Score: A score of 640 or higher is generally preferred for the best rates, though some lending partners consider applicants with scores starting in the high 500s.
Verifiable Income: You'll need to show a steady source of income to demonstrate you can afford the monthly payments. Pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements are common proof.
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders look at your total monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. A lower DTI ratio, typically below 40%, is favorable.
Credit History: A positive history of on-time payments and responsible credit use shows lenders you are a reliable borrower.
Joint Application: Applying with your partner allows lenders to consider both incomes and credit profiles, which can often result in a larger loan amount or a better interest rate.

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Example scenario

Financing our RIVF journey felt overwhelming at first. Getting a personal loan simplified everything. We had one payment, we could pay our clinic and pharmacy directly, and we didn't have to worry about the money part while focusing on each other. It made our dream of shared motherhood a reality.

Jenna & Maya·Parents via RIVF

Frequently Asked Questions About RIVF Loans

Can my partner and I apply for a reciprocal IVF loan together?
Yes, absolutely. Most lenders not only allow but encourage joint applications for this purpose. Applying together allows the lender to consider your combined income and joint credit history. This can significantly improve your chances of approval and may help you qualify for a larger loan amount or a more competitive interest rate than if one partner applied alone. The application process will require financial information from both of you.
What is the difference between RIVF and standard IVF in terms of cost and financing?
The main cost difference is that RIVF involves procedures for two people: one for the egg retrieval and one for the embryo transfer. This often makes it slightly more expensive than a standard IVF cycle where one person undergoes both procedures. From a financing perspective, the loan functions the same way. The key is to request a loan amount that accurately covers the full, higher cost of the two-part RIVF process, including medications for both partners.
Does a personal loan for RIVF cover the cost of donor sperm?
Yes. A major advantage of using a personal loan is its flexibility. The funds are deposited into your bank account, and you can use them for any expense related to your fertility journey. This includes purchasing donor sperm from the cryobank of your choice, clinic fees, anesthesia, embryology services, medications, and even travel or legal costs associated with co-maternity.
How quickly can we get funded for our shared motherhood journey?
The process is designed to be fast. The initial application to check your rates takes only a few minutes. If you are matched with lenders, you can review your offers immediately. After selecting an offer and completing the final verification process with the lender, funds can often be deposited into your account in as little as 1-2 business days. This speed is helpful when clinic payment deadlines are approaching.
What happens if we need more money for a second RIVF cycle?
This is a common concern. If your first cycle is unsuccessful and you need to finance another, you have a few options. Depending on your credit and income, you might be able to apply for a second personal loan. Some borrowers also choose to take out a larger loan initially to cover the potential cost of more than one cycle. It's important to discuss your financial strategy and have a plan in place for this possibility before you begin.
Will checking our rate for an RIVF loan affect our credit scores?
No. Using our platform to check your eligibility and see potential loan offers involves a 'soft' credit inquiry. This type of inquiry does not impact your credit score, so you can explore your options without any penalty. A 'hard' credit inquiry, which can affect your score, is only performed by the lender you choose if you decide to move forward with a specific loan application.

Begin your journey to shared motherhood

Personal loan disclosure

Money Savvy is not a lender. We are a marketing service that connects consumers with participating lenders. Rates, amounts, and terms vary by lender, your credit history, and other factors.

Loan amounts: $1,000 – $100,000
Repayment terms: 3 – 84 months
Min APR: 5.99%
Max APR: 35.99%
Origination fees: 0% – 10% of the loan amount
Late fees: May apply; vary by lender

Representative example: A $10,000 loan with a 36-month term at an 18.99% APR would have an approximate monthly payment of $366.39 and a total cost of $13,190.04, including interest and a $500 origination fee.

Your actual APR depends on your credit score, income, and other factors. Only borrow what you can afford to repay.

California residents: California Financing Law disclosures available upon request.