Assisted Reproduction techniques (ART) offer several options to female couples, including the so-called ROPA Method. 

This technique, offered at the NatuVitro clinic, is based on the principle of Reception of Partner's Oocytes (ROPA), which involves the shared participation of both women in the process of conceiving the baby.

But: 

• What exactly is the ROPA method? 
• How does it differ from procedures like artificial insemination or traditional IVF? 
• What are the implications of European laws in this regard? 

This article explores in detail the ROPA method, providing a comprehensive perspective on this technique designed to share the journey to motherhood.

What is the ROPA method?

The ROPA method allows two women in a relationship to share a biological connection with their future baby. 

One partner provides the eggs, while the other receives the embryo during the pregnancy. 

This Assisted Reproduction technique is aimed at female couples who wish to start a family, and it is one of the treatments offered by NatuVitro for those aspiring to become mothers.

The treatment involves In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), which has higher success rates than Artificial Insemination (AI). The oocytes from one of the women are used after a joint decision with the specialist. 

Preliminary examinations assess the fertility of both women, often without major issues, allowing the ROPA method to achieve excellent success rates, surpassing those of other ART treatments.

The steps of the ROPA method begin with an assessment of the situation of the two women during the first medical consultation. Examinations are conducted to determine the optimal solution considering the patients' wishes. 

Next, the egg donor follows an ovarian stimulation protocol to increase the release of eggs. Ovarian puncture, performed under sedation, allows for the aspiration of the oocytes for fertilization with donor sperm. Then, the resulting embryo is selected based on its progress for transfer.

The carrying partner undergoes hormonal treatment to prepare her endometrium, promoting embryo implantation and optimizing the chances of pregnancy.

Legal status of the ROPA method in Europe

In France, for example, the new bioethics law, which came into effect on August 3, 2021, represented a significant step forward by eliminating the medical criterion of “infertility.” This opened access to ART for single women and same-sex couples, earning the law the nickname "ART for all."

However, current French legislation does not allow the practice of the ROPA method. In France, the use of an egg that is not one's own is considered donation, according to the Biomedicine Agency. 

The reasons for this restriction are explained by two fundamental principles:

1. The obligation of anonymity between the donor and the recipient.
2. The need to use oocytes collected by puncture exclusively for the donating woman or as part of an anonymous donation.

Although the ROPA method is very popular among female couples, current legislation limits its application. According to a NatuVitro survey from last year, half of the partnered homosexual women who want to be mothers are aware of this method. Furthermore, about 76% of them might consider using it.

It is important to note that France is not the only European country that prohibits this technique, joining Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, and Portugal in this restriction.

For female couples interested in the ROPA method, despite the legal restrictions in their home country, our NatuVitro team is available to discuss the available alternatives. 

Contact us today for comprehensive information on assisted reproduction options for your situation. Your journey to motherhood can begin with a personalized consultation. Don’t let legal obstacles discourage you; explore the possibilities with NatuVitro to make your dream of starting a family a reality.