OK – Ensuring Equitable Access to Assisted Reproduction for LGBTQ+ Individuals: An Inclusive Practice Guide for Fertility Clinics

Canada Research Chair in Third-Party Reproduction and Family Ties, LGBT+ Family Coalition, Jeunes, Familles et Réponses Sociales (JEFAR) Research Center [2025]
Published on April 15, 2025

Written by: Claudia Fournier & Mona Greenbaum

Scientific lead: Isabel Côté

Research team: Isabel Côté, Mona Greenbaum, Claudia Fournier, Kévin Lavoie, Emma Bouffard, & Anna Aslett

Graphic design: Tessier atelier

Published online: 2025

This guide aims to equip fertility professionals with knowledge and tools to better understand the experiences of LGBTQ+ populations and address their specific needs, particularly within the context of Quebec healthcare services. It is addressed to all individuals involved in fertility services, including medical, nursing, psychosocial and administrative staff. Their role extends far beyond medical aspects: they inform, advise, and support patients throughout their reproductive journey, helping them achieve their parenthood goals.

This guide was developed as part of a collaborative research project called ACCESS, conducted in partnership with the Canada Research Chair in Third party Reproduction and Family Ties, the LGBT+ Family Coalition and the Jeunes, Familles et Réponses sociales (JEFAR) Research Center. Its content is based on recent scientific studies, testimonials from affected individuals, and practical expertise gained by the LGBT+ Family Coalition over the past 30 years. It is also aligned with legal obligations and human rights standards, consistent with the ethical principles governing healthcare professions, particularly with respect to patients’ interests, dignity and autonomy.

How to cite this publication

ACCESS Research Team (2025). Ensuring Equitable Access to Assisted Reproduction for LGBTQ+ Individuals: A Guide to Inclusive Practices for Fertility Clinics. Canada Research Chair in Third-Party Reproduction and Family Ties, LGBT+ Family Coalition, Jeunes, Familles et Réponses Sociales (JEFAR) Research Center.

  • Isabel Côté

    Professor in the department of social work at Université du Québec en Outaouais
  • Claudia Fournier

    PhD and Master in Community Health, bachelor in Psychology
  • Kévin Lavoie

    Assistant professor in Université Laval’s school of social work and criminology and is the scientific director of the Centre de recherche Jeunes, familles et réponses sociales
  • Emma Bouffard

    Doctoral student in psychology at the Université du Québec en Outaouais
  • Anna Aslett

    Master’s student in sociology at Université Laval

Project

  • ACCESS to reproduction for LBP women and QTNB people

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