Let’s take a clear look at how gender selection IVF works. You may find it is simpler than you expect!
When you understand each stage, the process feels less daunting and more achievable. At Gender Selection Australia, we focus on keeping the journey clear and calm. Our team is with you at every step, from preparation through to recovery, so you feel supported and confident.
Preparing for egg collection
Before your first trip to Los Angeles, our team helps you complete the essential groundwork here in Australia. This includes our guidance on how to complete your fertility testing and a full explanation of all the steps within Australia and in the US, your consultation with Dr Potter to review your results and treatment plan, and creating your treatment plan.
You will receive your IVF schedule, along with your medication and monitoring orders. These will be passed onto your recommended specialist in Australia to write your scripts and referrals on Australian paperwork. You will complete most of your IVF cycle management in Australia prior to travelling to Los Angeles for your egg collection procedure. You will begin a course of fertility medications to stimulate your ovaries so multiple eggs mature collectively within their ovarian follicles.
We provide ongoing support logistically with your choice of doctors, clinics for testing, pharmacies for IVF medications and travel information on recommended accommodation nearby to Dr Potter’s Clinic at Newport Beach, Los Angeles.
Medication management and monitoring
Before egg collection, you will begin a cycle of fertility medication to stimulate your ovaries. This helps more than one egg mature, giving the best chance of creating healthy embryos. Our team explains how to take the medication, when to attend monitoring appointments, and what side effects to expect. You will also have Dr Potter’s Clinical Coordinator on hand to help you with how to manage any side-effects, your medications and make lifestyle adjustments. We will keep in touch with you throughout this process to ensure you are on track with your plans. By keeping in close contact with us, you can feel reassured that everything is progressing as it should.
Planning your two trips to Los Angeles
The GSA process involves two separate trips. The first is for egg collection and fertilisation. The second is for embryo transfer. We help you plan both visits so that travel, accommodation, and clinic scheduling feel straightforward. Families often ask if they should bring their children, and we can talk through the pros and cons of travelling together. Our goal is to reduce stress so that your focus stays on the experience and the outcome, not the logistics.
The egg collection procedure
Egg collection takes place during your first trip to Los Angeles. You will only be at the surgery centre for 2.5 hours on the day of egg collection, which is done under twilight anaesthesia so you will not feel or remember anything. The fertility specialist uses a fine needle to collect the eggs, guided by ultrasound.
Most people can return to normal activities the next day, although we recommend keeping the schedule light to allow your body time to recover. Some mild cramping or spotting is normal. Dr Potter’s team is available throughout the process to answer questions and provide reassurance.
Fertilisation and embryo development
After collection, the eggs are fertilised in the laboratory with sperm. This is the stage where IVF for same sex parents can look different, depending on whether one or both partners wish to be involved in the process.
Over the next five to six days, embryos grow in carefully monitored conditions. Pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) is then used to determine the health and gender of each embryo. This process is particular important as we can tell which of your embryos are genetically viable. For families curious about how to have a baby girl, this is the step that makes gender selection possible.
The embryo transfer
On your second trip to Los Angeles, the embryo transfer takes place. This is a simple procedure that feels much like a pap smear. A thin catheter is used to place the chosen embryo into the uterus. No sedation is needed, and the process is usually pain-free.
Dr Potter prefers his patients to take 48 hours of modified bed rest following embryo transfer to give implantation the best chance. Flying home is possible soon after, and our team provides detailed aftercare instructions to support your journey.
Recovery and next steps
Following the transfer, your body begins the process of supporting implantation. We recommend light exercise, plenty of rest, and ongoing communication with our team. A pregnancy test is scheduled for around two weeks after the transfer, which can feel like a long wait.
During this time, many families find it helpful to focus on gentle routines, good nutrition, and activities that reduce stress. Whether the result is positive or you are preparing for another cycle, we remain by your side with care, guidance, and resources for whatever comes next.
Our tips for the two-week wait are simple. Keeping routines consistent helps maintain a sense of normality, while calming activities such as light walks, meditation, or reading can ease stress. Try to limit constant online searching, which often fuels worry rather than reassurance. Many families find comfort in using a journal or notes app to record feelings and small wins during this stage. Above all, reaching out to supportive friends, family, or our team can provide the encouragement you need while you wait.
Egg collection and embryo transfer may feel like big milestones, but with the right preparation and support they can be smooth and positive experiences. At Gender Selection Australia, our role is to make every step clear, calm, and tailored to your family’s needs. Whether you are exploring IVF for same sex parents, planning for family balance, or simply wondering how to have a baby girl, our team will guide you with compassion and expertise.