The ROPA method: understanding the journey and preparing both your bodies, together

The ROPA method, short for “reception of oocytes from the partner”, is a form of assisted reproduction, fertility treatment for couples of women. Unlike conventional IVF, it does not necessarily address a fertility problem. Above all, it allows both partners to play an active biological role in conceiving their child[1]. The principle is straightforward, although it involves a precise medical protocol: one of you provides her eggs, which are fertilised in a laboratory using sperm from an anonymous donor. The resulting embryo is then transferred into your partner’s uterus, and she carries the pregnancy.

In practical terms, one of you becomes the genetic mother (the partner whose egg develops into the embryo) and the other becomes the gestational mother (the partner who carries and gives birth to the child). This is what sets ROPA apart from standard IVF using donated eggs. Here, the eggs come not from an anonymous donor but from one of the two partners.

This is precisely what appeals to so many couples: the opportunity for each partner to play an active biological role in bringing their child into the world. It is also often a way to experience conception as a shared journey, undertaken together from the very first steps.

Without going into the details of the medical protocol, which your care team will tailor to your situation, here are the main stages a couple undergoing ROPA will generally experience:

• Health assessments for both of you: an assessment of ovarian reserve for the partner providing the eggs, and an examination of the uterus for the partner who will carry the pregnancy.
• The selection of an anonymous sperm donor, overseen by the clinic.
• Ovarian stimulation for the partner providing the eggs, with the aim of retrieving several eggs.
• Egg retrieval, a short procedure performed under sedation.
• Fertilisation of the retrieved eggs in a laboratory using the donor’s sperm.
• Preparation of the uterine lining of the partner carrying the pregnancy to receive the embryo.
• Embryo transfer, followed by monitoring until the pregnancy test.

Every journey is different. Your doctor or midwife will work with you to determine the timing and precise details based on your medical history and test results.

It’s a question many couples ask when they first learn about ROPA, and we think it’s important to answer it clearly. The French bioethics law of 2 August 2021 opened up access to medically assisted reproduction for couples of women and unmarried women[2]. Although this was a major step forward, it did not authorise the ROPA method. In fact, quite the opposite!

For several years, the legal position remained unclear. ROPA was not explicitly prohibited by law, but neither was it permitted in practice. This ambiguity was resolved by a decision of the French Council of State on 19 June 2024, which confirmed that ROPA is not authorised in France[3]. The reason given relates to the principle of anonymous egg donation: under French law, eggs may only be retrieved for anonymous donation if they are not intended for use in assisted reproduction for the person from whom they are retrieved.

This is precisely why many couples turn to other European countries, such as Spain or Belgium, where ROPA has been legally regulated and practised for several years. This option involves specific administrative steps and travel to the country concerned.

Cost is a valid concern, and often one of the first questions couples have once they have made their decision. As a guide, ROPA treatment abroad usually costs between 5,000 and 7,500 euros per attempt in both Spain and Belgium. This generally covers ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval and embryo transfer, but costs can vary considerably between clinics.

Several factors can affect the final cost: the number of attempts needed, travel and accommodation, and any additional tests or treatments required for your situation. We therefore recommend asking clinics directly for a detailed, personalised quote to get a clearer idea of the cost.

If you’ll be providing the eggs, you may be wondering how to care for your body before the process begins. Our egg quality depends on many factors, starting with age, but also including lifestyle. Good-quality sleep, a varied diet, managing stress well and giving up smoking are all recognised ways to help create favourable conditions[4].

Micronutrition can also be part of this approach, alongside a balanced lifestyle, but never as a replacement for it.

Looking for a supplement to support you during this time? Our Ovo+ supplement combines CoQ10 and NAC, two ingredients studied for their antioxidant role, particularly in relation to egg cells. They may help support the follicular environment against oxidative stress during follicle development. It can be a valuable part of your overall nutritional preparation. You can also explore our range of fertility products !

As with any food supplement, it is recommended that you speak to your medical team before starting supplementation, particularly if you are undergoing ROPA or assisted reproduction, fertility treatment.

If you are the one who will carry your child, your preparation also begins well before the embryo transfer. Your body needs to prepare for pregnancy: the endometrium needs to provide a favourable environment, and it is worth thinking ahead about your stores of key nutrients, ideally as soon as you start planning for a child.

Methylated folate (5-mthf), choline and DHA are among the nutrients whose requirements increase significantly around conception and during pregnancy. A varied diet remains the foundation, supplemented if needed with products suited to this key period.

Our Baby Bump product brings together methylated folate (5-mthf) in its active form, choline and DHA in a simplified daily dose. Designed for the partner who will carry the baby, from preconception and throughout pregnancy, this supplement can also support the partner providing the eggs before egg retrieval, helping to support each woman’s body as they pursue this shared goal.

Beyond the medical and administrative aspects, ROPA is, above all, a journey you share as a couple. Each of you plays a different but equally involved role: one goes through ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, while the other undergoes preparation for the transfer and then carries the pregnancy. Though distinct, these experiences can forge a strong bond between you, grounded in your shared commitment to having a child together.

It is common for each of you to feel differently, and that is normal. Taking time to talk about it and put into words what each of you feels at every stage can help you go through the process feeling connected to one another, rather than facing it separately.

After the birth, some couples choose to explore co-breastfeeding, where both mothers breastfeed the child. This requires specialist support and is not suitable in every situation. Ideally, when the time comes, you can discuss it with a healthcare professional trained in breastfeeding, such as an IBCLC lactation consultant. You can also explore our breastfeeding supplements !