Alternative Insemination

In 1987, CWHC started the first alternative insemination (AI) program in the Midwest for lesbians, bisexual, and queer couples, single women of any sexual orientation, and trans people. Since then, we have been assisting women and trans people in starting their families in a comfortable, respectful environment, at a more affordable price. We offer our clients sensitive health care and emotional support through this intimate process. We provide access to numerous resources to our clients to help them make their own decisions about their health care and their family.

View more information on AI’s support services.

What makes our program unique?

Our program is specifically designed for lesbians, bisexual, queer, and single women, and trans people. We provide a comfortable, supportive environment for single women and couples to start their families. Most of our clients do not have fertility problems – they simply need access to sperm and inseminations. Therefore, our program favors a low-intervention approach that respects the natural fertility cycle of each individual. We educate our clients about their fertility signs and offer ways for them to be more participatory in their health care and in the process of starting a family.

What is the fee for Alternative Insemination at CWHC?

Our monthly fees are offered on a sliding scale based on household income. Our monthly fees include two inseminations, on call support seven days a week, communication with sperm banks, and access to sperm donor profiles. There is a set fee for the initial consultations.

What types of inseminations does CWHC offer?

We provide both intrauterine and vaginal inseminations at our clinic. Our schedule respects the body’s natural fertility cycles. We offer inseminations every day and evening, including weekends and holidays. We also provide instruction and supplies to assist people in performing vaginal inseminations at home.

What sperm banks do we work with?

Our clients most frequently work with Midwest Sperm Bank, The Sperm Bank of California, Pacific Reproductive Services, and California Cryobank. We are willing to work with other sperm banks that have the necessary accreditations.

Where to start:

The first step in joining our program is to schedule an in-office consultation with one of our AI health workers. At this visit you will have an opportunity to learn more about our program and share with us where you are at in this process. We will also discuss types of inseminations, types of donors, how to chart your cycles, social and emotional issues related to AI, as well as financial and legal considerations.

To schedule a consultation, or if you have further questions, please call 773-935-6126 x223.