Unconventional conceptions

This is the first study to explore the issues and decisions that lesbian women residing in Germany face when striving to create a family by donor insemination. Information pertaining to the first phases of lesbian family formation – coming-out, lesbian relationship, and decision-making – was collected from 105 lesbian mothers. Potential advantages for children and coping strategies for possible discrimination of children were identified. In addition, the basis for mother role allocation and the choice of anonymous, identity-release or known donor was evaluated. The impact of German legislation with regards to same sex marriage and lesbian access to reproductive services on family formation is discussed.