Skip to content
We want to highlight the variety of family models and the options available to same-sex couples, especially lesbian mums. Parenthood within same-sex couples is a topic that has gained increasing visibility and acceptance in today’s society due to the changes in the traditional family model.
Different Family Structures
The traditional family model refers to a structure composed of a father, a mother, and their children living under the same roof. This has long been considered the “normal” or ideal family structure in many cultures and societies. However, today we see a wider range of family compositions such as single-parent families, blended families, and same-sex parent families.
Although prejudice and discrimination against same-sex families still exist, it’s important to recognise that these couples are equally capable of raising children in a loving, respectful, and supportive environment. Society must acknowledge and respect the diversity of families and uphold the right of all individuals—regardless of sexual orientation—to build a family and raise children.
Parenthood within same-sex couples may come with challenges and criticism, but it can also be an incredibly enriching and fulfilling experience for both parents and children.
Same-Sex Couples Who Want to Start a Family
Same-sex couples can turn to several methods to have children, including adoption and artificial insemination. Regardless of the method chosen, the most important factor is that the parents are committed to providing a safe, loving, and nurturing environment for their child’s development.
However, there are biological differences to consider. For example, two men wishing to become parents can only pursue adoption or foster care in Spain, since surrogacy is legally prohibited.
Despite this, there are cases in which gay male couples travel to countries where surrogacy is legal, such as the United States, Ukraine, or Russia, in order to have a child. Upon returning to Spain, they can register the baby as their biological child, although not as a child born through surrogacy.
Lesbian Mums: What Are Their Options?
For lesbian mums wishing to start a family, this is completely legal and increasingly common. Women in same-sex relationships can fulfil their dream of motherhood through a variety of ways such as adoption, foster care, artificial insemination, or the ROPA method (Shared Motherhood), taking advantage of the latest advances in assisted reproduction.
Artificial insemination is a procedure in which donor sperm is introduced into the woman’s reproductive system to achieve pregnancy. Meanwhile, the ROPA method (Reception of Oocytes from the Partner) allows both women to take part in the process. One provides the eggs to be fertilised with donor sperm, and the other carries the pregnancy.
The ROPA method allows both women to participate equally in the conception and gestation process, offering a shared experience of motherhood. It’s a safe and effective option for lesbian couples looking to create a family together.
What Spanish Law Says
Spanish legislation recognises the right of same-sex couples to form a family and access the same rights and benefits as heterosexual couples in terms of adoption, custody, and parentage.
Lesbian mums in Spain can register their children under both names, share parental authority, and provide a loving and respectful upbringing. Additionally, there are associations and support networks for same-sex families that offer legal, social, and emotional guidance.
Request your first appointment
Book your appointment and get your first diagnosis. We’d love to hear your story.
