Interview with Dr. Thomas Mathews, UK Medical Director at Bourn Hall Clinic, Cambridge
What is the most satisfying part of your job?
I always find it very gratifying to talk to couples who have longed to have a family of their own, and to explain the options available to them today. The greatest reward comes when new parents return to show us their baby — knowing I played a part in helping them fulfil their dream of parenthood is truly special.
Couples who come to Bourn Hall Clinic often describe it as a sanctuary — a place where they can share their hopes, dreams and fears with confidence, supported by the best medical, scientific and nursing expertise available.
What options are available to women?
For women in same-sex relationships, donated sperm is required. At Bourn Hall, we have an extensive sperm bank and many years of experience in using donated sperm safely and effectively.
The two main treatments available are:
- Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) – often suitable if the woman carrying the baby is young, ovulates regularly, has healthy fallopian tubes, and no other gynaecological issues.
- In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) – usually recommended if the woman is older, has blocked tubes, or other pelvic abnormalities.
Each couple receives full counselling and guidance to decide on the most appropriate treatment.
Donors through a licensed sperm bank undergo a rigorous screening process, making this the safest option. By contrast, self-insemination at home using sperm from a friend or internet sources carries risks:
- Medical risk – the donor may not have been screened for sexually transmitted infections or genetic conditions.
- Legal risk – using a licensed clinic ensures clarity around legal parenthood. Both partners can be named on the child’s birth certificate.
Couples who wish to use a known donor can do so through the clinic, provided the donor agrees to undergo the same strict screening process.
How can you help men in a same-gender partnership?
The situation is more complex for male couples, as in addition to donor eggs, they will also need a surrogate to carry the pregnancy.
The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) requires commissioning couples in the UK to be either married or in a stable long-term relationship. The introduction of civil partnerships has made it easier for gay male couples to demonstrate this.
While Bourn Hall can help find an egg donor and advise on suitable surrogate criteria, the HFEA does not permit clinics to find surrogates on behalf of patients. Couples are therefore expected to find a surrogate themselves.
There are some surrogacy agencies in the UK, but in my experience the most satisfactory arrangements often come when couples find a surrogate within their own circle of friends or family. This way, there is greater trust that the surrogate will care for herself and the baby during pregnancy and honour the agreement at birth.
After a lifelong commitment to the fertility field, how do you feel about your work today?
Each time I meet a new couple, I am humbled by the trust they place in me — trust enough to share their deepest hopes and aspirations, in the belief that I can help them build a family.
My aim every day is simple: to be worthy of that trust.