Predictors for desire, intention, and likelihood for more children among LGB parents through assisted reproduction

Abstract

Background: The global increase in families headed by lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) parents via assisted reproduction was accompanied by increased research on the parenthood aspirations of childfree LGB individuals. However, limited attention has been given to the aspirations of LGB parents for more children. This study explored the multifaceted factors associating with aspirations for additional children among Israeli LGB parents through assisted reproduction, investigating the contribution of sociodemographic variables, parental experiences, as well as social and cultural factors to these aspirations. Methods: A survey involving 234 cisgender LGB parents in Israel (aged 24–55; M = 40.23, SD = 6.59) was conducted from November 2022 to February 2024. Participants completed questionnaires assessing their desire, intention, and estimated likelihood to have more children alongside various sociodemographic, parental experience, social, and cultural variables. Results: Hierarchical regressions revealed that sociodemographic variables, namely younger parent age, fewer current children, higher importance of religious values, and better economic status, were associated with stronger aspirations for additional children. Social (discrimination, enacted stigma, social support) and cultural (pronatalism) factors did not significantly contribute beyond sociodemographic factors. Conclusion: Unlike research on parenthood aspirations among childfree LGB individuals, social and cultural factors played a less significant role in shaping aspirations for more children among LGB individuals who are already parents. The findings offer essential insights for reproductive and family researchers, as well as policymakers, by shedding light on the factors associated with LGB parents’ aspiration for additional children through assisted reproduction.