Obtaining semen for reproduction is a key issue in the project design of lesbian motherhood. The process of choosing the genetic material involves considerations of cultural ideals, kinship and normative principles regarding fertility services. The manuscript is based on study of lesbians seeking parenthood through the use of reproductive technologies (RT) and acquisition of semen in banks in Brazil and abroad. The qualitative study made use of semi-structured interviews with health professionals working in RT (10) and lesbians (10 couples) undergoing treatment with RT in São Paulo/SP, Brazil, in 2010/2012. There is a desire to maximize connections by establishing a link with the phenotypic characteristics of membership in the family and the couple, in an arrangement that provides a perception of "natural" connection with the use of biology as an important symbol of sharing the bond created. Due to an alleged lack of available semen samples compatible with the demands made by lesbian couples there has been an increase in the importation of semen from the United States for the procedures leading to a number of new issues in terms of parenthood, choice and design of a family.
reproductive technology; lesbian motherhood; semen banks