Men Having Babies Conference supports gay dads on path to parenthood

For many LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, the path to parenthood can feel both exciting and overwhelming. At this year’s Men Having Babies New York Conference, hope and support filled the halls of the Westin New York at Times Square, as more than 300 intended fathers gathered for a weekend of education, connection, and inspiration.

With a mission to make family building possible for everyone, Illume’s expert team provided prospective dads-to-be with free onsite consultations, exclusive treatment discounts, and in-depth resources to help guide their journeys. For many attendees, this wasn’t just about medical expertise – it was about finding a safe space where their dreams of fatherhood were honored and supported.

“Conferences like this remind us that family comes in many forms,” said Dr. Mark Leondires, founder and medical director of Illume Fertility, who spoke on the Medical Aspects of Surrogacy Panel. “Our role is to make sure every intended father feels empowered with knowledge and supported with compassionate care as they take meaningful steps toward building their families.”

Together with Dr. Laura Meyer, reproductive endocrinologist at Illume Fertility, the team answered questions, demystified treatment options, and offered clarity on the surrogacy process – tailored specifically for male couples and single dads-to-be.

The event, hosted annually by the nonprofit Men Having Babies (MHB), remains one of the largest surrogacy-focused conferences in the country. Its mission is to provide unbiased, practical guidance – from medical and legal insights to financial planning tools and agency introductions. With more than 40 LGBTQ+-inclusive agencies, clinics, and law firms on site, the weekend created a powerful network of resources for families in the making.

Beyond the panels and consultations, Illume Fertility’s presence underscored their commitment to walking alongside LGBTQ+ parents – not just as medical providers, but as advocates for inclusive family building.

For intended fathers attending, the weekend offered something more than information: it offered reassurance that they aren’t navigating this journey alone. With compassion, expertise, and dedication, Illume Fertility continues to stand with LGBTQ+ individuals and couples on their path to parenthood, helping dreams of family become a reality.