As you I have read many articles about how such things as same sex being a barrier but from my experience that is untrue. From such things the best outcomes happen when you have a connection with the person regardless of gender. It actually shocked me when people stated same sex alchemy didn't work, obvious these people have never participated in such an event or it just didn't work for them with that certain purpose. But since I have seen results I would say it doesn't matter what sex.