If there is one thing that binds parents together, it’s the fact that lives change after the birth of a child. Having a child is emotional, joyful, and challenging for any family. For LGBTQIA+ couples, the journey involved with having a child has its challenges. While many of the preparations align with any other couple getting ready for parenthood, there are certain unique steps to take. There are also far more options available than in past generations. Assisted reproductive technology has expanded the possibilities for a child beyond adoption. To help guide you in this process, we’re sharing some tips for LGBTQIA+ couples to consider on the road to building a family.
Have a Good Support System in Place
No matter if you’re well on your way to starting a family or if you’re struggling to get started, having a solid support system is essential for all parents. With the wide range of emotions inherent in this life change, it’s helpful to have people you trust to be able to talk through your thoughts and feelings. For same-sex couples, taking some time to establish connections with other LBGTQIA+ parents may help provide guidance while navigating the process of building a family.
Know Your Options
One of the most important tips for LGBTQIA+ couples is to research and fully understand the options you have for starting a family. In one of our previously published blogs, we list out some of the various fertility options available for same-sex parents. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and In vitro fertilization are both options for either lesbian couples or couples in which both people are assigned female at birth. For male couples or couples in which both people are assigned male at birth, In vitro fertilization with gestational surrogacy and egg donation is available to help couples build a family. Additional, nonbiological parenthood options, such as adoption and foster parenting, can also be considered. Knowing your options and considering all of the factors at play, including financial, legal, and emotional aspects, can help guide you in your journey to becoming parents.
Do Your Research
Surrogacy, adoption, and fostering all require time, consideration, and research. While the legality of LGBTQIA+ parenthood has come a long way and continues to evolve, it’s important to look into the federal and state laws to ensure you don’t run into any unforeseen challenges. International adoption requires additional time researching the laws of your child’s birth country. Whichever route you choose, we suggest getting a lawyer who specializes in LGBTQIA+ las in your state.
Plan, Plan, Plan
Having a baby is a big step, which means the more prepared you are, the less likely you are to be stressed during this journey. Taking time to consider the financial costs, your life as a parent, what matters most to you and your partner can keep you from becoming overwhelmed or discouraged.
Talk to A Fertility Expert
If you’re interested in building a family are interested in our services, reach out to Carolinas Fertility Institute today. Our staff can walk you through what you can expect at every stage, including Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) or becoming a recipient of a donor egg or embryo.
We offer a wide variety of services, from initial fertility evaluations to In Vitro fertilization. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation by calling our Charlotte office at (844) 686-2233 or our office in the Triad at (336) 448-9100.