There are various ways to start a family…each beautiful and precious. As LGBTQ couples and people wanting to become parents begin to explore their options, it is clear that there are different ways to reach that cherished goal. Seattle Reproductive Medicine delves into alternative paths to parenthood.
Choosing to have a baby is a life-changing decision. As a gay couple, the process can be more complex as there are quite a few avenues to consider. Sperm donation is one option to explore if a woman would like to carry the baby while using her own eggs, and egg donation is also an alternative option if there is a fertility issue for the couple. Recipients are able to review donor profiles and select the best fit for them and from there the clinical process begins. The donor recipient will be able to carry and deliver her baby.
Surrogacy is also a growing option for many couples and singles. The process for gay surrogacy is very similar to any other surrogacy process. We see celebs and more and more people choosing this route. Surrogacy is a popular choice for gay men who want to be biologically connected to their children, as well as for lesbian couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy on their own. But it’s important to know that there is more than one type of surrogacy: Gestational Carrier and Surrogate. A gestational carrier is like the “oven” to your “bun.” They simply (well, not simply) carry the baby that is conceived of the sperm and egg of two other individuals. The embryo is fertilized and transferred via IVF, into the gestational carrier. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is inseminated with the sperm of the intended father or sperm donor. The surrogate’s own eggs are used and she carries the baby to term, technically making her the biological mother. These options are really great for all couples and singles, gay or straight.
During the course of exploration into the paths to parenthood, intended parents may start to consider the gift of adoption. To many, a bright light on this journey is the decision to adopt a baby. To create a family through adoption is a beautiful choice as the dream of family is realized for all involved. More and more US states have become LGBTQ-friendly in terms of adoption laws as this option has grown.
Many same-sex couples are eager to expand their families. To recognize all of the alternative paths leading to that treasured goal is truly encouraging. Deciding on the best and most successful path for you can be daunting, but the doctors at Seattle Reproductive Medicine in Washington State are here to walk you through the best choice for your future family.
