DIY Fertility: Exploring Surrogacy and Adoption
Fertility issues can be a heartbreaking and challenging journey for individuals and couples who are trying to start a family. For some, the options of surrogacy and adoption may be discussed as possible avenues to parenthood. While these options were once only available through expensive agencies and legal processes, the rise of DIY fertility has allowed individuals and couples to explore these options in a more accessible and affordable way. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the DIY fertility process of surrogacy and adoption, discussing the steps, challenges, and benefits of each.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy is the process of using a third-party carrier, also known as a surrogate, to carry a pregnancy for intended parents. This can be an option for individuals or couples who are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical reasons, or for same-sex male couples. In the past, surrogacy was only available through expensive agencies, but with the rise of DIY fertility, there are now alternative options available.
The first step in the DIY surrogacy process is finding a surrogate. This can be done through personal connections, online forums, or surrogacy matching websites. It is important to thoroughly vet potential surrogates and ensure that they meet the necessary physical and mental health requirements. Once a suitable surrogate has been found, legal contracts must be drawn up to outline the expectations and responsibilities of both parties.
After the legal process is complete, the next step is the medical process. This involves the intended mother (or egg donor) going through an IVF cycle to retrieve eggs, which are then fertilized with the intended father’s sperm. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. The surrogate will then carry the pregnancy to term and give birth to the child. It is important to note that the intended parents are responsible for all medical costs and care for the surrogate during the pregnancy.
One of the biggest challenges of DIY surrogacy is the lack of oversight and support. Without an agency, intended parents are responsible for managing all aspects of the surrogacy process, from finding a surrogate to handling any legal or medical issues that may arise. This can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging for all parties involved.
However, there are also many benefits to DIY surrogacy. The cost is significantly lower compared to going through an agency, which can charge upwards of $100,000. This makes surrogacy more accessible to individuals and couples who may not have the financial means to go through a traditional agency. Additionally, DIY surrogacy allows intended parents to have more control over the process and build a closer relationship with their surrogate.
DIY Fertility: Exploring Surrogacy and Adoption
Adoption
Adoption is another option for individuals and couples looking to start a family. It involves legally and permanently taking on the responsibility of raising a child who is not biologically related. Like surrogacy, adoption was once only available through expensive agencies, but the rise of DIY fertility has made it a more accessible option.
The first step in the DIY adoption process is to research and understand the different types of adoption available. This can include domestic adoption, international adoption, foster care adoption, and open adoption. Each type has its own unique requirements and processes, so it is important to thoroughly research and understand the options before making a decision.
Once a type of adoption has been chosen, the next step is to complete a home study. This involves a social worker visiting the home of the prospective adoptive parents to assess their suitability to adopt. The home study includes background checks, interviews, and home visits. It is important to note that the home study is a requirement for all types of adoption.
After the home study is complete, the next step is to match with a birth mother or child. This can be done through personal connections, online forums, or adoption matching websites. It is important to work with a reputable adoption attorney to ensure all legal requirements are met and to protect the rights of both the adoptive parents and the birth parents.
DIY adoption can be a lengthy and emotionally challenging process, as there are many legal and emotional considerations involved. However, it also has many benefits, including lower costs compared to traditional agencies and the ability to have more control over the process.
Summary:
DIY fertility has made surrogacy and adoption more accessible and affordable for individuals and couples looking to start a family. Surrogacy involves finding a suitable surrogate, legal contracts, and medical procedures, while adoption requires understanding the different types of adoption, completing a home study, and matching with a birth mother or child. While there are challenges and considerations with both options, DIY fertility allows for more control and lower costs compared to traditional agencies.