As recently as the mid-1980s, transgender individuals were often consigned to limited parental roles. Since the emergence of In Vitro Fertilization and Gestational Surrogacy, the pride of bringing home one’s own bundle of joy is attainable by most everyone. While modern families are based on much more than genetics, there’s a certain pleasure to be experienced in bringing up a child of your own. For those facing challenges in becoming a parent, there are now a variety of options available in navigating the road to parenthood.
Parenting Prep Before Transition
Individuals preparing for medical transition may have concerns about the process of cryopreservation (freezing of sperm or eggs). Traditionally, high doses of hormones are administered for 10 to 12 days before eggs are removed to offer the best chance of collecting several mature eggs. These high doses of hormones may be especially troublesome for individuals preparing for hormone replacement therapy.
Since the early 1990s, In Vitro Maturation (IVM) has been used to remove immature eggs after little or no ovarian stimulation. The eggs are matured in the laboratory and then may be cryopreserved for use later. Theoretically, both sperm and eggs may be frozen indefinitely, in effect easing the pressure of starting a family and slowing the ticking of biological clocks.
Creating a Family
When ready to start a family, whether with a partner or as a single parent, there are more options available today than ever before.
- Eggs and sperm from generous donors are available for individuals in need of one or the other
- In vitro fertilization using one or more embryos has become a well-developed science in the gestational process
- Gestational surrogates are available to carry the baby to term when a third party is needed
The road to parenthood can be long and complicated but very rewarding. Whether you’re gathering information in preparation of the first steps in your transition to parenthood or already on your way, the team at Neway Fertility will help you every step of the journey. They understand the risks and rewards, twists and turns that accompany the process. Contact Neway Fertility to schedule an appointment to create a plan for adding a bundle of joy to your family.
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