- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- preconception articles
- preconception q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Difficult Decisions
Adoption After Infertility
By Laura Lyster-Mensh
"Men, as a rule, seem more willing to pursue adoption as a means to complete family building compared to women," says Dr. Randy S. Morris, a reproductive endocrinologist in Illinois. "This is true whether or not the infertility seems related to male or female causes."
Rebecca Yates* of Rixeyville, Va., who has chosen to be child-free after seven years of trying, says the basic difference between husband and wife is how their infertility "is spelled out in blood every month."
One couple found the adoption decision brought them closer. "We have never really been on the same page for the infertility road, and to finally be on the same page for the adoption roller coaster is so wonderful," says Illinois resident Jean Evans*, who is completing her adoption paperwork.
Parents who have concluded the adoption process consistently cite the support of others as crucial to their mental health during the process of infertility and choosing adoption. "Join a support group like RESOLVE ASAP!" Eisman says. "Don't try to go through the adoption process alone. You can learn so much from others ... and soon you will be able to help others who are a few steps behind you, which will help you feel even better about the adoption process."
Grief is a part of the process of infertility that experts and infertile couples feel is often unacknowledged. Two elements of loss must be addressed: the experience of pregnancy and the biological connection to one's children.
"It is hard to start the grieving process when you are in the middle of treatment," Clapp says.
Want to see more?
Comments
There are no comments for this article yet.Be the first to 
|
Post As:
|
||
| Enter your comment below: | ||
| Title | ||
| Comment Text | ||
| CAPTCHA | ||
| Please note that any comments submitted become the property of Disney Family / iParenting and can be edited and posted at our discrection. | ||