A loving family can take many shapes. Thanks to advances in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), more people are building their families on their own terms. Becoming a parent no longer depends on having a partner. For many, single parenthood by choice has become an empowering path to starting a family.
With the right support and medical care, your dream can become a reality. In this article, we explore becoming a single parent by choice and the various options available for individuals who aspire to become parents.
What Does It Mean to Be a Single Parent by Choice?
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) can offer individuals the opportunity to have biological children. The most common process is similar to traditional IVF or IUI, with the only difference being that either the egg or sperm is provided by a donor, and, in some cases, a gestational surrogate to carry the pregnancy.
However, there are several options available depending on your medical and personal situation, and what makes the most sense for you.
Like any fertility journey, this process requires careful planning and consideration. However, our team at TRIO is here to guide you through the process and support you every step of the way.
So, if you’re ready to start exploring becoming a parent, what are your options exactly?
Family Building Options With Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)
Individuals have several options for parenthood through ART. Depending on the assigned biological sex of the aspiring parent, the most common approaches involve the following:
- For aspiring parents assigned female at birth: In vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) are two common pathways to parenthood. With IUI, donor sperm is inserted directly into the uterus. With IVF, eggs are extracted and combined with donor sperm to create an embryo. Viable embryos are implanted into the uterus of the aspiring parent (or, in some cases, a gestational surrogate) to achieve pregnancy.
- For aspiring parents assigned male at birth: Sperm provided by the aspiring parent is combined with donor eggs to create an embryo. This embryo is then implanted into the uterus of a gestational surrogate to achieve pregnancy. If
- Aspiring parents who cannot or choose not to use their biological gametes (sperm or egg): Embryo donation can be a good option for aspiring parents who, for medical or personal reasons, require both sperm and egg donation. In this case, while the child won’t share your genetics, many aspiring parents find the journey and bond just as rewarding. Aspiring parents with a uterus may opt to carry the pregnancy; otherwise, the embryo is usually implanted into the uterus of a gestational carrier. A process similar to IVF is used in this case, with the only difference being that the embryos are already created and ready for implantation.
At TRIO, we know there’s a lot of noise and misconceptions about fertility. We believe in empowering our patients by providing transparent and accurate information to make the best choices for their family.
Other Pathways to Parenthood
Adoption remains a popular choice for many single parents. Yet, it’s worth noting that domestic versus international adoption offers different timelines and requirements. Thorough research beforehand is important to manage your expectations.
At the same time, foster-to-adopt programs provide another meaningful path to parenthood. There’s also an alternative option to foster children in need.
Things to Consider Before Starting ART
Before exploring the path of single parenthood, you’ll want to consider:
- Your financial situation and budget
- Insurance coverage and financing options
- Your support system
- Emotional preparation (such as counselling)
- Your timeline and existing commitments
Single Parent IVF Support Groups
Becoming a parent can be rewarding, joyful, and bring fulfillment and meaning to life. However, no matter the structure of the family, the entire journey comes with challenges. Any aspiring parent needs to prepare and have realistic expectations for the emotional and physical hurdles that come with fertility treatment, pregnancy and delivery, and beyond. TRIO offers several pathways for support throughout every stage of the journey, including support groups and Fertility counselling, available to all of our patients.
Getting Started: Finding the Right Fertility Clinic
Choosing the right fertility clinic involves careful consideration. You want to ensure you’ll be in the care of an experienced and caring team. At TRIO, we’re here to support your goals and your journey toward parenthood. When you’re ready, speak to one of our TRIO Care Navigators. We can help pave your way toward the family of your dreams.
