Choosing Adoption After Infertility

June Is Infertility Awareness Month

Every June, we recognize Infertility Awareness Month, a time to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals and couples struggling to conceive. For those on a path to parenthood, encountering hurdles along the way can be isolating and emotionally taxing. It is important during this month and beyond to acknowledge the strength and resilience of those dealing with infertility.

Infertility is a surprisingly common experience, affecting millions of people worldwide. This awareness month is a chance to break down the stigma and offer support. Couples struggling with infertility can also use this month as a time to consider the many pathways to parenthood, like IVF and adoption, and consider if these alternative options may be the best choice.

The Importance of Fully Grieving Infertility

Before embarking on your adoption journey, it is essential that you acknowledge and address the emotional complexities surrounding infertility. Infertility can be a devastating diagnosis, leading to a complex grieving process. Individuals and couples facing infertility experience a range of emotions, often cycling through them in a non-linear fashion.

The stages of grief refer to the following:

• Shock and denial. The initial reaction may be disbelief or a refusal to accept the reality of the situation.
• Anger. Frustration and resentment can arise, directed at oneself, one's partner, or the medical community.
• Bargaining. A desire to negotiate for a different outcome may lead to promises or deals in exchange for fertility.
• Sadness and depression. Feelings of loss, isolation, and despair are common during this stage.
• Acceptance. Gradually, a sense of peace and understanding of the situation develops, allowing individuals to explore alternative paths to build a fulfilling life.

It's important to remember that grief is a personal journey, and there's no right or wrong way to experience it. Seeking professional support can be invaluable in navigating these challenging emotions.

By working through this grief, you can ensure that your desire for parenthood stems from a genuine love for children, not simply a need to fill the void left by infertility. This introspection helps clarify your motivations and allows you to approach adoption with an open and whole heart.

Fully processing your grief also ensures you're prepared to offer your adopted child the unconditional love and support they deserve. Remember, adoption is about building a family, and taking the time to heal from infertility strengthens your foundation for this journey.

Are You Ready to Move from Infertility to Adoption?

Deciding to adopt after experiencing infertility is a momentous step. While it signifies a hopeful new chapter, it's important to acknowledge the emotional journey that precedes it. Carefully considering all aspects of adoption is essential for a successful and fulfilling experience.

In addition to making sure you have fully grieved and accepted your infertility, some other key considerations include the following:

• Your motivation for adoption. Ensure your motivation for adoption stems from a genuine desire to build a family, not solely from a need to fill a void left by infertility. Adoption is about creating a loving, permanent home for a child, and your intentions should reflect that.
• Whether your partner is on the same page. It's crucial to ensure both partners are emotionally prepared and share a common vision for their future family. Discussing hopes, fears, and expectations around adoption fosters a strong foundation for navigating the adoption process together. As we mentioned, grieving the loss of a biological child is a normal part of the infertility journey, and ensuring both partners have had adequate time to process their emotions can contribute to a successful transition toward adoption.
• Openness to age and need. Determine the age range and any special needs you are comfortable welcoming into your family. Be realistic about your capacity and resources to provide the best possible environment for a child.
• The type of adoption to move forward with. Research the different types of adoption available, such as domestic infant adoption, international adoption, or foster care adoption. Each path has its own process, timeline, and considerations.
• Current financial stability. Adoption can be a significant financial undertaking. Be honest about your financial resources and take time to understand the costs associated with pursuing adoption.
• Support system. Building a strong support network of friends, family, and other adoptive families is crucial. They can offer emotional support, practical guidance, and a sense of community throughout the process.
• Openness and communication skills. Be prepared to have open and honest conversations with your adopted child about their adoption story. This is an ongoing process that fosters trust and strengthens your family bond.

By carefully considering these factors and seeking professional guidance if needed, you can approach adoption with a clear mind and open heart, creating a loving and secure environment for your future child.

Experienced Adoption Lawyers

If you are considering adoption after infertility, it is also important that you connect with an adoption attorney. At Taybron Law Firm, LLC, we have over three decades of collective experience helping families navigate family law matters.

Our team can help with a range of adoption cases, including but not limited to:

• Domestic infant adoptions
• Foster to adopt
• Agency adoptions
• Surrogacy contracts
• Pre-birth orders
• Sperm donor agreements

Contact us online or via phone at (412) 231-9786.