Have you ever heard of embryo adoption? If it sounds a bit sci-fi to you, you’re not alone—but it’s actually been around for decades! Today, we’re diving into some of the common questions families have about this unique adoption option. Whether you’re considering embryo adoption for yourself or just curious, we’re here to break it all down for you.
Wait, Embryo Adoption is a Thing?
Yes! While it may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, cryo-freezing (the process that makes embryo adoption possible) has been around since the 1950s. It’s not new, but it’s not as well-known as traditional adoption methods. Embryo adoption can be a great option for families struggling with infertility who still want to experience pregnancy and have some control over the prenatal process.
Adoption or Donation? Why Not Both?
One of the most common questions we get is, “Why is it sometimes called embryo donation and other times embryo adoption?” It’s all about perspective! For the family donating the embryos, it’s called embryo donation. For the family receiving them, it’s referred to as embryo adoption. Here in Kansas City, many adoption attorneys even recommend going through a formal adoption process after the baby is born to tie up any potential legal loose ends. That’s why you might hear both terms tossed around.
Who’s This For?
Embryo adoption is perfect for:
- People struggling with infertility but hoping to experience pregnancy
- Those who can carry a baby but need a little help in the embryo department
- Anyone who wants to adopt AND be pregnant
If you’re longing to experience pregnancy but facing infertility, embryo adoption could be a great fit. If there’s no medical reason preventing you from carrying a pregnancy to term, embryo adoption offers a chance to experience pregnancy and birth while still building your family through adoption!
The Awkward Questions You Might Get
Be prepared for some side-eye and questions like, “Why not just adopt a kid who needs a home?” Here’s the scoop: There are thousands of frozen embryos out there, and they deserve a shot at life, too. Every child, no matter how they come into this world, deserves love and a family.
Here’s a breakdown of how the embryo adoption process typically unfolds:
- Application and home study: Similar to traditional adoption, you’ll need to complete an application and undergo a home study process.
- Matching: Much like a regular domestic infant adoption, a genetic family will choose your family to donate their embryos to based on their various criteria and preferences.
- Legal agreements: Both parties sign legal contracts transferring the rights to the embryos. This step is absolutely necessary for protecting everyone involved.
- Medical screening: The adoptive mother undergoes medical evaluations to ensure she can carry a pregnancy safely.
- Embryo transfer: The adopted embryos are thawed and transferred to the adoptive mother’s uterus. This is a significant milestone in the journey.
- Pregnancy and birth: If the transfer is successful, the adoptive mother carries the pregnancy to term and gives birth.
- Post-birth legal process: We highly recommend that families go through a formal adoption process after the birth to secure legal parentage.
Finding Your Perfect Match
Here’s the thing: There’s no one-size-fits-all in adoption. In fact, there are SIX different ways to build your family through adoption. Embryo adoption is just one of them. Curious about the other ways?
The Bottom Line
Choosing how to build your family is a personal decision. Embryo adoption might be your perfect fit, or it might not. The important thing is to follow your heart and medical and legal guidance and then do what feels right for you.
Remember, this is a big decision. It’s totally normal to have questions, doubts, and moments of “What am I doing?!” That’s why it’s so, so, so important to do your homework. Talk to doctors and lawyers, and if you can, chat with families who’ve been through this rodeo before.
If you’re flirting with the idea of adoption, you’re in the right place to get all the support and info you need. We’ve got your back, no matter which path you choose.
So, what do you think? Ready to explore this wild and wonderful world of embryo adoption? Remember, building a family is all about love, no matter how you slice it. So go forth, be brave, and create the family of your dreams. You’ve got this!
This blog post is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Our services are not financial, business, or legal advice. The information presented here is not a guarantee that you will obtain any results or earn any money using our content. Adoption & Beyond, Inc. owns all copyrights to the materials presented here unless otherwise noted.