In a recent CNN report, a family from Iowa shared their journey to expand their family through embryo adoption. After learning about the option, they decided to pursue it and found it to be an ideal choice. Aware that not every embryo leads to a successful pregnancy, the couple chose to implant two embryos. They are now thrilled to be expecting triplets.
Understanding Embryo Adoption
Embryo adoption comes into play when individuals who have undergone IVF or used donor eggs have leftover embryos. They face a choice: preserve these embryos for potential future use, discard them, or donate them to others.
However, it’s important to note that embryo adoption isn’t the same as conventional adoption. In most jurisdictions, adoption laws pertain solely to children post-birth. Legal agreements can help delineate the relationship between the genetic parents and the child, as highlighted by Dr. Emily Johnson at a nearby fertility clinic. The nuances of family law can leave intended parents vulnerable if genetic parents change their minds later.
Policies on Embryo Adoption
At various fertility centers, including the one discussed in the report, patients with surplus embryos can opt to donate them if they no longer wish to keep them. However, those centers typically do not facilitate the use of adopted embryos in their labs. This is due to both potential legal complications and the necessity for thorough screenings that genetic parents might not have undergone when the embryos were created.
For those interested in embryo adoption, resources like the National Embryo Donation Center and Night Light’s Snowflakes® Program can provide more information. Additionally, if you want to explore fertility treatment options, there are plenty of avenues available, including various fertility supplements that can help boost your chances of conception. For helpful tips on home insemination, you can visit this blog post on baby deals still available after Prime Day.
For anyone seeking further guidance on pregnancy, Women’s Health offers an excellent resource.
In summary, embryo adoption represents a unique path for those looking to grow their families, but it comes with specific legal and procedural considerations that prospective parents should be aware of.