Key points Bonding occurs in both genetic and non-genetic parent-child relationships. Early responsiveness builds trust, a core element of strong bonds. “Good enough parenting” fosters emotional security, even without perfection. Rehearse your narrative and create a Lifebook to support your child’s understanding. Source: Anna Tolipova/Freepik Navigating parent-child connections beyond genetics. Many people worry about pursuing…

Key points Genetic loss is real, but it doesn’t always feel like grief. There’s no “right way” to feel about using donor conception. Parents bond deeply, even after initial hesitation or loss. Source: prostooleh/Freepik The truth behind genetic loss, connection, and the many paths to bonding I purposely did not title this post “Genetic Grief” because…

Key points Medical decisions in surrogacy are rarely black-and-white-clarity requires planning, not guessing. Contracts can’t predict every scenario-flexibility and open dialogue are essential. Use a two-part framework: Surrogate’s health vs. decisions that impact the future child. Talk through these two categories before you begin treatment. Source: jonathanborba/unsplash.com Thoughtful planning in surrogacy helps protect everyone involved.…

Key points Grief over losing your genetics is personal and normal. You can grieve over the loss of using your genetics and love your child. It can take time to adjust to the idea of using donor conception to have a child. You will be your child’s parent, and will love your child. Source: diller/freepik…

Image by prostooleh on Freepik Navigating Donor-Related Sibling Connections Overview: Donor sibling relationships are as unique as the individuals who share them. While many don’t search for their donor until a child is 18, they may connect with genetic siblings earlier. Culture, temperament, and other factors determine whether or not people will search for genetic…

Image by senivpetro on Freepik Crafting Your Child’s Donor Conception Story Key Points: Creating a personal story for your donor-conceived child will be a gift for your child and for you. Using a framework helps you remain mindful of issues that may be important to your child over time. Developing a story that is unique…

Embarking on the surrogacy journey is an extraordinary and significant decision. It involves a complex, emotionally charged, and often lengthy process. As an intended parent, you may feel the urge to expedite the process, but it is crucial to approach surrogacy thoughtfully and deliberately. Here are some insights that will hopefully help you navigate this…

https://familybuilding.net/videos/lisa-schuman-discusses-infertility-and-stress-management/Source: image by Freepik Key points Stress caused by fertility treatment can create obstacles in the process of family building. It is difficult to digest information and make clear decisions when you are stressed. Stress can affect your health, relationships and is one of the main reasons people drop out of treatment. It is important…

We now have so much information about infertility, from what healthy sperm looks like to understanding how to begin identifying problems like PCOS and endometriosis. The internet makes this information readily accessible. However, it is difficult to find information about the emotional journey of infertility. I am not talking about the pain caused by the…