Adding a child to your family is not always easy; for many people, it is a struggle that requires some extra work and soul-searching decisions. Thankfully, modern science means you have options. Depending on the medical reasons behind your infertility, fertility treatments may be an option, allowing you to potentially become pregnant with medical intervention. Alternatively, adoption gives you the opportunity to offer a home and family to a child in need. Below, we discuss both options to help you make the best decision for you and your family.
Fertility Treatments vs Adoption
Fertility Treatments
Fertility treatments are often the first option to come to mind when you find yourself having trouble conceiving. It is important to remember that the term ‘fertility treatments’ in fact covers a wide range of medical procedures that can help a person conceive, from things as simple as drugs to help stimulate ovulation to full-fledged IVF.
For the purposes of this comparison, we will be looking at IVF, as it is what many fertility treatments end up progressing to. IVF is known for being expensive, but the cost can vary dramatically depending on where you live, whether your health insurance will contribute, and how many rounds of IVF are needed. The average cost range for one round of IVF treatment is $9,000 to $15,000. As unfortunate as it is, it must also be considered that fertility treatments are not always successful; your age and general health can have a large impact on your chances of conceiving with IVF.
They physical aspect of IVF should also be considered when weighing your options. For some women, the discomfort of IVF is considerable; several semi-invasive procedures are required, along with self-injecting medications and some unpleasant side effects. However, if successful, the end goal is a pregnancy, a physical experience many women covet, along with the chance to raise their own genetic child.
Adoption and Associated Costs
Another fantastic option for growing your family is adoption. Adoption can also be expensive, with an average price of $27,000 to 28,000, however, that is total, unlike the potential multiple rounds of IVF. This price reflects a domestic adoption only; overseas adoptions can be substantially more expensive.
One downside of adoption is the potential for a longer wait. Some families find a child to adopt surprisingly quickly, while others may wait years. This can be affected by a number of factors, including your location and preferences.
It is important to remember that unlike IVF, adoption involves more people than just your family. While situations will vary, the birth family must also be considered. Open and closed adoptions are available; being willing to try either may increase your chances of a faster adoption, but an open adoption means the birth family may want to be involved in some way in the child’s life. However, an adoption means you will be bringing a child into your family from a birth family who, for whatever reason, cannot or chooses not to have a child, meaning you are improving multiple lives, including your own, with your choice.
Decision Making
Deciding whether to attempt fertility treatments or adoption is an important decision. While it is also a personal one, don’t forget there are professionals who can help you weigh your options so you can make the best decision for your family. Medical professionals can help explain IVF more thoroughly while also advising you about your chances based on your personal health. Likewise, an adoption agency can guide you through the process and choices open to you for adoption.
