Conceiving A Baby | TwoMommys.com

How to Manage Infertility Costs the Right Way
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jamie_Callender]Jamie Callender

Infertility is not just emotionally taxing for a couple – it can also drain their finances to the very last drop, if not managed carefully. In attempts to get pregnant, many couples will say yes to anything a fertility specialist will tell them. Bills from diagnostic tests alone are already overwhelming, and the costs of treatments are an entirely different story. A couple can become so desperate that they end up spending their life savings on tests alone. In this article, discover how you can deal with infertility constructively, and learn how to budget well for your infertility testing and treatment costs.

Correcting Myths about Infertility Costs

Many couples are discouraged to seek consultation with an infertility specialist, because they have been led to believe misconceptions related to costs of tests and treatments for infertility.

Myth #1: Going to a specialist is more expensive than visiting a general practitioner.

Going to a general practitioner will actually be more financially draining, because he or she is not equipped with the specialized knowledge of a specialist, causing him or her to conduct more tests and treatments in a “trial and error” method, and you get to spend for all of them. A specialist will know exactly what to do without beating around the bush.

Myth #2: Reproductive specialists and endocrinologists only recommend top to the line therapies which are expensive and require high technology.

A good endocrinologist will try simpler methods first before going for more invasive and aggressive options. It also pays to communicate your needs to the specialist so you are both on the same page. If you and your partner are not ready for aggressive approaches like IVF, intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection and the like, tell your specialist about it. Other patients have become pregnant with less expensive options.

Myth #3: Insurance will not cover treatments related to infertility.

Infertility is often caused by many other underlying health conditions which insurance will cover. In addition to this, insurance often covers laparoscopic tests and other diagnostics. However, this is reliant upon the type of coverage the individual has, and which state or country they are residing. A good way to avoid spending what you are not ready to pay for is to ask for a realistic estimate prior to the start of any test of treatment. Also, it would be wise to ask the clinic or the infertility center exactly what the plan covers so you and your partner can prepare financially. Make sure you get an actual policy wherein the specific exclusions are clearly stated.

Tips When Spending for Infertility Tests and Treatments

• Ask your clinic about refund IVF programs or shared-risk schemes. Different clinics have different rules on shared-risk or refund IVF schemes, however they all work similarly: You will need to make an upfront payment for several IVF treatments, and for every unsuccessful IVF cycle, you will be refunded all or part of the money you paid in advance.

• Be extra cautious with loans. Fertility centers offer special payment plans which are usually affiliated with local banks, for easier management of finances. If you are going to use your credit card, never take out more than you can actually pay. Consider your overall budget every month, and although infertility treatments may be your priority, you will need to set aside a good amount of money for other needs as well.

• Get to know your insurance plan back to back. Do not assume right away that your plan will not cover any diagnostic tests and treatments. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, and focus on limits of coverage. Many have certain requirements, so if you would like to be covered, make sure you meet their policies. And if your insurance company denies coverage even if your policy clearly states you are eligible, by all means, you can sue.

If you or anyone you know is struggling with the costs of infertility treatments and want to learn how to finally [http://www.gettingpregnanteasily.com]resolve infertility, visit [http://www.gettingpregnanteasily.com]http://www.gettingpregnanteasily.com.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Manage-Infertility-Costs-the-Right-Way&id=4687509] How to Manage Infertility Costs the Right Way

IVF Egg Donation Process
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ana_Smith]Ana Smith

During the IVF egg donation process it is important to try and achieve a high success rate, so multiple eggs are harvested from the egg donor. The body is tricked into producing extra eggs by the use of fertility drugs which are either injected or taken as a nasal spray. These drugs override the body’s natural systems of controlling ovulation, so that multiple eggs are produced.

Eggs are contained in follicles and these are checked and analysed in order to check growth and egg development. This is done via ultrasound or in some instances using blood tests.

Follicles, eggs and fluid are removed via an ultrasound probe and needle guide which sucks them up in an egg retrieval process. This is performed when the eggs are mature. They are then placed in culture fluid ready for insemination. This process takes around twenty minutes and can be performed under local anaesthetic. Therefore it takes the egg donor another ninety minutes or so for recovery. Side effects for IVF egg donation are rare.

Sperm from either a sperm donor or the male partner of the egg donation recipient is collected on the morning of the IVF egg donation process. It is washed with a special nutrient and the strongest looking sperm is selected for adding to the test tubes or Petri-dishes holding the eggs. Occasionally it is necessary to use Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, which is where sperm is taken up into a special needle and then injected into the egg in order to fertilise it.

Eggs, sperm, follicles and fluid are left in a special growth media until the next day, when everything is then inspected for signs of fertilisation. Should fertilisation have taken place then the early embryos when they have reached the 6-8 cell stage are transferred from the Petri-dish to the recipient around forty-eight to seventy-two hours after they were removed for egg donation.

Early embryo transference involves early embryos being placed in the uterus of the egg donor recipient. This is done using a small catheter which is inserted through the cervix. To prepare the uterus for the embryos and to thicken the uterus walls, Progesterone is given. This greatly increases the chances of successful embryo implantation.

To determine if the IVF egg donation treatment resulted in a successful pregnancy, a special pregnancy test is performed this usually involves ultrasound technology and is carried out around two weeks after the IVF egg donation procedure.

This article is contributed by Ana Smith from the ConceptionDirect Publishing Team. She works together with founder Nigel and writes fertility and relationship articles. You can find more about [http://www.conceptiondirect.co.uk/ivf_treatment.asp]IVF Egg Donation and ConceptionDirect by visiting their website and [http://blog.conceptiondirect.co.uk]blog.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?IVF-Egg-Donation-Process&id=4640924] IVF Egg Donation Process

Pregnant Bleeding – 8 Common Causes & 4 Simple Ways to Prevent It!
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ty_Lamai]Ty Lamai

The progression is usually linear in nature. What that means is this; Whether or not you planned and prepared to become pregnant is irrelevant…the first thing is the discovery. Then comes the realization; this is where it dawns on you that you are a carrier of new life. And then one day when you are not watching and when you are least expecting it, you find yourself bleeding! Now you begin to frantically enquire of yourself what the various causes may be…”am I losing my baby?”; “am I dying?”; “am I injured, if so, how come I don’t feel any pain?” This article will help calm these fears by reveling 8 common causes of bleeding when pregnant and 4 ways to go about preventing or calming it.

Eight Common Causes

1. During your first trimester, engaging in sexual intercourse may result in bleeding. This is due to the fact that your cervix is now sensitive and tender. It is not an indication of an infection, neither is it something to fret over. If you need reassurance, talk to your health care giver.

2. About 20% of all pregnancies result in miscarriages during the first trimester – that is, during the first 12 weeks of your pregnancy. Bleeding during pregnancy may also be as a result of miscarriage.

3. This bleeding may also be caused by what is termed as “implantation bleeding”. Implantation bleeding occurs when the egg in embed into the wall of the uterus or womb and is a normal occurrence which doesn’t warrant your panicking.

4. Ectopic pregnancy is also another reason why you may bleed. This condition is characterized by the implantation of the egg elsewhere besides the uterus. Statistics indicate that this condition occurs in 60% of pregnancies.

5. Bleeding may also be caused by the presence of an infection in either your urinary tract or your pelvic cavity.

6. In the later part of your pregnancy, if you notice any bleeding, it could be due to placental abruption. Placental abruption occurs when the placenta becomes detached from the wall of the uterus during labor or before labor.

7. Occurring in 1 out of 200 pregnancies, placenta previa may cause bleeding and should be taking care of immediately.

8. Pre-term labor is also another condition that may be responsible for the bleeding which you are experiencing.

Four Simple Preventions

1. Keep Your Head – There is nothing as bad as worrying yourself sick during this time. The fact that you are bleeding does not mean that you are miscarrying your unborn baby. You must realize, and take solace in the realization, that statistics indicate that up to 20 – 30 percent of pregnant women experience some degree of bleeding during their first trimester and more than half of those who do don’t end up having miscarriages.

2. You should always put on a panty liner or wear a pad once you discover that you are bleeding. The aim here is to monitor the frequency and volume of your bleeding and what color it is. This allows you to give your health care giver helpful information

3. Abstain from sex during this time – that is, while bleeding. This is so that you don’t aggravate a condition that is already delicate. You should also stay away from tampons.

4. Keep your midwife, doctor, or health care giver in the loop at all times. You should ensure that they are aware of any bleeding that occurs so that you can take advantage of their knowledge and experience.

You DON’T Have To Go Through Pregnancy Feeling Miserable, Overweight, Unattractive & Confused…

I have just completed my brand new eBook about common pregnancy issues, “Demystifying Pregnancy Quirks.” Download it FREE here: [http://www.analyze-more.com/pregnancy-free-ebook.html]Free Pregnancy eBook

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Pregnant-Bleeding---8-Common-Causes-and-4-Simple-Ways-to-Prevent-It!&id=4002216] Pregnant Bleeding – 8 Common Causes & 4 Simple Ways to Prevent It!

How Do Gay Couples Fare in Parenting?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Arianna_Benson]Arianna Benson

The subject has garnered a lot of attention on both sides of the issue. Conservatives weigh in with their own sociological studies that indicate that children do not fare as well with gay couple parenting as they do with straight couple parenting.

Liberal individuals weight in with their research that indicates that children fare just as well, if not better, when raised by gay couples compared to straight couples. Those interested are encouraged to research the topic and read studies conducted on the subject to determine for themselves if there is a difference.

Some studies have indicated that lesbians make the best parents. This is according to Stephen Scott who is the director of research at the National Academy for Parenting Practitioners in London. According to the Telegraph, a British news outlet, Scott has stated that “lesbians make better parents than a man and a woman.”

Other studies involving lesbian and gay couples parenting have been summarized by the American Psychological Association (APA). In a publication written by Charlotte J. Patterson, PhD, Patterson notes, “The results of some studies suggest that lesbian mothers’ and gay fathers’ parenting skills may be superior to those of matched heterosexual couples.”

As to whether children of gay parents are more likely to identify themselves as homosexual, Patterson notes, ” the great majority of offspring of both lesbian mothers and gay fathers described themselves as heterosexual.” She goes on, “taken together, the data do not suggest elevated rates of homosexuality among the offspring of lesbian or gay parents.”

Two University of Southern California sociologists, however, indicated that children raised by lesbian or gay parents are more likely to explore homosexual relationships. They also indicate that children raised in gay or lesbian households are just as healthy emotionally as children raised in straight households.

Many psychologists and sociologists also point out that children raised in a same sex household are more prone to teasing about their parents, although some also point out that they are no more prone to bulling overall than children raised by their mother and father.

Gay and lesbian adoption is a hot issue with two sides entrenched in their beliefs. Gay and lesbian couples who are interested in adopting or in certain fertility procedures are encouraged to explore the subject in greater depth, read studies and research that has been done and talk to those informed on the subject. Speaking with gay and lesbian couples currently raising a child may be helpful as well in learning more about the challenges ahead.

Arianna writes on fertility topics and recommends you visit a fertility clinic that specializes in [http://www.bostonivf.com/gay_couple_family_building.html]gay couple parenting such as Boston IVF due to their status as being regarded as one of the best clinics in the country and New England area. Additionally, the 2010 [http://friendsforfamily.com/UpcomingEvents.html]GLBT family planning expo can help all couple achieve their dreams of becoming parents.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-Do-Gay-Couples-Fare-in-Parenting?&id=4144093] How Do Gay Couples Fare in Parenting?

Lesbian Couple Family Building
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Justin_DiMateo]Justin DiMateo

As a part of a lesbian couple you experience the same concerns as individuals in any other relationship. You wonder what the future holds, whether you’ll be able to fulfill your wish to have children and how to accomplish your goal of building a family.

At times, this may all seem quite overwhelming. But in today’s age it’s easier than ever for you and your partner to experience a pregnancy and become parents—as the opportunities for lesbian couples to start a family are unprecedented. Parenthood is a gift everyone should be able to enjoy—and if the decision has been made to become parents, you’re in for one of the greatest and most satisfying experience’s life can offer.

At the best IVF clinics they promise that each patient is comfortable and confident throughout their entire treatment experience. We take a personal approach to evaluating and enhancing each patient’s chance of becoming pregnant. From the moment you begin treatment, we tailor our evaluations and services to you through our personalized care, cutting-edge reproductive technologies and mind/body services.

Need answers to your questions? No problem. Most couples have a handful of questions when first making the decision to embark on the road to parenthood—which makes for the perfect time to schedule an initial consultation with your doctor. Finding the right doctor is a very important part of the process—as you’ll want to choose a practitioner both you and your partner are comfortable with and feel will guide you successfully through the journey to parenthood. Once this has been achieved, you can begin learning about your pregnancy options.

There are many options for lesbian couples looking to become parents and during an initial consultation you will have an opportunity to discuss each of them with your physician and other members of your personalized fertility team. There, both you and your partner will begin to develop a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan. In addition you’ll meet with an experienced Financial Coordinator (a liaison between you and your insurance company) to learn what aspects of your treatment will be covered by your insurance provider.

After your initial consultation, take some time to discuss what you both have learned. Once you have decided on the best path to take, you will then be able to move on to the next stages of the treatment process. Although you may feel a bit nervous, a fertility clinic will be there to help guide you every step of the way.

Justin is a writer in the health field and suggests you visit one of the country’s best Gay & [http://www.bostonivf.com/gay_couple_family_building.html]Lesbian Family Building fertility clinics located in Boston, Massachusetts and for information on procedures or ask questions about [http://www.fertilityproregistry.com]Infertility Treatment

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lesbian-Couple-Family-Building&id=2372496] Lesbian Couple Family Building

What Are the Challenges of Raising Children As a Lesbian Couple?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Vijeta_Bhatia]Vijeta Bhatia

Raising children as a lesbian couple will no doubt be one of the most amazing parts of your relationship. Sharing a child and building a family is a memorable time in life. In fact, many studies even suggest that Lesbian mothers are better parents than conventional couples. However, raising children as a lesbian couple is a challenging journey.

When children are young they will not know the difference between their parents and other parents. They are still innocent, and probably see two women as two more people to pamper and care for them. As they get older though, they begin to notice that their family is different. Lesbian couples will need to consider how to explain this to their children before they even attempt to have children. This is a sensitive topic for children, but most easily adapt. If the child does not adapt, there are resources to help parents explain the topic.

While gay relationships are becoming quite accepted, some places and people will still cause problems for the couple. Lesbian couples need to develop a strategy for helping their children overcome adversity, because it will likely be present. Dealing with harassment is one of the biggest challenges to overcome for both the parents and their children. Discrimination is easily the most challenging aspect of having children. If the family lives in a conservative area, it will no doubt be even harder for the family. Luckily, there are plenty of liberal cities where gay couples are welcome and supported – even celebrated in some instances.

Children often ask difficult questions too, which may prove to be a challenge for parents to answer. A child may ask how the two mommies made the baby, and not fully understand the biological aspect. There are plenty of books for parents to share with their children that helps explain the situation in a clear and sane manner.

When the child or children of gay parents becomes a teenager he or she may feel overwhelmed with the fight for gay rights. Assuming that little changes in that time frame, parents should always allow their child to participate in “rights” events or to sit them out if the child chooses. There are so many things to consider when raising a child in a mother/mother household; especially when it comes to their wellbeing.

Being a parent is hard regardless of sexual orientation, but if a lesbian couple wishes to have a family, they may very well face many more challenges. Even though there are struggles of having a family while being gay, most parents report that they still feel fulfilled and happy with their situation, even through the challenges.

What are the challenges:

Learn more about [http://www.lesbiandatingbible.com]lesbian relationship challenges and [http://www.lesbiandatingbible.com]lesbian dating by visiting us.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Are-the-Challenges-of-Raising-Children-As-a-Lesbian-Couple?&id=4608535] What Are the Challenges of Raising Children As a Lesbian Couple?

Sperm Banks – How They Help in Fertility Treatment By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Asha_Jacob]Asha Jacob A sperm bank collects, filters and stores sperm from donors for third party reproduction, mainly, artificial insemination. The need for donor sperm arises in cases where the woman's partner is infertile or the woman chooses to conceive without the participation of a partner. Donor sperm can be used in IVF or intrauterine insemination (IUI). A sperm bank is the facility from where the sperm of an anonymous donor can be purchased, that is then used by the fertility clinic for reproductive treatment processes. Through a process known as cryopreservation, sperm samples can be frozen for future use. This process is generally used by patients who need to undergo cancer and other treatments that may destroy their future fertility. Sperm donation through a sperm bank helps in the following circumstances o    When the male partner is sterile and unable to provide sperm sample for IVF or ICSI o    If the partner is experiencing low sperm count, poor motility or abnormal sperm morphology o    A couple may use a sperm donor to avoid passing on a genetic disease or disorder that is carried by the male sperm o    Single women and lesbian couples can take advantage of donor sperm to help them achieve the dream of having children If a sperm donor is used in an IVF procedure, fertility medications are given to prepare the eggs for harvesting. Once retrieved, the eggs will be combined with the donor sperm and any resulting embryos will then be transferred back to the uterus. For women undergoing IUI, the donor sperm will be deposited directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. With this method, it is possible to do two inseminations in one cycle, thereby increasing chances of pregnancy. Donor sperm screening procedure All sperm donors undergo rigorous personal medical testing to ensure the health of their sperm. At the time of donation, they are screened for different infectious and genetic diseases like hepatitis B, HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea etc. Sperm is then frozen and quarantined for six months. After the quarantine period, the sperm is then evaluated again for many of the infectious diseases it was originally tested for. Legalities involved in sperm donation While using sperm of an anonymous donor in a sperm bank, it is important that the couple or individual are given comprehensive orientation and even counseling to understand the psychological long-term effect of the process and to deal with the many legal questions and issues this procedure may throw up in the future. The choice of sperm donor is usually made based on factors such as his ethnic and/or racial background, physical characteristics, religion, education level and so on. The sperm donor does not have access to the woman's identity at any time. In some states of the USA, a child conceived through donor sperm may have the right to request identifying information once they reach their 18th birthday. However, the fact that sperm banks have had no claims for paternal rights arising from donors in more than 50 years of sperm donation in this country is a very reassuring thought. rel=nofollow [http://www.ebfertility.com/]East Bay Fertility, Dublin California offers the latest infertility treatment options including Donor Sperm Intrauterine Inseminations, strictly adhering to the guidelines of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) regarding the use of donor sperm. Asha Jacob is Content Manager at Leo Technosoft ( http://leosys.net/ ) a SaaS product engineering, Web 2.0 and cloud computing services company. Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Sperm-Banks---How-They-Help-in-Fertility-Treatment&id=3663304] Sperm Banks – How They Help in Fertility Treatment

Do I Tell My Child He Was Born Through Artificial Insemination Using Donor Sperm?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Emma_L_Hartnell-Baker]Emma L Hartnell-Baker

So you’ve decided to start a family- found a sperm donor- got the second line on your pregnancy test (for the 4th time -you wanted to be really, really sure!) and are excitedly anticipating life as a family with your child. Wonderful!

But stop….let’s take those rosy colored spectacles off for just a second and take a ‘real’ look at life following the birth of your child- a child you decided to bring into the world- through sperm donor conception.

Unfortunately – despite the enormous advances that have taken place in the field of assisted reproduction over the past quarter of a century research on the children born as a result of these procedures has lagged far behind. Although a surprisingly high number of children are not actually the biological children of both parents – whether through donor insemination or illicit ‘affair’ – it is only now, with an increased awareness of the need to consider the child’s rights, and the understanding of how child rearing practices affect their social and emotional development, that we are starting to more intelligently debate this issue. ‘It’s my decision and they don’t need to know’ is no longer an adequate response to the question of whether or not children should be told of their true heritage- or of the details of their conception.

The purpose of this article is to start you thinking about the bigger issues. I urge you to make decisions based on what your child needs and wants- even if you don’t yet realize it, or want to think about it. This is something to start talking about even if your child hasn’t yet been born- or even conceived! Children are children. Adults are adults- we are all human- and all hope to be surrounded by people who treat us with love, kindness, respect and honesty. So, regardless of the intentions you have, and the reasons for your choices, if you start off with a lie you’re inviting trouble. And it will always be something you have chosen to keep from your child. (and perhaps relatives and friends as well?)

I’m not going to tell you what to do- parenting is a personal journey – all I am asking is that you consider your child’s needs first – and your needs second. I’m an impartial person who is speaking up for your child – that’s my job, and mission in life; supporting children and their rights- and giving them a voice, even if they aren’t even born. This can be surprisingly easy! – all you need to do is start from day 1 understanding that parenting is ridiculously hard, you are going to mess up A LOT, however your child will love you whatever you do. And if they see you mess up and take ownership- and know that everything you are doing is with a spirit or honesty, love and kindness then they’ll respect you a heck of a lot more as well.

If you are single or part of a lesbian couple then it’s fairly obvious you had ‘a helping hand’ from someone- and life becomes relatively easy as people have kind of guessed already how your child came into the world. However it’s also really important that you consciously work out how to talk about this- to everyone, not just your child- so that it becomes a positive experience- and something that enhances your child’s self-image- rather than makes them feel lost, lonely, defensive and angry.

My main concern- and the reason for this article is that people are often so excited about being parents that the nitty gritty details get overlooked – like couples becoming so excited about the wedding they forget that the real thought should be going into preparing for the marriage. Your decisions every step of the way are- Id hope- based on what you believe is the right decision for you, your partner if you have one, and your child. However this is one of those issues that really needs careful consideration- and a decision made after looking at the research, seeing what children say about not being told, and talking to professional therapists and child psychologists. A quick decision before birth just isn’t good enough. A decision like this is huge- it’s like not telling a child they are adopted- is it really your decision to make?- or is the truth something we owe our children, however hard it may seem at the time.

When parents make a decision not to tell their child how they were conceived they are deciding for the child that they don’t have the right to know or to deal with the truth. They might deliberately choose a sperm donor who looks like the male partner- thinking this will fool everyone- including the child. But you will always know. The donor will always know. You will always be lying to your child. Whoever raises the child will be ‘daddy’- that role is the hard part! A sperm donor is simply that- he will never be ‘Daddy’. So why are we so afraid to tell the truth? Often it isn’t just the child that isn’t told openly, in an age appropriate and sensitive manner- and the right time for that child- often no-one else is told either. So a secret is created – with the people who love you. Why is this? Why make a decision to lie to your child- withholding information is lying, whichever way you look at it- a child you are presumably planning to encourage to themselves be honest and kind. The reasons for that are explored within a book I am currently writing- and I’d be interested to hear of your views and personal stories.

This issue isn’t about judgment – or blame- this is about being open about this topic- a topic that for centuries has been happening in secrecy. We are now in an era where the child’s rights are valued more than ever before- however we still have a long way to go. To be true to ourselves and our children we need to develop the confidence- and emotional resilience- to face the world with compassion, love and honesty.

As you will already realize, even if this is the first time we have ‘met’, honesty is something I firmly promote in all relationships- honesty that is kind, empathetic and constructive. So if you feel ready to take a risk and embrace this we can start thinking about how to share sensitive information with your child- and others- in a way that brings about a positive outcome. Effective parenting – parenting that most effectively meets your child’s individual needs- is often far harder- it asks more of you physically and emotionally. The rewards however are amazing- and can change society.

I believe that parenting should be something everyone should have a right to achieve- if they have the desire to be the best parent they can be, and to raise their child in an environment that will enable that child to develop to his or her full potential, and be happy and emotionally intelligent. At the moment I don’t feel as though there is enough info and support out there for parents of children born through sperm donation and this article is my introduction to the topic. I will be bringing you other related articles in the coming months. The way in which we view and talk about this subject is something I would like to be a part of changing- our children deserve it. Be proud of your decision to bring your amazing child into the world, when other options were probably impossible or very limited. If you feel proud, your child will feel proud also. And if proud of this decision you will have no reason not to start talking about it openly – from the beginning. The decision of whether or not to tell you child should then become far clearer. Yes, yes yes!

Emma Hartnell-Baker BEd Hons. MA. Cert Life Coaching

The Child Listener http://www.The-Child-Listener.com

Creating Fertility Choices for All http://www.Free-Sperm-Donations.com

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Do-I-Tell-My-Child-He-Was-Born-Through-Artificial-Insemination-Using-Donor-Sperm?&id=3407646] Do I Tell My Child He Was Born Through Artificial Insemination Using Donor Sperm?

New-Generation Cervical Cap is At-Home Advance For Lesbian Pregnancy – Updating a Proven Procedure
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alan_Stamm]Alan Stamm

An assisted reproductive technology advance provides a promising path to pregnancy for lesbian partners. A federally approved model of cervical cap uses a proven, natural insemination procedure that’s convenient, private and affordable.

This innovation, which updates an established method of sperm placement for home use by any prospective parents, can be especially effective for women with no conception obstacles.

The flexible, thimble-shaped device is a modern version of traditional cervical caps. When ovulation has likely occurred, donor sperm can be placed into the silicone cap and positioned against the cervical mucus.

A prospective mom resumes normal activity, including exercise, while the soft, light cap stays in place at the cervical opening for four to six hours. That positioning greatly increasing chances that sperm will swim into the uterus for egg fertilization, rather than being flushed out by gravity or not pooling in the right spot.

Cervical fluid holds the cap in place, just as capillary action keeps contact lenses from slipping. Side flanges adjust to cervical dimensions, so no custom fitting by a physician is needed. An attached loop assists easy self-removal.

The days of hips held high to get pregnant are gone. This also eclipses the less sophisticated approaches of using a diaphragm or “the turkey baster technique,” and is a big step forward in comfort compared to decades when steel, rubber or hard plastic caps were the only choices.

Because the new-generation cap places sperm in an ideal spot, there’s no need for manual or vibrator-assisted stimulation to achieve contractions intended to assist the tiny swimmers – intimacy that can await a more relaxed, less focused occasion.

A timing advantage further boosts pregnancy prospects for users of this method. “Spermatozoa can live several days in the cervical mucus, but just a few hours in the vagina if they fail to advance,” says Dr. Dorsey Ligon, obstetrics and gynecology director at Spectrum Hospital in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Moreover, this approach helps overcome any physical challenges the prospective bio-mom may have, such as a tilted cervix, poor cervical mucus, pH imbalance or yeast infection. Medical school studies at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia and Wayne State University in Detroit show that over 40 percent of cervical cap users with fertility problems became pregnant for the first time. That matches or exceed results from intrauterine insemination (IUI), a costlier procedure performed at a medical office – a less romantic way to conceive a baby.

“The technique is simple, inexpensive, without significant risk or discomfort, and can be carried out by a couple at their convenience and in privacy,” reports a research team led by Dr. Michael P. Diamond, associate chair of OB/GYN and director of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Detroit Medical Center and Wayne State.

The method is just as practical and convenient for lesbian parents-to-be as for any other couples. Most sperm banks ship to a client’s home, and vials can stay in the shipping tank for up to seven days before being thawed. Longer storage in a cryopreservation tank at a physician’s office can be arranged for subsequent insemination attempts.

Naturally, fresh sperm from a supportive friend is a cost-saving option that adds extra donor knowledge. A legal adviser can provide a waiver of parental rights and obligations for each participant to sign.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cleared cervical caps for assisted insemination in non-clinical settings.

As a result of this development, life partners now are among the beneficiaries who can enjoy the conception process with dignity in their bedroom. Before long, those who do may welcome this question: “When is your baby due?”

Alan Stamm is a marketing communication consultant whose clients have included Conceivex, Inc., a reproductive health care company in Western Michigan. Learn more about its Conception Kit and request a free informational DVD at [http://www.conceivex.com/]http://www.conceivex.com

See how a former journalist with marketing experience can raise awareness of your enterprise cost-effectively.

For a free phone consultation and project proposal, call 248.258.5982 or visit [http://www.astamm.com/]http://www.astamm.com to send a message.

Marketing communication support:

Web content: Keyword-optimized consumer or B2B information, news-style articles, ghost-written blogs and other materials present marketing messages in an accessible, informative context.

Brochures: Colorful, creative, compelling language enhances marketing collateral.

Guest columns: Dozens of commentaries, essays and other op-ed submissions written on behalf of clients have been placed in daily newspapers and trade publications. Service includes submission.

Media relations: News releases, coverage pitches and electronic press kits include details that editors, reporters and producers want – - quotes, fact sheets, reference statistics, independent sources to call.

Speech texts: Mission messages, USPs and points of distinction are woven into meaningful, memorable remarks.

RESULTS: Clear, compelling, creative deliverables with fast turnarounds.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?New-Generation-Cervical-Cap-is-At-Home-Advance-For-Lesbian-Pregnancy---Updating-a-Proven-Procedure&id=3548315] New-Generation Cervical Cap is At-Home Advance For Lesbian Pregnancy – Updating a Proven Procedure

Lesbian Parenting – Deciding Whether Or Not to Have a Baby & Creating a Parenting Mission Statement
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jeanine_Byers_Hoag]Jeanine Byers Hoag

“Take this time of preparation to deeply reflect on partnership-not only do you need to share your own childhood stories and reflect on their impact on each other, but also discuss what you might call your ‘parenting mission statement’ or philosophy.”-Barbara Nicholson and Lysa Parker, Attached at the Heart: 8 Proven Parenting Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children

How Do You Want to Parent?

What is your opinion about the following issues? These are issues couples need to decide on together…

1) How will the partner carrying the child nurture herself and the baby during pregnancy? As you discuss who will do what, this would be the time to discuss things like healthy eating and exercise during pregnancy or managing stress, as well as any health concerns one or the other of you has.

2) Does one of you find it easier to eat well or exercise? Studies have found that exercising can reduce the likelihood of premature delivery by 50% or more.

3) Where will you have the baby? What are your opinions about having an OB-GYN or midwife or doula or all three?

4) Home birth or hospital? Natural delivery or not? Will both partners be in the delivery room or together at the home birth?

“Attachment parenting advocates know that the most beneficial birth choice is the one that has the fewest interventions and allows for the mother and baby to be awake, aware and able to connect during and after the birth.” — Barbara Nicholson and Lysa Parker, Attached at the Heart: 8 Proven Parenting Principles for Raising Connected and Compassionate Children

5) Do you want to breastfeed or bottle feed?

Most people know that breastfeeding is good for the baby’s health and is recommended for that reason, but you may not know that it enhances and increases the emotional bond between mother and child. One way to do the same thing for the non-breastfeeding mother is to have lots of skin-to-skin contact with the baby.

6) If you should have a boy, how do you feel about circumcision?

“There is considerable evidence that newborns who are circumcised without analgesia experience pain and physiologic stress.Neonatal physiologic responses to circumcision pain include changesin heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and cortisollevels.” -American Academy of Pediatrics

Because of those findings, they do not recommend the procedure, but stated that if parents do decide to circumcize, it should be done with the use of a local anesthetic.

7) What about vaccinations? All? Some? None?

This decision is such an important one and one that often generates strong feelings one way or the other. Those who express concern about vaccines are often concerned, specifically, about the additives used in vaccines and the possibility that they play a causal role in some of the medical problems infants and children experience after vaccination.

What will you do if your baby gets sick? Is one of you more inclined toward natural or holistic parenting and the other more conventional?

9) Have any new disagreements surfaced as you have discussed these additional questions? How are you going to resolve those differences?

Positive Pregnancy and Birth

Research suggests that some of the determining factors involved in having a positive pregnancy and birth experience are the quality of the relationship between partners, the presence or lack of support throughout the pregnancy and birth experience and the reductions of fears and anxiety during the process.

Developing a parenting philosophy, and plan that addresses these concerns and any need for healing in the relationship or from childhood or other past issues is the best way to create what is needed for a positive beginning for any children you bring into the world.

The next article in this series will focus on dealing with the unresolved issues that can affect the future parenting relationship and experience.

For a free healing meditation and energy healing techniques you can use for healing emotional wounds and clearing limiting beliefs, go to [http://www.spiritualaromatherapy.com/how-to-heal-your-issues.html]Healing Your Issues and complete the form.

Interested in natural or holistic parenting? For information and resources for new and expectant moms, or other moms interested in attachment parenting, natural remedies for healing, easy healthy family meals and more, go to [http://www.naturalmomma.com]http://www.naturalmomma.com.

Jeanine Byers Hoag is a certified holistic healing practitioner, a certified spiritual aromatherapist, an ordained LGBT minister, a homeschooling mom, an INFP and an Enneagram 4.

Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Lesbian-Parenting---Deciding-Whether-Or-Not-to-Have-a-Baby-and-Creating-a-Parenting-Mission-Statement&id=3942194] Lesbian Parenting – Deciding Whether Or Not to Have a Baby & Creating a Parenting Mission Statement