Why "Preconception Care"?
More than 50% of lesbians have children or will have children in the future. But for lesbian, bisexual, and single women, becoming parents presents a unique set of choices and opportunities at each step of the process. For the average lesbian, seven to ten years passes between her first decision that she wants to be a parent and actually bringing a child into her home. Preconception care can help expedite this process at almost any stage, from the most basic decision-making and fact-finding, to maximizing fertility, even to assistance with inseminations. |
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Watta - 38 Weeks Pregnant |
What is preconception care?
Most of my work with women involves counseling them through various stages of the process of building a family. As a licensed midwife, I also assist women in preparing their bodies for pregnancy. Often, the medical system channels lesbians into "infertility" treatments, simply because of sperm access problems! Holistic care can help women become parents while maintaining a healthy and positive relationship with our bodies and our fertility. Preconception care includes:
- Basic information about choices we make: Pregnancy or adoption? Fresh or frozen sperm? Known or unknown donor? Now or later?
- Fertility planning & enhancement: When you're paying for sperm, every month counts. Knowing how to chart your cycle and correctly time your inseminations can make an enormous difference.
- Health and fertility assessment: Sometimes health issues can impede our bodies from getting pregnant. Identifying problems and finding solutions can help us become the parents we dream of being.
- Sperm donor negotiations: Have you and your donor explored all of the legal and emotional issues involved in creating a family together? Are you sure that your agreements are interpreted the same way by everyone involved?
- Nutritional counseling: The right foods and herbs can optimize your fertility and prepare your body for pregnancy.
- At-home inseminations: Many women just need the right information to self-inseminate successfully. I also provide insemination assistance in the comfort of your own home.
- Emotional support: Trying to get pregnant for more than one cycle can quickly turn into an emotional rollercoaster. Compassionate support is crucial to helping women and families live through the insemination process.
- Early pregnancy care: The first weeks of pregnancy can feel thrilling but tentative. Midwifery care can help you adjust during this exciting time.
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