Medical Info About Parenting Partnerships

The medical fertility issues related to parenting partners can be complex. On the one hand, parenting partners in non-romantic relationships may not wish to conceive by intercourse. On the other, many parenting partners – particularly those in the 35-plus range – may face fertility challenges that require some extra attention.

FamilyByDesign’s medical information pages are designed to help you address the confusing – and often highly personal – issues that surround fertility and the pregnancy process. We outline the various options that parenting partners might consider in getting pregnant, and the pros and cons of each. We’ll also discuss other medical fertility issues that parenting partners should address. Read through our guide on medical issues and still have a question? Ask our co-parenting expert on fertility issues!

What You Need To Know

Before Pregnancy: Fertility Testing

Parenting partners have unique considerations to take into account when planning for pregnancy. Given that many women may be well into their 30s (or 40s) by the time they decide to have a child with a parenting partner, there may be additional fertility challenges associated with later conception attempts.  Additionally, given the lack of a… read more »

Before Pregnancy: STD and Genetic Testing

STD Testing While parenting partners who are preparing for pregnancy may have spent some significant time getting to know one another – and may feel very comfortable with one another - there is no substitute for making sure that both partners have had a full set of STD and genetic testing done.  Assuming that both… read more »

Fertility Drugs, Or Not?

Should you use fertility drugs as part of your attempt at pregnancy?  It depends. Depending on factors like your age, and whether or not you ovulate regularly, fertility drugs may be helpful. However they require careful monitoring because they may have side effects and are certainly associated with multiple pregnancy, usually twins. Clomid (clomiphene citrate)… read more »