Having a baby through artificial insemination
Artificial insemination is the injection of sperm (semen) into the vagina or the oviduct so that fertilization can take place.
The oviduct is the passageway between the ovaries to the outside of the body.
Insemination can be done by yourself. This is referred to as self-insemination. Self-insemination can be done in the privacy of your own home, for example.
Alternatively, someone else can inject the sperm into the body. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) can be done by a medical practitioner in a fertility clinic, for example.
Having a baby through surrogacy
Surrogacy is another way to have a baby. Surrogacy is the process where someone has a baby with the intention of giving up their parental rights so that another individual or a couple can become the parent(s) of the child.
There are many factors to consider when exploring the option of surrogacy, including the health of the person that will carry the baby and their ability to give birth to the child.
Another important consideration is whether the surrogate will also be the genetic donor. The surrogate is the person that carries the child and gives birth to them. A genetic donor is the person who donates the egg so that fertilization can take place.
Deciding to have a baby
Deciding whether or not to have a baby is a potentially life-changing decision. Think carefully about your options so that can make the decision that is right for you.