7 Reasons to Consider Adoption Rather Than In-Vitro Fertilization

The choice between adoption and in-vitro fertilization as ways to deal with infertility is extremely personal; however, there are some valid reasons why adoption may be right for many couples. Here are 7.

1. There are too many children that need loving, caring homes.

The sad fact is that there are too many children already brought into this world that need a loving, caring home. If you can provide that, why not do so? By adopting, you will help to make a small dent in a much larger issue. On the other hand, with in-vitro fertilization, you aren't guaranteed results. You might just be left heartbroken.

2. In-vitro fertilization, although improving, is far from 100% effective.

In-vitro fertilization has come a long way in the short time that it has been around; however, it is still far from perfect. Most couples have to go through at least two tries before they are successful. Others are never successful, or are successful after several different attempts. Each round involves great expense, extensive hormone therapy, and the rollercoaster ride of waiting to know if you are indeed pregnant. It takes couples on average three or more tries in order to have a successful outcome.

3. While both adoption and in-vitro fertilization can take an emotional toll on a couple, adoption provides a better chance for a good outcome.

Neither the adoption process nor the in-vitro fertilization processes are easy. However, you are much more likely to be successful with adoption. In-vitro fertilization will often just leave you still trying to fulfill your dream of becoming a parent and broke.

4. It may take several tries before in-vitro fertilization is successful.

You may go through several rounds of in-vitro fertilization only to never get pregnant. Worse yet, you might end up becoming pregnant only to have a miscarriage. Then again, you might have no success with in-vitro fertilization at all. Is it really worth trying multiple times on the chance that you might never become pregnant?

5. While you may have to go through an emotional journey with adoption, you won't have to go through physical changes.

In-vitro fertilization can easily take a toll not only on your emotions, but your body as well. You have to go through extensive hormone therapy before you try, and that can take a toll on your relationship. While adoption does take its own emotional toll, it doesn't require much of you physically - at least nothing beyond the demands of being a new parent. That alone is tough enough. Spare yourself the physical toll that in-vitro fertilization often takes.

6. Even though most people don't like to think in terms of money when it comes to having a child, adoptions is much cheaper than in-vitro fertilization.

In-vitro fertilization is insanely expensive, and many couples can't afford to try more than once. Adoption, on the hand, is more affordable. It may seem cruel to put a price tag on starting a family, but most people don't really have a choice. Finances need to be taken into account before anything can take place. If planning on going through in-vitro fertilization, plan on attempting the process three times, if not more.

7. You don't have to be a biological mother to truly be a mother.

Some people might not fully understand just how strong the bond can be between an adopted child and his or her adoptive parents. However, those who are close to adoptive families can attest to the fact that there really isn't a difference between traditional families and adoptive families. You truly don't have to be the biological mother in order to be a child's true mother. Nothing proves that point better than adoption.

While the decision between adoption and in-vitro fertilization can be confusing, bring up strong emotions, and inspire intense debate, there really is a good case for adoption. It should be taken very seriously and not easily overlooked. On the other hand, adoption isn't for everyone, and the desire to go through the pregnancy process is a powerful motivator.