3rd Party Reproduction
As a Reproductive Health Psychologist, I complete psychoeducational consultations for those undergoing 3rd party reproduction/donor assisted family building using donor egg, donor sperm, donor embryos and/or gestational carriers to build their family. I also complete psychological screenings including clinical interview and psychological testing for gestational carriers, egg donors, and sperm donors.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) recommends those using 3rd party reproduction to build their family meet with a qulaified mental health provider. If you are considering seeking the services of a reproductive health psychologist it's important to choose a professional with expertise in third-party reproduction and the psychological aspects associated with assisted reproductive technologies. Staying current with ongoing training and consultation is crucial in a rapidly evolving field like third-party reproduction. I strive to stay informed about the latest developments, technologies, and ethical considerations, which ultimately allows me to provide the best possible services to my clients.
The field of reproductive health, particularly third-party reproduction, can involve complex and sensitive issues. Regular training and consultation help you stay abreast of changes in laws, guidelines, and best practices. It also allows you to continually enhance your skills in supporting individuals and couples through the various stages of the reproductive journey.
In the context of reproductive health, "third-party reproduction" refers to situations where individuals or couples use a third party, such as a sperm or egg donor or a gestational carrier (surrogate), to help them achieve their reproductive goals. Reproductive health psychologists specializing in third-party reproduction deal with the unique psychological and emotional challenges that may arise in these situations. Here are some key aspects of their role:
Counseling for Donor-Conceived Individuals: Reproductive health psychologists may provide counseling and support for individuals who were conceived through third-party reproduction. This could include helping them explore and understand issues related to identity, disclosure, and relationships with both biological and non-biological parents.
Support for Intended Parents: Psychologists may work with individuals or couples who are using third-party reproduction to become parents. This could involve addressing concerns about genetic connections, the decision-making process in choosing a donor or gestational carrier, and the emotional aspects of the reproductive journey.
Screening and Counseling for Donors and Carriers: Reproductive health psychologists may be involved in the screening and counseling of individuals serving as donors or gestational carriers. This can include assessing their psychological readiness, providing information about the potential emotional aspects of the process, and ensuring informed consent.
Navigating Legal and Ethical Issues: Psychologists in this field may help individuals navigate the legal and ethical complexities associated with third-party reproduction. This could involve discussions about parental rights, disclosure to children, and considerations related to privacy.
Communication and Relationship Dynamics: Third-party reproduction often involves complex communication and relationship dynamics, especially when donors, carriers, and intended parents are all part of the process. Reproductive health psychologists may provide guidance on effective communication and help address potential challenges in relationships.
Counseling for Surrogates: For gestational carriers, psychologists may offer support throughout the surrogacy process. This could include addressing the emotional aspects of carrying a child for someone else and helping surrogates navigate their own feelings and the potential impact on their families.
Education and Advocacy: Reproductive health psychologists specializing in third-party reproduction may be involved in educating healthcare professionals, intended parents, donors, carriers, and the public about the psychological aspects of assisted reproductive technologies and third-party reproduction.
Professional Affiliations:
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Mental Health Provider Group
Donor Conceived Community Mental Health Provider
Society of Ethical Egg Donation and Surrogacy Mental Health Provider
PostPartum Support International Mental Health Provider
Helpful Resources:
American Society for Reproductive Medicine: www.asrm.org
European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology: www.eshre.org
the ASRM patient website: www.reproductivefacts.org
the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) website: www.sart.org
the Centers for Disease Control site for ART results: www.cdc.gov
RESOLVE: www.resolve.org
Donor Conceived: https://www.wearedonorconceived.com/
How long have you struggled with fertility issues? There are so many different circumstances that can lead to difficulty having children.
You thought that it would be easy to conceive, but have experienced the heartbreak, disappointment, sadness, and loss of not being able to.
You are the person that always dreamed of having a big family and you have not been able to conceive. You might already have one child, but struggle with secondary infertility.
You are a single person and have decided that you are ready to have children.
You are a same sex couple that has decided to use medical interventions to grow/have a family.
You have the medical necessity to need a gestational carrier to help build your family.
I recognize and value that everyone is an individual and has their own unique situation and journey. I can tell you from personal and professional experience that joining this "club," is way too much to handle alone. Friends and family can be supportive, but at times they do not know how to help or can even be damaging. It can be helpful to talk with someone that has not only been there themselves, but also has the psychological savvy to help you navigate these most complicated and so emotionally consuming times.