Same-sex Parents: What do you need to know?

When people think of parenting, many assume that traditional married couples are the only ones who can provide children with a good starting point into adulthood. However, there are many different types of families out there and many different ways to raise children.

One type of family that is often overlooked is the family with same-sex parents. This type of family can be extremely beneficial for children, as they learn to be more accepting and understanding of different types throughout their lives but also in helping them understand what it means to accept others despite their differences such as gender or race.

What are the options for same-sex parents?

There are many different ways that same-sex couples can become parents. If both partners share parental responsibility when one adopts then either partner will have complete custodial rights while the other does not (see adoption). If one partner adopts and the other does not, then that partner may still have custody rights but they would not be automatic and would need to be legally granted through a family court (see stepparent adoption). Additionally some jurisdictions recognize joint or "custodial placements" in which each parent has equal custody, regardless if formally adopted. Some states even ban specific forms on gendered terminology within legal documents. A study conducted by the Williams Institute found that if both partners are legally recognized as parents, they are more likely to share parenting responsibilities than if only one partner is recognized.

Another way that same-sex couples can become parents is through reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or sperm donation. In cases where one partner is unable to conceive, they may use donor sperm to conceive a child with the help of an IVF clinic like at West Coast Fertility Center Incorporated. Alternatively, some couples use donor eggs in order to conceive a child.

Can same-sex parents bank stem cells?

As with any other type of family, same-sex couples can bank their newborns' umbilical cord blood from birth for use during future illnesses, including leukemia. This is something that all parents should consider, as it could potentially save their child's life one day. When using unrelated donors instead siblings, having your own supply increases your chances so banks usually advise you discuss this with your partner prior to the birth.

Anja Health will happily collect and store your baby's stem cells for you and your partner. If you are interested in learning the benefits of stem cell banking for same-sex couples and their families, check out this page. You can always book a quick introductory call or text us and we will walk you through all the benefits and steps on cord blood banking.