Contributed by SumofUs

LGBTQ+ individuals jump through extra hoops to start a family. Conception and parenting aren’t always easy processes, but you’re not alone. Here are five tips (and cute family pics) to help you jump through some of those hoops. Inspiring doesn’t even begin to describe the journey many LGBTQ+ parents have experienced!

#1 Build your network with other queer parents. Find support, seek a mentor, and build connections with other LGBTQ+ parents. Find some emotional support by networking with parents. Who would know better than those who have done it themselves?

#2 Seek medical professionals experienced with queer family-building and get to know your family-building options. Here are some:

• adoption
• foster to adopt
• co-parenting
• reciprocal IVF
• egg/sperm donor
• known donors
• IUI or ICI

#3 Gain financial support from LGBTQ+ organizations and programs. Family building can be especially expensive for queer folx. Here are some resources and programs that can be helpful:

• Trans Fertility Co
• Baby Quest Foundation
• Gay Parents to Be
• Mombian
• Men Having Babies

#4 Relieve yourself from timing expectations. Don’t expect whatever process you go through to be super quick. The time it takes is all a part of the journey, and every step is a step forward.

#5 Get an idea of what family-building is like for queer folx through mindful, credible blogs, books, and podcasts.

Blog:

• queerconceptstories.com

Instagram:

• @queerbirthworker

Books:

• Umi and Uma the Story of Two Mommies and a Baby
• She’s my Dad: A Story for Children Who Have a Transgender Parent or Relative

Podcast:

• The New Family

This article was originally published in the Family & Pets Issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.