How can I have children? The many paths and considerations of starting a family
Starting a family is one of the big decisions in life. The path to becoming a parent is unique for every individual or couple. The decision is influenced by factors such as personal values, life situation and health, as well as expectations and relationships, such as the views of family, friends and the community. People who are considering having children may wonder what they would be like as parents or how parenthood would change them. Sometimes, questions about sexuality and gender play an important role in the matter, while other times, a variety of questions related to family structure may arise.
Do I want to become a parent, and if so, how?
It is important to remember that the final decision is personal and should be based on what feels right for you and your potential partner.
If you’re wondering whether you would be ready to welcome a baby into your life, or if you want to move forward with your pregnancy plans, there are many ways to proceed. Finnish legislation allows fertility treatments in many different family models. According to the law, a child can have no more than two parents, but they can have several guardians.
We support you with all the questions you may have and offer professional advice and support on your individual journey towards parenthood. Contact us and we’ll explore the options together.
Fertility treatments and different types of families
With fertility treatments, we can support a wide range of different types of families in their desire to have a child. Fertility treatments may include insemination treatments or in vitro fertilisation treatments (IVF) with either own or donated gametes.
According to Finnish legislation, fertility treatments can be performed for single women, transgender men, female couples and heterosexual couples. Treatments in co-parenting arrangements are also permitted. Families can be diverse. For men, the situation is more complicated, as they cannot access fertility treatments in Finland, but they can consider other options, such as adoption.
Every family is unique, and we respect each family’s wishes and needs.
Contemplating sexuality
Sexuality is a part of being human, and it deeply affects everyone’s life and identity. Sexual orientation – whether straight, gay, bisexual, pansexual or something else – is personal and can change over time. Contemplating sexuality can raise questions about how to establish a family that respects and reflects your own sexual identity. This can also include planning how and when you’ll start discussing the topic of sexuality with your future children. It is important for everyone to feel safe and accepted with their sexuality, including when starting a family.
Contemplating gender
Gender identity is just as much a central part of a person’s self-knowledge and can influence many life choices, such as starting a family. The concept of gender can go beyond the traditional male-female distinction and include transgender, non-binary or other gender identities. Gender contemplation can raise questions about the possibility of parenthood, how one’s own gender identity affects parenthood, and how an understanding of gender diversity is conveyed to a child. We consider it important to recognise and respect gender identities so that everyone can lead an authentic life and start a family as their true selves.
Deciding when to have children
The timing of having children is an individual and often complex decision. It can depend on many factors, such as career, financial situation, personal readiness and relationship dynamics. The idea of parenthood can be an inspiring dream, but it can also evoke fear or conflicting emotions. It is important that you can discuss these issues openly and honestly so that you can decide on the best time to start a family with your partner or by yourself.
We will help you on your individual path
The dream of becoming a parent, its careful consideration and the decision to pursue this dream is always a personal decision, as is the decision to live a child-free life. We are committed to helping you and your family make the right decision and, depending on your choice, find the best way to achieve your dream.
Book an appointment with a therapist