The traditional concept of a family, consisting of a father and a mother, is no longer the only option for having children. Nowadays, there are other alternatives that make family diversity a reality.
Among them, we find single parenthood by choice. This family model is increasingly chosen by single men who decide to embrace fatherhood, given the possible options available to them.
Since a man does not have a uterus and therefore cannot carry a pregnancy, these options are limited, and being a single father is not easy. However, the possibilities for becoming a single father include co-parenting, adoption, and surrogacy.
Co-Parenting
Co-parenting is the process where a man and a woman have a child without being a couple or having a romantic relationship. That is, a single man who wishes to become a father shares the obligations and responsibilities of a child with a woman who wants to become a mother.
They establish conditions on how to proceed in terms of maintenance, with whom the future child will live, and the position of future partners. In this case, the man and woman can try to conceive naturally or choose to use assisted reproductive techniques. However, co-parenting is a complex process, regardless of whether the man and woman are friends or acquaintances. The way they plan to raise the child, the values they wish to instill, or financial matters could lead to conflicts between the parents. These tensions could, evidently, create an unfavorable environment for the child.
Adoption
Another option for single men who want to become fathers without a maternal figure is adoption. This is possible, where a person can adopt regardless of their marital status, gender, or sexual orientation, as long as they meet certain age requirements, obtain a suitability certificate from the competent Public Entity, and are not incapacitated or suspended from exercising parental authority.
Additionally, a single man can pursue international adoption. However, it is important to consider the laws of each country, as some do not allow single male adoption.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy is a process where a woman, known as a surrogate, carries the child for another person. In this case, she will carry the child for a single man either altruistically or in exchange for financial compensation.
The surrogate’s role is to carry the pregnancy and give birth to a baby who will be handed over to the father at birth. The woman will be relieved of responsibilities, and the father will take on the upbringing and education of the baby.
To facilitate the process, the surrogate may not have any genetic link to the baby. For single fathers or male same-sex couples, in vitro fertilization (IVF) with donor eggs will be necessary. The semen used in the IVF will typically come from the intended father.
Men wishing to become fathers through this procedure will need to go to a foreign country where the law allows it.
At Celagem, a fertility clinic, surrogacy services are offered. The primary motivation of this institution is to fulfill their patients’ desire to become parents. This clinic is characterized by its inclusive approach, understanding that love has no conditions or genders. Celagem provides a team of fertility specialists to assist you.
Visit their website www.celagem.com and schedule your free consultation.