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Are you ready to be a parent?Parenting is the most rewarding journey you can ever experience. But it is also not for everyone. Determine for yourself which one you are. Everyone most likely, will tell you that your life will never be the same and will drastically change.
We will not lie; it is going to make a huge impact. Like all rewarding experiences, it comes with some sacrifices.
Your relationship:
Being a parent is providing and caring for a child. Looking after his/her safety and making sure your child's physical and psychological needs are looked after should be your top priority. For you to do this; you need a good kick-off with your partner.
Consider the following:
Pregnancy will put strain on your relationship.
Add mental and physical strain of procedures such as IVF and Artificial Insemination or
any other ART procedure
.
Add physiological issues such as donor selection and welfare screening.
Add additional financial strain and expenses such as:
Fertility boosters, vitamin supplements and ovulation sticks
Ante-natal doctor’s visits
Ante-natal classes
Birth and medical care for the baby
Preparation for the baby’s arrival
Social worker cost
etc etc
Add “Opening the parenthood closet” to the rest of the family
It is important for the development of your child to feel welcomed by the entire
family
If you have problems in your relationship, think twice before taking on this
journey. Having a baby will not solve any problems; it is going to add
additional challenges.
Career/Employer:
It is advisable to discuss your plans with your employer. Going through a procedure to conceive, will need the support of your employer. Ovulations cycles are not always
regular and you may have to give very short notice at work to get to your doctor/clinic in time.
When you have the support of your employer it is easier to be on “stand-by” for best timing during your cycles.
Being a parent will take some focus away from your career. Make peace with it and find a balance that you and your partner will be happy with.
