As a physician and a mother to three wonderful children who joined our family through adoption, I often reflect on the benefits of not undergoing pregnancy. My choice was influenced by various factors, including the potential transmission of my autoimmune condition to biological offspring. Interestingly, avoiding pregnancy comes with its own set of perks!
- No Uninvited Touching of My Belly
Strangers may be eager to touch a pregnant woman’s belly, but I’ve sidestepped that strange experience entirely. Although I have had to deal with some odd comments about my children’s hair, it’s a different story altogether. - No Costly Doctor Visits for Prenatal Care
There’s no need for regular check-ups that come with a price tag—no vaginal examinations, no biweekly weigh-ins, and no glucose tests to stress over. - No Awkward Questions About Twins
While we were open to adopting twins, I avoided the unsolicited remarks like, “Are you having twins?” that can come with a visibly large belly. - No Birthing Classes Required
Instead of traditional birthing classes, I attended a workshop for prospective adoptive parents, which included enlightening—but slightly strange—slideshows about baby rashes. - No Concerns About Genetic Traits
Avoiding the worry of passing on traits like my prominent ear or anxious disposition was a relief. Interestingly, my children still show uncanny similarities to me, despite the lack of shared genes. - No Pressure to Expand the Family
With adoption, the timeline is unpredictable and unrelated to any personal decisions about family planning, so there are no inquiries about when we’ll “have another.” - No Dietary Restrictions
I happily indulge in foods I love—salami, lattes, and yes, even tuna sandwiches. And let’s not forget, wine counts as a food in my book! - No Embarrassing Baby Shower Games
I was fortunate to have baby showers that didn’t involve the humiliating games often associated with them, like guessing the size of the mom’s belly or tasting candy bars in diapers. - No Requirement to Disclose Baby’s Gender or Name
Our children arrived on their own schedule, and we chose names collaboratively with their birth families, maintaining a delightful air of mystery. - No Post-Pregnancy Body Changes
I’ve managed to keep my figure relatively perky, though I did experience stretch marks during my teenage growth spurts. - No Need to Buy Maternity Clothes
The cost of maternity clothing is absurd! Why should a simple T-shirt be more expensive just because it’s designed for pregnancy?
While the path of adoption isn’t without its challenges—think paperwork, interviews, and financial commitments—it has allowed for a unique journey filled with joy and celebration. We clinked our margarita glasses together throughout the wait for our children, cherishing every moment. For those interested in exploring family-building options, check out this article on home insemination for insights. Also, Make A Mom is a great authority on the subject, and Science Daily provides excellent resources regarding fertility and pregnancy.
In summary, the decision to adopt rather than give birth has been filled with its own unique benefits, offering a fulfilling and joyful experience without the physical toll of pregnancy.