Bonding With a Donor Baby: 3 Ways To Help Growing Families Who’ve Used Donor Sperm

Infertility can be difficult to deal with, and using a sperm donor can present its own set of emotional obstacles. Your fertility journey with an egg donor is an amazing step toward starting a family. However, between appointments, procedures, and treatment cycles, it can sometimes feel like forming a bond with your child is not a high priority.

Fortunately, most intended parents of donor-conceived children describe bonding with their baby as easy and special both during pregnancy and after delivery. Regardless of genetics, your baby will know how deeply they were wanted, and how much their parents fought for them. This emotional connection will strengthen your bond together.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is important for your body and mind to repair themselves. A well-rested parent is a happy parent, and you and your baby will benefit greatly from this simple act of self-care. Other fundamentals to keep in mind are drinking plenty of water, eating healthy, and taking time to relax. Committing to your health and well-being is of the utmost importance while using a sperm donor. Giving yourself the time and space to understand the moving parts will make the more challenging aspects easier to deal with.

Celebrate the Little Things

Seeking joy is the best way to find it. Finding time to appreciate the incredible step you’ve taken in your life will help calm your nerves and allow you to observe and track all the changes happening and get to know your child. Listen to your baby’s heartbeat a little closer at your next ultrasound or talk to them while they are in utero--these moments will help create a more comfortable environment for you and your newborn to bond.

Find Support

Although using a sperm donor introduces unexpected challenges, this is not something you have to face alone. Sperm donation is common, and many intended parents seek out support groups or build their own personal networks of friends and family they turn to when things get difficult. Finding a safe place or a friendly face to unload freely will do wonders for your mental and physical well-being, and will help you bond with your child.

If you need advice or have questions about your growing family, please contact us at FCC today!