Parenthood in a Changing World : Exploring Alternative Paths

Modern life brings with it a myriad of challenges, and for many, building a family has become one of them. While some face medical hurdles, others find themselves navigating a personal crossroads—balancing careers, relationships, and the ticking biological clock. Parenthood is a deeply personal journey, and for those who cannot take the conventional route, alternative options bring hope.

Take the stories of three individuals. Priya, a 32-year-old professional, was devastated when her husband was diagnosed with cancer. As part of his treatment, they chose to preserve his sperm, uncertain about what the future held. Ravi and Kunal, a committed same-sex couple, dreamt of raising a family together but felt constrained by societal & legal norms. Meera, a single woman in her late 30s, found herself focusing on her career while quietly worrying about the years slipping by.

Though their journeys differ, they share a common goal: the desire for parenthood. Thanks to advancements in reproductive technologies and changing perspectives, their dreams are within reach.

Understanding the Landscape of Infertility in India

Infertility is not just a medical condition; it is an emotional journey that affects millions.

Key Fertility Trends In India

• Nearly 27.5 million couples in India face infertility issues, according to WHO estimates.
• Over 2.5 lakh IVF cycles are performed annually, offering hope to countless couples.
• There is almost 15–20% annual increase in women opting for egg freezing, as per recent industry reports.
• In 2023, India recorded 3,275 legal adoptions, as per the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).

Despite this, conversations around infertility and alternative parenthood are often shrouded in silence and stigma.This article explores the various options available today for individuals and couples looking to embrace parenthood, with expert insights and real-life examples.

Fertility Options for Different Circumstances

Cancer Patients: Preserving Parenthood Despite Diagnosis

A cancer diagnosis can bring life to a standstill, and concerns about fertility often take a backseat to immediate treatment. However, fertility preservation offers a way forward. Priya and her husband preserved his sperm before he began chemotherapy. A year after his recovery, they pursued IVF at Birla Fertility & IVF, welcoming a healthy baby girl. “It felt like we had reclaimed something that cancer tried to take from us,” Priya shares.

Expert Insight: Dr. Vivek P. Kakkad, a fertility specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, explains, “Fertility preservation is an invaluable tool for cancer patients. By freezing sperm, eggs, or embryos, we give individuals the chance to build a family on their terms, even after recovery.”

Statistics: According to WHO, over 80,000 cancer patients in India are of reproductive age. Despite this, less than 5% opt for fertility preservation—a gap that needs urgent attention.

LGBTQIA+ Partners: A Journey Towards Inclusion

For same-sex couples, parenthood often involves unique challenges. While adoption remains an option, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like surrogacy or donor sperm/eggs are gaining traction. Take the example of Ravi and Kunal, after much deliberation, approached Birla Fertility & IVF to explore donor eggs and surrogacy. Altruistic surrogacy helped them inspire others in their community, highlighting the importance of visibility and support.

Expert Insight

“Parenthood is not bound by gender or orientation,” says Dr. Shilpa Singhal, adding, “ART allows us to extend the joys of parenthood to those who may not have considered it a possibility earlier.”

Statistics: The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) recorded over 3,275 adoptions in India in 2023, reflecting a growing acceptance of adoption as a viable route to parenthood.

Egg Freezing: Securing Parenthood for the Future

With more women choosing to delay marriage or prioritise careers, egg freezing has emerged as a game-changer. These allow individuals to preserve their fertility at a younger age, ensuring higher success rates when they’re ready to conceive. Sujata, at 37, chose to freeze her eggs at Birla Fertility & IVF after deciding to focus on her career. “It felt like I was taking control of my future,” she says.

Expert Insight
“Egg freezing offers women the freedom to plan their families without worrying about the biological clock,” explains Dr. Shilpa  from Birla Fertility & IVF.

Statistics: There has been a 15-20% annual increase in women opting for egg freezing in India, particularly in urban areas.

 The Emotional Core of Parenthood

While the legal and medical aspects of alternative parenthood are crucial, the emotional side is equally significant. Parenthood is not just about biology—it’s about love, resilience, and hope.

At Birla Fertility & IVF, specialists emphasize compassionate care, offering personalized solutions for every unique journey. From IVF to fertility preservation, the goal is to empower individuals and couples with the tools and confidence to embrace parenthood.

A Brighter Future for Aspiring Parents

Advancements in reproductive health and shifting societal norms are redefining parenthood. Whether it’s through fertility preservation, ART, or adoption, individuals and couples are finding new ways to create families.

Fertility chains like Birla Fertility & IVF are at the forefront of this change, blending cutting-edge technology with heartfelt care. Their commitment to supporting every aspiring parent ensures that no dream of building a family is out of reach.

As Dr. Shilpa Singhal aptly puts it, “Parenthood is not defined by how you start your family; it’s about the love, dedication, and joy that comes with it.”

For millions of Indians, these words resonate deeply, offering hope and a reminder that the journey to parenthood, though challenging, is always worth it.