Decisions to Parent

Parenthood is an important developmental milestone. Although some trans people decide to remain childfree, the majority of trans people want to become parents—although the if, how, and when can be complex. It is estimated that between 25% and 75% of trans people want to become parents. Biological or genetic parenthood can occur through sexual intercourse or with the use of assistive reproductive technologies, such as being or using a sperm or egg donor. In addition, trans people can become parents through adoption, foster care, or blending/stepfamilies. Each of these options comes with unique challenges and barriers for trans people, which play a role in the decision-making process and the attainment of future parenthood.

Many trans people describe a strong desire for biological parenthood—yet biological parenthood is ...