Considering Fertility as a Solo Parent? What You Need to Know Before You Start
Considering Fertility as a Solo Parent? What You Need to Know Before You Start
More women than ever are exploring the idea of becoming a single parent by choice. The idea of waiting for “the right time” or “the right partner” is starting to feel outdated—especially for those who are confident in their desire to raise a child on their own. For hopeful individuals considering solo parenthood, modern fertility care has made this path more approachable and empowering than ever before.
In this blog, we’ll walk through how this trend is growing, what it really means to pursue pregnancy options for single women, and what to consider—practically and emotionally—before beginning.
The Rise of Solo Parenthood and Why It Matters
Solo parenthood isn’t new, but the route to becoming a single mother by choice through fertility care is gaining visibility and momentum. In 2022, the U.S. Census Bureau reported that there were 10.9 million one-parent family groups with children under 18, and 80% of these were maintained by mothers. This underscores the growing presence and normalization of single-parent households in the United States.
At the same time, estimates suggest over 3 million women in the U.S. have chosen solo parenting by pursuing fertility treatments. Public opinion has evolved, too. While older studies showed less support for single parenthood by choice, newer research points to growing acceptance and broader understanding—especially as fertility treatments become more advanced and accessible.
This shift isn’t just about technology—it reflects deeper societal changes. More people feel empowered to pursue parenthood on their own terms, and the resources available today are more inclusive and supportive than ever before.
Chart Your Course with Fertility Options for Solo Parenthood
If you're exploring IVF for single women or wondering if you can get pregnant by yourself, there are several fertility paths available. Each one comes with its own benefits, challenges, and emotional weight—but all are valid and accessible options. At The Fertility Wellness Institute, we walk with you through these possibilities to find the method that feels right for your goals and circumstances.
Donor Gametes
For those pursuing pregnancy options for single women, using donor gametes—either sperm or eggs—is often the starting point. Choosing between a known or anonymous donor can bring up deeply personal questions, including genetic heritage, future transparency, and emotional connection.
It’s worth noting that with DNA testing kits like 23&Me, anonymous donation has become increasingly complex. That’s why we guide patients through the emotional and logistical aspects of this decision, helping them feel confident in their choice. Learn more about our donor gametes services to explore this option in more detail.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF for single women offers one of the most effective and commonly chosen paths for those pursuing solo parenthood. The process involves stimulating the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, retrieving those eggs, fertilizing them with donor sperm, and then transferring a resulting embryo to the uterus.
At our clinic, we recommend reviewing our step-by-step IVF calendar to understand how this process unfolds over time. It’s a multi-step journey, but one that offers a high degree of control and visibility. You can explore our IVF services page to see what your journey might look like with us.
Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
IUI is often considered a more budget-friendly fertility treatment that may appeal to individuals starting their path to single parenthood by choice. This process involves placing donor sperm directly into the uterus during ovulation to improve the chances of fertilization.
It’s a shorter and less invasive treatment than IVF and can be a powerful first option depending on your medical history and age. Visit our IUI services page for more information.
INVOcell
For those looking for a more natural, lower-cost alternative to IVF, INVOcell may offer an appealing balance. This treatment allows fertilization to occur within the body rather than in a lab, using a small device placed in the vaginal canal for incubation.
It's an option that many single mothers by choice are curious about, especially those who want less clinical involvement while still increasing the chances of success. We invite you to read more on our INVOcell service page to see if it may be a good fit for your journey.
Address Emotional and Financial Realities Head-On
Choosing solo parenthood is exciting, but it often comes with layered emotions and important financial decisions. These aspects deserve just as much attention as the medical side of fertility care.
Emotional Well-Being and Support
Facing fertility treatment as a single parent by choice may come with moments of doubt or overwhelm—especially when managing expectations, decision-making, and external opinions. Support groups and mental health resources can make a meaningful difference in how you experience the process.
We encourage exploring our reflections in the blog “Why IVF Support Communities Are Worth Exploring” to see how others have found encouragement and solidarity. There are also powerful resources through therapy platforms and online communities specifically created for single mothers by choice.
Financial Planning and Treatment Costs
Financial planning is an important part of any fertility journey—but for those pursuing solo parenthood, it can feel especially pivotal. Because every treatment plan is unique, so are the associated costs. At The Fertility Wellness Institute, we believe in tailoring care to each individual’s needs, and that includes financial guidance. For that reason, we don't list package pricing online. Instead, we invite you to call us for more information so we can help you understand your options in the context of your personal care plan.
In the meantime, you may want to explore external support resources. There are national organizations and non-profits offering fertility grants and scholarships, which can help offset the cost of care. A comprehensive list is available through RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, which maintains updated links to financial aid opportunities for family building.
Build Your Support Network for a Confident Journey
Your support network matters—especially when pursuing solo parenthood. While you may be doing this independently, that doesn’t mean doing it alone. Whether you're leaning on close friends, connecting with others who’ve chosen this path, or seeking guidance from professionals, a support system can help you feel more grounded and confident as you move forward. A solid community can uplift and affirm your choices, helping you move forward with confidence.
There are dedicated communities and online spaces—like BabyCenter and Single Mothers by Choice—where others share their stories, offer advice, and help normalize the ups and downs of solo parenthood. Support can also come through counseling, fertility-specific support groups, or simply knowing that your care team understands what this journey means to you.
At The Fertility Wellness Institute, we believe connection makes all the difference. We're here to help you find resources that align with your values and your goals, and to walk with you through each step of your path to parenthood.
Begin Your Path with Fertility Wellness Institute
Choosing to become a single parent by choice is a deeply personal decision—and a brave one. It’s a journey that invites hope, reflection, and, often, a little guidance along the way. At The Fertility Wellness Institute of Ohio, we’re honored to support individuals taking this step with care that’s personalized, empowering, and grounded in expertise.
Our full range of services is designed with your unique path in mind. Whether you’re considering IUI, exploring INVOcell, starting the process of IVF, or weighing the emotional and practical aspects of using donor gametes, we’ll walk beside you. We also offer advanced treatments like ICSI for those who may benefit from more specialized care.
If you’re ready to take the next step or simply want to learn more about your options, we encourage you to reach out. You deserve support that matches your courage—and we’re here to provide it, every step of the way.
