Embryo adoption has been a recent development that many women and families are discovering and choosing to pursue. It offers a unique and compassionate pathway to parenthood. This type of adoption allows embryos who have not been born to have a chance at life. At Save the Storks, it is always our mission to celebrate and protect the sanctity of life. We acknowledge that embryos are in essence, human.
Embryo adoption not only grants embryos the opportunity to develop and thrive, but also gives adoptive parents to experience the profound journey of pregnancy and childbirth. In a world that often disregards the value of life at its earliest stages, embryo adoption stands as a powerful testament to the inherent worth of every human being.
What is Embryo Adoption?
Embryo adoption offers frozen embryos — tiny lives created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), typically remaining from another couple’s IVF treatments — the chance to grow, thrive, and fulfill their God-given potential. Instead of being discarded or indefinitely frozen, these embryos are placed into the loving womb of an adoptive mother who longs to give them the precious gift of life.
Unlike traditional adoption, embryo adoption allows a mother to experience the joys and challenges of pregnancy, forming a deep bond with her child from the very beginning. It’s a life-affirming choice that reflects the belief that every life, no matter how small, is sacred.
What are the concerns around IVF?
There are several groups within the pro-life community that view IVF as an unnatural way of conceiving children. They argue that while the creation of life is something to be celebrated, many embryos are left frozen or are discarded. Since 1991, out of 3.5 million embryos that were created, less than 300,000 were successfully implanted. More than 1.4 million embryos were discarded. These groups see IVF as a commodification of children, and would prefer that women and families try to conceive naturally. This would eliminate the overproduction of embryos, or to adopt children who have already been born.
In contrast, there is also research that details how embryos, even when created naturally, do not survive until the implantation stage; around 40-60% are lost from fertilization to birth. Meaning, regardless of if the embryo was created through IVF or through sexual intercourse, the chance of survival of several embryos is low. It comes down to viability, which cannot be determined even when IVF specialists deem certain embryos “stronger” than others. The process of life is miraculous in and of itself. These scientific advancements still cannot guarantee a successful pregnancy.
While Save the Storks does not take a stance on IVF, we believe that embryo adoption is a beautiful choice. It gives unborn lives––viable embryos that may be at risk of being discarded–– a chance to grow into their full potential.
Is Embryo Adoption the Right Choice?
Choosing embryo adoption is a redemptive act. It’s a way to rescue these precious lives and give them a future.While some may view these embryos as mere cells, pro-life advocates recognize them as unique individuals with purpose and dignity. Every heartbeat, every kick, every moment of development inside the womb testifies to the miracle of life. Embryo adoption ensures that no life is wasted, affirming the belief that all children are created in the image of God.
The Heart of Embryo Adoption: Love and Sacrifice
Embryo adoption is not without its challenges. The legal and medical processes can be complex, and the emotional investment is significant. There are costs to consider, screenings and assessments, legal contracts, etc. But for families who choose this path, the joy of welcoming a child into their arms far outweighs any difficulty.
It’s a journey that demands selflessness and courage — values deeply ingrained in the pro-life movement. And for the mothers who carry these precious children, it’s a tangible expression of what it means to choose life.
We also acknowledge the donors of these embryos and the emotional impact it may have on them. Their willingness to offer, essentially, parts of themselves is truly admirable. We recognize the value of this journey on both ends.
Embryo Adoption: A Beautiful Choice
Embryo adoption is a beautiful example of what it means to stand for life. It’s a call to embrace the vulnerable, to celebrate the miracle of existence. A call to offer hope where it’s needed most.
At Save the Storks, we believe that every life has value. Supporting and promoting embryo adoption is one more way we can live out our commitment to protect the unborn. Whether you’re a couple longing to grow your family, a donor considering the future of your embryos, or an advocate for life, your role in this story matters.
Also read: Our Favorite Movies Featuring the Beauty of Adoption
