The dating game can be tricky and often requires you to walk a fine line. Talking about children too soon could have your potential mate running out the door faster than you can say "kids."
You usually won't feel comfortable enough to discuss having children until you share strong feelings for one another. It can be devastating to discover your potential true love cannot have children. You can learn, however, how to date someone who cannot have kids.
Your Decision
Once you learn of your partners' inability to have children it is important that you do some soul searching on how you truly feel about the situation. If it is something you can't get past, let your partner know it won't work out. Continuing the relationship could only lead to further pain or resentment. If you can look past it, though, there are many options for you both.
Ways Around Infertility
If you and your partner decide you want children, infertility treatments could be the answer. Finding out why she is unable to have children will determine how successful you will be. The Reproductive Science Center reports 7.3 million people affected by infertility in the U.S. It also showed a 41.2 percent success rate in 2009 using fertility treatments. Cost, diagnosis and failed attempts can take an emotional toll, but with support, you can make it through.
Adopt
According to the Evan B. Donaldson Adoption Institute, there were 120,000 children adopted each year throughout the 1990s, and that number has not changed much since then. Failed adoption numbers are relatively low. Still, the road can be long and tedious but is well worth it. If this is an option you are considering, do some research and find a reputable adoption agency in your area.
Effects on Your Relationship
The inability to have kids can make your partner feel as if he is inadequate or "damaged goods." It can take a toll on his self-confidence and make him feel insecure in your relationship. When dealing with infertility issues, support each other. Let him know you are in this together. The support you give him will develop a bond that nothing can break.
Re-learn Your Life
Many couples choose not to have kids and are just as happy as those who choose to have them. If you're unable to have kids, don't look at it as though your life is over. It's a chance to take a different path; re-learn your lives together. Travel the world, pursue a childhood dream or take time to learn new things you would never have the chance to do if you had children. It's a new adventure for you and your partner and without the responsibilities of raising children, the sky is the limit.
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