Guest Author - Jessica Steinmetz

Having a disability does not mean that you must give up your parenting rights. If you are a competent and willing person, you should be able to raise a child. I know one day I plan to have at least one child. I’m not sure if I’m going to have a child naturally or by adoption. I do know that my disability is not going to get in the way.

I researched parenting with a disability, and came up with a little information. I discovered that parenting with a disability is not socially accepted. And I learned that there are not a lot of parents with disabilities. If there are, I haven’t found many. The parents I have found, however, are truly remarkable and are role models.

My future husband and I have been discussing adoption. Adoption is an excellent alternative because hundreds of children need someone to love them. Also, if you adopt an older child, you don’t need to worry about diapers and caring for an infant. Older children need lots of love, understanding, and guidance.

I realize if I have a baby naturally there is all kinds of things to consider. Many doctors, gynecologists, and obstetricians are unprepared for a pregnant woman with a disability. Finding one that will take matters seriously will be a challenge. Informing the hospital and staff will also be needed. I read that employees gave one pregnant woman with a disability a difficult time when she bought maternity clothes. She didn’t take this woman seriously. Many people think that because you have a disability means that you cannot get pregnant. That is wrong.

Fortunately, some products and procedures exist so that caring for your baby is easier. Breast-feeding is a plus because you do not have to worry about bottles. Not to mention great benefits for your baby. Some brands of diapers are made with Velcro to make things easier. Slings, cribs, and other equipment are available for disabled parents.

In time, I hope to see and meet more parents with disabilities. I also hope one day that I will be one of them.