Presented by Yesh Tikva’s Kenzi Locks, LCSW HWC, and Gila Block

It’s a common belief that once infertility “ends” in parenthood, the next phase is like anyone else’s. In particular, for the parents who experienced reproductive trauma, treatment, and the uncertainty of the future they had planned before turning to donor conception, surrogacy, or adoption, the complicated feelings from infertility often don’t resolve once a baby arrives.

Grounded in emerging research and case vignettes, we’ll discuss how this long-anticipated phase of life can hold joy and relief while coexisting with pain. Unanticipated anxiety, unresolved grief, and shame can appear familiar to perinatal mental health providers, while actually being shaped by distinct roots and often “missed themes.” Hypervigilance, questioning their own legitimacy, fears around disclosure of family-building methods, ambiguous loss, bonding fears, and the overwhelming stigma of appearing anything but “grateful” for the outcome can be unique parts of their story.

Along with psychoeducation, we will provide actionable strategies and frameworks to build stronger parent groups, peer programs, clinical encounters, and community settings, as well as concrete tools to identify when symptoms warrant PMAD-level assessment. Finally, we will also highlight how to support families with complex journeys alongside those with more traditional paths, so all parents feel seen, safe, and held.