After years of contemplation, my partner and I have finally broached the topic of starting a family. While I recognize the challenges associated with conceiving a child in my late 30s, my desire to become a parent outweighs any apprehensions. However, our journey towards parenthood has been met with unexpected skepticism from my partner’s autistic friends, who express concerns about the potential for our child to inherit severe disabilities.

Despite their warnings, our decision remains firm, rooted in the absence of a family history of severe disability on either side. Both of us come from families with neurodivergent members, alongside neurotypical relatives. None of them encountered birth complications or childhood health issues. In fact, some family members even welcomed healthy babies in their mid-40s and, in the case of my father, in his 50s, without encountering any genetic challenges.

Despite our confidence in our decision, my partner’s worries have amplified in response to his friends’ apprehensions. This newfound anxiety has cast a shadow of doubt over our plans for parenthood, leaving us feeling uncertain about the future.

Amidst these uncertainties, a glimmer of hope emerged when someone mentioned the possibility of genetic testing to assess our compatibility for parenthood. However, the specifics of these tests remain shrouded in mystery, leaving us eager to explore further but unsure of where to begin.

As we navigate this uncharted territory, we are reminded of the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. While doubts may linger, we remain steadfast in our belief that parenthood is a journey worth embarking on, regardless of the challenges that may lie ahead.

In the coming days, we hope to uncover more information about genetic testing and explore all available options to ensure the health and well-being of our future child. Despite the uncertainties that accompany our decision, we remain hopeful and optimistic about the prospect of welcoming a new life into our world, ready to embrace the joys and challenges that parenthood may bring.