Becoming a parent
Explore the different options available to you for starting or expanding your family. We provide information and guidance to support you at every step.
On this page
Pregnancy
Information related to pregnancy
To find information on pregnancy, sexual health, preconception health and more, refer to Pregnancy.
Guide to a healthy pregnancy
Discover essential tips and resources to support you every step of the way for a safe and healthy journey. Refer to Your Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy for more information.
Surrogacy
Surrogacy in Canada is when a person carries and gives birth to a baby for someone else who can’t have one on their own. Canada’s approach to surrogacy is built on trust, care, and a desire to help people create families. The law says surrogates can only be paid back for expenses related to pregnancy. A legal agreement must be signed by all people involved.
Adoption
Learn about adoption processes across provinces and territories and get the information you need to navigate each step with confidence, no matter where you are in Canada.
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Nunavut
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
International (or intercountry) adoption
International adoption is when a person or couple becomes the legal and permanent parent(s) of a child from another country. The process follows the laws of both the parent’s country and the child’s country.
For more information, visit the international adoption process page.
Fostering
Becoming a foster family in Canada means providing a safe home for children in need. The process involves several steps, including contacting your local children's aid society, attending an information session, completing an application form, and undergoing home study and training. Once the application is approved, you can provide care and support to children going through difficult times. Learn about fostering options in your province or territory:
Assisted Human Reproduction
Assisted human reproduction (AHR) includes medical treatments that help people have children. Whether due to infertility or other reasons, AHR offers options like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) to support Canadians in starting or growing their families.
For more information, please refer to the Assisted Human Reproduction page.