flu shot when pregnant

Flu Shot when Pregnant

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So many opinions on vaccinations lately. What’s a surrogate to do? As Shared Conception always recommends, talk to your doctor before going to a clinic or getting a flu shot outside your doctor’s office. As a surrogate, refer to your contract to see what it states about flu vaccinations.

The flu can cause severe illness in pregnant women—your body changes when you are pregnant, including your immune system. Flu can also be harmful to a developing baby, and even something as simple as a fever can have adverse outcomes for a baby in utero.

What not to do

Pregnant women should get a flu shot, NOT the live attenuated vaccine (LAIV or nasal spray). When you get vaccinated, request the flu shot — not the nasal spray vaccine. The flu shot is made from an inactivated virus, so it’s safe for both mother and baby during any stage of pregnancy.

According to the CDC: 

“There is no recommendation that pregnant people or people with pre-existing medical conditions need to get special permission or written consent from their doctor or health care professional for influenza (flu) vaccination if they get vaccinated at a worksite clinic, pharmacy, or other location outside of their physician’s office. Pregnant people should not get nasal spray vaccine.”

But did you know? 

Generally, September and October are the recommended time to be vaccinated. But, early vaccinations can be considered for women in their third trimester to protect the baby for months after birth.

Most of our surrogates have received the flu shot when pregnant to protect themselves and the baby against the flu. Vaccines reduce the risk of hospitalization and flu-associated acute respiratory infection in pregnant women up to 40%.

Are you interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

 

The vertex position

Which way is up? 

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The vertex position. A technical term that describes when a baby is delivered headfirst. The vertex position is the ideal position when you are getting ready for labor. But it’s not always the case.

Usually, weeks before you give birth, the baby moves in a position with its head above your vagina. Sometimes, their feet, bottom, or bottom, and feet remain in this area, which is known as breech. There are a few other ways the baby can position themselves, if not in the vertex position. This does not always require a cesarean, but you will have to discuss the best and safest way to deliver with your doctor.

Breech Position

Breech position is when a baby enters the birth canal with the buttocks or feet first, rather than the head. This prevents the cervix (opening to the uterus) from dilating effectively and can lead to the umbilical cord becoming pinched or compressed. Breech position only occurs in approximately 3-4% of deliveries and is more likely in premature births or multiple babies. While breech babies can be delivered vaginally, studies have found that vaginal deliveries are around three times more likely to result in serious harm to the baby than cesarean sections. Therefore, in most cases in the US, breech babies are delivered by c-section. Your doctor can diagnose a breech presentation either by a physical exam or ultrasound.

Shoulder first

Shoulder first is rare and occurs in less than 1% of deliveries. This is when the baby lies sideways in the uterus, rather than head down or buttocks/feet down. If labor begins with the baby in this position, the shoulder becomes wedged in the pelvis, and the delivery usually does not progress. Almost all babies with shoulder presentation will need to be delivered by cesarean section. Shoulder presentation, like breech presentation, is more common in premature babies or the setting of multiple gestations.

External cephalic version (ECV)

ECV is one way to turn a baby from breech position to head-down position while it’s still in the uterus. It involves the doctor applying pressure to your stomach to turn the baby from the outside. Sometimes, an ultrasound is used to help this turn.

Many women who have normal pregnancies can have ECV. You should not have ECV if you have other complications and talk to your doctor if you are comfortable pursuing this option.

No matter what position the baby decides to be in, be sure to have an honest discussion with your doctor about getting the baby in the safest place best for you to deliver and get the little one into the arms of your intended parents.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

Gender reveal ideas

Gender Reveal Ideas!

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Gender reveal parties have taken off in the past decade – they have almost taken a life of their own. With their Pinterest Boards, Amazon party kits, and even dedicated websites this is becoming a new tradition. There are so many ways to celebrate the revelation of your soon-to-be baby. We have all seen the reveal bloopers with the powder cannons, balloon popping, cake eating – and laughed, but what if you’re using a surrogate? This makes things a little bit different, but these ideas will let the party start!

Have a party!

There are so many ways to reveal your baby’s gender if you choose to, and the best way is your way. No matter what you do, sharing the expected baby’s gender is a fun way to incorporate everyone in a momentous occasion.

Cake

You don’t need to have a party to have cake! Is there a yummier way to announce the gender of your child? A gender reveal cake is a cake that, when sliced, will show the dominant color of either blue or pink.

Piñata

If you want to get your surrogate’s children or your nieces or nephews involved, children don’t love anything more than a piñata! Having it stuffed with blue or pink goodies is fun and exciting to reveal the gender of your baby to be.

Balloons

Whether you pop them, let them fly, put them in a box – balloons are a fun surprise. You can fill them to pop them, stuff them in a box for a great surprise – and kids love them too!

Sonograms

Sonograms are your first sneak peek at your baby. You can use it to reveal your baby’s gender by adding a pop of color to show the baby’s gender uniquely! Use a cute colored frame or add sweet embellishments to a sonogram photo to create an unforgettable gender reveal!

Include your pet! 

Gender reveals aren’t just for people these days— you can get your family pet involved! Tie a colored scarf, hang a sign, or place baby shoes next to your pet’s paws for a meaningful or photo op!

 

You can be the most significant part of a gender reveal! Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

 

 

 

placenta accrete

Our Placentas II – Placenta accrete

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We have recently discussed placenta previa, the cause, risk, symptoms, and treatments. But we are not done talking about the placenta!  Shared Conception would like to fill you in on another condition that affects our placentas, known as placenta accrete.

What is Placenta Accreta

Placenta accreta is a serious pregnancy condition that occurs when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall. This can result in the placenta detaching from the uterine wall after childbirth. With placenta accreta, part or all of the placenta remains attached. This can cause severe blood loss after delivery.

3 Different types of this condition

Each type is determined by how deeply the placenta is attached to the uterus.

  • Placenta accreta: The placenta firmly attaches to the wall of the uterus. It does not pass through the wall of the uterus or impact the muscles of the uterus. This is the most common type of placenta issue.
  • Placenta increta: This type of condition sees the placenta more deeply embedded in the wall of the uterus. It still does not pass through the wall but is firmly attached to the muscle of the uterus.
  • Placenta percreta: The most severe of the types, placenta percreta happens when the placenta passes through the wall of the uterus. The placenta might grow through the uterus and impact other organs, such as the bladder or intestines.

Who is at risk for Placenta Accreta?

Women who have had multiple cesarean sections carry a greater risk of developing this condition.  This results from scarring of the uterus from the procedures. The more cesarean sections a woman has over time, the higher her risk of placenta accreta.

However, women who have had placenta previa should be carefully checked for accreta. Contrary to popular belief, an accreta isn’t always detected on an ultrasound or MRI image before delivery. Although an ultrasound or MRI image can detect an accreta, it is not a guarantee.

What are the risks to the mother and baby from placenta accreta?

The risks of placenta accreta can be severe and can expand beyond the surrogate to the newborn. Once born, the baby may be at additional risk because of premature birth. Risks for the surrogate can include:

  • Premature delivery
  • Damage to the uterus and surrounding organs
  • Need for a hysterectomy (removal of uterus)
  • Excessive bleeding or a blood transfusion
  • Rarely, death

Is there treatment?

Treatment of placenta accreta can vary. If the condition is diagnosed before birth, the pregnancy will be monitored closely. The caregiver will schedule a c-section to deliver the baby, often earlier than the due date. This is done to decrease the risk of bleeding from contractions or labor. If the woman wishes to have future pregnancies, the caregivers may attempt to save the uterus. However, in unusually severe cases where the placenta becomes invasive to other organs, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be the best option for the surrogate. Removing the uterus with the placenta still attached minimizes the risk of excessive bleeding, also known as hemorrhaging.

fall into healthy habits when pregnant

Fall into these Healthy Habits this Season!

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Avoiding sushi and soft cheeses are well-known foods to avoid when you’re pregnant. But here are a few more not-so-well-known changes to make when pregnant.

Try them out! The following can help with fewer aches and pains, less stress, and more energy!

Floss

Your dentist probably tells you this every time you have a cleaning. Flossing is not only important when you are not pregnant but even more necessary when you are pregnant. Pregnancy hormones make your mouth more susceptible to plaque and bacteria, which in turn lead to gum inflammation and other serious gum diseases. You may even notice that your gums are more sensitive and bleed, even if you are an avid flosser. Keeping care of your mouth will help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis (inflammation of the gums). These conditions can increase your risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia. So add some floss picks to your grocery list today. (And brush twice).

Slip in extra R&R

Your body is in overdrive when you are expecting. Think about it, you’re building a life inside you, and a growing baby is putting a lot of demands on your body. On top of that, your hormones are surging – literally sucking the energy out of you. That’s why getting enough rest is so important. Rest not only makes you feel more energized but can curb nausea, reduce aches and pains (especially if you suffer from back pain), lower blood pressure, and even help you sleep better at night.

Snack wisely

We all know that skipping a meal is almost impossible for a surrogate. All of that nourishment is necessary for the baby, but snacking becomes more serious as you go through your journey. You’ll want to have a nutritious snack on hand whenever you need one. If you have healthy choices at your disposal, you are less likely to pick up a candy bar or dive into that bag of chips! Try snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, or whole-grain crackers to keep in your purse for those hunger attacks when you are on the go.

Choose healthier drinks

You may want to find some alternatives to coffee and soda when you’re pregnant; even simply cutting back will be better for you. Caffeine and sugar often act as diuretics and can wash out essential nutrients before your body can absorb them. Also, all of those mouth-watering coffee drinks can be filled with calories, sugar, and more caffeine than you may think. The best drink for you is good old H2O. And, it doesn’t have to be boring! Make it interesting with a slice of orange, lemon, or lime, or even spice it up with some herbs.

Get in the water

Although you may feel like you are wearing a permanent flotation device, consider swimming. Laps and aqua aerobics will do wonders for your pregnant self, and it helps relieve aches and pains (especially as your belly grows) and improves circulation and endurance. There is nothing like feeling weightless in the water.

Eating right, working out, and drinking plenty of water is good for you, pregnant or not. Listen to your body and make a point of slowing down every now and then. Enjoy your pregnancy! Need some more tips? Feel free to contact Shared Conception. If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy, give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way.  Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

the placenta

Our Placentas

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The Placenta

Pregnancy and the ability to be a surrogate is nothing short of a miracle. From the joy it gives another family, to the science behind carrying a child that isn’t biologically related to you. There are many things involved in each process, including life-changing ones.

 

Between the surge of hormones and growing tummy to mood swings and that chocolate you had to have at 11:30 at night, many changes occur in pregnant women’s bodies. What we will focus on in this article is a topic not spoken about often: the placenta and placenta previa.

 

Usually, during the initial pregnancy stages, the placenta is near the bottom of your womb, by the cervix or the opening. Although as your baby grows and your uterus expands, your placenta automatically moves toward the top, leaving the space clear for the birth. While that’s how things work naturally, for many women, if the placenta stays towards the bottom of the uterus, blocking the cervix, it’s a condition known as placenta previa.

When it occurs

Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partly or completely covers the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus. Your baby passes into the cervix and through the birth canal during vaginal delivery. Typically, the placenta attaches toward the top of the uterus, away from the cervix.

Placenta previa is estimated to occur in around one in every 200 pregnancies in the second or third trimester.

 

Diagnosis

Placenta previa gets diagnosed through ultrasound, either during your routine prenatal appointment or if you experience vaginal bleeding. Bleeding can require an abdominal ultrasound and/or transvaginal ultrasound. Your health care provider will have to be careful not to disrupt the placenta or cause further bleeding.

 

There are several options to manage placenta previa, but there is no medical or surgical treatment to cure this condition. If your health care provider suspects placenta previa, they will avoid routine vaginal exams to reduce the risk of heavy bleeding. You may need some additional ultrasounds to check the location of your placenta during your pregnancy to see if placenta previa resolves.

 

Is it harmful to the baby?

Roughly 15% of women with placenta previa deliver before 34 weeks gestation. This creates a risk for premature birth complications, including breathing problems, low birth weight, and birth injuries such as cerebral palsy and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

In most cases, placenta previa goes away. 

The majority of placenta previa cases resolve on their own. As the uterus grows, it pulls the placenta up, and the positioning becomes normal by 20 weeks. If a placenta previa is still present after 20 weeks, you will need to have ultrasounds every 2 to 4 weeks to monitor the Previa.

 

Why not take the next step and open a dialogue with Shared Conception? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to begin an application to become a gestational surrogate and find out more information!

A gentle c-section, what is it? Can it be right for you?

Ever hear of a Gentle Cesarean?

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Planning a C-section? 

We all have our ideal labor and delivery planned in our heads or on paper. As a surrogate, this would not be your first experience with labor and delivery. Some of us have to deliver via cesarean due to medical conditions or previous C-section births. Other times, again due to complications, or if the baby is breech, an unexpected C-section is necessary.

To not be able to birth a child naturally is a concern to some. For the sake of your body and the baby, although perfectly safe, it’s not ideal. You may be in a position where it is the only option, and sometimes it is. You may not know that there are options when it comes to cesareans, and one is a gentle cesarean.

What is a gentle cesarean? 

This procedure is less of a major operation and closer to a vaginal delivery. The surgical aspects are still the same, but this allows you or your intended parents the ability to see and touch the newborn as soon as possible. Of course, this depends on your comfort level when giving birth and requires a little more planning with your intended parents and the labor and delivery team. Some doctors even allow the baby to wriggle around as they would in the birth canal before being scooped out. This allows a bit of a squeeze to get the extra fluid from the lungs expelled.

From a surrogate standpoint, this can also prevent your arms from being tied down, which is common in a C-section operation.

*If you are planning a cesarean, you will want to discuss this option with your intended parents and, most importantly, your healthcare provider.

Gentle C-sections are gaining popularity with many women. It’s aimed to bridge the gap between traditional C-sections and natural births. It only takes about 5 minutes longer than traditional c-sections and should not cost more. As always, talk with your intended parents and health care provider or Shared Conception.

No matter how you give birth, the outcome is the same: a miracle. Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

you can be a surrogate

Surrogacy pregnancies are different from biological pregnancies

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The most popular question asked as a surrogate is, “How can you give up the baby.” People can’t help themselves. And they don’t understand – it’s different than a biological baby. Surrogacy is not mainstream yet. There is not a lot of information out there. Everyone has a different answer, but I’ll give you mine.

In short, it’s a well-thought-out (incredible) commitment. It’s also a medical process, not biologically linked to you, and you are selflessly helping create a family. And these are not the only differences.

Believe me; I could never give up any child of mine. And each of my two surrogate babies was entirely different than my two biological babies. When I found out I was pregnant with my bio babies, I was elated. For myself, my husband, and the family we were creating. We enjoyed letting everyone know, the gender reveal, the baby shower, etc. I had a great pregnancy, loved being pregnant, and couldn’t wait to hold my beautiful babies when they were born. When I did, I was instantly in love, connected and all of my mom instincts kicked into high gear.

Surrogacy was awesome too, but different. It didn’t start with an at-home pregnancy test or my husband and I crying with joy on the floor in our bathroom. It began with interviews, psychological and medical evaluations, background checks, the matching process, contracts, lawyers, a medical protocol, and many weekly blood tests. I was excited because I loved being pregnant, but more for the intended parents to hold a baby they worked so hard for. I felt love for the child I was carrying but also a great responsibility. I took care of myself – maybe even better than my other two biological pregnancies! Maybe not…but with a contract to consider, you definitely think twice at times.

When I had the surrogate babies, I did not feel my maternal instincts kick in. I felt proud and joyful in the journey I had. I loved seeing the intended parents with their child – and the smiles on their faces. It was priceless. I felt whole at the end of my journey and couldn’t wait to return to my own family, for I developed a new appreciation for them.

Surrogacy isn’t for everyone, but it may not be as emotionally complicated as you may think. Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

injection support

New Needle Support

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A common apprehension when considering surrogacy is the injections that must be administered before the IVF transfer and throughout the first trimester. Shared Conception would like to share with you our new findings that will put you at ease! Our surrogates are just raving about this new and helpful tool when administering injections. It’s called Buzzy Mini. It’s a small device that acts as a massager to minimize pain from a shot. Through the magic of vibration and ice pain-blocking methods, it can alleviate pain associated with the (sometimes apprehensive) injections all surrogates must dispense.

 

It has two reusable slip-on ice wings that last for up to 100 uses, batteries (AAA), and instruction. Many surrogates have praised this method – so we HAVE to share. The anxiety about these shots runs high with many surrogates. And that is totally normal. The truth is, you get used to it quickly.

 

The science behind this item is the gate control theory. When nerves receive non-painful signals such as vibration and cold, our brain shuts off pain signals. Like if you burn a finger on a hot coffee cup, you instinctively act by rubbing it or running it under cold water. This is the body’s way of sending non-pain signals to your nerves to prevent that feeling of pain. It comes in many cute colors, and you can use this long after your short window of administering injections ends.

 

Find the method that works for you and stick to it! Most surrogates find they do not need any preparation before administering their shots after the first week. Remember, the first is always the hardest, and the last is the most rewarding!

 

Begin your journey with Shared Conception. You can find more helpful tips and tricks about shots on our blog here. Call either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 location for more information. You can also visit www.deliveradream.com to begin a surrogacy application. We look forward to hearing from you.

tips for a surrogate partner

Tips for a Surrogate Partner

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As a partner to a surrogate mother, you will hear how selfless and generous they are, but you deserve some kudos too! Although the workload is on her, you play an essential role in the entire process. You will serve as a chauffeur, nurse, take on more household or childcare responsibilities, rub tired and sore legs with various other tasks and “favors” that will come your way. Shared Conception wants to give some advice for partners of surrogate mothers.

 

Don’t stop the conversation:

It is important to communicate your needs throughout the journey, not just in the beginning. It’s the best way to overcome any obstacles that your relationship may face during the pregnancy.

 

Stay involved.

 Go to significant doctor appointments, ask, “how are you doing today” – and mean it! You will feel like you are part of the journey when you try. Depending on your level of comfort, it does help to be involved with the intended parents. This relationship is vital to a successful and happy surrogacy. So, stay on that text chain, or join in on that FaceTime call. A little bit of involvement can go a long way.

 

Pause from Intimacy:

Your partner will take fertility medications that can make her pregnant in the blink of an eye. You will have to abstain from sex for a little while during this time and after the transfer. This won’t last forever. Be honest with your partner if there are any intimacy issues in your relationship at this time. Couples tend to be less intimate during pregnancy, and it may feel different knowing your partner is carrying a baby for someone else.

 

Imbalanced Responsibilities: 

Your partner will experience dips in energy and motivation as she gets further along in the pregnancy. You may have to take on more responsibility with life, in general, such as the kids, cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, etc. If this starts to wear on you, you may all need a break. Always communicate, and it’s okay if you don’t fold the laundry that day….it will be there tomorrow.

 

Reduced Activity: 

Those impromptu bike ride, walks, concerts, weekend getaways may come to a pause, too. But, as mentioned above, it is momentary. Take this opportunity to find something different you can do together. This might be a great way to discover a new hobby or interest.

 

Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you! Shared Conception promises to support you and your partner throughout your journey.