surrogacy years later

Surrogacy Years Later

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Before, during, and after surrogacy is a commonly discussed topic. When you begin the surrogacy process and establish your support network, there are many questions from friends, loved ones, and even children to be asked and answered. Usually, questions are welcomed from your close circle because they are people who love and support your chosen journey. Some everyday surrogacy conversations consist of your multiple medical appointments, medications, evaluations, background checks, the “am I really doing this?” phase, meeting your intended parents for the first time, and more.

 

Your journey becomes an even hotter topic as your belly grows, and you have to decide what to tell a stranger in the grocery store that asks, “when are you due?”, “is it a boy or a girl?” or to say “congratulations!” These questions from strangers get brought back home or immediately discussed with someone who knows your situation. It’s fun, exciting, and even humorous at times. Then, there are the times when you are asked, “How can you give up the baby?” This question, although invasive, is the most common. You will eventually find a comfortable answer that you will be able to recite in your sleep.

 

The most rewarding aspect is the beautiful experience of labor and delivery when you see the most intimate moment of intended parents holding their child for the first time. Afterward, you get to recover from a long and gratifying journey and start getting into that pre-baby shape! And then you are done, with a sense of joy and meaning, fulfilled and knowing that you gave back in ways that many can or will not.

 

And we read about this all the time. Many blogs cover journeys. What to expect, what to prepare for, how to do it best, what to do after birth, and more. But, how about years later? On a personal note, I have had two journeys, and as of this year, the children are 5 and 3.

 

My first family lives out of the country. I still make calls around the holidays and for her birthday. I wish I could see her, but the distance is far too great to make an annual trip. Her parents are wonderful in sending me updates and pictures every now and then. My husband and I genuinely love them and forged a quick and strong connection throughout our journey. I cannot wait for the day that we meet again, as the last time I hugged her she was two weeks old!

 

I still talk about my first surrogacy with my family. My children will mention it sometimes, and I share pictures of the beautiful growing girl I once carried for 39 weeks. My friends and those who know about my surrogate past will also sometimes ask about her, and I am happy to indulge them, always showing the most recent picture I receive. But these conversations do not happen every day now; they are few and far between. Yet each conversation about her is very special to me and always leaves a smile on my face.

 

My second journey was entirely different as it was for a local couple. I also had an incredible journey, and the IPs were able to attend almost every appointment, and I even was invited to the baby shower. I carried another girl, and I get to see her a few times a year – and love every minute of it! She calls me “Auntie” and is growing like a weed. We have fun playdates and lunch dates – her smile warms my heart. I share my experience with my close circle of friends and family when asked, “what did you do today?” But this does not happen every day. Only a few times a year.

 

I leave every conversation or meeting with my surrogate families with that warm and fuzzy feeling. I feel like it was a lifetime ago that I carried these two beautiful babies. I am very proud of what I did and know that I helped build a family, actually, two incredible families. I know surrogacy is not for everyone, but it was for me.

 

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate with Shared Conception, call our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Visit www.deliveradream.com to begin your application and prequalify.

stretches when pregnant

Stretch for pregnancy

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If you find being pregnant sore and uncomfortable, try some pregnancy-safe stretches. Stretching can help relieve aches and pains and melt away any stress or tension as well.

Benefits

Pregnant or not, stretching has its benefits. Stretching lengthens your muscles and loosens your entire body, making you feel better and more comfortable. When you are pregnant, your weight becomes redistributed, and your posture shifts, causing tightness in your muscles, especially your lower back. Even your range of motion is affected. That is why stretching can not only alleviate pain and pressure but improve your range of motion.

Safety

As always, consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen during your pregnancy. Stretch with care and keep these tips in mind:

  • Make sure you warm-up. Stretching tight muscles can cause injury. Begin with a brisk walk or some knee raises.
  • Don’t overstretch. Relaxin is not just what you do when you take a break. It is a hormone that loosens ligaments and prepares your body for labor and delivery. Since all your ligaments are affected by relaxin, it is possible to overdo it and injure yourself. Just be sure to listen to your body and do what feels good. Stretching should not be painful.
  • Hold those stretches! Don’t bounce while you stretch. You can pull a muscle this way. Hold your stretches for 20-30 seconds and hold in a comfortable position. You should never feel pain.

Check out this slide show from the Mayo Clinic to learn how to stretch when pregnant safely.

Exercise

Exercise can do wonders for a pregnant body. It can boost your mood, improve sleep, and reduce stress along with aches and pains. Also, it will help you get back into pre-pregnancy shape. Research has shown that prenatal exercise can lower the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. To avoid injury, take it easy and stretch before and after your workout.

Are you interested in learning more about surrogacy? 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!

telling your child about their origin

Telling your child their origin

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The conversation with your child about being born via surrogacy can be a difficult one. It is a story about how hard you worked to have them, and it is part of their identity. Talking about it early on is a way to normalize their birth through surrogacy – and help them be proud of their origin.

 

Younger children are more open-minded and understanding. The older they get, the more questions they can have, and if the conversation begins early on, it can be easier and more comfortable to discuss when brought up throughout their lives.

 

Experts agree it is essential to be honest with your children from the start:
“The American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Ethics Committee suggests that parents disclose their children’s conception story, and research has suggested that secrecy about a child’s origins may have a negative impact both on the child and his or her parents.”

 

Don’t forget about the number of friends and family members that know your child’s story. It can be damaging if your child hears the truth from someone else. After all, there is no reason to be ashamed of their story, and you shouldn’t be afraid to talk about it either. You can always ask for the help of friends, family, and professionals. Refer to our blog Four Books for Children of Surrogates. These books help children to understand by delivering age-appropriate messages about surrogacy.

 

Many of our intended parents still have relationships with their surrogates, and those surrogates remain an important part of their lives. Having this relationship can make it easier and also normalize the conversation.

 

Always remember, your child’s surrogacy story is a positive one. It involves people coming together to create a life. Be proud of the way you built your family. Surrogacy is a magnificent and joyous phenomenon. If you are interested in having a surrogate, let Shared Conceptions make your dreams of a family a reality. Give us a call today, and we will help you get one step closer to the child you have always wanted. Visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

pregnancy and constipation

The “C” Word

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Feeling bloated is almost a rite of passage when pregnant. But when that feeling is a byproduct of constipation, it is EXTREMELY uncomfortable.

Here is why you may feel backed up and what you can do about it.

Constipation can begin as progesterone levels increase. Progesterone causes the muscles in your bowels to relax, allowing food to hang around the digestive tract for an extended amount of time. While uncomfortable, it’s not all bad. More nutrients absorb into your bloodstream for you and Baby. But and there is always a but, it can cause a traffic jam.

There are many ways to handle constipation:

  • Fiber: Fiber-rich foods help you eliminate waste. The recommended amount of fiber to consume is 25-35 grams each day. You can find fiber in whole grain cereals, bread, legumes, fresh fruits, and veggies. If you have a sweet tooth, dried fruits are a great way to satisfy and combat constipation.
  • Say no to “Refined”: Avoid refined grains such as white bread, white rice, and pasta. These are culprits for constipation.
  • Hydrate: Drink fluids, especially water, because they keep solids moving through your digestive tract and make stool softer and easier to pass. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day will help aid the process. If you are really in a bind (pun intended), prune juice is considered a mild laxative and can help.
  • Avoid big meals: A large meal can overwhelm your digestive tract and back things up. Eating smaller meals throughout the day can help with less gas and bloating.
  • Prenatal Vitamins: OBs always recommend prenatal vitamins. They can cause constipation in some individuals. If this happens to you, ask your doctor about alternative prenatals or supplements that will fight constipation.
  • Probiotics: Yogurts containing active cultures have probiotics. Probiotics will stimulate the intestinal bacteria that breaks down food and keeps thing moving. Probiotics can be found in supplements as well. Ask your doctor for recommendations.
  • Exercise: Movement alone encourages healthy bowel movements. A simple walk can get things moving. As always, do not begin a new workout regimen until you check in with your doctor.
  • Warning about laxatives: Check with your doctor before taking any constipation medication. Not all medicines are safe during pregnancy.

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.

 

 

 

 

floating for pregnancy

Hop in!

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Pregnancy in the summer can be hard because it is scorching hot! But look on the bright side! You can float; getting some relief from gravity. Find a pool and hop in! Well, don’t hop. Step in safely. Relaxing in the water will not only cool you down but can be a great form of exercise and take some of the discomforts from achy backs and feet. You will feel weightless! Pool time will also help de-stress, and it’s fun for the whole family!

Floating

To get the most out of floating, make sure you are in a comfortable position. A flotation device such as a noodle, raft, or sling can help with that. You can even use multiple floatation devices, depending on how far along you are. Floating can support you, the baby, and help keep your head above water. Being in the pool is also an excellent opportunity to float belly down (but not for too long) and release the weight of a growing uterus pushing against your organs. Pro tip: for lower back relief, put the pool noodle under your knees.

Exercise

Floating can be exercise as well as support. It’s low impact, and easy on your joints. Swimming maintains muscle tone and increases your endurance. You will feel energized, refreshed, cool and confident this summer with some pool time. Swimming while pregnant has been shown to ease sciatic pain, reduce morning sickness, and improve your labor and delivery.

Safety measures

Please use caution when in a pool. Never swim alone. Notify someone if you feel light-headed and stay hydrated. Always check for water depth. Depending on what body of water you decide to plunge into, be aware of your surroundings, especially with smaller bodies of water. Avoid contamination and water-borne illnesses. Most importantly, say no to hot tubs. You do not want to raise your body temperature or increase a miscarriage or birth defects risk. It’s best to leave these alone for now.

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.

post birth surrogacy

What to Expect Post-Birth

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Building a family is extremely exciting! If you are considering surrogacy, you have an incredible journey ahead of you. It’s exhilarating, surreal, and wonderful to bring a child into the world for someone else. After being matched, you share this incredible ride with your intended parents.

One of the most common questions you will get throughout your journey is how you feel about giving up the baby. When this question arises, you can educate this person by letting them know that this is not your baby, not even biologically. But as a first-time surrogate, do you know what the end of your journey (after birth) withholds?

Many surrogates will agree that giving birth is the most rewarding part of the entire journey. And after labor, most are left with a fulfilling sense of satisfaction and joy watching the intended parents gush over their tiny newborn.

In the Hospital

Most surrogates stay on the labor and delivery floor with the other newborns and new parents in the hospital. After all, surrogates need the same post-natal care as any other mother. The hospital is an excellent opportunity to have friends and family come and visit you while you recuperate and have a chance to rest and relax before getting back to your children and daily life. As long as it is okay with the intended parents, and it is with most, you can visit your surro baby and take in that newborn smell and cuddles without changing the diapers!

Milk

As with any pregnancy, your breasts will be sore, and milk will come in. Prearranged, you will either try every trick in the book to suppress lactation, give it to your surro babe, or donate to a milk bank. Either choice will be what is best for you and your post-baby lifestyle.

Post Hospital

Leaving the hospital is pretty uneventful. Most look forward to sleeping in their bed, recovering at home, being with their own family, and returning to their pre-surrogate lives. You may experience quick changes in hormone levels that can ignite some baby blues. These baby blues are common. If you think that these feelings are intensifying, seek treatment and contact your doctor. Otherwise, surround yourself with support, concentrate on getting back to a healthy lifestyle and focus on the positives!

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.  You can also visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information

Your surrogacy support network

Surrogacy, Support Networks and Beyond

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Surrogacy is such a process for intended parents. Most people who come to the decision they need to choose surrogacy to build their family, are already emotionally exhausted from the trials and tribulations of infertility.

Shared Conception always emphasizes the importance of a support network, on either side of the surrogacy fence; for surrogates or intended parents. Honesty and open communication are essential within this network. Initially, when building your network, expect many questions that may seem invasive but can become an opportunity to educate someone about surrogacy. Intended parents are encouraged to establish support systems for emotional support and whatever other help they may need.

Feeding your network

As mentioned above, expect many questions. Only recently has surrogacy become more mainstream and accepted. Laws on surrogacy constantly change for the better. Take this as an opportunity to inform someone on a rarely discussed topic.

Support systems can grow stronger by introducing your surrogate, if possible, to those who support you the most! It helps with empathy and clarifies what you are going through as an intended parent. Introductions can be as informal as coffee or lunch or as elaborate as a dinner party or an invitation to your baby shower. And if you are not comfortable with either of these notions, that’s okay too.

Part of the network

If you are inside one of these support networks, you may wonder how to support your friend, loved one, or relative. Think about how you would want to feel supported if you were in a similar position. Most likely, you have been with them through their fertility struggles. Being part of this network is an honor. Respect their privacy and always give continued love and support, which will mean the most to them.

If you are lucky enough to meet their surrogate, treat her as a friend. She is, after all, like Wonder Woman, making the hopes and dreams of your friends a reality.

If you are interested in having a surrogate, let Shared Conceptions make your dreams of a family a reality. Give us a call today, and we will help you get one step closer to the child you have always wanted. Visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

sunscreen while pregnant

Best Sunscreens for Pregnancy

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We often find ourselves looking at the ingredients of our beauty products when expecting. Now that summer is arriving, ingredients are very important when it comes to what is in our sunscreen. After all, it is important to protect your skin and baby bump from the harmful effects of the sun. Pregnancy hormones can cause increased skin pigmentation that can get darker in the sun. That is why it is important to use a high-quality SPF pregnant or not.

It is recommended to use a broad-spectrum formula that blocks both UVA and UVB rays with a protection of SPF30 or more. Look for ingredients with minerals such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are hypoallergenic. Pregnant skin tends to be more sensitive to some ingredients, so it is best to use formulas for sensitive skin.

Apply sunscreen 15-30 minutes before exposure to the sun and reapply every two hours, even more often if you are swimming or sweating. Always wear sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats for extra protection and stay hydrated!

Below are some recommended sunscreens for every budget:

Beautycounter Countersun Mineral Sunscreen: Beautycounter offers a wide range of beauty products that do not contain harmful products found in most other brands. Setting a high standard for safety in the beauty industry, Beauty counter sunscreen can be purchased as a lotion, spray or stick.

Thinkbaby SPF: Pediatric Dermatologist recommended, this mineral sunscreen is also nontoxic and formulated with Non-Nano Zinc Oxide for full spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Found at Target for only $13!

Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunscreen: This $9, affordable and oil-free sunscreen protects those with eczema and sensitive skin. Broad-spectrum SPF 60+ contains natural titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

Drunk Elephant Tinted Sunscreen for face: For daily protection and sheer coverage, this sunscreen provides protection and can replace foundation making two steps become one!

Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lip Balm: And don’t forget about your lips! Our lips are very prone to sunburn and need protection too! Look for a zinc-based formula that contains SPF.

Shared Conception wants you to stay protected and safe in the sun. Our surrogates are our top priority, and we are proud to represent such wonderful women! Are you thinking about becoming a surrogate, or would like more information? Your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information. Or for a no-pressure phone call, you can reach out to us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information.

 

 

Other kind of surrogacy support

Another Kind of Support

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Shared Conception emphasizes how necessary it is to have an established support network when undertaking the role of a surrogate mother. Yet, there is another kind of support that every surrogate needs besides a close network of supportive friends and family. It’s called support-wear.

After all, support wear helps you feel more comfortable, confident and is better for both surrogate and baby. With a plethora of comfort-inducing support-wear here is what to look for.

Belts and Bands

Bulging bellies are beautiful but can become uncomfortable. As you grow, your ligaments and muscles move and stretch. This can result in hip, abdominal back, and leg pain. Maternity belts and bands not only provide support taking the stress off of the aforementioned areas but offer compression. The gentle compression of a belly band can help support the uterus and reduce discomfort when completing daily tasks and everyday movement. But don’t keep that band on too long or wear one that is too tight. Too much compression on the abdomen can impair circulation. Always consult your doctor when purchasing or wearing any support wear.

Tops and Tunics

Freedom can be found in your choice of tops. Although tight-fitting shirts can show off that bump, a soft breathable one can keep you cool and comfy. Don’t forget that even non-maternity tops with empire waistlines can at least last throughout the first or second trimester. Look for stretchy fabrics, maybe even size up so they can be worn throughout the majority of your pregnancy and even postpartum. Also, with ever-changing body temperatures, investing in a couple of camisoles or light jackets will help when your body’s temperature fluctuates.

One of the areas guaranteed to grow is our breasts. Some women advance multiple cup sizes, while others just want a bra that doesn’t have underwire. Back, neck, and shoulder pain can be the result of an unsupportive bra. A bra that offers support is essential for your back. Make sure your bra has wide straps, with a good band and several clasps to accommodate your ever-growing boobs.

Maternity Support Bottoms

In this day and age, you can be pregnant and remain fashionable from the bottom up. Maternity pants are designed to complement and support your changing body. Many include belly bands that stretch up over the entire waist. Leggings, joggers, jeans, shorts, and work pants come in all different styles and sizes that can be worn throughout pregnancy and even afterward.

What can also make a difference? A good pair of underwear. Similar to supportive pants and shorts, high waist maternity underwear can support the belly, thigh area, and groin. And again, panties should provide support, but not be too tight. If you find marks left on your skin from any type of clothing, it might be time to size up. Your body changes throughout every step of pregnancy, you will have to get different sizes throughout your journey.

With a careful choice of attire, you can feel supported and comfortable throughout your journey. Always consult a doctor if you feel any chronic discomfort. If you would like to inquire with Shared Conception about becoming a surrogate, your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

 

using your own OBGYN through surrogacy journey

Using your OBGYN in Surrogacy

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One of the many common questions from new surrogates is about using their OBGYN in their journey. After all, our OBGYN is where we ladies feel the most comfortable. Many of our doctors have delivered our biological children. And, there is the sense of safety with our own doctor that brings confidence and security to a pregnancy.
Fertility Clinics, Doctors and Specialists
During your surrogacy journey, you can use your own OBGYN, but not right away. Your OB has to clear you for surrogacy by providing a letter stating you are healthy and able for a pregnancy. After this, you begin a series of medical and psychological evaluations and work with a fertility clinic and reproductive endocrinologist. The clinic is necessary as they carry out tests and bloodwork that your OB cannot provide. The fertility clinic takes over at this point for some time to prepare your body for an IVF (in-vitro fertilization) transfer. This is when the embryo is implanted in your uterus. After a couple of days of rest and a blood test measuring your HCG levels, you will find out if your transfer resulted in a viable pregnancy.  If successful, the clinic and fertility doctor will monitor you throughout your first trimester. At this time, you will continue to have weekly ultrasounds and blood tests at the clinic to make sure all is well with you and the baby. Around your first trimester, if without any concerns or complications, the fertility clinic will release you to your preferred OBGYN. If you don’t have a preferred Obstetrician
It can be about location. Sometimes our surrogates have chosen a different OB to make it easier for the intended parents to attend appointments. But, this is your choice as the surrogate. With the amount of time spent in a doctor’s office, you shouldn’t have to travel too far or be uncomfortable. This will be ironed out in your contract that is signed before the IVF process. It is very important that your preferences are voiced when the contract is being drafted. That is why Shared Conception urges our potential surrogates to become very familiar with their contract and voice all of your requests at this time.
It can be about insurance. Insurance can make things tricky. Sometimes surrogates are able to use their own insurance and remain with their doctor. When this is not possible, the intended parents provide insurance. The surrogate still gets to choose the OBGYN but the OB must be in that insurance plan’s network. Shared Conception knows that choosing a doctor is not as easy as drawing a name out of a hat. That is why we can provide referrals to many Obstetrician doctors and practices that our previous surrogates have been very happy with.
You will never be alone in your journey with Shared Conception. We can hold your hand throughout your journey and be there for as much, or as little as you need. 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! Want even more information? Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information.