Administering shots by yourself in surrogacy

Let’s Talk Shots!

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IVF shots are not as difficult or painful as you might think. For many of our surrogates, the first shot is the hardest. Then, it becomes routine and not so scary.

Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, most shots are intramuscular and are required about a week before your IVF transfer and throughout your first trimester.

What are intramuscular injections?

Intramuscular injections: An intramuscular injection delivers medication directly into a muscle. Progesterone in oil is often given as an intramuscular injection. The most common injection site for these medications is the top outer quadrant of the buttocks. It is possible to administer these shots yourself, but some people have their partner help.

Here are a few administering pointers:

Stay calm. Being nervous and tense can make this quick shot more uncomfortable. Shaky hands or a rushed approach cause the needle to bounce out before all the medication is injected. Take a deep breath! Meditate for a moment and RELAX!

Consider heat: For intramuscular injections, applying a heating pad to the injection site for about 10 minutes can sometimes relax the muscle and make the injection easier.

Know you don’t have to be a pro.  Administering an injection does not require a professional medical degree – but practice makes perfect!

Try ice: Many Shared Conception surrogates believe in icing the area right before injection to help numb the skin.

Change positions: For intramuscular injections, your body position can affect how the needle feels as it goes in. Bending over or shifting your weight on the opposite leg from the injection site can be more comfortable.

Be quick and direct: One confident motion for injection is much more comfortable than slow or twisting motions.

Injections are unavoidable as a surrogate.  The first is always the hardest and the last is the most rewarding.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

shoes fit for pregnancy

Let’s talk shoes!

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A summer pregnancy isn’t always easy. It’s hot, you sweat more and battle with trying to dress comfortably and looking cute. Thank goodness you have the support of your family members and loved ones! Shoes are another type of support you need in order to have a comfortable journey. Your swollen feet deserve more. The summer heat can add to swelling. Women have lots of extra fluid in their bodies during pregnancy and the pressure from the growing uterus causes swelling in the ankles and feet. Unfortunately, swelling tends to get worse during hotter weather, which could make those cute sandals a little difficult to wear.

When shopping for shoes, there are many things to consider. That is why Shared Conception is letting you know about our favorite pregnancy shoes that provide support, comfort, and style.

Those extra pounds you put on add stress to your body, especially your feet. At the end of the day, your legs can feel tired, heavy, achy, and swollen. That is why you have to shop for shoes that are flexible and can accommodate the swelling fluctuation throughout the day. Since your ligaments loosen while you are pregnant (thanks to your hormones) your arches can fall flat. With that in mind, purchase shoes with proper arch support.

You may have to retire your favorite sneakers for a size up! Your feet can grow up to a whole size when you are pregnant – and that’s okay! Shoes that are comfortable and fit well are important because your center of gravity changes. It also helps to skip the heels for the remainder of your pregnancy. Heels can become hazardous, especially for your ankles! So, you can stay safe and avoid any accidents, retire the heels for now.

Here are 5 stylish and comfortable shoes to look into for your precious tootsies this summer:

BIRKENSTOCK ARIZONA BIG BUCKLE SLIDE SANDAL

birkenstock for pregnancy

TIOSEBON WOMEN’S ATHLETIC WALKING SHOES

SERAPHINE BALLET FLATS

SANUK WOMEN’S YOGA SLING 2

TOMS ALPARGATA SHOES

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!

Intended parent basics blog

For the Potential Intended Parent 

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Surrogates make a huge commitment to the intended parents. They go through an intensive screening process, legal contracts, psychological and medical evaluations, background checks, and more to show they are good candidates to carry your baby and are committed to the surrogacy journey. There is so much information for potential surrogates; but what is there for intended parents?

Below, are the most frequently asked questions from potential intended parents

How do I begin the process?

When intended parents first contact Shared Conception, we will set up an initial one-hour consultation and provide information about the process, timing, and expenses involved in growing a family. We also want to learn about your family, social history, and reasons for choosing surrogacy.

When you agree to move on to the next step with Shared Conception, we may request additional information from you to be able to find potential surrogates whose wants and needs for the surrogacy are a good match with you, the intended parents.

Are there requirements for intended parents?

Intended parents must be:

  • Between the ages of 21-65
  • Able to pass a background check -Shared Conception performs background checks to ensure the intended parents have a clean criminal background and child abuse registry. All intended parents must be able to provide a safe and stable home to a child.
  • Emotional support for spouse or partner
  • Pass a psychological assessment
  • Have financial stability
  • Respectful of surrogate’s time and commitment and in general a good person – The safety of our surrogates is of utmost importance to us and we reserve the right to refuse service to any potential intended parent that does not meet the above-mentioned criteria.

What if it doesn’t work?

If you have three unsuccessful cycles with your surrogate and have at least 2 embryos that are rated A or B+ you can be re-matched with a new surrogate for no fee.

Does Texas have a law for surrogacy?

Yes! Tex. Fam. Code §§ 160.751 to .763 (2007)

Texas’s law is modeled after Part 8 of the Uniform Parentage Act of 2002. A gestational agreement must be validated in court. The gestational mother may not use her own eggs. She must have had at least one prior pregnancy and delivery. She maintains control over all health-related decisions during the pregnancy. The intended mother must show that she is unable to carry a pregnancy or give birth. The intended parents must be married and must be willing to undergo a home study. There is a residency requirement of at least 90 days for either the gestational mother or the intended parents. An agreement that has not been validated is not enforceable, and parentage will be determined under the other parts of Texas’s Uniform Parentage Act.

We would love the opportunity to help create your family. For more information visit https://sharedconception.com/ . We have two Texas locations: Houston 713.622.1144 and Dallas 214.390.4024

 

6 things our surrogates were surprised about

6 Surrogate Surprises

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In short, surrogacy is a life-changing experience, not only for yourself but for the family you are helping to build. Nowadays, it’s easy to look up information about the surrogacy process. And that’s a great first step. But not all the information you need is out there. Hearing the top surrogate surprises from our Shared Conception surrogates can make your expectations and experience a whole lot easier.

If you are interested in surrogacy and can’t help but wonder what to expect, we’ve compiled a list that our surrogates helped combine. This list covers the 5 things they wished they knew before embarking on a journey.

1) You Don’t Get Paid Right Away

Compensation can be an uncomfortable subject but is still very important to discuss. Your contract will outline what you are getting and when. Most surrogacy agreements are spread out throughout the pregnancy.

2) The Screening Process is Surprisingly Long and Intense

The process and requirements to become a surrogate are more intense than most expect. Roughly, only two out of every twenty women who apply to become a surrogate will qualify. There is a long list of requirements, some of the things Shared Conception will be checking are:

  • Proof that you’re financially secure
  • That you already have children who you are currently raising
  • If you have a partner that you have their consent to start the process
  • That you have a strong support system
  • And much more

It may feel that everything in your life will be under a microscope. But this is for the safety of yourself, the intended parents, and the baby-to-be.

3)  The Many Steps to Prepare Your Body

Not only do you have to go through an arduous screening process, get records from every medical professional you are under the care of, fill out tons of paperwork, and mentally and emotionally prepare yourself to become a surrogate, you’ll also have to get your body ready for the embryo transfer.

This involves medications, so think pills, patches, and injections. You or your partner will have to administer the injection yourselves and they need to be taken on a very strict schedule for the first 10-12 weeks. Also, you’ll have to visit the clinic weekly for blood tests and ultrasounds to make sure everything looks the way it should. This takes up a lot of time, so make sure you have the time to commit to the weekly appointments.

4) Your Bond with the Intended Parent’s

A relationship with your intended parents is bound to form. This means that you’ll be expressively invested in the rollercoaster of emotions during the embryo transfer process, the pregnancy, and beyond. Many surrogates and intended parents find themselves “like family” by the end of the journey.

5) You’ll Need to Be a Good Communicator

Intended parents cannot feel the baby kick, but they would like to hear about it. The truth of the matter is, it never hurts to communicate and share your experience with the intended parents. And doing what you can to involve them can help you build a stronger relationship, too.

6) You Might Decide to Pursue Surrogacy Again

It’s hard to describe how you felt during your surrogacy. After experiencing such intimate and wonderful moments during your pregnancy and seeing your intended parents hold their baby for the first time, it’s not uncommon to want to do it again. Many of our surrogates only planned to pursue one journey and many found themselves doing it again.

If you haven’t started your surrogacy journey yet, but you’d like to learn more about the process, we’d be happy to answer your questions. Contact us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

 

how faith is involved in surrogacy

3 Ways Faith is Found in the Surrogacy Process

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Religion connects people in many different ways. And, it can play a role in your surrogacy journey. Here are just a few to start a conversation.

1.     Surrogacy alone is a leap of faith: Surrogacy is an unbelievable option for those who cannot have children on their own.  But, it is not a process that is quick or easy. When you decide to start this journey, there are many people involved that make this process as smooth as possible. This can be especially true when you’re an intended parent, as you’ll be spending a lot of time waiting and putting your faith in your surrogate. When so many factors are out of your control, being patient and holding onto faith is one of the best things you can do.

2.     Your faith can connect you to other families: It might seem like you don’t have anyone to reach out to, but there are plenty of families in your position who have either thought about starting their surrogacy journey or are getting started just like you. Additionally, you’ve probably considering looking for a match with a gestational surrogate who shares your beliefs. While there could be a wait to find the right person, it will be well worth it in the end.

3.     It’s one of the greatest ways to help others:  There are many reasons why women choose to become surrogates. But one of the many reasons is because becoming a surrogate is spiritually and emotionally rewarding or fulfilling, and offers an opportunity for them to give back.

We know that you already have a lot to think about before you start your journey. If you are interested in having a surrogate, or just a conversation, let Shared Conceptions help. Give us a call today and get one step closer to the child you have always wanted. Visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

 

 

If you are wondering if becoming a surrogate is right for you, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application.

what health history means to surrogacy

What your health history means to your surrogacy application

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When applying to become a surrogate, you will quickly learn that there is a long list of requirements that you must meet to embark on a journey. It involves many things; your finances, age, family support, and health history. Not only do you need to be in good, overall health, but some conditions can affect your ability to safely carry a child for another family. On the other hand, there could be issues you may have, that would not disqualify you from your dream of becoming a surrogate.

These requirements are put into place and reviewed by our team and medical professionals for your protection and the protection of the unborn child.

Endometriosis

This disorder affects the tissue that lines the inside wall of your uterus. It can affect fertility. This diagnosis can range from moderate to severe. The severity of this condition can affect your ability to carry via in-vitro fertilization. Talk to us at Shared Conception and consult your doctor before deciding whether this could affect a surrogacy journey.

Herpes

This does not automatically disqualify you either, but if there is an occurrence or outbreak around delivery time, a C-section may be necessary.

HPV

This condition will not disqualify you from surrogacy, but your pap does need to be normal before you can be a surrogate.

Miscarriage

Having a miscarriage in your health history doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from being a surrogate. It depends on many factors including how many you had, the reason, and when they happened. Please be upfront and share your medical history when speaking with Shared Conception regarding this and any other medical condition.

Postpartum Depression

Although we tend to focus on physical health, mental health is very important as well. If you have been successfully treated for depression, you can still be considered. This will be discussed with you in greater detail during the interview process and again during the psychological screening.

Preeclampsia

This is a serious condition and can prevent you from pursuing gestational surrogacy. You run the risk of miscarriage and other life-threatening complications. Although, mild preeclampsia will not necessarily impede a journey.

Sickle Cell

This disease can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, and low birth weight. In this case, it is considered unsafe for a woman with this disease to become a surrogate.

Tubal Ligation

Many women choose to have their “tubes tied” after they are finished creating their families. This only prevents you from ovulating and is not connected with an ability to carry for another, so you can still be a surrogate.

Weight

There are no specific weight requirements but your BMI (body mass index) should be equal to or lower than 32. Some clinics require lower BMIs and some are fine with a little higher.

Shared Conception does not wish to put anyone at risk to become a surrogate. That is why we have these requirements. And remember, the requirements differ depending on the IVF clinic. If you have a question about your health history, let us know. Your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information. Or, call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information.

Covid vaccine and pregnancy

COVID-19 Vaccine and Pregnancy

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Covid vaccine and pregnancy

There has been a lot of talk about the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy. Some headlines are scary, while others are confusing. Shared Conception has done some research and would like to share what we have found.

Social media has been buzzing about the coronavirus vaccine causing pregnant women to miscarry. Although scary, this is likely, not true. There have been many recent and encouraging studies released by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology last month, informing the public about the good level of protection against the virus to both pregnant and lactating women, and likely their babies.

While most vaccines have been considered safe in the past, not many pregnant women jumped at the chance to be part of the trial for the new Covid vaccines.  And now, the claims of miscarriage that have circulated on social media have startled many pregnant women. These claims have been debunked according to agencies such as the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), FDA, and the CDC.

“It’s also important to note the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have stated there is no evidence the COVID-19 vaccine is unsafe during pregnancy, although both caution, there is still little data.”

This has caused a high level of anxiety for both surrogates and intended parents. We have noticed that this is an important discussion that must be had between the surrogate and the intended parents. Everyone’s feelings must be taken into consideration, especially that of the surrogate. This is an unprecedented avenue we have all had to explore and endure. Although it is a tough conversation, it has to be had.  And Shared Conception is here to help.

Shared Conception knows it is difficult to find reliable information about the vaccine when you are trying to research its efficacy and safety. If you are starting your journey, or in the middle of one and have questions, we are here to help you navigate through this unique period of time that we are all living in.

Shared Conception pledges to support you throughout the pregnancy. 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!

 

 

 

 

 

 

New York lifts the ban on commercial surrogacy

New York’s Ban on Commercial Surrogacy Ends!

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New York was one of the few states that banned the process of compensated surrogacy; making it illegal. Many residents in New York have had to travel cross country to arrange for a surrogate mother. This has required intended parents to find fertility practices outside of their state. This law made an arduous, expensive and emotional process a lot more difficult and costly for New York residents. Now, after a nine-year legal struggle, surrogacy is allowed!

The state’s ban on commercial surrogacy stemmed from the case of Baby M. In a publicized court battle. Mary Beth Whitehead argued that she should be allowed to keep the child she carried for William and Elizabeth Stern. In this case, Mary Beth was the biological mother as she provided the egg. This type of surrogacy is called traditional surrogacy versus gestational surrogacy. Nonetheless, the New Jersey Supreme Court gave custody to the intended parents, the Sterns, saying this was in the best interest of the child.

The new law that took effect on February 15th, 2021 only allows for gestational surrogacy. This means that surrogates are not genetically related to the embryo. Instead, the embryo is created by in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors and is then transferred to the surrogate. This option is welcomed by anyone who desires to become parents, including couples that are struggling with infertility and the LGBTQ community.

The state employed a surrogates’ bill of rights protecting women who become surrogates. This includes requiring the intended parent to pay for health and life insurance, and an attorney of her own, and ensuring that she has control over medical decisions related to the pregnancy. At the same time, it protects the intended parents by establishing their parental rights as soon as the baby is born. There is no longer a need for costly adoption proceedings, whether there is a single intended parent, couple, or same-sex couple.

The decision or point where one has to consider using a gestational carrier is a difficult one. This is usually made after a difficult personal journey through infertility. Of course, same-sex couples also choose this avenue to help build their own family.

With this change in New York law, surrogacy advocates see hope that more laws will fall into place for ethical gestational carrier agreements, making surrogacy a more viable option for the many who are unable to create a family on their own. The United States is by far the leading provider of surrogacy services because it is considered the safest and offers more legal protections for both intended parent and surrogate.

If you have ever considered becoming a surrogate, call us for a no pressure, informative conversation. Your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

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.

 

 

 

 

Cleaning when a surrogate

Spring Cleaning While Pregnant

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Spring is in the air! We have had a cold and tough winter, and now we are starting to see the light at the end of the dark and cold winter tunnel. You may get the urge to enjoy some outdoor activity or get the house organized and cleaned. Just keep in mind, you are pregnant and you need to take it slow.

It would be awesome if chores disappeared when you discovered you were pregnant, but that is never the case. And, now that you are carrying, you have to be careful about what products you use, and how you use them. Here are a few things to keep in mind when spring cleaning.

  1. Avoid Fumes – chemicals are harmful to pregnancy. Look at homeopathic cleansers, and don’t be afraid of looking into the magic concoction of vinegar, baking soda, and lemons.
  2. Stay away from Kitty Litter – This may be a great time to show your child how to care for their pets, especially if you have a cat. Cat feces can have a negative impact on your pregnancy so stay away from Fluffy’s toilet.
  3. Avoid muscle strain – as your belly blossoms, your center of gravity changes. In this case, lifting and carrying becomes more difficult and more complicated. Try to maintain a good posture to prevent backaches and all other kinds of aches.
  4. Take a break! Remember, you are pregnant. Your body is working twice as hard so give it a rest! And stay hydrated!
  5. Mind the belly. Try rounded laundry baskets. The rounded sides make carrying the baskets much easier. And yes, you can try doing this before you buy, no shame….

 

Even surrogates get those nesting instincts, and you can use this to your advantage. Reorganizing a closet will relieve any natural drive to prepare, clean, and organize. On top of becoming systematized, you are actually preparing for an easy transition following your return from the hospital.

 

Keeping a clean house isn’t always easy when you are pregnant. Consider reaching out to your support group for help. And check your contract. Sometimes cleaning services are included at a point of gestation. Typically, between 32 and 36 weeks.

 

If you are interested in this selfless act of kindness, give Shared Conception a call today. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

 

 

surrogacy as a single mom

Surrogacy as a Single Mom

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We have had many inquiries from single moms asking if they would qualify to be a surrogate, even though they are not married or in a committed relationship. The answer is “absolutely!” Even it if seems that all surrogates are married or partnered, this is not a requirement and Shared Conception has worked with many single mom surrogates.

All of our single moms are strong women who are dedicated to their own families and are committed to helping to grow another.

Different Requirements?

As a follow-up to the question about single mom surrogacy, we are often asked if there are different requirements for single surrogates. Surprisingly, most of the requirements are the same. All surrogates are required to have a child of their own, a clean bill of health, financial stability, and the ability to pass a medical and mental health screening.

Dating when a Surrogate.

As we all know, life throws us many twists and turns. Although you may think surrogacy puts dating on hold, life happens! It is still possible to continue dating throughout your journey. We have had quite a few of our single surrogates find their life partners, mid-journey. However, you need to let your doctor know if you choose to become sexually active with someone new. Testing for sexually transmitted diseases protects both you and the baby from contracting something harmful.

If you date during your journey, it is important, to be honest with your partner. If your relationship becomes serious, there may be some additional screening required of them and you. Shared Conception is always willing to discuss any of your concerns before, after, or during your journey.

Superior Support is a Must! 

We all know one of the most difficult jobs in the world is being a mom. Being a single mom is even harder. Carrying a surrogate baby, although selfless, brings on even more responsibility. You will want to make sure you have stellar support from your friends and family. There will be times when you will need to ask for help from your support network, and you will find this vital throughout your journey.

No matter what your relationship status, if you are interested in surrogacy, give Shared Conception a call today. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 location for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application and to see if you prequalify.