medications for a surrogate

Patches, Pills, and Prickly Things

As a surrogate, you are required to follow strict instructions from the fertility clinic. They can be instructions about diet, activity levels, or medications. And yes, some of the instructions involve needles that you or someone in your support network will have to administer daily.  It’s really not that bad, and as a surrogate, this is a part of your job. Following the clinic’s instructions and medication regimen can affect the outcome of your transfer.

As the transfer date approaches, medications come into play. You may feel a little overwhelmed! You will receive an array of pill bottles, patches, needles, and swabs. This is the first day of about 10-12 weeks of daily doses of medications.

You will get used to it, and it will become an essential part of your daily routine, but it is a lot to keep track of.

It’s useful to keep a calendar or use the one on your phone to ensure you don’t miss a dose. This is also where alarms on your phone, Alexa, or Portal can come in handy.

Some medications may need to be refrigerated. Still, try to keep them together. This will help prevent any missed dose. There are a few medication organizers out there. Try to find one resembling this https://myvitro.com/products/ivf-organizer – less expensive versions can be found on Amazon. A regular, plain old cardboard box is nothing to be ashamed of either.

The pandemic has not done any industry much good. There have been reports of a low medication inventory. So, if you begin to run low, make sure you call your pharmacy to request a refill.  And, put that phone number in your contacts!

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout your pregnancy journey as you help make a family! 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!

 

pregnancy and Covid

Surrogacy during the Pandemic?

During this lingering pandemic, we have been asked by many of our surrogates and potential surrogates about how COVID-19 may impact their surrogacy journey.  Although COVID-19 has changed our lives in many ways, it is still possible to have a successful journey with some extra precautions to help keep everyone safe.

The recommendations associated with COVID-19 seem to be everchanging, but there is some important information about Shared Conception for you to know when considering surrogacy:

  • Shared Conception is continuing to prescreen and match surrogates with intended parents.
  • We are constantly in search of surrogates. We have many intended parents waiting for a match and are very eager to find one.
  • Final medical screening and embryo transfer procedures have continued since June after many clinics were closed March-May. Professional guidelines have allowed fertility clinics to reopen in June as long as the clinic follows recommended precautions to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
  • Some of our surrogates have traveled for their fertility treatment. Read our information regarding air travel during COVID-19 here.
  • Currently, there is no evidence of transmission of the virus via eggs, sperm, or embryos.
  • The information on pregnancy is limited, but it appears that pregnant women are no more likely than anyone else to have severe symptoms from the coronavirus. Of course, this info can change with new data.
  • Hospital visitor policies have changed. When it comes to labor and delivery, each hospital makes its own policies. In some cases, the intended parents are also sometimes allowed in the delivery room or will be in a nearby room to receive the baby when he/she is born. Check with your hospital to confirm their policies.

Shared Conception will closely monitor the news on COVID-19 and provide you with updates to better guide and support you in your surrogacy or parental journey. Interested in learning more about surrogacy?  Visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information about becoming a surrogate!

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.

 

 

 

 

 

Intended Parent Support Groups

Intended Parents Supports Groups

Sometimes being on the intended parent side of the surrogacy journey, gets little recognition when it comes to feelings and emotions. After all, it’s all about the wonderful woman who is carrying your child. There are times when you’re waiting to be matched with the perfect surrogate or dealing with the stress of the screening processes and legal contracts, or you’re anxiously waiting for the next pregnancy update from your surrogate — it is not unusual to feel like no one else understands what it’s really like to be an intended parent.

Even if you are surrounded by very supportive friends and family members, they probably don’t have much experience with surrogacy. It is natural to sometimes want to talk to people who have been or are currently in the same position as you. Support from others in your situation is valuable — but finding that support may be challenging.

Rest assured that by the power of the internet, you can connect with others in your position online. And, while the internet is a great way to find connection, be careful when joining an online support group. Just remember, you can’t always believe everything you see online.

When in doubt, you can always contact Shared Conception.  We can recommend resources for intended parents and answer questions about what you read online. We are always available to provide the support you need.

In the meantime, here are some online intended parent support groups:

Meetup.com

Intended parents may be able to find in-person support through Meetups groups. In addition to intended-parent-specific Meetups, you may find a sense of community through infertility centered meetups.

RESOLVE

This is the National Infertility Association and offers a directory of local, peer-led support groups for parents who have struggled with infertility. While many of these groups are not specific to surrogacy, intended parents may still find them helpful.

BabyCenter Community

There are several surrogacy-related groups within the BabyCenter Community, including groups specifically for intended parents seeking advice and support from other intended parents.

Even though Fertility struggles are common, they are often not spoken about openly. If you are interested in surrogacy, call Shared Conception today. Our compassionate surrogacy specialists will help make your dreams of having a family a reality. Give us a call today and we will help you get one step closer to the child you’ve always wanted. You can also visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

intended parents new year resolution suggestions

Resolutions for 2021 Intended Parents

As the beginning of a much-anticipated new year rolls around, people will be making their New Year’s resolutions. After all, 2020 wasn’t great for many, and 2021 is a new year and full of new opportunities.

If you are considering surrogacy to help build, extend or create your family, take this new year as an opportunity to focus on the positive parts of a journey that await you. During this time, it may be a good idea to contact Shared Conception to speak with us about how we can help.

Here are some suggestions to start:

  1. Learn more about the surrogacy process

Even if you have already begun researching your surrogacy journey, it’s never too late to learn more about this process. Education is the key to a successful family-building process and if you feel stuck in your own journey, it may help you understand where to go from here.

  1. Revisit your personal surrogacy goals.

Couples or individuals who have been struggling with infertility, may consider reevaluating their own family goals and preferences. While you should always be comfortable with your process, revisiting your plan may bring up new preferences as you learn more about surrogacy. Shared Conception will always help you, if you want to make a change or revise something.

  1. Understand and manage your finances.

Every intended parent knows that fertility treatments are expensive. If you are considering starting a journey in 2021, concentrate on budgeting and saving. This is also a good life habit for everyone to have. Looking into financing for surrogacy? Shared Conception can send you information on how to obtain financing.

  1. Find an additional support system.

Shared Conception can lead you to the many intended parent support groups where you can talk with people who have been in the same situation and develop valuable friendships that will help you through this journey. Also, it is important to share your decisions with those closest to you. A support system of close friends and family is extremely important for you during a journey.

A new year represents a new beginning and Shared Conception wants you to reach your parenthood dreams this year. Give us a call today and we will help you get one step closer to the child you’ve always wanted. You can also visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

 

 

holiday travel

Is Holiday Travel Safe?

With the lingering pandemic, surrogacy contracts, and the overall stress of travel, is it safe to travel this holiday season while you’re pregnant?

In the past, traveling was basically fine for healthy pregnant women without complications but everything is a bit different now. If you are planning a trip as a surrogate, always make sure you notify your intended parents and most importantly your doctor, to get the green light. You can discuss whether or not your travel is essential or if it’s safer to put it off in order to minimize any health risks.

Of course, the best time to travel is in the second trimester between the 14th and 28th week. This time is often the best because your energy is back, morning sickness (if any) is virtually gone and you can still get around easily. After the second trimester, it tends to become more difficult to move around or sit for long periods of time.

If you are free and clear to travel and thinking about a road trip, consider this:

  • When taking a car trip, keep in mind the shortest route is often the best route.
  • Wear your seat belt at all times. The belt should sit low on your hip bones, below your belly.
  • Plan to make frequent stops. Use these stops to move around and stretch your legs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, and clothing that is not too tight.
  • Wear a few layers of light clothing that can easily be added or removed.
  • Eat regular meals to boost your energy.
  • Drink extra fluids. Take water with you. You may need to take more restroom breaks—don’t hold it too long.

If you have spoken to your doctor and have the green light to board a plane, consider these tips:

  • Avoid “high touch” areas like escalator railings, elevator buttons or door handles.
  • Wipe down surfaces during your trip like plane armrests and tray tables.
  • Use hand sanitizer and use it after touching common surfaces.
  • Avoid touching your face to decrease risk of contracting any virus.
  • Choose a window seat – there is lesser chance of catching the virus, even if you have to ask the two people next to you to get up so you can use the bathroom!

For more information, visit the COVID-19 travel website of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html. You also can read about COVID-19 and pregnancy at www.acog.org/COVID-pregnancy.

Shared Conception wishes you safe travels and a wonderful holiday season! If you are interested in surrogacy and helping creating a family, give us a call. It’s the best gift you can give this year! Or visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

What to call your surrogate

What to Call Your Surrogate

There is no official name to call your surrogate after the birth of your baby. Phrases like, “friend of the family” barely scratch the surface. Someone who was once a stranger, has changed your life in the best way possible and now has a special place in your heart. But how did that happen? And for those who are looking into surrogacy, how does it happen?

Surrogate-intended parent relationships usually blossom as the surrogate’s belly blossoms. Intended parents tend to develop a deep and powerful relationship with their surrogate. By the end of the journey, most intended parents want their surrogate to stay in their life and in the life of their child. Some have a special name for their “tummy mummy.” Even if this is not the case, that is okay too! This article is going to share how parents who have had children through surrogacy develop and maintain a relationship with these incredible women!

The relationship between you and your surrogate tends to grow naturally. After you meet your surrogate and go through the medical and legal procedures and a successful embryo transfer, you get know each other pretty well. There is also a lot more time spent together for the remainder of the journey. There will be a lot of talking and texting about prenatal appointments, checking in and maybe inviting her to the baby shower. Our surrogates have also always loved meeting their intended parents for coffee or lunch!

And remember, as her belly get bigger, it is harder and harder for her to move around. So, dropping off dinner from her favorite restaurant can mean the world to her. It is also important to recognize special moments in her life such as her birthday, or a milestone like a promotion. And, recognition can be as simple as an encouraging and kind note or a simple call or text.

Don’t overthink your relationship; let it happen naturally. After all, a happy pregnant woman is a healthy one too! Shared Conception is always here to help our intended parents if they have questions about anything surrogate-related. If you are considering surrogacy, give us a call today or visit https://sharedconception.com. We would love to hear from you.

Becoming a Gestational Carrier

If you are a woman who wants to be a gestational carrier (or surrogate), you absolutely need to be willing to do the research to consider what you are getting yourself into.

Surrogacy is a life changing venture. It sounds great in theory, but in practice, it really is a huge undertaking. Women who feel compelled to help couples and individuals, sometimes find themselves compromising themselves out of the goodness of their hearts. Below are some common mistakes to avoid. It’s so important to be true to yourself…that is one of the best gifts you can give to your yourself and the Intended Parent(s)!

Research

It’s important to become well-educated about surrogacy before throwing yourself into the surrogacy process. A lot of your time and emotions will be involved. You will also need to consider the impact a journey will have on your family, health, job and overall lifestyle.

Emotional impact

You will want to consider the emotional impact a surrogate may endure. You cannot forget that you are pregnant, but you have to also understand that your intended parents have faced many hardships from pregnancy and fertility. Their emotions can affect you throughout the pregnancy and you do have to deal with their feelings as well.

Pregnancy is not always easy

Many who choose surrogacy decide on it because they like being pregnant. So, naturally you expect your all your pregnancies to go as well as your previous ones. But, that is not a guarantee. Every pregnancy is different. That is why it is so important to have a support system in place; just in case.

Don’t forget to ask questions! That is the beauty of having an agency such as Shared Conception as part of your support system. Never hesitate to ask! We will make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. 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!

 

learn about surrogacy

Be “In the Know” about Surrogacy

Have you ever considered surrogacy? It is a big decision and a lot of conversations are to be had. When making this decision, it’s not just about you making the amazing decision by yourself to help create a family. It involves your support system like your children, parents, spouses, friends and other family members. It is important that all parties involved understand and are comfortable with the idea, nuances and processes involving surrogacy; not to mention, the wonderful end result of a surrogate birth–a newborn child and an entire family unit being created or enriched.

 

The key to a successful surrogacy from the beginning is education and research. Before mentioning this life-changing decision to anyone in your support system, learn the process yourself. There is usually lots of questions that follow when you tell someone your plans of becoming a surrogate.

 

Make sure you know everything that is expected of you as a gestational carrier, and all it takes to do so, is a no pressure phone call to Shared Conception. In this call you can ask any question imaginable about surrogacy. We have heard them all! We have a knowledgeable staff; many of whom have been surrogates themselves, to answer any and every question you may have. We can even give you our expert advice on how to speak with individual family members about surrogacy.

 

Most surrogacy arrangements conducted through Shared Conception, result in happy endings. With expert guidance and knowledge, our agency will help both the surrogate and the intended parent in ALL aspects of your journey; from the beginning to the end.

 

Making families is an honor and a privilege for those of us who have been touched by surrogacy or infertility. Our surrogacy agency, Shared Conception, is available to all of our precious surrogates to be a guide, shoulder to cry on, voice of reason and supporter; all aimed at the direct goal of happy and healthy journey. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way.

 

Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an information request form! We would love to hear from you!

 

 

designer surrogacy

Surrogacy by Design

There is a good side and a not so good side to everything in this world. Even with surrogacy. Luckily, surrogacy is growing and has some kind of positive presence in main stream media. Unfortunately, some women have used surrogacy for more reasons than just infertility. This has grown to become labeled “designer surrogacy.” Some women are afraid of pregnancy. For reasons such as gaining weight, fear of what it can do to their body or can’t fit a pregnancy into their lives.

Woman who choose surrogacy for purposes other than infertility, may indeed, be judged. Many believe pregnancy should not be treated as an inconvenience. Many celebrities have been criticized for using a surrogate to prevent stretch marks or interrupting film schedules.

The first United States surrogacy contract was written in 1976, and caused speculation that we would become a divided nation of breeders and then the wealthy who exploit them. Kind of like the popular series, Handmaids Tale. There are some states that allow it, while others ban it altogether. And only in 2012, have there been guidelines issued by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), stating that surrogacy should only be used “when a true medical condition precludes the intended parent from carrying a pregnancy or would pose a significant risk of death or harm to the woman or the fetus. The indication must be clearly documented in the patient’s medical records.” In Texas, there has to be a medical necessity for someone to do surrogacy.

But what is the definition of “medical need?” Surrogacy is appropriate when doctors offer the option to patients who suffer from a medical condition, severe anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. This also includes when a mother would be at high risk for postpartum depression, or has had a difficult previous pregnancy.

As for Shared Conception (a Texas-based surrogacy agency), we have never agreed to work with clients interested in designer surrogacy. We have, however, seen cases where there is a physical or mental reason. Even in cases where the intended mother has to be on certain medications or where the intended mother had a high-risk pregnancy the first time and has been advised not to proceed with another pregnancy. These scenarios do exist and Shared Conception understands and is happy to assist.

Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today or visit sharedconception.com and let’s talk!

 

How CoVid has Changed Surrogacy

How Covid has Changed Surrogacy

Whether or not you are looking into surrogacy to expand your family, becoming a surrogate or you are already in the middle of a journey, the recent pandemic has changed everything in this world, including surrogacy. It is only natural to have questions about COVID-19 and how it may impact your plans. Here are some common questions and answers about the recent changes.

  1. Has COVID impacted surrogacy schedules? Assisted reproductive treatments, including IVF were put on hold for a couple months and slowly resumed in May in Texas. However, the hold went a bit longer for other states, depending on that state’s restrictions.
  2. Have rates and related-costs for surrogacy changed? COVID-19 has not increased any of our agency-related fees with Shared Conception.
  3. Has there been a shortage of available surrogates? The short answer, yes. Even before the pandemic, there has always a high demand for surrogates. We have not seen a significant change in surrogate availability due of Covid. We try to accommodate and match intended parents as quickly as possible but sometimes need to put some intended parents on a waiting list. This is especially true if there are multiple requests including wanting a surrogate in a specific location, diet or other restriction.
  4. Is there testing for surrogates and the babies they are carrying? There are no mandatory testing requirements for surrogates. Everyone involved, especially our surrogates are concerned about the health and safety of themselves and their families. No one is taking unnecessary risks.
  5. Does Shared Conception have guidelines for what surrogates do and not do in light of Covid? No, Shared Conception does not provide guidelines. The surrogate will follow the guidelines of the fertility clinic and the CDC.
  6. What if my intended parents live outside the country? There are travel bans from certain countries. It has made travel difficult for some of our international clients, but not impossible.

As this situation evolves and we learn more about the virus, we may see different rules or regulations that impact our processes. Shared Conception is devoted to staying on top of all the new rules and regulations and keep our clients and surrogates in the know. To learn more about Shared Conception, and how to become a surrogate or begin to create your family, contact us today or visit www.deliveradream.com  We look forward to speaking with you!