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Back Breaking Cookie Baking

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The holidays bring many joyous tasks. One of them is cookie baking. Maybe not just cookies, but elaborate meals, other desserts, heavy appetizers and traditional dishes. Whatever you choose to make, it can be tasking on your body when you are pregnant. Shared Conception would like to share our remedies for a more comfortable and enjoyable kitchen experience.

Anti-fatigue mats. These mats are a game changer! They are not just for the workplace. Pregnant or not, it is worth the investment. These mats reduce stress on your joints and muscles allowing blood to circulate more evenly throughout your feet and legs. You can find them on Amazon, in Costco and other price club stores for a great price. Make sure they are sturdy, at least ¾” thick so you can enjoy the benefits. Standing on hard surfaces such as wood and tile can be aggravating to your joints. Anti-fatigue mats will reduce the risk of a loss in circulation and provide comfort while cooking and baking.

A good pair of shoes.Good shoes are worth the investment. Designate these shoes as “house shoes” so you don’t bring in the dirt from outside into your house. It also helps minimize joint and muscle discomfort. Best of all, they don’t have to be pretty. Just make sure your shoes are comfortable and have thick bottoms, provide arch support and are preferably rubber-soled for added comfort. Slip-ons omit the need to bend over or worry about tying your shoes. Again, anything to avoid bending over and possibly losing your balance! You may even want to purchase shoes in a larger size, as many women find their feet grow and swell with pregnancy.

Posture. Good news; this tip is free! It just requires some awareness. Imagine a straight line running from your ears to your shoulders, and to your hips and knees. Keep your chin tucked in and raise your head and shoulders to help you stand tall. Also, keep that pelvis tucked in. Have your feet slightly apart and avoid locking your knees. Don’t forget to take a break! It may take you longer to complete a task, but this is necessary. While pregnant, it is always best to avoid standing for too long.

Interested in the surrogacy process? Give Shared Conception a call today for a quick, informative and no pressure conversation. We would love to chat! Happy Holidays!

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Pregnant During the Holidays?

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Ok, you’re pregnant and it’s the Holiday Season. You may not always feel merry and bright, but there are a ton of reasons why being pregnant this season rocks!

  1. Getting out of Obligations

That wonderful baby bump is now your best reason for dipping out early on your boss’s holiday party. Kick off those heals and slip into something cozy! Sleep is essential to your baby making body; in all stages of pregnancy. When your body says sleep, you must grant that wish – so rest up!

  1. Comfort is Key

There is something about a pregnant belly that steals the spotlight. You could have the same outfit on for three holiday events and still receive the same number of compliments at event three as event one. Or, as we suggested on the top of our list, you can ditch the party heels for cozy socks and virgin eggnog.

  1. The Food

Take that second helping at dinner, indulge in two desserts – or take that last piece of pie! Although calories still count when pregnant and you should eat as healthy as possible, don’t feel guilty to indulge once in a while. Since that nice glass of wine with dinner or mixed signature cocktail is off limits, an extra slice of pie can make up for it!

  1. Be Holly Jolly

You are doing a selfless and wonderful thing for a family. They appreciate you, so you need to appreciate you. This is a magical time of year and you should revel in the holiday spirit. We all tend to have a heightened sense of the warm and fuzzies during this season, so enjoy it!

  1. Off the “hosting” hook

You are creating a human…no one is expecting you to host. Enjoy going to parties, leaving when you want and don’t put pressure on yourself by throwing any kind of extravaganza, big or small.

  1. The Warmth

When you are pregnant, your internal body temperature increases. Not something to look forward to when you are pregnant in the warmer months, but during the winter months, you will stay nice and toasty, even with a chill in the air.

Shared Conception wishes you the most wonderful Holiday Season. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please contact us for a no pressure, informative phone consultation. We can answer any of your questions and inform you of the process to see if surrogacy is right for you! Give us a call today.

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A Grateful Surrogate

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When I tell someone that I have been a surrogate not only once but twice, I often hear how lucky those “people” (Intended Parents) are to have someone like me in their life. I do not like to applaud myself.  I enjoyed every bit of the journey; even the injections in the first trimester. I thought that if I could inject myself with a needle, I could do anything.

As quoted by Joan of Arc, “I’m not afraid, I was born to do this.” This is a shirt I often wear, which was given to me by Shared Conception as my twenty-week gift. This phrase stuck with me because I actually felt as if I was born to be a surrogate; a feeling that I haven’t had with other life experiences.

My second son was born pretty unhealthy. He was fed by a feeding tube for the first few years of his life. We spent years trying to find a diagnosis; visiting doctor after doctor, hospital after hospital and enduring test after test. We still aren’t sure of his diagnoses, even at the age of 8, but he went through many different kinds of tests, doctors, therapies, equipment, hospital stays, etc. Those bills added up. But, I refused to leave his side. I was convinced that no one could take care of him as well as I would, and I didn’t want to miss a single minute of his day. One frustrating night, while adding up the pile of bills we clearly could not pay, I considered becoming a surrogate. This was after an intense online search for jobs from home.  Not one position was designed for me. Then I saw one for surrogacy. I did some research on it and mildly considered it.

I brushed it off….

A couple years later with my son on the mend, getting stronger and weaning off his feeding tube, we were still weighed down with medical debt. I couldn’t ask for more of a discount or extension – the hospitals knew me by my first name and I had memorized almost every account number I had with each medical facility.

At this point, I seriously looked into surrogacy. I had a lengthy conversation with my husband who immediately agreed (shows what kind of pregnant woman I am – very pleasant), and started my research which led me to Shared Conception.

I spoke with Shiva, founder and Director of Shared Conception and she gladly answered all my questions and informed me of the process. I started my paperwork with a little apprehension (as I said, I didn’t like the idea of injections). I was matched very quickly with a lovely couple and began my journey.

Now to add why I am thankful….

I am thankful to Shared Conception for being with me the whole way. Always available and helpful, I can’t think of a better way to go into this “unknown” world without them. Shiva and her team matched me with a beautiful couple, and held my hand throughout my wonderful journey. They provided me with the support I needed when I needed it.

I am also thankful for both of my intended parents in each journey. They too were a great support system and entrusted me with their most precious belonging. I gave birth to the most adorable and lovely little babies. They provided me with the ability to stay home with my son. Without my availability, he would not be where he is today. He is now a thriving 8-year-old who loves to build Legos, play with his brother and snuggle with his mom while watching America’s Funniest Home Videos.

If you are considering surrogacy, I would highly recommend Shared Conception. Give them a call today!

-Courtney Clinton

terms and definitions

Pregnancy Terms and Definitions for Surrogates

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There is so much to learn when you are a surrogate! It’s not like you this is your first pregnancy, since you are now a surrogate, you probably have had at least one or two successful and seamless pregnancies of your own under your belt! However, surrogacy introduces a whole new world of doctors, appointments and terms – at least in the beginning stages of the surrogacy process.

Below is a list of medical terms often used in conjunction with a surrogacy journey. It’s useful to have this handy to review or refer to, when beginning the process.

  1. Surrogate/Gestational Carrier: These terms are used interchangeably. However, if you are thinking about becoming a surrogate with Shared Conception, you’ll be considered a gestational surrogate. There is an additional term “traditional surrogate” which means the surrogate is both the egg donor and surrogate – which Shared Conception does not practice or facilitate.
  2. Gestational Surrogacy: Pregnancy where the surrogate is genetically and biologically unrelated to the baby. Embryos are created using the eggs from the intended mother or egg donor, and sperm from the intended father or sperm donor.
  3. Intended Parents: Person or persons who become the legal parent(s) of a child born through surrogacy.
  4. Cycle Schedule: A timeline for the surrogate that lists important local monitoring appointment dates leading up to the transfer. This is usually created by your IVF clinic.
  5. Matching: A wonderful process in which Shared Conception excels in. This is when a surrogate is paired with intended parent(s). Shared Conception matches surrogates with intended parents that are good matches based on legal requirements, personality compatibility, preferences and similar expectations.
  6. Surrogacy Contract: A legal contract between the surrogate and intended parents. The terms of the contract are negotiated by the parties through their legal representation. At no cost to the surrogate, Shared Conception provides you with a list of specialized lawyers to choose from, always with the option of using your own.  It is very important for both the intended parents and the surrogate to read the contract carefully so that all terms and conditions are clearly defined and well understood.
  7. Blastocyst or “Blast”: The last stage of development an embryo is required to reach before it is able to be implanted.
  8. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A medical procedure whereby an egg is fertilized by sperm in a test tube or elsewhere outside the body. The process is performed at an IVF clinic.
  9. Embryo Transfer: A process that occurs when a frozen embryo (an already fertilized and frozen egg) is thawed and transferred into a surrogate by a reproductive doctor.
  10. Beta Testing: A blood test used to help indicate whether a woman is pregnant 8-14 days after an embryo transfer.
  11. Pre-Birth Order: A court issued order that is acquired before the birth of the child and establishes the intended parents as the legal guardians of the baby carried by the gestational carrier or surrogate.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate or the surrogate mother process, contact us! Give Shared Conception a call today. We will answer any questions from the surrogate application process to surrogate pay. We would love to chat with you. You can also click hereto read about the surrogate mother requirements to see if you could be a candidate.

 

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“Contact Your Doctor Before Proceeding With the Following”

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Surrogacy requires MANY doctor visits. You begin your journey with medical evaluations, psychology screenings and clinic visits, and that is before the IVF process! After the IVF procedure, it’s still not your usual pregnancy…. For the first trimester, blood is drawn weekly and ultrasounds are done every week or two and then you are released to your own OBGYN – at the beginning of your second trimester.

Now breathe.

Pregnancy is a little smoother sailing in the second trimester of your journey – and rightfully so; you don’t have to see the doctors as often. BUT you still need to watch closely for changes in your health. And, it is still important to consult your doctor before doing or feeling anything out of the ordinary such as:

  • Traveling
  • Beginning a new medication
  • Considering a new activity
  • Taking a fall
  • Beginning a new exercise regimen
  • Starting a new diet
  • Getting into a car accident
  • Feeling any pain or bleeding
  • Changes in the baby’s movement
  • Shortness of breath
  • Swelling in your hands, fingers or face
  • Pain and cramping in your arms, legs or chest
  • Basically trying anything new or feeling anything new

This list can go on forever. Bottom line is if you are unsure if a symptom is serious, or don’t feel like yourself, trust your instincts!

Seeing your doctor about your concerns can help put your mind at ease. If there is a problem, you will get immediate attention, if not, you will be happy that you at least got checked out. After all, your job is to do everything in your power to have a healthy baby and safe pregnancy. Although it is common to have concerns about “what might be,” most of the time there isn’t much to worry about. Regardless, it is important to know when to call your doctor, midwife or nurse.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate or the surrogate mother process, contact us! Give Shared Conception a call today. We will answer any questions from the surrogate application process to surrogate pay. We would love to chat with you. You can also click to read about the surrogate mother requirements to see if you could be a candidate.

 

 

 

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5 Fall Vegetables to add to your diet

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Fall is full of beautiful foliage, colors, smells – and food! This season introduces some delicious, nutritious and colorful vegetables to get excited about. Read on to learn how to take advantage of the seasonal fare and some recipes to go along with it!

  1. Spaghetti Squash: This bright yellow and bulbous vegetable adds calcium and fiber to your diet. It’s also a great substitute for pasta and found in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Click here for our favorite recipe for Parmesan Spaghetti Squash.
  2. Beets: Come in a variety of colors. Red, yellow, white and even multicolored. Whichever color you choose, it is a good source of iron and Vitamin C. Beets pop up on menus in the fall and can be prepared in many different ways. Here is a simple Roasted Beet Salad with Feta Cheese and Lemon Vinaigrette recipe that is delicious!
  3. Brussel Sprouts: This veggie is sometimes an acquired taste, but when prepared right, even children fall in love with them. They are full of fiber, vitamin C, iron and vitamin B6. Here is a recipe for Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Garlic that is sure to please!
  4. Pumpkin: …..and not just pumpkin spice! It’s part of the squash family and full of Vitamin C, iron and fiber. Also, the seeds can be roasted and are a good source of omega-3, and great for a snack on the go. Check out this receipt for Pumpkin soup; a wonderful and hearty soup.
  5. Sweet Potatoes: This versatile fall staple can be found in desserts and side dishes. It’s also a good source of vitamin C and B6. It can be baked, mashed, roasted or turned into fries. If you have an air fryer and a craving for french fries, sweet potato fries are a healthy alternative.

Shared Conception is a full-service surrogacy agency and proudly served hundreds of exceptional surrogates and intended parents alike. If you are interested in surrogacy, give us a call today. We would love to hear from you!

Candy

Pregnancy Guide to Halloween Candy

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We all find out find our hand in the candy bowl around this time of year. And that usually isn’t a problem.  Although it is Halloween time, being pregnant does not mean you can gorge yourself on an entire candy bag. A holiday does not change the candy’s nutritional content.

Unless you are diabetic and should be avoiding sugary snacks altogether, gobbling chocolate and candy will cause your blood sugar level to spike and your body can handle the occasional surge. The key here is moderation. Not only does candy contain sugar; the chocolate stuff you can’t get enough of, also contains caffeine.

To help your body process a high amount of sugar, enjoy this cool weather and lovely fall foliage and take a walk to get some exercise and burn off those extra calories. Make sure your diet is full of a variety of flavorful and healthy foods with the occasional treat; in moderation.

There is always the option to put the candy in the freezer right after Halloween. This will keep the temptation out of sight, and therefore, out of mind.

But you can hand out all the candy you like to the neighborhood kids! And for a distraction away from those sweet treats, grab some supplies and create a festive way to hand out those sweet treats!

  • Create packages for the neighborhood kids with small treat bags or tissue paper.
  • Turn lollipops into ghosts with tissues and a tie!
  • Use leftover toilet or paper towel tubes to create mini pinatas
  • Put that printer to work and create your own customized candy labels!
  • Don’t want to open the door? Create a candy wreath on your door with a sign for trick or treaters to “take one.”

Wondering how to be a surrogate or the surrogate mother process? Give Shared Conception a call today. We will answer any questions from the surrogate application process to surrogate pay. We would love to chat with you. You can also click hereto read about the surrogate mother requirements to see if you could be a candidate.

 

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Halloween with a Belly!

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Let’s be honest, when you’re pregnant, it already feels like you’re wearing a costume—there are definitely times when you don’t feel like you’re in your own skin. But you can transform that beautiful bump into the ultimate Halloween costume!  The internet is full of great information of DIY costumes that can be downright hilarious. We’ve managed to find some ideas so surrogates can join in on the Halloween fun and have a devilishly good time while doing it. Pregnant Halloween costumes can be easy, fun and comfortable – and you can put your belly to good use!

Not in the mood? Sometimes it is hard enough as it is to figure out what to wear on any given day. If you are just not into it this year, you really can just grab a comfy shirt and your favorite pregnancy pants and call it a night.  Don’t feel pressured into making, wearing or buying a costume. Stay in and rest if you need to, there is always next year when you’re not pregnant and have less going on! After all, a good Halloween movie and handing out candy to the neighborhood cuties is our idea of a good night!

Pregnant and craving sweets sometimes goes hand in hand. So, when you are in the store and see all the candy displays that make you feel like you are in Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, give yourself a chance to experiment. Does the baby like caramel and nougat? Feel free to find out. Just don’t go overboard. Binging on sugary snacks is okay once in a while, but don’t make it a habit; pregnant or not, it is not good for you.

Wondering how to be a surrogate or the surrogate mother process? Give Shared Conception a call today. We will answer any questions from the surrogate application process to surrogate pay. We would love to chat with you. You can also click here to read about the surrogate mother requirements to see if you could be a candidate.

 

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The Pregnancy Struggle is Real!   

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Worry, anxiety, and even depression does not discriminate. Surrogacy is filled with happiness but hitting a rough patch during any pregnancy is not uncommon. Mostly because, life is life…it has its ups and downs, and it is mostly out of our control.

Calmness and a stress-free environment are essential to life at all times, especially when pregnancy, but it is not always easy. Many surrogates have turned to different homeopathic and natural methods to relieve stress and anxiety before, during and after their pregnancy journey. One popular method is meditation.

High and extended levels of stress can make you more likely to deliver at preterm or for the baby to have low birth weight. Benefits of meditation can not only prevent this from happening but promote a better night’s sleep, and we all know how important sleep is to a happy and healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy can cause insomnia and evokes a constant disruption at night because you have to use the bathroom multiple times a night. Studies have shown that meditation can improve sleep for pregnant woman.

Meditation can give you a wonderful connection to your changing body, relief from anxiety and stress, peace of mind, less tension, and a lower risk of postpartum depression. Depression affects one in five women during pregnancy with many turning to more natural methods to alleviate stress and anxiety associated with pregnancy.

Pregnancy is the ideal time to learn or restart a meditation practice because you’re effectively benefiting two people. There are many different ways to meditate, from deep breathing to focusing on an object, mantras, visualization, or chanting – find a way that works for you and thrive!

If you have a story to share about how meditation helped you in your journey, feel free to share in the comments below.

*** Please note that this is an informational article only. If you think you are suffering from depression, anxiety or any unusual feelings of unease, consult your doctor immediately.

 

 

 

 

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Pregnancy Falls

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Pregnancy definitely changes your body, but it also changes the way you move, get around and walk. Your center of gravity has to adjust, which can cause difficulty with every day movements.  

Knowing this, it’s no wonder that many pregnant women have experienced a fall during their journey, even though your body has several defenses to protect you and the baby against injury. This includes amniotic fluid that provides cushioning, and strong, protective muscles in the uterus.

Falls can create possible complications for both you and the baby. Your uterus probably won’t suffer any permanent damage or trauma from losing your balance and tripping over your own (sometimes unrecognizable) feet. However, if the fall is a rough one or hits at a certain angle, it’s possible you could experience complications such as a placental abruption or sprains that need to be checked out by your doctor.

Most of the time, a minor fall won’t be enough to cause a problem, but there are some symptoms that can indicate a need to seek medical attention. These include:

  • A fall with direct contact to your stomach
  • Leaking amniotic fluid or vaginal bleeding
  • Severe pain in your pelvis, stomach, or uterus
  • Any type of contractions
  • Lack of movement for the baby

If you experience these or other symptoms, immediately call your doctor or take a trip to the ER.

Shared Conception wants our surrogates to have a wonderful, safe and successful journey. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, give us a call today. We would love to hear from you!