In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) that involves combining eggs and sperm outside the body in a laboratory dish and then transferring the resulting embryo(s) back into the uterus. Here is a general overview of the IVF process:

1. Ovarian stimulation: The woman is given medications to stimulate her ovaries to produce multiple eggs. The progress of follicle growth and egg development is monitored using ultrasound and blood tests.

2. Egg retrieval: Once the follicles have matured, the eggs are retrieved from the ovaries using a needle guided by ultrasound. This is typically done under sedation or anesthesia.

3. Fertilization: The retrieved eggs are then mixed with sperm in a laboratory dish and allowed to fertilize for several days.

4. Embryo culture: The resulting embryos are monitored in the laboratory for a few days to ensure proper development.

5. Embryo transfer: One or more embryos are then transferred into the uterus using a thin catheter. This is typically done without anesthesia.

6. Pregnancy testing: Two weeks after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test is done to determine whether the procedure was successful.

Throughout the process, the woman may be given medications to help prepare the uterus for implantation and to support early pregnancy.

IVF is a complex and often expensive procedure, and success rates can vary depending on several factors, including the age of the woman, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and the expertise of the fertility clinic. It’s important for couples considering IVF to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and to carefully consider their options before proceeding with treatment.

IVF is not the same as surrogacy. As explained above, in IVF, a woman’s eggs are fertilized outside her body with her partner’s sperm. With surrogacy, the surrogate woman carries and delivers another couple’s baby.

If IVF has been unsuccessful for you, or you want to learn more about your surrogacy options, don’t hesitate to reach out to Shared Conceptions today.

Did you know that your vision can be affected by pregnancy? Pregnancy can affect a woman’s vision in several ways, but these changes are usually temporary and typically resolve after delivery. Here are some common ways that pregnancy can affect vision:

1. Blurred vision: Some women may experience blurred vision during pregnancy, which can be caused by changes in fluid retention and hormonal shifts. Blurred vision may be temporary or may last throughout the pregnancy.

2. Dry eyes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to a decrease in tear production, which can cause dry eyes and discomfort.

3. Eye shape changes: As the body changes during pregnancy, the shape of the eye may also change slightly, which can affect the way that light enters the eye and can cause vision changes.

4. Eye pressure changes: Pregnancy can cause changes in eye pressure, which can be a risk factor for developing glaucoma.

5. Gestational diabetes: Pregnant women with gestational diabetes may experience changes in vision due to changes in blood sugar levels.

After birth, nursing can also alter a woman’s eyesight. Very similar to vision changes during pregnancy, these problems also usually disappear after breastfeeding.

It’s important for pregnant women to receive regular eye exams to monitor any changes in vision and to identify any potential issues early on. Additionally, pregnant women should notify their healthcare provider if they experience any sudden or significant changes in vision, as these may be a sign of a more serious problem.

Shared Conception is here for you. We have two locations in Texas- one in Houston and one in Dallas. Our team of professionals can answer any questions you may have about the surrogacy process or how to become a surrogate mother. You can view more information on our website or you can contact us here.

The surrogacy process has undergone significant changes over the years in terms of its legal and medical aspects.

Here are some key changes that have taken place:

1. Legalization: In many countries, surrogacy was not legally recognized until recently. Although more and more countries have legalized surrogacy, the legal framework varies greatly from country to country. Here in the US, there are still three states where paid surrogacy is illegal: Michigan, Louisiana, and Nebraska. Also, there are states where it’s not illegal, but there aren’t clear-cut laws on the books, so it doesn’t protect the intended parents and surrogates as much as states that are considered surrogate-friendly.
2. Medical advancements: The medical procedures involved in surrogacy have become more advanced over the years, making the process safer and more effective. For example, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is now a commonly used technique for surrogacy, whereas earlier, it was not widely available.
3. Gestational surrogacy: Gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate mother carries a child conceived through IVF using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors, has become more popular than traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate mother’s own egg is used. This is because gestational surrogacy is less legally and emotionally complicated.
4. Commercial surrogacy: Commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate mother is paid for her services, has become more common in recent years. However, it is still illegal in some countries and heavily regulated in others.
5. Surrogacy agencies: The rise of surrogacy agencies has made the process more accessible and streamlined. These agencies often provide various services, from matching intended parents with surrogates to handling legal and financial matters.

Overall, the surrogacy process has become more widely accepted over the years, making it easier for intended parents and surrogates to navigate the process. However, it is important to note that the surrogacy process still involves complex legal and ethical issues, and it is essential to approach it with caution and care. If you are considering surrogacy, working with a surrogacy agency such as Shared Conception can be the best route. In the absence of an agency, all the paperwork, compliance, communication with the surrogate, medical information, and other essential requirements become the Intended Parents’ responsibility. You can learn more about working with a surrogacy agency in our February blog: Why You Should Use a Surrogacy Agency.

Herbs can have both positive and negative effects on pregnancy, so it is important to use them with caution and only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Some herbs are considered safe during pregnancy, while others may pose a risk to the health of the mother and baby.

Here are some general guidelines for using herbs during pregnancy:

1. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbs during pregnancy.
2. Avoid using herbs during the first trimester, as this is when the baby’s major organs develop.
3. Stick to herbs known to be safe during pregnancy, such as ginger, chamomile, and raspberry leaf.
4. Avoid using herbs such as pennyroyal, tansy, and wormwood.
5. Be cautious with herbal supplements, as they may contain herbs that are not safe during pregnancy.
6. Avoid using herbs in large doses or for prolonged periods of time.

Benefits of using herbs

Chamomile is an excellent antioxidant and can help boost your immune system. Also, it is known to help reduce your stress, improve sleep, and help reduce morning sickness and fatigue. Raspberry leaf is a great source of iron, helps boost your energy levels, helps reduce fatigue, and improves digestion. Ginger root helps reduce nausea, improves digestion, and helps reduce morning sickness and fatigue. Nettle leaf is a great source of iron, magnesium, and calcium; it helps boost your energy levels, reduce fatigue, improve digestion, and help reduce morning sickness.

Herbs to Avoid

Cinnamon, while used on occasion, is considered safe. Taken as a tea, it can induce uterine contractions. Wormseed contains a toxic compound known as ascaridole that induces uterine contractions, and as an oil, it is neurotoxic. For a complete list of herbs to avoid during pregnancy, check out this comprehensive list created by the University of Texas at El Paso: Herbal Safety.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or questions about using herbs during pregnancy. If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy options or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us at 713-622-1144, and we will be here to help you with any questions.