surrogacy inquiry form

Surrogacy Inquiry Form: Become a Surrogate Mother

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Many women we speak to have an apparent interest in becoming a surrogate. We appreciate every call and email, whether it is “how do I start?” or “I have a few questions…” or “what is the compensation?” Questions are welcomed and encouraged, as you should be familiar with the entire process before making such an excellent, life-altering decision. Don’t be shy; Shared Conception is a no-pressure agency that can help you decide if surrogacy is right for you.

How do I start?

Well, that’s easy. Take a look at our website. Here there is a lot of information that you can process on your own time. We cover our program, what to expect when becoming a surrogate mother, compensation, and a list of Frequently Asked Questions that can answer some of our most popular questions concerning the surrogacy process. Then, if you think surrogacy is right for you, complete our online Surrogate Inquiry Form, and we will reach out to you to answer any other questions.

I have a few questions…

More questions? No problem? We encourage you to reach out to Shared Conception with any questions about a potential journey. We love questions. With over a decade of experience, we most likely have heard it before and have the answer.

What is the compensation?

This is the question most wondered, but few feel comfortable asking. And, please know this is not a selfish question. You are legally entitled to be compensated as a gestational carrier. At the same time, we understand this is a critical aspect of the surrogacy journey. Considering the job and all the hardships of pregnancy, including nausea, a blossoming (and sometimes uncomfortable) belly, doctor appointments and visits, injections, labor, etc. – who would apply for this job for no compensation?

Why not take the next step and open a dialogue with Shared Conception? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed and excited about this beautiful journey. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to begin an application to become a gestational surrogate and find out more information!

 

 

Pregnancy meditation and mindfulness

Pregnancy Meditation and Mindfulness

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It is suggested that mindfulness and meditation when pregnant can protect the health and well-being of the surrogate and baby! And let’s face it, we don’t spend the whole pregnancy journey giggly and glowing. We still have our daily responsibilities, tasks, and life to run. Pregnancy doesn’t omit the stresses of everyday life, but meditation may help. So, let’s look into it!

What is Meditation?

Meditation is a technique focusing on the mind, a particular object, thought, or activity to train attention and awareness and achieve a mentally clear, emotionally calm, and stable state.

Meditation can help lower stress levels and raise spirits! It has benefits other than achieving inner peace. It’s a low-cost activity that can easily fit into your daily routine; even help you sleep. Plus, learning the practice will remain with you after pregnancy.

Meditation and mindfulness can provide tools to navigate complex emotions that wouldn’t budge, even in the face of the most reassuring friend, family member, or google search. Many apps will guide you through the meditation process. Some are geared specifically for prenatal meditation. Others focus on guided meditations to reduce stress, anxiety, help with sleep, and phobias. The practice can reduce those moments when our raging hormones get the best of us.

What is Mindfulness?

Then there is mindfulness, which is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Not all mindfulness involves meditation; you can also become more mindful by noticing how moods and bodily sensations fluctuate throughout the day. For example, you may find yourself in a moment where you feel exhausted and uncomfortable, not seeing that there are still happy and peaceful moments, even if a bit awkward. This type of practice can prevent us from being “mindless” and keep us present. Also, the more mindful we are, the more confident and optimistic we feel.

Mindfulness and meditation may promote healthy development.

Of course, there are many measures of healthy development in pregnancy, but there are some studies linking mindfulness and meditation to the healthy development of the baby.

To sum it up, meditation and mindfulness need to be practiced. To receive the full benefits of one or the other, you have to practice it—often. Start small and take it day by day, even on the bad days when it seems like nothing is going right; you may be surprised how it can help.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception today. Call us at 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.

 

 

 

hair dye and other EDC when pregnant

Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs)

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We are often asked if dying your hair, using makeup, and exposure to everyday products can impact the success of an IVF transfer. The truth is, many of these products do contain Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs). EDCs are substances that can interfere with the normal function of the body’s endocrine system. It can affect our developmental, reproductive, brain, and immune systems and even cause other problems.

Since EDCs come from many different sources, you can be exposed in several ways, sometimes without even knowing, including the air we breathe, the food we eat, the water we drink, and the products we use. EDCs also can be absorbed through the skin. It may be impossible to evade them completely, but being mindful of our products’ ingredients can help avoid some exposure.

Here are five main EDCs to be aware of:

  • BPA: Bisphenol A is a chemical that has been used to make plastics since the 1950s. According to the Mayo Clinic, some research shows that BPAs can seep into food and beverages. To limit your exposure to BPAs, use BPA-free products, avoid heating plastic, decrease your use of canned foods, or use alternative storage options like glass rather than plastic.
  • DDT: DDT was used in insecticides but banned in the ’70s in the US. However, DDT still remains in the environment. As exposure increases, so does the rate of sperms with extra chromosomes leading to miscarriage or birth defects.
  • Dioxins: Dioxins are by-products of manufacturing processes. Humans are typically exposed through animal-based foods such as dairy, meat, or sometimes fish, where dioxins are stored in the animal’s fatty tissues.
  • Heavy Metals: Heavy metals are naturally found on the earth and are not generally harmful. However, too much exposure has been found to affect fertility. Exposure to lead paint or consistently working with metals can be factored in overexposure to heavy metals. If you have older plumbing, you can have your water tested for the existence of any heavy metals.
  • Phthalates: Phthalates are used in plastics and are found in shower curtains, building materials, plastic blinds, and even headphone cords. Some types of phthalates are also found in fragrances and cosmetics. To limit your exposure to phthalates, buy non-PVC items and products labeled “fragrance-free” or “phthalate-free.”

Since many things in life are out of our control, we cannot completely avoid exposure to EDCs. However, by making informed decisions about the products we use, we can stay healthy, and potentially increase the chance of a successful IVF transfer.

Shared Conception pledges to keep you knowledgeable and informed throughout your entire journey. 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!

 

 

what to expect as a surrogate

A Surrogacy Pregnancy: What to Expect Before you’re Pregnant

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Shared Conception provides a wealth of information to interested surrogates-to-be on our blog. The process can be daunting, overwhelming, and intimidating. But don’t worry, we are here to provide answers to all of your questions. Don’t know where to start? Not ready for the (no pressure and informative) initial phone call? Here is an excellent place to begin. This blog will inform you about the start of a typical surrogacy pregnancy and what to expect.

First, what to expect: It is essential to learn the difference between a surrogacy pregnancy and your own pregnancy. Click here for more information. It is also important to know that the child you could carry for another couple is not biologically related to you. This is the only legal form of surrogacy in the United States, called gestational surrogacy. The baby does not get any genetics from the surrogate mother. An embryo is created from either the intended parent’s sperm and egg or used with a donated sperm or egg. Then, the embryo is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus and carried to full term. This makes the process far less complicated legally and emotionally.

Decision made? Now, what to expect: Congratulations! At this point, you should have discussed and agreed with your partner about the beautiful journey you will embark upon together. Now, you are ready for that phone call to Shared Conception and have reviewed and completed our short surrogacy inquiry form. We can take you through the application process to make sure you fulfill the initial requirements and answer any questions you may have. Once you are approved, the matching process will begin.

Matching, what to expect: We want our surrogates to develop a wonderful relationship with the intended parents and build a beautiful partnership. With our expertise, we can match you with parents that have similar beliefs, expectations, and values making for a comfortable journey ahead. Remember, the surrogate picks the intended parents as much as the intended parents choose the surrogate. You have the option to request other interviews with different intended parent(s) until you feel you have found the right match. You also control the timeline.

Legal stuff, screenings, and evaluations for pregnancy, what to expect: This part is a bit complicated, and that is where we step in. Shared Conception is with you every step of the way! At no cost to you, but with your help, we gather your medical records and give them to the fertility clinic. Then, you (and your partner) are screened depending on the clinic’s guidelines to ensure that you are healthy to carry a surrogate baby. On the legal end, a contract gets drafted by an attorney (at no cost to you) to outline the stipulations of the pregnancy. We also have a list of attorneys for you to choose from if you do not have your own.

Stay tuned for next week’s blog: What to expect during pregnancy.

Now you are ready to begin your journey, but there is plenty more to expect! Are you interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information! We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way.

 

 

is surrogacy possible with your tubes tied?

Surrogacy with a tubal ligation? 

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We often get asked if it is possible to become a surrogate after having permanent birth control procedures such as tubal ligation. The short answer is yes. It is even ideal. However, some requirements must be fulfilled before you can become a surrogate after a tubal ligation.

What is tubal ligation?

Tubal ligation is a surgical procedure utilized to prevent pregnancy. It’s more commonly known as “getting your tubes tied.” The fallopian tubes are cut, tied, or blocked to permanently stop the egg from traveling from the ovaries through the fallopian tubes and blocks sperm from traveling up the fallopian tubes to the egg. Tubal ligation is a common type of permanent pregnancy prevention completed in a hospital or surgical clinic. It’s also reversible, but results from a reversal are not guaranteed and not always possible.

 

While this procedure prevents pregnancy, it does not prevent menstruation. However, that still means your uterus can provide a hospitable environment for an embryo, making surrogacy a possible option. How? During surrogacy, a woman is not genetically related to the child she is carrying. Since the IVF process doesn’t require her eggs, fallopian tubes are not needed to become pregnant; just a uterus.

 

Why is it ideal?

Think of tubal ligation as another layer of protection against pregnancy of your own as you prepare your body to carry an embryo. With tubal ligation, it is highly unlikely that you will get pregnant with your own child. You will still need to take fertility medication to prepare your body for the embryo transfer and pregnancy. Also, having had a tubal ligation means you have decided your family is complete, which will play a part in you becoming the ideal surrogacy candidate.

 

Call Shared Conception today!

Remember, there are other requirements you can find here to become a surrogate, including being physically and emotionally prepared for the process ahead. For more information and to see if you meet the requirements, call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more details. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate!

 

 

 

reasons to use a surrogacy agency

5 Ways an Agency Helps Intended Parents

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If you decide to use a surrogate to expand your family, you must consider whether or not you would like to work with a surrogacy agency or independently. The independent route may be slightly more cost-effective, but it also can be more stressful and uncertain. Many details are involved in a surrogacy arrangement and working with an agency such as Shared Conception can make this process less stressful and confusing.

  1. We are the experts 

Embarking on a surrogacy journey is very complicated. Like a chess game, many moving pieces need to be managed, and often at the same time. A lot of legalities, planning, and coordinating go into a journey. Shared Conception has a professional team full of experts who make dreams come true every day, allowing you to focus on enjoying the experience and preparing for your new baby.

  1. Put the pressure on us

Not everything is perfect, even a surrogacy journey, and there are a lot of bumps in the road and other scenarios that can happen. The beauty of using an agency is that we can prevent many problems from arising or take care of any problems if they do occur. We will be by your side every step of the way.

  1. Legal mumbo jumbo

Unless you have a law degree, this part will be difficult. There is a legal side to a surrogacy arrangement with contracts and documents that can be overwhelming. Shared Conception will refer you to a list of highly respected and competent lawyers you can choose to work with. Having a lawyer helps your journey stay on track, and you don’t have to worry about acquiring legal representation.

  1. We are there for you from beginning to end (and beyond)!

Managing a journey is very time-consuming on both the surrogate and intended parent sides. Our services help surrogates and intended parents come together with a lot less stress, pressure, and inconveniences an independent surrogacy can create.

  1. Monetary Benefits

There are a lot of fees and payments that go to different sources during the entire process. We use an escrow company utterly independent of our agency. Your money is deposited into an attorney-controlled interest-bearing escrow account. This way, you or your surrogate will have to worry about bills being paid on time, giving you extra peace of mind.

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.

 

 

Surrogate Spouse's POV

A Spouse’s POV on Surrogacy

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I am a proud two-time surrogate. I have no problem telling people about it whether they agree with my decision or not, and I do not have a problem answering (sometimes invasive) questions. I take it as an opportunity to debunk myths and educate people about a topic not talked about that often.

Then there’s my husband, who’s supported my decision to become a surrogate and was supportive throughout the journey from IVF to delivery and every needle in between. But there are so many questions my husband faced while I was pregnant (with another man’s baby – and another woman’s baby) that I think are important for other men with wives and partners considering surrogacy should know. After all, it is the “other side” of surrogacy that is even less discussed.

So, I interviewed my husband with the top 5 questions he experienced when I was a surrogate:

  1. How do you get past the fact that your wife is carrying another man’s baby? When my wife explained the whole process to me, it was purely medical – and I thought it was a very selfless thing to do. She always enjoyed pregnancy, so why not do it for a family in need? Not many people asked me if my wife slept with another man – I think they would know me better than to agree to something like that! Although, I did enjoy joking around with close friends and family, saying that my wife was pregnant with another man’s baby! That was one of my favorite things to do when she was on her journey.

 

  1. Did your wife decide without your consent? Absolutely not! She brought it up to me over dinner one day, and I thought it was a far-fetched idea, and I didn’t even know that surrogacy was a real thing. Then she explained the process to me, told me why she wanted to do it – and through researching the topic more together, we decided it was a great thing to do.

 

  1. Were you worried you would grow attached to the baby? No, we already knew that we were finished having kids and were very happy with our two boys. The thought of another infant terrified me. But I was happy to have my wife be someone else’s oven for their bun. Knowing the baby was not biologically tied to either of us made it less complicated regarding emotions.

 

  1. Do you still find your wife attractive (aka how is your sex life)? That’s a great question. And yes! There was not one part of me that ever considered this too weird to be intimate.

 

  1. How was your relationship with the intended parents?  I enjoy the intended parents from each journey so much, and it is amazing what can bring two couples together. We still maintain special relationships with both of the intended parents from each journey – and they will be lifelong friendships.

 

Are you interested in learning more about surrogacy or have questions about talking about it with your partner? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you can contribute to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

 

 

pregnancy discomforts

Dealing with body changes/pain during pregnancy

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As we all know from our bio babes, pregnancy causes so many changes to the body. It can be uncomfortable at times and even downright challenging. Not to mention after giving birth! Although body changes during and after pregnancy are natural, some struggle with keeping a positive body image during and after pregnancy.

 

After all, taking on the task of becoming a surrogate is not an easy one. Body changes come with the territory but can still be uncomfortable. As you go through your journey, keep some of these things in mind:

 

Pregnancy doesn’t last forever – enjoy the moment! Even if your body is changing, as it should, focus on the good you are accomplishing, the love and nourishment the baby needs, and the love you need to stay a happy and healthy pregnant surrogate.

Express yourself – talk to your support network! Keeping your feelings and concerns to yourself will do you no good. Or, give Shared Conception a call. We are happy to help!

You are not alone.

Be active – this doesn’t mean exhausting yourself with demanding physical workouts and activity! A walk or swim can help clear your mind and make you feel good!

Treat yourself – get your hair done, nails, pedicure, massage (as long as your doctor approves). Do something for yourself! You may find that self-care can raise your confidence and improve your mood.

 

Post Delivery

After the baby is born, you must give your body time to adjust. It is essential to provide it with the time it needs to balance itself out. Don’t rush. Some of our surrogates have had success in pumping for their surro-babe or through donating their milk. Pumping releases oxytocin which helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size. You are also more likely to lose the weight gained during pregnancy. That’s a win-win!

 

We all deal with different changes as all our bodies are not the same. Some women encounter stretch marks, acne, fatigue, etc. These changes can be hard to manage while pregnant and as our hormones balance – even after delivery. But always remember, the most important takeaway from this journey is to know you are delivering a miracle, and it is important to remain confident and comfortable with your body.

 

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!

placenta accrete

Our Placentas II – Placenta accrete

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We have recently discussed placenta previa, the cause, risk, symptoms, and treatments. But we are not done talking about the placenta!  Shared Conception would like to fill you in on another condition that affects our placentas, known as placenta accrete.

What is Placenta Accreta

Placenta accreta is a serious pregnancy condition that occurs when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterine wall. This can result in the placenta detaching from the uterine wall after childbirth. With placenta accreta, part or all of the placenta remains attached. This can cause severe blood loss after delivery.

3 Different types of this condition

Each type is determined by how deeply the placenta is attached to the uterus.

  • Placenta accreta: The placenta firmly attaches to the wall of the uterus. It does not pass through the wall of the uterus or impact the muscles of the uterus. This is the most common type of placenta issue.
  • Placenta increta: This type of condition sees the placenta more deeply embedded in the wall of the uterus. It still does not pass through the wall but is firmly attached to the muscle of the uterus.
  • Placenta percreta: The most severe of the types, placenta percreta happens when the placenta passes through the wall of the uterus. The placenta might grow through the uterus and impact other organs, such as the bladder or intestines.

Who is at risk for Placenta Accreta?

Women who have had multiple cesarean sections carry a greater risk of developing this condition.  This results from scarring of the uterus from the procedures. The more cesarean sections a woman has over time, the higher her risk of placenta accreta.

However, women who have had placenta previa should be carefully checked for accreta. Contrary to popular belief, an accreta isn’t always detected on an ultrasound or MRI image before delivery. Although an ultrasound or MRI image can detect an accreta, it is not a guarantee.

What are the risks to the mother and baby from placenta accreta?

The risks of placenta accreta can be severe and can expand beyond the surrogate to the newborn. Once born, the baby may be at additional risk because of premature birth. Risks for the surrogate can include:

  • Premature delivery
  • Damage to the uterus and surrounding organs
  • Need for a hysterectomy (removal of uterus)
  • Excessive bleeding or a blood transfusion
  • Rarely, death

Is there treatment?

Treatment of placenta accreta can vary. If the condition is diagnosed before birth, the pregnancy will be monitored closely. The caregiver will schedule a c-section to deliver the baby, often earlier than the due date. This is done to decrease the risk of bleeding from contractions or labor. If the woman wishes to have future pregnancies, the caregivers may attempt to save the uterus. However, in unusually severe cases where the placenta becomes invasive to other organs, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be the best option for the surrogate. Removing the uterus with the placenta still attached minimizes the risk of excessive bleeding, also known as hemorrhaging.

fall into healthy habits when pregnant

Fall into these Healthy Habits this Season!

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Avoiding sushi and soft cheeses are well-known foods to avoid when you’re pregnant. But here are a few more not-so-well-known changes to make when pregnant.

Try them out! The following can help with fewer aches and pains, less stress, and more energy!

Floss

Your dentist probably tells you this every time you have a cleaning. Flossing is not only important when you are not pregnant but even more necessary when you are pregnant. Pregnancy hormones make your mouth more susceptible to plaque and bacteria, which in turn lead to gum inflammation and other serious gum diseases. You may even notice that your gums are more sensitive and bleed, even if you are an avid flosser. Keeping care of your mouth will help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis (inflammation of the gums). These conditions can increase your risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia. So add some floss picks to your grocery list today. (And brush twice).

Slip in extra R&R

Your body is in overdrive when you are expecting. Think about it, you’re building a life inside you, and a growing baby is putting a lot of demands on your body. On top of that, your hormones are surging – literally sucking the energy out of you. That’s why getting enough rest is so important. Rest not only makes you feel more energized but can curb nausea, reduce aches and pains (especially if you suffer from back pain), lower blood pressure, and even help you sleep better at night.

Snack wisely

We all know that skipping a meal is almost impossible for a surrogate. All of that nourishment is necessary for the baby, but snacking becomes more serious as you go through your journey. You’ll want to have a nutritious snack on hand whenever you need one. If you have healthy choices at your disposal, you are less likely to pick up a candy bar or dive into that bag of chips! Try snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, or whole-grain crackers to keep in your purse for those hunger attacks when you are on the go.

Choose healthier drinks

You may want to find some alternatives to coffee and soda when you’re pregnant; even simply cutting back will be better for you. Caffeine and sugar often act as diuretics and can wash out essential nutrients before your body can absorb them. Also, all of those mouth-watering coffee drinks can be filled with calories, sugar, and more caffeine than you may think. The best drink for you is good old H2O. And, it doesn’t have to be boring! Make it interesting with a slice of orange, lemon, or lime, or even spice it up with some herbs.

Get in the water

Although you may feel like you are wearing a permanent flotation device, consider swimming. Laps and aqua aerobics will do wonders for your pregnant self, and it helps relieve aches and pains (especially as your belly grows) and improves circulation and endurance. There is nothing like feeling weightless in the water.

Eating right, working out, and drinking plenty of water is good for you, pregnant or not. Listen to your body and make a point of slowing down every now and then. Enjoy your pregnancy! Need some more tips? Feel free to contact Shared Conception. If you are 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!