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!

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.

 

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.

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.

 

Long distance surrogacy relationships

Long Distance Surrogates

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Looking back on my two wonderful journeys with Shared Conception, I have had two completely different experiences. Each amazing and unique, I could talk for days about my wonderful relationships with each of the intended parents. For this blog, I want to talk about how the intended parents and I were able to forge an amazing relationship even though we were so far apart.

Before I was matched, Shiva at Shared Conception asked me how I felt about working with international intended parents. She told me about other clients, other journeys, and experiences with international clients. I weighed the pros and cons of working with international vs. domestic or even local intended parents, talked about it with my husband who ultimately told me the decision was up to me. What really got me was their story. And although it is their story to tell, I was touched, intrigued, and compelled to help them. I felt an instant connection the first time I met them, and lucky for me, it will be a relationship that lasts a lifetime.

When we were first matched, we immediately set our expectations for communication. I asked them how involved they wanted to be. Truthfully, I wanted them to know what was going on every step of the way, and thankfully, they wanted to know too! I thought it was important to not only agree on our methods and frequency of communication but also live up to it.

They were so appreciative for every photo, email, text or Skype. Every response warmed my heart and validated my decision to work with these wonderful parents. I was truly dedicated to making them feel part of the process even with such a great distance between us.

And of course, this journey and experience led me to a second journey with another amazing couple, this time local and equally great. The bottom line is that every journey is different. Each experience that I had, helped me grow as an individual, woman, mom, and even wife. I am so thankful to have been able to be a surrogate and include this job on my resume of life.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, I highly recommend Shared Conception. Their staff is experienced, knowledgeable, kind and passionate about surrogacy. Give them a call today. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to begin an application to become a gestational surrogate and find out more information!

Written by Courtney Clinton

Media and surrogacy

Media and Surrogacy

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There is so much more acceptance these days about having children through surrogacy than previously. Attitudes towards the surrogacy process have changed throughout the years. More than ever, we hear of surrogacy in the news, on the covers of magazines, and in interviews with celebrities. These instances have helped make surrogacy a more acceptable way of having children. However, there are times when the media portrays surrogacy in a negative light, or just downright incorrectly!

The media has greatly influenced surrogacy; in good and bad ways. When it comes to surrogacy in the news, oftentimes, it is a horrible story shedding a negative light on all involved. It does not mention the thousands of families that have been created through surrogacy, or the happiness in successful surrogacy journeys. Many times, the media focuses on the dangers of surrogacy, which are not only misrepresenting surrogacy but also quite offensive!

  1. Not seeing the beauty in surrogacy

Becoming a gestational carrier is beautiful and selfless. These sentiments are rarely conveyed to the public. Shared Conception has worked with hundreds of selfless women who have given years of their time to help create or extend a family for others. It’s not all about the money. Ask anyone of our surrogates. Many have different but equally beautiful reasons of why they became a surrogate. All will agree that their time as a surrogate was one of the most rewarding experiences in their lives.

  1. Don’t forget about the happy families created through surrogacy

The media focuses on the most outrageous surrogacy stories. Many times, you hear of a crazy surrogacy story that is dramatized in a made-for-TV movie, article, or news segment. There are many more happy stories than unhappy ones.

  1. Heartbreak is often sensationalized

The negativity that is reported is rarely followed up with a successful story. This is a missed opportunity to inform and educate others on the process. Education and research are critical elements in a successful journey. If any agreement; whether for surrogacy or another business contract is written poorly, with little education or research, then such an agreement is prone to cause issues.

  1. Name-calling

Negative terminology such as “breeders” or “womb for rent” has been associated with the surrogacy process. These words cannot be farther from the truth and can be very offensive. All surrogates offer their assistance, and agencies such as Shared Conception, make sure that all our surrogates are educated and informed before the process even begins!

Becoming a surrogate is selfless, beautiful, and rewarding. These words are among many words our surrogates have used to describe their experience with Shared Conception. Begin your surrogacy journey with us. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an information request form!

 

 

 

 

medications for a surrogate

Patches, Pills, and Prickly Things

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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?

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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.