tips for healthy pregnancy

Tips on How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy as a Surrogate

tips for healthy pregnancySurrogacy offers a wonderful opportunity for individuals to assist a couple in starting their family while also earning additional income for purposes such as paying off student loans, initiating a retirement fund, or securing the down payment for a first home. Typically, women interested in becoming surrogates are in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s and provide a crucial service for couples facing challenges in conceiving naturally.

Maintaining optimal health throughout the entire pregnancy is essential to ensure a successful outcome and deliver a healthy baby for the intended parents. Here are some recommended guidelines:

  • Take prescribed prenatal vitamins and medications: Your doctor may advise taking prenatal vitamins and other medications before and during the surrogacy pregnancy.
  • Regular communication with intended parents: Sharing your pregnancy progress with the intended parents is encouraged. Arranging regular visits, dinner dates, and other meetings can strengthen the connection if feasible.
  • Modify household chores: Avoid heavy lifting, using step stools, climbing ladders, and exposure to chemical-based cleaning products or changing litter boxes. Seek assistance from friends or family if needed.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: Adapt to your changing body by investing in comfortable attire and footwear as your baby bump grows.
  • Monitor weight gain: Your doctor will guide you on appropriate weight gain. Regular monitoring between visits ensures a healthy pregnancy trajectory.
  • Continue exercising: Maintain your regular exercise routine with adjustments for pregnancy, exploring safe options to stay active.

Avoid the following:

  • Skipping meals: Consume the right amount of food each day, with regular meals and snacks to support a healthy pregnancy.
  • Alcohol consumption: Refrain from drinking alcohol, as it can harm the fetus and lead to birth defects.
  • Smoking, tobacco, or vaping: Eliminate these habits, as they can impact birth weights and contribute to potential defects in the baby.
  • Taking medications or vitamins without doctor approval: Obtain approval from your doctor before using prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, or vitamin supplements.

By adhering to these guidelines and attending regular doctor visits, you increase the likelihood of delivering a healthy baby for the intended parents. For more information on surrogacy or becoming a surrogate, give Shared Conception a call today!

 

Tips for Communicating with Your Surrogate

Tips for Communicating with Your Surrogate

As first-time intended parents just starting your surrogacy journey, you may be curious about the best ways to foster communication between you and your surrogate. There are many forms of communication that you can choose from. It’s essential to have an open discussion with your surrogate to discuss items such as the preferred type of communication, the frequency of communication, and any other matters related to keeping one another informed.

Specify Your Desired Level of Communication

Prior to selecting a surrogate, it’s essential to determine how frequently you wish to communicate with them. This information will be communicated to the surrogate so they can agree or set their own boundaries. Some individuals may only seek communication around the time of appointments, though they will still receive updates from their caseworkers. Hearing information directly from the surrogate can provide a sense of reassurance for them.

On the other hand, some people desire more regular updates directly from the surrogate. The amount of communication ultimately depends on the comfort levels and preferences of everyone involved.

Maintain a Positive Communication Approach

Consider the tone and manner of communication during your conversations. Strive to keep your exchanges positive and constructive. Avoid engaging in angry or sad conversations, especially when dealing with sensitive issues – let the agency and caseworkers handle more intense discussions. While it’s crucial to share necessary information, particularly from the agency, try to convey it in a manner that encourages a positive and supportive environment.

Be Clear and Concise in Your Communication

During this challenging period, clarity is of utmost importance in your communications. It might be beneficial to outline a list of topics you wish to cover before composing an email or engaging in a phone conversation. This approach can help streamline discussions, minimizing the need for multiple calls.

Be Mindful of the Surrogate’s personal Responsibilities

Surrogates have their own spouses, children, work, family obligations, etc., so be respectful of their time and give them grace if you don’t hear back from a call, email, or text right away. Just know that you and the baby are always on their mind and important to them.

If you are interested in surrogacy or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Shared Conception. You can visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

Intimacy During Surrogacy

Intimacy During Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a wonderful journey, allowing individuals or couples to experience the joy of parenthood when faced with challenges in conceiving. However, being a surrogate comes with certain responsibilities and guidelines, including considerations about one’s intimate life.

One important aspect of being a surrogate is the need for abstinence from sexual activity for a specific period before and after the embryo transfer. Typically, surrogates are advised to abstain from sex for at least two weeks before and after the transfer. This precaution is essential to optimize the chances of a successful transfer and ensure the well-being of both the surrogate and the developing embryo.

After a successful embryo transfer, surrogates can resume their normal sex life. It’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided in the surrogacy contract if there are any. The contract may outline specific guidelines regarding the duration of abstinence and other relevant aspects of sexual activity.

The surrogacy contract is a legal and binding agreement that outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both the surrogate and the intended parents. It’s essential for surrogates to carefully review and adhere to the terms related to their sexual life. Some contracts may stipulate longer periods of abstinence, depending on the preferences of the intended parents and the guidance of medical professionals.

Surrogacy agencies, such as Shared Conception, play a crucial role in facilitating the surrogacy process. It’s highly advisable for surrogates to engage in open communication with their surrogacy agency and clarify any questions regarding sexual activity during the surrogacy journey.

The Shared Conception team is here to answer any of your questions you may have regarding surrogacy, the process and what the requirements are. If you have any questions or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us here at Shared Conception or call us at 713-622-1144.

benefits of surrogacy

Benefits of Choosing Surrogacy

Have you been contemplating using surrogacy as a means to expand your family? If so, you’re not alone. Surrogacy is gaining traction worldwide, and more individuals are viewing it as the best option when they are unable to conceive naturally.

Let’s look at some of the advantages of choosing surrogacy:

  1. Planning for When You are Ready: Utilizing surrogacy to start a family allows for planning the pregnancy to a certain extent. Whether you’re coordinating with life events or aiming for a specific time of the year to have a child, you can establish a general timeline and strive to align with it. While surprises can still occur, you have some ability to guide the process.
  2. Parenting From Birth: If having children naturally isn’t possible, adoption is a wonderful way to become a parent, but it has its constraints. In adoption, the child is typically older, and you miss the experience of bonding with a child from their infancy. With surrogacy, you ensure the opportunity to be there from day one, experiencing the initial smiles, laughter, and milestones. However, both adoption and surrogacy are great options for starting your family.
  3. The Pregnancy Journey: Unlike adoption or other paths to parenthood, surrogacy provides the pregnancy experience. Although you’re not carrying the pregnancy, you still get to witness sonograms, hear the heartbeat, and anticipate the journey to becoming a parent.
  4. Biological Parenthood: If having a biological child is important to you, the only way, apart from giving birth, is through surrogacy. Sustaining a bloodline and passing on genetic traits holds significant value for many individuals, including same-sex couples. Surrogacy allows you to use your own sperm and eggs if they are viable, or you can opt for donors for one or both components.
  5. Empowerment and Control: Uncertainty and high costs often lead individuals to discontinue infertility treatments. The unpredictability can take a toll on their lives, causing them to abandon the pursuit. Surrogacy offers a sense of control. You make crucial decisions, such as selecting a donor egg source, determining when the pregnancy occurs, choosing the surrogate, and more. Your journey toward parenthood begins with taking charge and collaborating with a surrogacy agency.

 

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother or finding a surrogate, we are here to help you. You can contact us at any time, and our team at Shared Conception will answer any questions you have. Visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

halloween and surrogacy

Halloween Fun and Surrogacy

halloween and surrogacy

If you’re going through the surrogacy journey this fall, whether as a surrogate or as intended parents, the excitement and desire to share the joy are undoubtedly overflowing. Here are several fun and imaginative ways to share some of the magic:

  1. Themed Costumes

For surrogates, donning traditional pregnancy-themed costumes can be a hit. This article from Pregnancy Magazine has 10 great last minute costume ideas: https://www.pregnancymagazine.com/pregnancy/top-10-last-minute-pregnancy-costume-ideas-for-halloween

  1. Baby Gear in Your Fall Display

If you plan to have a cornucopia as part of your fall display, incorporate a pacifier or other tiny trinkets to subtly acknowledge the upcoming arrival of the little one. This could also be a discreet way for intended parents to unveil the surrogacy news during the holiday season.

  1. Craft a Jack-o-Lantern or Scarecrow Family

Create Jack-o-lanterns tailored to represent each family member. If you’re a surrogate aiming to establish a special bond with the intended parents, engage your family in crafting a meaningful pumpkin that symbolizes the baby. Present it as a heartfelt gift to the intended parents. Similarly, you can fashion scarecrows to commemorate the event uniquely within the seasonal theme.

  1. Initiate a Pay-It-Forward Gift Chain

Assemble a thoughtful gift basket for someone you know- this could be your surrogacy agency, the intended parents, your spouse or anyone else that is part of your support system- and accompany it with a note suggesting they pay it forward by anonymously gifting someone else. During Halloween, “You’ve Been Booed” notes are quite popular.

We are experienced, compassionate and eager to help you reach your familial goals. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother or finding a surrogate, we are here to help you. You can contact us at any time and our team at Shared Conception will answer any questions you have. Visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

managing stress

10 Tips for Managing Stress as a Surrogate

managing stress

Being a surrogate comes with its unique set of emotional, physical, and mental challenges. One of the key aspects of being a successful surrogate is managing stress effectively throughout the journey. We will discuss 10 strategies to handle stress and maintain a healthy mindset during the surrogacy process.

  1. Educate Yourself

Understanding the surrogacy process thoroughly can help alleviate anxiety. Educate yourself about the medical procedures, legal aspects, and emotional expectations involved. When you have a clear understanding, you can prepare mentally for what lies ahead, making it easier to manage stress.

  1. Open Communication

Maintaining open communication with the intended parents, the surrogacy agency, and your support network is crucial. Express your concerns, fears, and expectations to those involved in the process. Keeping the lines of communication open allows for better understanding and support.

  1. Establish Boundaries

Set clear boundaries regarding your involvement and expectations from the beginning. Clearly define what you are comfortable with during and after the surrogacy journey. Having well-established boundaries will help in managing stress related to potential conflicts or misunderstandings.

  1. Build a Support System

Surrogacy can be emotionally taxing at times. Build a support system that includes family, friends, or fellow surrogates. Sharing experiences and emotions with others who can relate can provide a sense of relief and comfort during challenging moments.

  1. Focus on Self-Care

Prioritize self-care throughout the surrogacy process. Pay attention to your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy, practice relaxation techniques, exercise, and maintain a healthy diet. Taking care of yourself is essential to effectively manage stress.

  1. Seek Professional Help

Consider speaking to a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor specializing in reproductive issues and surrogacy. They can provide guidance and coping strategies to help you navigate the emotional challenges that may arise during the surrogacy journey.

  1. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques

Incorporate stress-relief techniques into your daily routine. This can include deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, journaling, or even engaging in a hobby you enjoy. These practices can help you stay centered and reduce stress levels.

  1. Stay Informed and Involved in Your Pregnancy

Keep yourself informed about the health of the pregnancy, attend regular prenatal check-ups, and stay involved in your prenatal care. Being informed and actively participating in the pregnancy can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety.

  1. Be Realistic and Accept Imperfections

Understand that not every aspect of the surrogacy journey will be perfect. There may be ups and downs, and unexpected challenges may arise. Be realistic in your expectations and embrace imperfections with a positive outlook.

  1. Reflect and Practice Gratitude

Take time to reflect on the purpose and meaning behind your decision to become a surrogate. Focus on the positive impact you are making in the lives of the intended parents. Practicing gratitude can shift your perspective and help you cope with stress.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother or finding a surrogate, we are here to help you. You can contact us at any time, and our team at Shared Conception will answer any questions you have. Visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

Pregnancy and the Related Hormones

When conceiving naturally, hormone levels undergo changes, with varying effects from person to person. However, achieving a successful pregnancy without these essential hormones is challenging.

Initially, a surrogate mother’s body does not naturally produce pregnancy hormones. Therefore, physicians utilize medications to stimulate their release and maintain appropriate levels in the body. Fortunately, hormone therapies for surrogates are highly effective and boast a high success rate. Here’s more information to reassure you about pregnancy hormones and surrogacy.

Why are hormone treatments essential for surrogates?

During a natural pregnancy, specific hormones are produced by the body to prepare for the upcoming journey. These hormones are crucial for a successful and healthy pregnancy as they facilitate the development and growth of the embryo.

For surrogate pregnancies, hormone treatments can mimic the effects of the natural hormones present at the time of conception.

Which hormones are vital during a surrogate pregnancy?

The critical pregnancy hormones include:
• hCG
• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• Estrone (E1)
• Estradiol (E2)
• Estriol (E3)
• Prolactin
• Relaxin

Human chorionic gonadotropin, or “hCG,” is one of the earliest hormones released when you conceive. It plays a significant role in preparing the ovaries during the first trimester, and home pregnancy tests detect this hormone in urine. Thus, hCG serves as a “trigger” hormone, signaling the body to release more estrogen and progesterone by forming the corpus luteum.Estrogen aligns with a woman’s menstrual cycle. Its levels remain elevated during pregnancy, peaking a few weeks before childbirth. Notably, there are three types of estrogen: E1, E2, and E3.

E1 is a weaker form produced post-menopause, while E2 is the primary estrogen in adults. E3 is closely related to pregnancy as it’s responsible for building a healthy womb lining.
Progesterone assists the womb in supporting a healthy embryo and prevents womb contractions and premature labor. Physicians may recommend additional progesterone during the first few weeks.
Prolactin initiates breast milk production, while relaxin stops the womb from contracting and induces relaxation during labor for a smoother birth.

What are the benefits of using pregnancy hormones?

The primary benefit of using pregnancy hormones is their effectiveness. Administering pregnancy hormones is time-efficient and safe, especially for individuals in excellent health. A smooth pregnancy is more likely when your body is adequately prepared with the appropriate hormone levels to support a healthy baby.

If you have any questions at all about surrogacy or becoming a surrogate, please contact us at Shared Conception. Our team is here for you.

surrogacy history

The History of Surrogacy

surrogacy history

Surrogacy, a complex arrangement that involves one woman carrying a child on behalf of another individual or couple, has a rich history that dates back centuries. This complex practice has evolved significantly over time, shaped by cultural, legal, and technological advancements. In this blog, we’ll discuss the history of surrogacy, tracing its origins, transformations, and the social implications that have accompanied its progression.

Ancient Beginnings

The concept of surrogacy finds its roots in ancient civilizations, where it was often practiced as a means to ensure lineage continuation and secure heirs. In early societies, particularly in regions like Mesopotamia and Rome, infertile couples often sought the assistance of a fertile woman to carry a child on their behalf. These arrangements were often informal and lacked the medical and legal frameworks that we have today.

Rise of Modern Surrogacy

The late 20th century witnessed a resurgence of interest in surrogacy, driven by medical advancements and changing family dynamics. The first recorded instance of modern surrogacy took place in 1976, when a gestational surrogate carried a child conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF). This landmark event paved the way for the more medically and legally regulated surrogacy practices that we see today.

Legal and Ethical Challenges

The emergence of modern surrogacy brought about a myriad of legal and ethical challenges. One of the most prominent cases that garnered widespread attention was the Baby M case in 1986. This legal battle highlighted the need for comprehensive surrogacy laws that protect the rights of all parties involved, including the surrogate mother, intended parents, and the child.

Different countries have taken varying approaches to regulating surrogacy. Some, like the United States, have embraced surrogacy and developed detailed legal frameworks to manage the practice. Others, like France and Germany, have imposed strict bans on commercial surrogacy due to concerns about potential exploitation and commodification of women’s bodies.

Technological Advancements

Advancements in reproductive technologies have played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of surrogacy. The development of IVF, embryo transfer techniques, and genetic testing has expanded the possibilities for surrogacy arrangements. Gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate mother is not genetically related to the child she carries, has become more common due to these technological breakthroughs.

Cultural Perspectives

Cultural attitudes towards surrogacy vary significantly around the world. In some cultures, surrogacy is embraced as a way to help couples facing infertility, while in others, it might be met with skepticism or moral concerns. Religious beliefs, societal norms, and perceptions of family structure all influence how surrogacy is viewed and practiced.

The Present and Future of Surrogacy

Today, surrogacy continues to be a complex and evolving practice. With globalization, assisted reproductive technologies, and changing family dynamics, surrogacy arrangements have become more diverse and accessible. However, controversies surrounding exploitation, legal ambiguities, and ethical dilemmas persist.

As we move into the future, it’s likely that surrogacy will continue to be a topic of debate and evolution. Striking a balance between respecting the autonomy and rights of surrogate mothers, ensuring the well-being of the child, and meeting the desires of intended parents will be central to the ongoing development of surrogacy laws and practices worldwide.

The history of surrogacy is a testament to the intricate interplay between culture, technology, and the human desire to create and expand families. From its ancient origins to the modern challenges and opportunities it presents, surrogacy has journeyed through time, adapting to changing norms and advancements. As society navigates the complexities of surrogacy, it’s crucial to approach this practice with empathy, awareness, and a commitment to ensuring the well-being of all those involved. If you are interested in surrogacy, either in becoming a surrogate or finding a surrogate, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Shared Conception. We are experienced, compassionate, and eager to help you.

nesting

The “Nesting” Instinct: Surrogate Moms and the Journey of Preparation

nestingIn the natural world, the instinct to create a safe and nurturing environment for impending arrivals is universal. From mother cats and dogs to expectant birds, this phenomenon, commonly known as nesting, is a primal urge deeply ingrained in various species. Remarkably, even human moms-to-be experience this compelling instinct as they prepare to welcome their little ones into the world. But what about surrogate mothers? Do they, too, experience the nesting instinct? In this blog, we discuss the intriguing realm of surrogate parenting and the surprising phenomenon of nesting.

The Surrogate’s Role: Surrogacy is a profound act of selflessness, where a woman carries a child for intended parents, helping them realize their dream of family and parenthood. While the baby will ultimately go home with the intended parents, the surrogate still experiences the remarkable journey of pregnancy, both physically and emotionally. And just like any expectant mother, surrogates can also find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of nesting.

The Nesting Instinct Persists: The burning question often arises: Do surrogate mothers still encounter the nesting instinct? The answer is a resounding “YES.” Surrogates, in fact, commonly experience this instinctual urge to prepare their surroundings for the new life they’re carrying. The act of nesting is not reserved for those who will raise the child but extends to those who are nurturing it in their wombs. It’s a natural process driven by hormones and biological cues, and it’s not swayed by the understanding that the child will eventually be handed over to the intended parents.

The Power of Nesting: The nesting instinct during pregnancy is a powerful force. It propels pregnant mothers, including surrogates, to embark on a journey of swift productivity. Suddenly, the garage gets swept out, stray socks find their pairs, and grout lines in bathrooms are meticulously attended to with toothbrushes. This occurrence is a testament to the innate desire to create a safe and clean environment for the soon-to-arrive baby. For surrogate mothers, it’s a manifestation of their deep connection to the life growing within them.

Embracing the Experience: Every surrogate’s journey is unique, and not all may experience the nesting instinct during their pregnancies. However, for those who do, it’s a special moment to be cherished. While the specific baby might not remain with the surrogate after birth, the emotional connection formed during pregnancy is undeniable. It’s a testament to the profound bond that develops between a surrogate and the life she carries, regardless of the eventual destination of the child.

Surrogacy is remarkable and transcends traditional definitions of motherhood. The nesting instinct, a universal experience, remains a part of this journey for many surrogate mothers. It’s a beautiful reminder that the act of nurturing a life goes beyond biology and extends to the emotional realm. Shared Conception encourages surrogate mothers to embrace the moments of nesting as an integral part of their unique experience. Ultimately, it’s a great reminder of the extraordinary act of helping another family complete their own. If you have any questions about the surrogacy process, please contact us.

surrogacy acronyms

Common Acronyms You’ll See During Your Surrogacy Journey

acronym



When you start your surrogacy journey, you will come across a lot of different acronyms. Below, we list some of the most common ones.

  1. ART: Assisted Reproductive Technology
  2. ACA: Anticardiolipin Antibodies
  3. AI: Artificial Insemination
  4. IVF: In Vitro Fertilization
  5. ET: Embryo Transfer
  6. PGD/PGS: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Screening
  7. GC: Gestational Carrier
  8. IP(s): Intended Parent(s)
  9. SA: Semen Analysis
  10. HSG: Hysterosalpingogram
  11. AMH: Anti-Müllerian Hormone
  12. FSH: Follicle-stimulating hormone
  13. LH: Luteinizing Hormone
  14. E2: Estradiol
  15. P4: Progesterone
  16. PMTCT: Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (of HIV, in some cases)
  17. FDA: Food and Drug Administration (relevant for surrogacy regulations)
  18. HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
  19. RE: Reproductive Endocrinologist
  20. OB/GYN: Obstetrician/Gynecologist
  21. OB: Obstetrician
  22. REI: Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
  23. ED: Egg Donor
  24. ART: Assisted Reproductive Technology
  25. POT: Plan of Treatment
  26. BETA: Beta Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (a hormone indicating pregnancy)
  27. D&C: Dilation and Curettage
  28. DPT: Days Post-Transfer
  29. DPO: Days Post-Ovulation
  30. PBO: Pre-Birth Order (legal document establishing intended parents’ rights)
  31. IP(s): Intended Parent(s)
  32. LOI: Letter of Intent
  33. GC: Gestational Carrier
  34. ASRM: American Society for Reproductive Medicine
  35. ESHRE: European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
  36. CFC: Center for Fertility and Cryogenics
  37. FDA: Food and Drug Administration (regarding reproductive health)
  38. HIPAA: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
  39. ERA: Endometrial Receptivity Assay
  40. EPT: Early Pregnancy Test
  41. PGS/PGT-A: Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Testing for Aneuploidy
  42. PGD/PGT-M: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Testing for Monogenic Disorders
  43. FET: Frozen Embryo Transfer
  44. LMP: Last Menstrual Period
  45. USG: Ultrasound
  46. POI: Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
  47. TTC: Trying To Conceive
  48. TWW: Two-week wait (time between transfer and pregnancy test)
  49. USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services
  50. ICSI: Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
  51. MFI: Male Factor Infertility
  52. PESA/TESE: Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration/Testicular Sperm Extraction
  53. HPT: Home Pregnancy Test
  54. OTC: Over-the-Counter
  55. Tx: Treatment

Remember, the acronyms you encounter may vary based on the specific context of your surrogacy journey, the location, and the medical practices involved. Always make sure to clarify any terms or acronyms you are unfamiliar with to ensure clear communication throughout the process. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Shared Conception.