how to be a surrogate mother

Become a Surrogate!

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A lot of us are lucky enough to be able to think, discuss and waiver on having another little one added to our family. These days are chaotic, unpredictable and ever-changing. We can feel overwhelmed at times and the thought of another baby is bittersweet. Yet, there are many couples that cannot even think about having a baby, and simply because they can’t. We are not all blessed with fertility.

Infertility is on the rise. It’s more common than most people think. Today, about 1 in 6 couples wishing to conceive and sadly experience infertility. This then, leads many to the long road of fertility treatments. The use of assisted reproductive techniques is also increasing due to a greater need. Unfortunately, these treatments don’t work for everybody. And, more times than not, a woman does not get answers as to why she cannot conceive. This does not leave out the increasing numbers of male infertility issues either. There are so many people struggling to achieve a family – and that’s where we come in.

“We” are Shared Conception. A highly-rated surrogacy agency looking for strong, courageous and just plain wonderful women looking to help create a family. It takes a special woman to become a surrogate mother. Now, there are the physical, medical and emotional requirements. But, it requires someone with a big heart. Surrogate mothers are selfless, loving and overall amazing! They help others in times of need, love being pregnant and want to share one of the most precious moments of people’s lives.

Shared Conception works hard to simplify the surrogate process for all of our potential surrogates, from start to finish (and even after). We will walk you through what may seem like a complicated process and are with you every step of the way! If you are interested in making someone’s dreams come true, contact Shared Conception today! Or, visit our website and fill out a contact form and see if you prequalify. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

Pregnant Woman Feeling Sick

Morning Sickness

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For those who have struggled with morning sickness, there is a list of approved products that are safe for you and the baby. Although it’s a short list, and even shorter for the first trimester, there are some home remedies that may work even better. We all have those remedies passed down from our moms, grandmas and great-grandmas and what all of your friends suggest. However, before venturing into the world of homeopathic remedies, always check with your doctor and refer to your surrogate contract before taking anything herbal or over-the-counter. It’s better to double check with the pros and be safe than sorry. You never know what recent discoveries have been made about the safety of home remedies. And remember, there is never such a thing as too many, or too stupid of a question when it comes to your health. This is especially true when it comes to prenatal care.

And be careful of that stuffy nose you’ve got. It may not even be a cold in the first place.

A lot of woman are congested during their pregnancy; it’s a common condition called Rhinitis of Pregnancy and it has nothing to do with allergies or a viral infection. It has to do with high amounts of estrogen and blood in your body causing swelling in the mucus membranes and blood vessels in your nose. This leads to congestion, runny nose, sneezing and mild headaches. Unfortunately, your risk of sinus infections also increase when you are pregnant, so if you feel pressure, pain, have a cough, fever, swelling or any other symptoms, contact your provider for help.

Another culprit…

Feeling those pesky allergies that you had before the pregnancy? They run amuck once you get pregnant and can increase in potency. There are a few medications a doctor can prescribe for you that are safe to take, but it may be best to just try to stay away from the source for a while, considering that you can get pregnancy rhinitis in addition to those lovely allergies!

So what do you do?

You can try to avoid anything that may be an irritant. Do your workout indoors on days when the air quality is poor. Stay away from smokers, paint and chemical fumes (which you should be doing anyways) and get your partner to dust and clean any mold and/or pet dander from inside your home. As mentioned before, there are so many different methods and home remedies out there. These are just a few.

Interested in learning how to be a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an info request form! We would love to hear from you!

 

 

 

Nesting During Pregnancy 722x406

Nesting as a Surrogate

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Nesting is natural. Animals even do it. This ritual is ingrained in us! Nesting is when a pregnant woman prepares for her soon to arrive bundle of joy! However, you are most likely to reach for that feather duster rather than real feathers! As a surrogate, the big difference is that you are not preparing for an arrival, but rather a joyous departure. But the instinct is still there, and many of our surrogates have used it to their advantage. Nesting usually occurs in the middle to end of the third trimester and sometimes earlier. This instinct is just as powerful in humans as it is in animals.

This is a great time to clean out that pantry, reorganize your kitchen and finish some of those DIY projects you started. Stay productive and safe. Some activities that are satisfying and safe are: sweeping out the garage, finding matches for all those missing socks, or organizing your drawers and closets. Your partner may think you are insane, but just tell them to “go with it.” It is nice to get that burst of energy that you may have been longing for, and your family will benefit from it. Who doesn’t need some organization in their life?

Of course, every surrogate has a different journey and everyone’s body is different. There is nothing wrong, if the nesting urge doesn’t occur. Shared Conception encourages all surrogates to enjoy these moments as they all form the unique experience of helping create another family.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. 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!

 

 

Reasons To Actually Love Your Summer Pregnancy 1280x960

Pregnant? Beat the heat this summer!

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Believe it or not, there are some advantages to being pregnant in the summer. You don’t have to worry about squeezing your swollen feet into shoes when you have the option to wear sandals, and those stylish flowy dresses are very comfortable and chic.

But, with temperatures in Texas already climbing and becoming more muggy, it can get unbearable. Summer can also pose some of its own risks to those that are pregnant. Overheating is very common and scary.

Here are some ways to remain cool and comfy this summer:

  1. Drink water. You need an extra 2-4 glasses of water a day when you are carrying. Stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you everywhere you go. The sudden urge of thirst can sneak up on you at any time. Make it tasty by adding a slice of lemon, cucumber or lime for a hint of flavor.
  2. Seek shade. Over exposure to the sun, puts you at risk even more while pregnant. Not only can it cause you to overheat, but if your skin is prone to melasma (dark patches that appear on your skin) the shade can help prevent it.
  3. Changes in body temperature can be risky. It’s hot outside and cool inside. Your body is in overdrive when it has to continually adjust to temperature. If you find yourself outside for long periods of time, wear light, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat and have your water handy.
  4. Putting your feet up is part of your job! When it is hot, our feet, ankles and legs swell up faster. Even if you are working, put a stool underneath your desk for an invisible relief!
  5. Take a cool shower. This will not only cool down your body but help minimize swelling. This will also help you relax before bed. And remember, there is no limit to cool showers! Some of our Shared Conception surrogates have told us that they take multiple showers a day!

Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com and let’s talk!

 

 

 

12 Common Misconceptions About Content Marketing

“Mis”Conceptions

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Have you heard of surrogacy? Throughout recent years, it’s become an increasingly popular alternative to pregnancy when all other fertility options are exhausted. Celebrities are doing it and being public about it. You may even know someone who is or has been a surrogate or someone that has needed one. Nevertheless, there are often stigmas, assumptions and myths attached to this intricate process.

Once of the most common misconceptions is that the surrogate mother is genetically linked to the child. A surrogate, or gestational carrier is impregnated through the IVF process with an embryo created by the intended mother (or donor egg) and the intended father’s sperm (or donor sperm). This is called gestational surrogacy.

A popular belief to one who is not familiar or educated about the surrogacy process, is that the surrogate will become attached to the baby that they are carrying and be unable to give it to the intended parents at the time of birth.  Surrogates, also known to us as  “selfless women warriors”, already know that this is expected at the end of the surrogacy journey. Plus, the baby is not genetically linked to the surrogate, as mentioned above. And lastly, by law, in certain states like Texas, surrogates have no legal rights to the child.

An unfortunate fallacy to the surrogate process is that it is unaffordable. It is expensive but many families have grown their family through surrogacy, and you can’t put a price on that. Shared Conception is open to talking about how you can get loans and other ways to make your dreams of a family, a reality.

On a high note, surrogacy is becoming more and more accepted into today’s society. Shared Conception is dedicated to walking you through this process to achieve your goal of creating or expanding your family. Contact us with any questions; we will be happy to speak with you.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our coordinators will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents and ensure that everyone has a beautiful 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!

 

 

 

matching a surrogate with intended parents

It’s a Match!

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What is a match? Webster’s dictionary defines it as, “to be equal to (something or someone) in quality or strength; to make or to be harmonious.” What a perfect definition to describe how the staff at Shared Conception “matches” intended parents and surrogate mothers! Our definition has a little more heart. At Shared Conception, matching is“a wonderful process in which Shared Conception excels in. This is when a surrogate is paired with intended parent(s). Shared Conception matches surrogates with intended parents that are good matches based on legal requirements, personality compatibility, preferences and similar expectations.

We want to ensure that the surrogate and the intended parents are certainly equal in their beliefs and most importantly inner strength, and that the surrogate has a harmonious pregnancy.

Shared Conception’s objective is that the surrogate and intended parents interact in an extraordinarily comfortable environment and that both parties build a good, solid rapport and partnership. With that said, we strive to pinpoint your core beliefs and innate desires so that everyone is mentally comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire pregnancy.

If you are comfortable with the intended parents we match with you, we will immediately contact them. Then, Shared Conception will coordinate a three-way phone conversation between the intended parents, the surrogate and a member of our team. If all parties agree to move forward, then the next step is to either have a video call or face-to-face meeting so everyone can discuss the partnership and expectations.

This is such an exciting time in the process. Imagine all the hopes, dreams, expectations and anticipation all wrapped up into the actual match between two families. It’s simply amazing!

If you are curious about becoming a surrogate, read more to see how surrogacy works in our great state of Texas. The process does vary between states. Not only is surrogacy a legal process, but it is also an emotional and physical process. Make sure to educate yourself, your spouse or partner, and surrounding support system about surrogacy. If you are considering surrogacy and live in Texas, you will have only one option: gestational surrogacy. This is where the embryo is created in a fertility clinic using an egg and sperm from the intended parent (or donor) then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus through the process of IVF.

It helps to work with an experienced agency such as Shared Conception. We carefully screen and match both intended parents and surrogates with our professional matching process. Help create a family with Shared Conception. Interested in surrogacy? Call us today! You can visit us online www.sharedconception.com

 

 

 

 

 

pregnancy and sun exposure

Belly, Baby and the Sun

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In Texas, we get a short Spring season, a long spring break and tend to hit the beach and poolside as early as April. If you are pregnant, you have to consider protecting that precious cargo from the sun. We all know that overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can be damaging to anyone. And yes, it is different when you are pregnant.

Due to hormonal changes, your skin is more sensitive while you’re pregnant. You are prone to hives and heat rash. Also, with the increased amount of melanin in the skin, this often results in a condition known as melasma, also called “the mask of pregnancy.” As a result, caution and shade is one way to defend your precious pouch. Bring a beach umbrella, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and keep cool by staying hydrated.

Another additional worry while being in the sun and pregnant is the ingredients in sunscreen. Sunscreen is a must! But what is in it? A common chemical found in sunscreen, oxybenzone, has been linked to low birth weight. It is wise to avoid sunscreens containing this ingredient and find one that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are considered better options for those that are pregnant. Seek advice from your doctor for the safest types of sunscreens to use during pregnancy.

The sun also causes concern beyond UV damage. Be careful not to overheat. This also involves staying hydrated. Avoid overheating by keeping water close by at all times and prevent heatstroke by staying indoors at the height of the day’s temperature. When you are pregnant, your body temperature is higher and busy pumping extra blood to meet the needs of the baby. Therefore, it is easier to overheat.

Although vitamin D is necessary for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, the best source can be found in lots of different foods and supplements. If you prefer to get your vitamin D in the great outdoors, remember, a little sun will go a long way. ALWAYS talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have when it comes to your journey.

Shared Conception pledges to support you throughout your journey and beyond! We ensure that any questions, sensitive or difficult subject matters can be easily handled by Shared Conception. We want our surrogates to be healthy, informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing they contributed to the world in a unique way. Interested in surrogacy? Give us a call today for a no pressure conversation, or visit www.deliver-a-dream.com to fill out an application request form. We would love to hear from you.

 

 

References: https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/tanning-during-pregnancy/

you can be a surrogate

You Can be a Surrogate!

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Surrogate, journey, intended parent, gestational carrier, IVF……there is a lot to learn when considering surrogacy. Not everyone is cut out for this job, but more women qualify than you may think. If you are thinking about becoming a surrogate, here are some common characteristics among our surrogates that you may be able to identify with.

You’re a mom.

One of the standard requirements to become a surrogate is that you have had at least one child of your own. If you have not. We cannot accept your application. This way, since you have already been through a pregnancy and delivery, you have realistic expectations. With that said, all of our surrogates are moms. Children unlock a large part of our heart, so giving this gift to another family is something any mom can appreciate the most.

You have a great support system.

A successful surrogacy has an established support system that surrounds you, the surrogate, with positive vibes, a helping hand, and a shoulder to lean on throughout the surrogacy. Whether this is your spouse, partner, friend or relative, this reliable point person and group of people has proven to be vital among all surrogacy journeys.

You are healthy.

When you apply to become a surrogate with Shared Conception, there are some initial medical qualifications to be met. One of the most important qualifications for a surrogate is a healthy lifestyle. Also, you (and spouse/partner) are required to pass a medical and psychological evaluation. This ensures a healthy process for both surrogate and baby.

You are a good communicator.

A great surrogate is open-minded and can go with the flow. Part of your job as a surrogate is to keep everyone “in the know.” It means a lot to your intended parents to supply them with updates about appointments, baby growth, how you are feeling and more!

You have a clean record.

You must not have any type of criminal record. Understandably so, you are going to be carrying someone else’s baby and a history of making good choices, makes you a good choice! Small infractions like speeding tickets won’t disqualify you from being a surrogate. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Shared Conception.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our director will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are tactfully brought up and handled. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream/ to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you

 

 

part 3 how to become a surrogate with shared conception

How to Become a Surrogate with Shared Conception

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Part 3 : Transfer, Pregnancy & Delivery

The Embryo Transfer

The IVF clinic will guide you with instructions about the embryo transfer process, all the medications needed, and their expectations of you. There are several aspects of the embryo transfer process.

  • You may be asked to take contraceptives, and possibly Lupron, to prepare you for the embryo transfer.
  • Multiple subcutaneous and intramuscular injections will be administered during the embryo transfer cycle until the end of the first trimester.
  • You will be asked to take estrogen and progesterone in the form of a patch, pill, suppository or injection.
  • During the embryo transfer, a small catheter is inserted into your vagina then uterus. The embryos will then be placed through the catheter and up into the uterus for anticipated implantation.
  • Be prepared for multiple blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor the progress of the cycle, as well as the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.
  • Many times, mandatory bed rest will occur for 1-3 days immediately following the embryo transfer. This varies based on which fertility clinic the intended parents are with.
  • Within 8 to 14 days following the embryo transfer, you will take a pregnancy test at the IVF clinic.

Pregnancy and Delivery

An In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) pregnancy requires different and earlier attention than your past pregnancies.

  • The IVF clinic will closely monitor you for approximately twelve weeks before releasing you to the obstetrician of your choice.
  • Know that there may be a possibility of multiples and if this occurs, you may be required to attend additional office visits, go on bed rest or just be more closely monitored.
  • As this pregnancy is shared with the intended parents, it is crucial to have ongoing communication with them about the developing fetus, your health status, etc.
  • The delivery of this baby is such a memorable time for everyone! In most cases the surrogate, along with her family, share this very exciting and rewarding moment with the intended parents. After delivery and the release of the baby (by its pediatrician), the intended parents leave the hospital as a complete family unit while the surrogate goes home to her own family, satisfied knowing she fulfilled the wishes of a couple or individual.

Shared Conception’s Pledge

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our coordinators will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are tactfully brought up and handled. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream/ to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you!

 

 

 

 

how to become a surrogate

How long does it take to become a surrogate with Shared Conception?

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Part 1 – Application and Matching Process

Shared Conception works hard to simplify the surrogate process for all of our potential surrogates. Initially, it may seem complicated, but we will be with you every step of the way!  Here is a breakdown of the steps involved from start to finish in our 3 part “How to Become a Surrogate with Shared Conception” blog series!

The Surrogate Mother Process – Application and Evaluation

  • All of our surrogates begin by completing the Information Request form online, or calling Shared Conception (713-622-1144) to schedule an initial phone consultation. We will ask a few brief questions and then explain the surrogate process to you. This is also a good time to ask any questions. And we mean ANYTHING!
  • If we both decide to proceed, we will email you our application packet, which also requests a few pictures of yourself, so we can put a face to the name. The application will ask you about your medical history, psychological history and lifestyle. Complete the application thoroughly and honestly so that we can start the “getting to know you” process, thus matching you with the most appropriate intended parents.
  • If your application is reviewed and accepted, Shared Conception will contact you about your potential participation in Shared Conception’s Surrogacy Program. This is when the fun begins! We want to get to know you better including your preferences related to surrogacy and what your ideal match would be. We want you to have the opportunity to ask any and all questions you may have before you decide to join our program. If you are married, it is also helpful for your spouse to participate in these calls. His or her presence allows us to get to know you both; thus custom-matching you with the most appropriate intended parents.
  • If all goes well, and we are both on board, Shared Conception will present you with our Agency agreement which spells out both parties’ rights and responsibilities and gives us permission to present your profile to the best intended parents for you.
  • Next, we will start gathering medical records from your previous pregnancies. As this can take a while, it’s important that you provide us with your OBGYN and hospital info as soon as possible.
  • If you have medical insurance, we will ask that you send your insurance benefits information to us. The goal is to see if your health insurance policy has any surrogacy exclusions relating to pregnancy. Once you’re matched, we’ll have an insurance specialist review this as well. If you do not have insurance, we will assist you in finding a policy. The intended parents will be responsible for the premiums relating to this insurance policy.
  • While your insurance and medical records are being gathered, Shared Conception will simultaneously conduct a thorough criminal background check.

The Matching Process

Shared Conception’s objective is that the surrogate and intended parents interact in an extraordinarily comfortable environment and that both parties build a good rapport and partnership. With that said, we strive to pinpoint your core beliefs and innate desires that are in-line with the intended parents, so that you are mentally comfortable throughout the pregnancy.
Once Shared Conception accepts you into our surrogate mother program, we will expertly determine which couples to present to you based upon the criteria you expressed to us during the screening process and the preferences the couples have shared with us. This timeline could either be quick or it could take some time, as we are looking for someone whose needs, expectations and views are similar to yours.
If you are comfortable with the intended parents we present to you, we will immediately contact them and coordinate a three-way phone conversation between the intended parents, Surrogate and a member of the Shared Conception team. If all parties agree to move forward, then the next step is to arrange a face-to-face meeting (if logistically possible) so everyone can discuss the partnership and expectations.

Psychological Screening and Evaluation

Once this match meeting is successfully completed and all parties agree to work together, you and your husband or partner (if applicable) will be psychologically tested and evaluated by a licensed mental health professional experienced in fertility counseling. This step is recommended by The American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and will ensure that you are well informed of the risks involved in a gestational arrangement, as well as the psychological, physical and mental aspects of the surrogacy process. All psychological screening and evaluation fees are paid for by the intended parents.

Stay tuned for part 2 and three of our “How to Become a Surrogate with Shared Conception” blog series. If you don’t want to wait and are interested in becoming a surrogate today, give us a call! You can also visit us online at: https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream/to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you!