surrogacy in texas

Surrogacy in Texas

Looking for a surrogate or becoming a surrogate in Texas is often preferred among many intended parents. Texas has the most surrogate-friendly judicial system. Intended parents from anywhere can come to the Lone Star state to find their life-changing surrogate, as long as the surrogate resides in Texas. This state is one of the few in the US to recognize and enforce gestational agreements. Governor Rick Perry signed House Bill 729 in 2003, which authorized surrogacy agreements between a gestational mother and intended parents. This bill was part of the Texas Family Code.

The law creates a complicated process to become simplified and straightforward. For example, it unmistakably allows intended parents to become the only legal parents and for the gestational carrier (surrogate) to relinquish all rights to the child. Once the gestational surrogacy contract is approved, a judicial order requires the intended parents only listed on the child’s birth certificate post-birth.

Laws about surrogacy vary in other states.

The American Bar Association lists four categories that describe how the U.S. handles surrogacy (some states fall into more than one category):

  • Paying for surrogacy is criminalized.
  • Surrogacy agreements are unenforceable.
  • Surrogacy agreements are recognized either through legislation or case law.
  • Surrogacy is not addressed.

Intended parents do not need to be residents of Texas.

For a valid gestational agreement, one of the parties (either an intended parent or surrogate) must be a Texas state resident. that means that out-of-state and international intended parents can use Texas law for surrogacy arrangements, as long as the surrogate is a Texas resident.

There are several requirements to obtain a valid gestational agreement in Texas.

Texas requires several considerations for the married, heterosexual couple and surrogate before validating a gestational agreement. Some requirements include:

  • The intended mother cannot carry a child or would be subject to health risks if becoming pregnant.
  • The gestational agreement must be signed by all parties and submitted to the court 14 days before an embryo transfer.
  • The surrogate maintains control regarding herself and the unborn child’s health-related decisions and issues throughout pregnancy.
  • All parties enter the agreement willfully and understand what the gestational contract involves.
  • The gestational carrier has previously and successfully delivered a child and is healthy to endure another pregnancy and delivery without unreasonable physical risk to herself or the unborn child.
  • A physician has thoroughly explained all health risks pertaining to the parties involved.
  • The agreement clearly states the party that is financially responsible for all pregnancy-associated expenses and provides for the health and safety of the surrogate and unborn child.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate with Shared Conception, your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information.

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.

 

 

 

surrogacy inquiry form

Surrogacy Inquiry Form: Become a Surrogate Mother

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!

 

 

opening up as a surrogate

Opening Up – as a surrogate

One of the many reasons women choose to become a surrogate is to help create or build a family. With that – a lot of personal information is to be shared. Your current and past medical history are one of them, but that is expected. Some of our surrogates choose to work with intended parents who align with their beliefs, religion, and other personal preferences. There is no right or wrong regarding your conditions. It is crucial to be comfortable with your intended parents, as you do not want anything to impact the surrogacy arrangement after it begins.

 

At Shared Conception, we pride ourselves on the level of comfort and compassion provided to our potential surrogates. It is important to feel comfortable telling us what is important to you upfront when being matched. After all, you will be carrying their baby for the next 40 weeks and (most likely) building a lifelong friendship. If you have any concerns, you must let us know, and don’t be afraid to ask.

 

It is critical to think about anything you feel may impact your application and share them with us. Any past issues will not necessarily prevent you from becoming a surrogate.

 

The bottom line is that a surrogate enters into a pretty cozy relationship with the intended parent(s). That is why it is critical to be transparent and honest when entering into a surrogacy arrangement.

 

We are proud of the safe environment we have worked hard to create for our surrogates. Shared Conception will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that sensitive or complicated 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. Are you 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

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.

Matchingwhat 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.

 

 

repeat surrogacy journeys

Loved it the first time? Repeat Journeys

Often, after a successful journey that has blossomed into a great friendship, intended parents will come back and ask the same surrogate to enter a second surrogacy arrangement. Shared Conception has seen this scenario occur many times. We also have many surrogates who offer to carry a baby for another couple after a successful first journey.

Did you know that the compensation for first-time surrogates and experienced surrogates are different? If you’ve been a surrogate before, you can expect to get paid more when you embark on a second or third surrogacy journey.

That’s right — experienced surrogate compensation rates are typically higher than women who embark on a journey for the first time. When you are a repeat surrogate, you have already proven your ability to safely carry a gestational pregnancy to term. You have shown that you can successfully partner with intended parents through the length of this process, and you have  knowledge of the surrogacy process which will make another journey much easier. You’ll be in high demand from intended parents who are looking for a surrogate.

Keep in mind: There is also a limit to how many pregnancies you can have as a surrogate. That includes your own pregnancies. Many medical professionals will set that limit at no more than five vaginal births and no more than three cesarean-sections before you carry another surrogacy baby. While having a lengthy pregnancy history can be an advantage for intended parents, it may also increase the likelihood of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. So, every time you decide to become a surrogate, you must again be medically cleared by a fertility specialist to move forward.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our client coordinators will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents and will make sure 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!

 

surrogacy requirements

Surrogacy Worries

Surrogacy may seem daunting at first. But our surrogates have journeys filled with joy and adulation. They will all agree, there is nothing more nerve wrecking than the moment you decide that you want to become a surrogate. So many thoughts, fears and feelings fill your head.

Health history

Your health history is an important factor in your eligibility. If there are things in your past that make you worry, they might impact your candidacy as a surrogate, so let us know right away! Shared conception is a judgement-free zone. Although full disclosure is always necessary no matter how much you want to forget certain experiences. Talking about sensitive issues in an honest manner, will help you feel relieved about the impact it may have on your surrogacy eligibility. It’s better to know that to wonder.

Surrogacy is an amazing thing you are considering doing for another person, and we would never want you to feel that your path to helping someone else is blocked before considering all of the issues together. You may be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Meeting your IP’s

What if I say the wrong thing? What if I ask a silly question? What do I wear? What if they don’t like me? These are the kinds of questions you may find yourself worrying about before a zoom interview – it’s understandable. But if you’re helping to build a family, you may be surprised to realize that they too, are stressing about the exact same things. The good news is that you don’t have to feel anxious. Go in acting just like your amazing self – and they will love you!

Fear of the medication

Not many think about administering medication to themselves with needles, but it is a necessary step in preparing your body to have a baby via IVF. And we agree, needles can seem scary.

However, it really isn’t as bad as it seems. And yes, I have personally had to do this. Really, you just get used to it. Many have their husband, co-worker or friend administer them daily, but some do the shots themselves.  With a little bit of practice, most can do it without a problem.

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!

why a previous pregnancy to become a surrogate

Why a Previous Pregnancy?

When you become a gestational surrogate, someone puts their hope into your hands. This hope is becoming a biological parent with your help. A lot of time, money and emotions is invested into this journey. This is why it’s important to give this task your best.

There are many health requirements to make sure you are suitable to carry a child as a surrogate. One of the requirements for becoming a surrogate is a previous “successful term pregnancy.” What this means is that to be a surrogate, you need to have had given birth before. Many women may not want children of their own but are willing to put their perfectly healthy uterus to work for someone else. Unfortunately, gestational surrogacy doesn’t work that way. And, there are many reasons why.

Becoming a surrogate with no previous pregnancy experience is risky. Even if an intended parent(s) is willing to accept the risks of working with a surrogate who has never had her own pregnancy, the fertility clinic, or surrogacy agency will become a road block. In most cases, and for their own protection, a clinic or agency will not work with a woman who has never given birth.

While wanting to become a surrogate is selfless, without prior pregnancy experience, you most likely haven’t experienced (or survived) the joys of being a parent yourself. This makes it more difficult to understand what parenthood really means; especially to someone who desperately wants it.

Intended parents come to Shared Conception because they want to build their family. They often have gone through a lot before they choose surrogacy. Deciding on the path of surrogacy is many times the result of infertility. We also work with single individuals and same-sex couples who are in need of assisted reproduction to help build their family. The intended parents want to be matched with a surrogate who gives them the best chances of success, and that is someone with a previous and successful pregnancy.

If a surrogate has never been pregnant or carried a child to term, she may have limited knowledge of her own fertility. This information is important to intended parents who are ready to emotionally and financially invest in a surrogacy journey.

Even with all the professionals involved in a journey, surrogacy can be complicated and risky. That is why pregnancy history is one of the key factors in evaluating a potential surrogate for both our surrogacy agency and intended parents. Shared Conception does all we can do to mitigate risks and create a positive experience for everyone. This guideline is set by the ASRM, and we believe that it is necessary since it offers valuable information in determining if a woman qualifies to be a surrogate. Shared Conception is ready to help you embark on this journey. Give us a call today!

Becoming a Gestational Carrier

If you are a woman who wants to be a gestational carrier (or surrogate), you absolutely need to be willing to do the research to consider what you are getting yourself into.

Surrogacy is a life changing venture. It sounds great in theory, but in practice, it really is a huge undertaking. Women who feel compelled to help couples and individuals, sometimes find themselves compromising themselves out of the goodness of their hearts. Below are some common mistakes to avoid. It’s so important to be true to yourself…that is one of the best gifts you can give to your yourself and the Intended Parent(s)!

Research

It’s important to become well-educated about surrogacy before throwing yourself into the surrogacy process. A lot of your time and emotions will be involved. You will also need to consider the impact a journey will have on your family, health, job and overall lifestyle.

Emotional impact

You will want to consider the emotional impact a surrogate may endure. You cannot forget that you are pregnant, but you have to also understand that your intended parents have faced many hardships from pregnancy and fertility. Their emotions can affect you throughout the pregnancy and you do have to deal with their feelings as well.

Pregnancy is not always easy

Many who choose surrogacy decide on it because they like being pregnant. So, naturally you expect your all your pregnancies to go as well as your previous ones. But, that is not a guarantee. Every pregnancy is different. That is why it is so important to have a support system in place; just in case.

Don’t forget to ask questions! That is the beauty of having an agency such as Shared Conception as part of your support system. Never hesitate to ask! We will make sure you are comfortable every step of the way.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. 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 www.deliveradream.com to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you!

 

Surrogacy is life changing

Surrogacy is Life-Changing!

There are many ways that surrogacy will change your life. Some reasons are surprising but nevertheless, all are life changing and impactful for everyone involved.

Adding to your family

For some surrogates, it creates an extended family. Although it may seem like a business transaction at times, it ends up meaning so much more. You often end up creating lifelong friends, but you may never understand the impact you have had on them or the gratitude they have for you.

Seeing the other side of the coin

Most women choose to become surrogates because they enjoy pregnancy and their family and feel compelled to help create a family for someone else. Then there are the special few who become a surrogate multiple times because they had such amazing experiences. As a surrogate, you begin to see a glimpse of those who have struggled with infertility. It’s heart breaking but impactful. Women who have never had trouble conceiving, often have a hard time understanding infertility and the struggles, emotions and heartache involved.

Becoming a good communicator and organizer

Surrogacy is all about communication. There are many cogs in the surrogacy wheel. Communication is an important aspect of your journey as a surrogate. You need to communicate with your intended parents as well as your doctors. The way you feel is important, and you need to report on the way you feel quite often throughout your journey. This ensures a successful and smooth surrogacy. Surrogacy also forces you to become well-organized. There are medication schedules, doctors appointments and more. But, you also have to keep your intended parents apprised. This may instill some good habits that will be hard to break even after the birth.

You learn more about your body

There is a lot required of your body when you are a surrogate. By the end of your journey, you feel like an expert in reproductive health. It takes a lot to become pregnant as a surrogate. There are a lot of people, appointments and medicine involved. You begin to become more in tune with your body’s needs and responses. This will automatically force you into healthier habits – and maintain a healthier lifestyle, even after your journey!

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

 

 

 

after the birth of a surrogate baby

After the birth…The (usually) untold story

Many have wondered (and this is one of our frequently asked questions) … What happens to a surrogate mother after she delivers the baby? Honestly, she has most likely jumped back into the routine of her life with her own spouse or partner and children, and possibly experiencing post-partum mood swings. It’s totally normal. Our surrogacy agency, Shared Conception, has received many calls and emails about successful surrogate birth stories. However, some of these women share a common yet realistic topic: it is not all happy all the time. All of these women are uplifting and inspirational, but can still get depressed immediately after giving birth.

 

Think about it. When you immerse yourself 24/7 into the chosen role of a surrogate for 12 months or longer, it encompasses you. Then, after the wonderful shining moment of birth passes, it’s over; just like that! The time, preparation and execution involved in the process are achieved and over in an instant (much like a graduation or wedding)!  It’s nearly the same with every surrogacy arrangement; a surrogate dedicates approximately one year to helping the intended mother experience something she can never personally experience by  herself. And that is more than a full time job! However, what happens after that?

 

Some surrogate mothers have shared their emotions with us and have mentioned feeling completely elated one minute and devastated the next, because their participation in this amazing experience has concluded. And in most cases, it is not the baby they miss. They miss the journey and the miss the close relationship with the intended parents.

 

These emotions and reactions are completely normal, it’s just not usually openly discussed. Any potential surrogate should be aware that she isn’t the only surrogate mother who has ever cried when the baby left the hospital with his or her new parents, or when she says goodbye to her intended parents.

 

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!