how to be a surrogate mother

Surrogacy Process for IP’s

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Shared Conception is eager to find the right surrogate for you! We look forward to going through the surrogacy process with you. It is our wish to be at your side during this unique surrogate pregnancy process and are just as excited for you to finally hold your baby in your arms!

Intended parents will efficiently navigate through the following stages.

  • Initial consultation – this one-hour consultation is to connect and answer any questions you may have about surrogacy. Many of our intended parents like to discuss timing, expenses, contracts, and other concerns involving their family. If you choose to go forward with us after the consultation, you will be asked to fill out our application form. Read more about the initial consultation process here, on our website.
  • Matching process – After the initial meeting and completed application, we begin the process of finding the ideal surrogate for you. For more information on the matching process, visit our website or click here.
  • Psychological screening and evaluation – these evaluations are vital to ensure that all parties are suitable for the surrogacy process. All evaluations are conducted by a licensed mental health professional. For more information, click here.
  • Medical screening – With the help of Shared Conception, we coordinate surrogates to participate in a medical evaluation. Each IVF center has different requirements so a Shared Conception representative coordinates with the clinic for you.
  • Legal surrogacy process – We provide a referral list of family attorneys that specialize in the surrogacy process and Reproductive Law. Contracts are required prior to beginning the embryo transfer cycle. Also, an escrow account is established at this time to cover costs for medications, co-pays, and other costs outlined in your contract.
  • Embryo transfer – The moment you have been waiting for! This is when the embryo is placed for implantation and monitored for a viable pregnancy.
  • Pregnancy – We will remain a part of your support system throughout the pregnancy (and after) and will be available to help you navigate through this wonderful time. Our goal is to have your experience be as joyful as possible.
  • Preparing for the birth – There are necessary documents that will be prepared by your attorney. Shared Conception will help verify that all the paperwork is in order for peace of mind allowing you to focus on the wonderful gift you are about to receive.
  • Birth – This is the end to the entire process and a family is created!

 

If you are interested in having a surrogate, let Shared Conceptions make your dreams of a family a reality. Contact us today and we will help you get one step closer to the child you have always wanted. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Visit https://sharedconception.com for more information.

Intended parent basics blog

For the Potential Intended Parent 

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Surrogates make a huge commitment to the intended parents. They go through an intensive screening process, legal contracts, psychological and medical evaluations, background checks, and more to show they are good candidates to carry your baby and are committed to the surrogacy journey. There is so much information for potential surrogates; but what is there for intended parents?

Below, are the most frequently asked questions from potential intended parents

How do I begin the process?

When intended parents first contact Shared Conception, we will set up an initial one-hour consultation and provide information about the process, timing, and expenses involved in growing a family. We also want to learn about your family, social history, and reasons for choosing surrogacy.

When you agree to move on to the next step with Shared Conception, we may request additional information from you to be able to find potential surrogates whose wants and needs for the surrogacy are a good match with you, the intended parents.

Are there requirements for intended parents?

Intended parents must be:

  • Between the ages of 21-65
  • Able to pass a background check -Shared Conception performs background checks to ensure the intended parents have a clean criminal background and child abuse registry. All intended parents must be able to provide a safe and stable home to a child.
  • Emotional support for spouse or partner
  • Pass a psychological assessment
  • Have financial stability
  • Respectful of surrogate’s time and commitment and in general a good person – The safety of our surrogates is of utmost importance to us and we reserve the right to refuse service to any potential intended parent that does not meet the above-mentioned criteria.

What if it doesn’t work?

If you have three unsuccessful cycles with your surrogate and have at least 2 embryos that are rated A or B+ you can be re-matched with a new surrogate for no fee.

Does Texas have a law for surrogacy?

Yes! Tex. Fam. Code §§ 160.751 to .763 (2007)

Texas’s law is modeled after Part 8 of the Uniform Parentage Act of 2002. A gestational agreement must be validated in court. The gestational mother may not use her own eggs. She must have had at least one prior pregnancy and delivery. She maintains control over all health-related decisions during the pregnancy. The intended mother must show that she is unable to carry a pregnancy or give birth. The intended parents must be married and must be willing to undergo a home study. There is a residency requirement of at least 90 days for either the gestational mother or the intended parents. An agreement that has not been validated is not enforceable, and parentage will be determined under the other parts of Texas’s Uniform Parentage Act.

We would love the opportunity to help create your family. For more information visit https://sharedconception.com/ . We have two Texas locations: Houston 713.622.1144 and Dallas 214.390.4024

 

The transfer

Embryo Transfer Day!

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This day is very exciting for intended parents and surrogates alike. It is the start of a journey. You may feel excited, nervous, elated or hopeful. But, how do you get here?

 The embryo transfer procedure is usually one of the first questions intended parents and surrogates ask about when beginning their surrogacy journey with us.

After the eggs are taken from the intended mother or egg donor, they are examined and mixed with the intended father or donor sperm. They are then incubated for 5 days to allow fertilization to occur. After that, most intended parents choose to have them tested for genetic abnormalities. That process takes about 10 to 15 days.

The gestational carrier (or surrogate), intended parents and the reproductive doctor then consult to determine the number of embryos to transfer. Based on American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, only single embryo transfers are suggested. This is because multiple gestations lead to an increased risk of complications in both the fetuses and the birth mother.

The embryo transfer to the surrogate, takes place in a fertility clinic or nearby hospital. The process does not cause discomfort and requires no medication or anesthesia. The transfer is performed through the vagina using a catheter inserted in the cervix, so the embryos could be inserted into the uterus. The process usually takes approximately 10-15 minutes and then surrogates are required to remain at the clinic for at about 1-2 hours to rest. Surrogates are also asked to restrict their activities, or even be on bedrest for 1-3 days following the transfer procedure. Each fertility clinic has their own protocol regarding this.

Shared Conception suggests that surrogates have someone from their support circle accompany them to the embryo transfer procedure and stay with them until the clinic staff releases them. This helps calm any nerves, and it’s nice to have a member of your support system by your side.

We hope this breakdown of the embryo transfer procedure takes away some of the “mystery” associated with embryo transfers. Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com and let’s talk!

 

Embryos

Surplus Embryos

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When dealing with infertility, there are so many crucial decisions that have to be made. It is truly exhausting. Many parents who have struggled with infertility, find themselves with a surplus of embryos and struggle with the decision of what do with them.

When parents are going through fertility treatments, they usually want as many embryos as possible, in case it takes more than one try to get pregnant. It’s common to need to do more than one transfer; even to a surrogate.  Also, the parents might want extra embryos for a future sibling. So, what happens when their family is complete and they find themselves with a surplus of embryos?

This topic has become controversial and has even made headlines. We all remember the famous, or infamous California mom who implanted all eight of her embryos and delivered all eight babies because she couldn’t fathom disposing or donating any of her embryos. But not everyone is up to that challenge. So, what are the options?

Parents have the option of keeping the embryos in storage, disposing of them, donating to research or donating to an infertile couple. The latest research shows that many couples don’t know what to do and continue to pay storage fees year after year. Most parents feel a sense of responsibility for their embryos. They still count them as their children – their offspring; so donating them to research seems cold to them. Furthermore, donating to research can pose a problem due to current federal legislation.

Letting another infertile couple adopt their embryos would be a very sweet and unselfish act if the parents can live with the knowledge that their biological children are out there in the world somewhere.

In the meantime, storage facilities continue to host hundreds of thousands of embryos until parents make those difficult decisions.

There is no easy answer to this question and parents will have to come to their own conclusion.

Are you and your partner storing embryos and unable to carry on your own? Surrogacy is a great option. We can match you with the perfect candidate and will be with you throughout this incredible journey. If you are interested in locating a surrogate visit www.sharedconception.com and contact us! We would love to hear from you.

 

 

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The Joy of Being a Surrogate

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It is usually a long and winding road travelled that a couple or an individual has been on before deciding to have a surrogate carry their child. Then at that point, a whole new journey begins when they decide on surrogacy. They seek the help of Shared Conception and a special woman with a giving heart.

When an Intended Parent is matched with a surrogate, a bond forms. It’s different for everyone but the basics are the same. This is when wanting and giving come together to travel the same path for as long as the journey takes.

To the intended parents, a surrogate who is healthy and willing to carry a baby for them means HOPE; she is a gift unlike any other. Month by month, trimester after trimester, the greatest gift of all is achieved; a child to enhance a family.

What most people don’t realize is that women who choose to become surrogates, don’t do it for the money or the recognition. They do it for the intense satisfaction and absolute joy that it brings to them. The fulfillment that they receive is from seeing the look on the faces of the new parents when they hear their baby’s first heartbeat and when they finally get to meet their precious child, and hundreds of moments in between. These are the reasons that surrogates often embark on multiple journeys! Being a part of these priceless moments makes surrogate mothers shine. No monetary compensation could equal the pure joy they feel when sharing something so life-changing with the intended parents.

If you are a woman looking for something more to give in life, ask yourself these questions: Are you ready to change a total stranger’s life and make a difference in the world?  Are you ready for YOUR life to be changed forever?

Like any other journey, this journey may have roadblocks and bumps along the way, but it is an adventure. And if you are the kind of person who can be selfless and can open your heart up to possibilities, it may just be the most rewarding experience of your life. Call us at Shared Conception and get more information on becoming a surrogate!

 

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Pregnant During the Holidays?

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Ok, you’re pregnant and it’s the Holiday Season. You may not always feel merry and bright, but there are a ton of reasons why being pregnant this season rocks!

  1. Getting out of Obligations

That wonderful baby bump is now your best reason for dipping out early on your boss’s holiday party. Kick off those heals and slip into something cozy! Sleep is essential to your baby making body; in all stages of pregnancy. When your body says sleep, you must grant that wish – so rest up!

  1. Comfort is Key

There is something about a pregnant belly that steals the spotlight. You could have the same outfit on for three holiday events and still receive the same number of compliments at event three as event one. Or, as we suggested on the top of our list, you can ditch the party heels for cozy socks and virgin eggnog.

  1. The Food

Take that second helping at dinner, indulge in two desserts – or take that last piece of pie! Although calories still count when pregnant and you should eat as healthy as possible, don’t feel guilty to indulge once in a while. Since that nice glass of wine with dinner or mixed signature cocktail is off limits, an extra slice of pie can make up for it!

  1. Be Holly Jolly

You are doing a selfless and wonderful thing for a family. They appreciate you, so you need to appreciate you. This is a magical time of year and you should revel in the holiday spirit. We all tend to have a heightened sense of the warm and fuzzies during this season, so enjoy it!

  1. Off the “hosting” hook

You are creating a human…no one is expecting you to host. Enjoy going to parties, leaving when you want and don’t put pressure on yourself by throwing any kind of extravaganza, big or small.

  1. The Warmth

When you are pregnant, your internal body temperature increases. Not something to look forward to when you are pregnant in the warmer months, but during the winter months, you will stay nice and toasty, even with a chill in the air.

Shared Conception wishes you the most wonderful Holiday Season. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please contact us for a no pressure, informative phone consultation. We can answer any of your questions and inform you of the process to see if surrogacy is right for you! Give us a call today.

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5 Fall Vegetables to add to your diet

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Fall is full of beautiful foliage, colors, smells – and food! This season introduces some delicious, nutritious and colorful vegetables to get excited about. Read on to learn how to take advantage of the seasonal fare and some recipes to go along with it!

  1. Spaghetti Squash: This bright yellow and bulbous vegetable adds calcium and fiber to your diet. It’s also a great substitute for pasta and found in most grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Click here for our favorite recipe for Parmesan Spaghetti Squash.
  2. Beets: Come in a variety of colors. Red, yellow, white and even multicolored. Whichever color you choose, it is a good source of iron and Vitamin C. Beets pop up on menus in the fall and can be prepared in many different ways. Here is a simple Roasted Beet Salad with Feta Cheese and Lemon Vinaigrette recipe that is delicious!
  3. Brussel Sprouts: This veggie is sometimes an acquired taste, but when prepared right, even children fall in love with them. They are full of fiber, vitamin C, iron and vitamin B6. Here is a recipe for Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Garlic that is sure to please!
  4. Pumpkin: …..and not just pumpkin spice! It’s part of the squash family and full of Vitamin C, iron and fiber. Also, the seeds can be roasted and are a good source of omega-3, and great for a snack on the go. Check out this receipt for Pumpkin soup; a wonderful and hearty soup.
  5. Sweet Potatoes: This versatile fall staple can be found in desserts and side dishes. It’s also a good source of vitamin C and B6. It can be baked, mashed, roasted or turned into fries. If you have an air fryer and a craving for french fries, sweet potato fries are a healthy alternative.

Shared Conception is a full-service surrogacy agency and proudly served hundreds of exceptional surrogates and intended parents alike. If you are interested in surrogacy, give us a call today. We would love to hear from you!

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5 Reasons to Embark on a Journey

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Surrogacy isn’t an avenue people take “just because”. Contrary to popular belief, most people don’t use a surrogate mother to carry their child because they don’t want to ruin their figure, interrupt their life or just don’t want to be pregnant. It’s much more emotional than that. Here are the top 5 reasons why people need surrogacy in their lives:

1.    Some women encounter uterine issues that prevent them from carrying a baby. Fibroids and uterine scarring can make it difficult to carry a pregnancy to term. Many women with these issues have faced multiple miscarriages. 

2.    Aside from uterine issues, there are other medical conditions that might mean surrogacy is the best or safest option for the intended Mother. Sometimes these medical conditions are diagnosed after a miscarriage. Heart or kidney issues have a negative impact on the ability to carry and can require medications that are unsafe for a fetus.

3.    Certain cancers may cause a woman to have a hysterectomy which in many cases can require the need to explore other family-planning option such as surrogacy. 

4.    If a woman has been pregnant before and experienced severe problems resulting from that pregnancy, she might choose surrogacy as a safer alternative for both herself and her baby. 

5.    A single individual or couple may choose surrogacy because of lifestyle or logistical limitations (LGBTQ couples, for example may require a surrogate in order to conceive). 

Regardless of the reason why someone needs a surrogate, what is most important is that they have choices in regards to how they will build their family.

If you are interested in surrogacy, give Shared Conception a call today. We would love to hear from you! 

 

Favorite Blogs We Follow

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There are several great blog sites available that journey through the process of surrogacy. Here are a few of our favorite blogs to check out!

– A Surrogate’s Journey. (http://beautifulsurrogacy.blogspot.com/) Brandy is a surrogate who writes a blog geared toward people considering being a surrogate or using one. She is candid, open and honest about her journey.

– Life of a Surrogate. (http://lifeofasurrogate.blogspot.com/) Kim is a blogger who has already been a surrogate and is on her journey to be a surrogate again. This is an honest blogger who details the highs, and lows, of being a surrogate.

– 4 Star Womb. (http://4starwomb.blogspot.com/) This mother of four is starting her first surrogacy. It’s so exciting to watch her experience all pregnancy has to offer!

– I’m Not the Mom, I’m Just the Stork. (http://justthestork.blogspot.com/) A two-time surrogate shares the stories of her life.

What are you favorite bloggers to follow?

Guest Blog! The Wait…

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One of the hardest things to do in surrogacy is wait.  This goes for all parties:  the IPs, the surrogate, the egg donor, the agency coordinator, etc.  It’s so hard to wait when something so amazing is almost in your grasp; you just have to put the final pieces of the puzzle into place.  Waiting is also one of the most important things in surrogacy.  Imagine rushing into any other type of commitment and the consequences it can have.  You might meet a lovely couple or a lovely woman wanting to be a surrogate and think, “this is it!  Let’s get this show on the road!” but there are so many important factors to consider.

The BIG questions have to be discussed before you ever move forward.  How many embryos will we transfer?  Are we open to reduction/termination?  What will our fees be?  What type of birthing situation would we like?  A good agency can and should help you to dicuss these items and may even do some of this screening before you even meet in person.  It may seem a little odd to talk about so many intimate details right off the bat, but it’s important to be sure everyone is on the same page.  

One of the things I’ve seen so many people do is compromise their true desires and end up disappointed or in a position they did not want to be in.  The effects of this decision can run the range from casting a shadow of awkwardness over the journey to ending up with procedures you agreed to, on paper, but never thought you’d have to actually go through with.  True matching should go over the seemingly trivial details and the hard, heavy items ad naseum so that no one has regrets later down the line.  People tend to get caught up in the emotion of the process and think, “This is almost what I want so those few things won’t matter.”  Trust me, they matter.  They matter a lot.  So, slow down, think it through, stick to what you originally want for your journey..  You might have to wait a little longer, but the wait is worth it. Not much is finite and predictable in surrogacy (or life!) but the more solid foundation you lay, the better the process will be.  Trying to shove pieces together that don’t fit never works out well.  Practicing patience to find that perfect match is one of the smartest decisions anyone involved in surrogacy can make.

By Carmela Cancino