herbs for pregnancy

Herbs and pregnancy

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Believe it or not, some herbs have natural healing and immune-boosting properties that can help throughout pregnancy. These can be found in teas, added to meals, or even put in smoothies. Below is a list of the most popular and helpful herbs to consider during pregnancy.

  1. Fennel: Fennel helps relax muscles and ease cramping, gas, and bloating. In addition to these digestive benefits, herbalists have used fennel for alleviating water retention to promote a healthy supply of breast milk. Keep this in mind if you are planning to sell or donate your supply.
  2. Fenugreek: In Greek, this word is defined as “bringer of milk.” It can support breastfeeding and has been used by women for centuries. It has a sweet, maple syrup-like flavor making it a tasty addition to meals, teas, and tonics.
  3. Blessed Thistle: Also another promotor of breast milk production. This herb, as well as fennel and fenugreek, can be found in mothers’ milk tea you can purchase in your local grocery store.
  4. Milky Oats: It’s not oatmeal. This herb supports the nervous system. It’s a great herb for soothing irritable moods, wired and tired nerves, and exhaustion from labor and delivery. You can find Milky Oats in Urban Moonshine’s Simmer Down Tonic.
  5. Raspberry Leaf: Raspberry leaf helps prepare and tone the womb for childbirth. And it is used to support women’s reproductive health throughout the childbearing years.
  6. Nettle: Nettle is a rock star in the herbal world and is full of minerals. Nettle has nourishing qualities for skin health and nutritional support during pregnancy.
  7. Ginger: Ginger has soothing qualities and is one of the most well-known medicinal plants. With a spicy flavor that stimulates the palate, it also supports digestion. Ginger is also known to alleviate nausea and morning sickness.
  8. Chamomile:This herb is typically used to calm, relax, and promote healthy digestion. It is known to soothe the body and mind. Also, it can relieve occasional gas and bloat associated with pregnancy.

While we recommend some of our favorites here, not all herbs are appropriate for everyone. Make sure to consult your healthcare practitioner to determine which ones are right for you.

 

The vertex position

Which way is up? 

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The vertex position. A technical term that describes when a baby is delivered headfirst. The vertex position is the ideal position when you are getting ready for labor. But it’s not always the case.

Usually, weeks before you give birth, the baby moves in a position with its head above your vagina. Sometimes, their feet, bottom, or bottom, and feet remain in this area, which is known as breech. There are a few other ways the baby can position themselves, if not in the vertex position. This does not always require a cesarean, but you will have to discuss the best and safest way to deliver with your doctor.

Breech Position

Breech position is when a baby enters the birth canal with the buttocks or feet first, rather than the head. This prevents the cervix (opening to the uterus) from dilating effectively and can lead to the umbilical cord becoming pinched or compressed. Breech position only occurs in approximately 3-4% of deliveries and is more likely in premature births or multiple babies. While breech babies can be delivered vaginally, studies have found that vaginal deliveries are around three times more likely to result in serious harm to the baby than cesarean sections. Therefore, in most cases in the US, breech babies are delivered by c-section. Your doctor can diagnose a breech presentation either by a physical exam or ultrasound.

Shoulder first

Shoulder first is rare and occurs in less than 1% of deliveries. This is when the baby lies sideways in the uterus, rather than head down or buttocks/feet down. If labor begins with the baby in this position, the shoulder becomes wedged in the pelvis, and the delivery usually does not progress. Almost all babies with shoulder presentation will need to be delivered by cesarean section. Shoulder presentation, like breech presentation, is more common in premature babies or the setting of multiple gestations.

External cephalic version (ECV)

ECV is one way to turn a baby from breech position to head-down position while it’s still in the uterus. It involves the doctor applying pressure to your stomach to turn the baby from the outside. Sometimes, an ultrasound is used to help this turn.

Many women who have normal pregnancies can have ECV. You should not have ECV if you have other complications and talk to your doctor if you are comfortable pursuing this option.

No matter what position the baby decides to be in, be sure to have an honest discussion with your doctor about getting the baby in the safest place best for you to deliver and get the little one into the arms of your intended parents.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

fall into healthy habits when pregnant

Fall into these Healthy Habits this Season!

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Avoiding sushi and soft cheeses are well-known foods to avoid when you’re pregnant. But here are a few more not-so-well-known changes to make when pregnant.

Try them out! The following can help with fewer aches and pains, less stress, and more energy!

Floss

Your dentist probably tells you this every time you have a cleaning. Flossing is not only important when you are not pregnant but even more necessary when you are pregnant. Pregnancy hormones make your mouth more susceptible to plaque and bacteria, which in turn lead to gum inflammation and other serious gum diseases. You may even notice that your gums are more sensitive and bleed, even if you are an avid flosser. Keeping care of your mouth will help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis (inflammation of the gums). These conditions can increase your risk of preterm labor and preeclampsia. So add some floss picks to your grocery list today. (And brush twice).

Slip in extra R&R

Your body is in overdrive when you are expecting. Think about it, you’re building a life inside you, and a growing baby is putting a lot of demands on your body. On top of that, your hormones are surging – literally sucking the energy out of you. That’s why getting enough rest is so important. Rest not only makes you feel more energized but can curb nausea, reduce aches and pains (especially if you suffer from back pain), lower blood pressure, and even help you sleep better at night.

Snack wisely

We all know that skipping a meal is almost impossible for a surrogate. All of that nourishment is necessary for the baby, but snacking becomes more serious as you go through your journey. You’ll want to have a nutritious snack on hand whenever you need one. If you have healthy choices at your disposal, you are less likely to pick up a candy bar or dive into that bag of chips! Try snacks like trail mix, dried fruit, nuts, or whole-grain crackers to keep in your purse for those hunger attacks when you are on the go.

Choose healthier drinks

You may want to find some alternatives to coffee and soda when you’re pregnant; even simply cutting back will be better for you. Caffeine and sugar often act as diuretics and can wash out essential nutrients before your body can absorb them. Also, all of those mouth-watering coffee drinks can be filled with calories, sugar, and more caffeine than you may think. The best drink for you is good old H2O. And, it doesn’t have to be boring! Make it interesting with a slice of orange, lemon, or lime, or even spice it up with some herbs.

Get in the water

Although you may feel like you are wearing a permanent flotation device, consider swimming. Laps and aqua aerobics will do wonders for your pregnant self, and it helps relieve aches and pains (especially as your belly grows) and improves circulation and endurance. There is nothing like feeling weightless in the water.

Eating right, working out, and drinking plenty of water is good for you, pregnant or not. Listen to your body and make a point of slowing down every now and then. Enjoy your pregnancy! Need some more tips? Feel free to contact Shared Conception. If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy, give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way.  Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

A gentle c-section, what is it? Can it be right for you?

Ever hear of a Gentle Cesarean?

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Planning a C-section? 

We all have our ideal labor and delivery planned in our heads or on paper. As a surrogate, this would not be your first experience with labor and delivery. Some of us have to deliver via cesarean due to medical conditions or previous C-section births. Other times, again due to complications, or if the baby is breech, an unexpected C-section is necessary.

To not be able to birth a child naturally is a concern to some. For the sake of your body and the baby, although perfectly safe, it’s not ideal. You may be in a position where it is the only option, and sometimes it is. You may not know that there are options when it comes to cesareans, and one is a gentle cesarean.

What is a gentle cesarean? 

This procedure is less of a major operation and closer to a vaginal delivery. The surgical aspects are still the same, but this allows you or your intended parents the ability to see and touch the newborn as soon as possible. Of course, this depends on your comfort level when giving birth and requires a little more planning with your intended parents and the labor and delivery team. Some doctors even allow the baby to wriggle around as they would in the birth canal before being scooped out. This allows a bit of a squeeze to get the extra fluid from the lungs expelled.

From a surrogate standpoint, this can also prevent your arms from being tied down, which is common in a C-section operation.

*If you are planning a cesarean, you will want to discuss this option with your intended parents and, most importantly, your healthcare provider.

Gentle C-sections are gaining popularity with many women. It’s aimed to bridge the gap between traditional C-sections and natural births. It only takes about 5 minutes longer than traditional c-sections and should not cost more. As always, talk with your intended parents and health care provider or Shared Conception.

No matter how you give birth, the outcome is the same: a miracle. Interested in learning more about surrogacy? Give us a call today. We want you to be informed, fulfilled, and satisfied, knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Also, you can visit www.deliveradream.com to find out more information!

 

tips for a surrogate partner

Tips for a Surrogate Partner

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As a partner to a surrogate mother, you will hear how selfless and generous they are, but you deserve some kudos too! Although the workload is on her, you play an essential role in the entire process. You will serve as a chauffeur, nurse, take on more household or childcare responsibilities, rub tired and sore legs with various other tasks and “favors” that will come your way. Shared Conception wants to give some advice for partners of surrogate mothers.

 

Don’t stop the conversation:

It is important to communicate your needs throughout the journey, not just in the beginning. It’s the best way to overcome any obstacles that your relationship may face during the pregnancy.

 

Stay involved.

 Go to significant doctor appointments, ask, “how are you doing today” – and mean it! You will feel like you are part of the journey when you try. Depending on your level of comfort, it does help to be involved with the intended parents. This relationship is vital to a successful and happy surrogacy. So, stay on that text chain, or join in on that FaceTime call. A little bit of involvement can go a long way.

 

Pause from Intimacy:

Your partner will take fertility medications that can make her pregnant in the blink of an eye. You will have to abstain from sex for a little while during this time and after the transfer. This won’t last forever. Be honest with your partner if there are any intimacy issues in your relationship at this time. Couples tend to be less intimate during pregnancy, and it may feel different knowing your partner is carrying a baby for someone else.

 

Imbalanced Responsibilities: 

Your partner will experience dips in energy and motivation as she gets further along in the pregnancy. You may have to take on more responsibility with life, in general, such as the kids, cleaning, cooking, grocery shopping, etc. If this starts to wear on you, you may all need a break. Always communicate, and it’s okay if you don’t fold the laundry that day….it will be there tomorrow.

 

Reduced Activity: 

Those impromptu bike ride, walks, concerts, weekend getaways may come to a pause, too. But, as mentioned above, it is momentary. Take this opportunity to find something different you can do together. This might be a great way to discover a new hobby or interest.

 

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! Shared Conception promises to support you and your partner throughout your journey.

pregnancy and constipation

The “C” Word

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Feeling bloated is almost a rite of passage when pregnant. But when that feeling is a byproduct of constipation, it is EXTREMELY uncomfortable.

Here is why you may feel backed up and what you can do about it.

Constipation can begin as progesterone levels increase. Progesterone causes the muscles in your bowels to relax, allowing food to hang around the digestive tract for an extended amount of time. While uncomfortable, it’s not all bad. More nutrients absorb into your bloodstream for you and Baby. But and there is always a but, it can cause a traffic jam.

There are many ways to handle constipation:

  • Fiber: Fiber-rich foods help you eliminate waste. The recommended amount of fiber to consume is 25-35 grams each day. You can find fiber in whole grain cereals, bread, legumes, fresh fruits, and veggies. If you have a sweet tooth, dried fruits are a great way to satisfy and combat constipation.
  • Say no to “Refined”: Avoid refined grains such as white bread, white rice, and pasta. These are culprits for constipation.
  • Hydrate: Drink fluids, especially water, because they keep solids moving through your digestive tract and make stool softer and easier to pass. Drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day will help aid the process. If you are really in a bind (pun intended), prune juice is considered a mild laxative and can help.
  • Avoid big meals: A large meal can overwhelm your digestive tract and back things up. Eating smaller meals throughout the day can help with less gas and bloating.
  • Prenatal Vitamins: OBs always recommend prenatal vitamins. They can cause constipation in some individuals. If this happens to you, ask your doctor about alternative prenatals or supplements that will fight constipation.
  • Probiotics: Yogurts containing active cultures have probiotics. Probiotics will stimulate the intestinal bacteria that breaks down food and keeps thing moving. Probiotics can be found in supplements as well. Ask your doctor for recommendations.
  • Exercise: Movement alone encourages healthy bowel movements. A simple walk can get things moving. As always, do not begin a new workout regimen until you check in with your doctor.
  • Warning about laxatives: Check with your doctor before taking any constipation medication. Not all medicines are safe during pregnancy.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

 

 

 

 

floating for pregnancy

Hop in!

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Pregnancy in the summer can be hard because it is scorching hot! But look on the bright side! You can float; getting some relief from gravity. Find a pool and hop in! Well, don’t hop. Step in safely. Relaxing in the water will not only cool you down but can be a great form of exercise and take some of the discomforts from achy backs and feet. You will feel weightless! Pool time will also help de-stress, and it’s fun for the whole family!

Floating

To get the most out of floating, make sure you are in a comfortable position. A flotation device such as a noodle, raft, or sling can help with that. You can even use multiple floatation devices, depending on how far along you are. Floating can support you, the baby, and help keep your head above water. Being in the pool is also an excellent opportunity to float belly down (but not for too long) and release the weight of a growing uterus pushing against your organs. Pro tip: for lower back relief, put the pool noodle under your knees.

Exercise

Floating can be exercise as well as support. It’s low impact, and easy on your joints. Swimming maintains muscle tone and increases your endurance. You will feel energized, refreshed, cool and confident this summer with some pool time. Swimming while pregnant has been shown to ease sciatic pain, reduce morning sickness, and improve your labor and delivery.

Safety measures

Please use caution when in a pool. Never swim alone. Notify someone if you feel light-headed and stay hydrated. Always check for water depth. Depending on what body of water you decide to plunge into, be aware of your surroundings, especially with smaller bodies of water. Avoid contamination and water-borne illnesses. Most importantly, say no to hot tubs. You do not want to raise your body temperature or increase a miscarriage or birth defects risk. It’s best to leave these alone for now.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

Administering shots by yourself in surrogacy

Let’s Talk Shots!

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IVF shots are not as difficult or painful as you might think. For many of our surrogates, the first shot is the hardest. Then, it becomes routine and not so scary.

Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, most shots are intramuscular and are required about a week before your IVF transfer and throughout your first trimester.

What are intramuscular injections?

Intramuscular injections: An intramuscular injection delivers medication directly into a muscle. Progesterone in oil is often given as an intramuscular injection. The most common injection site for these medications is the top outer quadrant of the buttocks. It is possible to administer these shots yourself, but some people have their partner help.

Here are a few administering pointers:

Stay calm. Being nervous and tense can make this quick shot more uncomfortable. Shaky hands or a rushed approach cause the needle to bounce out before all the medication is injected. Take a deep breath! Meditate for a moment and RELAX!

Consider heat: For intramuscular injections, applying a heating pad to the injection site for about 10 minutes can sometimes relax the muscle and make the injection easier.

Know you don’t have to be a pro.  Administering an injection does not require a professional medical degree – but practice makes perfect!

Try ice: Many Shared Conception surrogates believe in icing the area right before injection to help numb the skin.

Change positions: For intramuscular injections, your body position can affect how the needle feels as it goes in. Bending over or shifting your weight on the opposite leg from the injection site can be more comfortable.

Be quick and direct: One confident motion for injection is much more comfortable than slow or twisting motions.

Injections are unavoidable as a surrogate.  The first is always the hardest and the last is the most rewarding.

Begin your surrogacy journey with Shared Conception. Call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information. Or, visit www.deliveradream.com to get started on an application to become a surrogate.

 

 

 

 

 

what health history means to surrogacy

What your health history means to your surrogacy application

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When applying to become a surrogate, you will quickly learn that there is a long list of requirements that you must meet to embark on a journey. It involves many things; your finances, age, family support, and health history. Not only do you need to be in good, overall health, but some conditions can affect your ability to safely carry a child for another family. On the other hand, there could be issues you may have, that would not disqualify you from your dream of becoming a surrogate.

These requirements are put into place and reviewed by our team and medical professionals for your protection and the protection of the unborn child.

Endometriosis

This disorder affects the tissue that lines the inside wall of your uterus. It can affect fertility. This diagnosis can range from moderate to severe. The severity of this condition can affect your ability to carry via in-vitro fertilization. Talk to us at Shared Conception and consult your doctor before deciding whether this could affect a surrogacy journey.

Herpes

This does not automatically disqualify you either, but if there is an occurrence or outbreak around delivery time, a C-section may be necessary.

HPV

This condition will not disqualify you from surrogacy, but your pap does need to be normal before you can be a surrogate.

Miscarriage

Having a miscarriage in your health history doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from being a surrogate. It depends on many factors including how many you had, the reason, and when they happened. Please be upfront and share your medical history when speaking with Shared Conception regarding this and any other medical condition.

Postpartum Depression

Although we tend to focus on physical health, mental health is very important as well. If you have been successfully treated for depression, you can still be considered. This will be discussed with you in greater detail during the interview process and again during the psychological screening.

Preeclampsia

This is a serious condition and can prevent you from pursuing gestational surrogacy. You run the risk of miscarriage and other life-threatening complications. Although, mild preeclampsia will not necessarily impede a journey.

Sickle Cell

This disease can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, and low birth weight. In this case, it is considered unsafe for a woman with this disease to become a surrogate.

Tubal Ligation

Many women choose to have their “tubes tied” after they are finished creating their families. This only prevents you from ovulating and is not connected with an ability to carry for another, so you can still be a surrogate.

Weight

There are no specific weight requirements but your BMI (body mass index) should be equal to or lower than 32. Some clinics require lower BMIs and some are fine with a little higher.

Shared Conception does not wish to put anyone at risk to become a surrogate. That is why we have these requirements. And remember, the requirements differ depending on the IVF clinic. If you have a question about your health history, let us know. Your journey can begin by filling out an application request form. Visit www.deliveradream.com for more information. Or, call us at either our Houston 713-622-1144 or Dallas 214-390-4024 office for more information.

Covid vaccine and pregnancy

COVID-19 Vaccine and Pregnancy

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Covid vaccine and pregnancy

There has been a lot of talk about the COVID-19 vaccine and pregnancy. Some headlines are scary, while others are confusing. Shared Conception has done some research and would like to share what we have found.

Social media has been buzzing about the coronavirus vaccine causing pregnant women to miscarry. Although scary, this is likely, not true. There have been many recent and encouraging studies released by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology last month, informing the public about the good level of protection against the virus to both pregnant and lactating women, and likely their babies.

While most vaccines have been considered safe in the past, not many pregnant women jumped at the chance to be part of the trial for the new Covid vaccines.  And now, the claims of miscarriage that have circulated on social media have startled many pregnant women. These claims have been debunked according to agencies such as the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency), FDA, and the CDC.

“It’s also important to note the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have stated there is no evidence the COVID-19 vaccine is unsafe during pregnancy, although both caution, there is still little data.”

This has caused a high level of anxiety for both surrogates and intended parents. We have noticed that this is an important discussion that must be had between the surrogate and the intended parents. Everyone’s feelings must be taken into consideration, especially that of the surrogate. This is an unprecedented avenue we have all had to explore and endure. Although it is a tough conversation, it has to be had.  And Shared Conception is here to help.

Shared Conception knows it is difficult to find reliable information about the vaccine when you are trying to research its efficacy and safety. If you are starting your journey, or in the middle of one and have questions, we are here to help you navigate through this unique period of time that we are all living in.

Shared Conception pledges to 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!