part 2, how to become a surrogate

How to become a surrogate with Shared Conception

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Part 2: Medical and Legal

The medical and legal processes can be a bit complicated. But remember, we are with you every step of the way! Shared Conception will guide you through the application process, medical and legal processes, and well through labor and delivery. We believe it is our duty to provide our surrogates with what they need to have a happy (and healthy) journey.

 

Medical Screening and Evaluation

Your medical records will need be thoroughly reviewed and approved by the intended parent’s IVF physician, who will want to meet you for a consultation and medical evaluation. Each clinic varies in the types of medical screening they perform, but they will often include infectious disease screening, vaginal ultrasound, etc. Your spouse or partner is also screened for infectious diseases. The intended parents do pay for all the expenses related to the medical screening and evaluation.
We encourage you to take this time to discuss all potential medical risks with the IVF physician, including the various medical procedures and medications involved in the process.

*Please note: You will have to be under the IVF clinic’s care for the first trimester of your surrogate pregnancy. Afterwards, barring any complications or concerns, you will be released to the OBGYN of your choice.

Legal Process

The actual surrogacy contract is drafted by the intended parents’ attorney. If you do not have an attorney, we will give you a list of qualified attorneys experienced in Reproductive Law to review your contract. Your attorney will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding the contract and advise you on any items that may need modifying. The intended parents will pay all fees associated with the legal process.

 

Once the contract is signed by all parties, your intended parents will deposit funds into an escrow account which will be used to cover your expenses and fees as agreed upon in the contract. At that point, you are able to start medications in preparation for the embryo transfer.

 

Stay tuned for Part 3 of our “How to Become a Surrogate with Shared Conception” blog series. If you don’t want to wait for our final blog of the series and are interested in becoming a surrogate today, feel free to 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!

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Back Breaking Cookie Baking

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The holidays bring many joyous tasks. One of them is cookie baking. Maybe not just cookies, but elaborate meals, other desserts, heavy appetizers and traditional dishes. Whatever you choose to make, it can be tasking on your body when you are pregnant. Shared Conception would like to share our remedies for a more comfortable and enjoyable kitchen experience.

Anti-fatigue mats. These mats are a game changer! They are not just for the workplace. Pregnant or not, it is worth the investment. These mats reduce stress on your joints and muscles allowing blood to circulate more evenly throughout your feet and legs. You can find them on Amazon, in Costco and other price club stores for a great price. Make sure they are sturdy, at least ¾” thick so you can enjoy the benefits. Standing on hard surfaces such as wood and tile can be aggravating to your joints. Anti-fatigue mats will reduce the risk of a loss in circulation and provide comfort while cooking and baking.

A good pair of shoes.Good shoes are worth the investment. Designate these shoes as “house shoes” so you don’t bring in the dirt from outside into your house. It also helps minimize joint and muscle discomfort. Best of all, they don’t have to be pretty. Just make sure your shoes are comfortable and have thick bottoms, provide arch support and are preferably rubber-soled for added comfort. Slip-ons omit the need to bend over or worry about tying your shoes. Again, anything to avoid bending over and possibly losing your balance! You may even want to purchase shoes in a larger size, as many women find their feet grow and swell with pregnancy.

Posture. Good news; this tip is free! It just requires some awareness. Imagine a straight line running from your ears to your shoulders, and to your hips and knees. Keep your chin tucked in and raise your head and shoulders to help you stand tall. Also, keep that pelvis tucked in. Have your feet slightly apart and avoid locking your knees. Don’t forget to take a break! It may take you longer to complete a task, but this is necessary. While pregnant, it is always best to avoid standing for too long.

Interested in the surrogacy process? Give Shared Conception a call today for a quick, informative and no pressure conversation. We would love to chat! Happy Holidays!

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Your Own OB

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One of the most common questions when inquiring about becoming a surrogate is, “Can I use my own Obstetrician?” The short answer is, yes. Initially, you’re in the care of the fertility doctor who did the IVF transfer. They like to watch over you for majority of the first trimester to make sure that the pregnancy is progressing nicely. Once you’re released from the fertility clinic, you can be cared for by your own obstetrician. This is a breath of fresh air for a surrogate. She is now in safe and familiar hands; many times hands that have delivered her own children. The fertility clinics have amazing doctors, but it’s like sleeping in a hotel.  You have a great time on vacation but there is nothing like getting back into your own bed!

This is why it is important to have a plan. In some cases, the clinics are farther away than your own obstetrician – so when you are ready to go to your own OB, an office close to home becomes more practical; especially at the end of your journey when you have to attend weekly appointments. And, if you cannot go to your previous, familiar and safe OB, find one! There are so many ways to go about this. One of the best methods to find a good doctor is referrals. Ask around or jump on to the very resourceful internet to find those local mom groups and neighborhood mom pages, and ask for a recommended doctor.

Whatever you decide to do, plan in advance. You avoid unnecessary stress when you have a plan. If you are a surrogate with Shared Conception, our full-service agency is with you every step of the way and can help you find a good OB if needed. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, give us a call today!

 

 

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Surviving the Summer Fashionably

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It is in your contract for maternity clothes stipend between your 12th and 15th week. Finding maternity clothes that actually fit and flatter can be challenging for many moms-to-be. But with comfortably fitting maternity clothing, you’ll look—and feel—your best as you go through each trimester. Below are some suggestions to consider before going on your maternity shopping spree. 

Choose lightweight summer maternity clothes.

• Show off your precious baby bump. 
• Pick your footwear carefully! Try to choose supportive footwear.
• Go for a dip with maternity swimwear. Even show your blossoming belly! *Always wear sunscreen. 
• Replace your jeans with jean shorts. Same purpose, just cooler.
• Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Adding a necklace or cute pair of earrings can make all the difference!
• Keep your hair off your face. There is nothing more annoying than being uncomfortable with hair tickling your face. 
• Layer up your summer maternity clothes smartly. It’s hot outside, cold in the grocery store, hot in the car, etc. Layer up to maintain optimal comfort. 

If you can’t commit to a whole new wardobe, clothing rental services are a great way to go through each trimester…fashionably! Rent the Runway has a great variety of maternity clothes available to rent and even a subscription service, giving you access to many different sizes and styles of designer brands. There is a standard subscription and an unlimited subscription option that gives you four new pieces a month, but the difference with unlimited is the ability to swap out pieces whenever you like and keep them for as long as you want.

Below are some of our favorite, reasonably priced sites that our surrogates have suggested to us.

https://www.pinkblushmaternity.com

https://us.asos.com/women/maternity/cat/?cid=5813

https://www.zulily.com

Shared Conception is committed to our surrogates and intended parents throughout their entire journey! Interested in becoming a surrogate, or just want to get more information? Give us a call today! 

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Surrogate Partners

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Surrogate Spouses and Partners

  • Written by Courtney; two-time surrogate with Shared Conception

By now, you are probably familiar with the definition of a surrogate, the intended parents, the baby and all the doctors involved with the process. But what about your partner?

Throughout my two journeys, I couldn’t have done it without my husband. I admired him more each time. I remember back to our initial conversation. I made a case by doing my research, talking with Shiva from Shared Conception, and pitching it to him like one of the sales people that show up at our doorstep and speak really fast before you say “I’m not interested.” I held my breath for his answer. He smiled at the idea and said yes. You better believe that I had a laundry list, compiled by my research of what is expected of him, and asked him the question again. Another positive response.

I had similar pregnancies both times. Part of the reason I chose surrogacy was because I liked being pregnant. But, as with all 4 pregnancies, there were days when he had to come home after a long day of work and take care of what I couldn’t. Sometimes, it was a lot. We have two of our own and there were days that I was wiped out and he had to play both mommy and daddy. There was a lot on both of our plates. But we would always remind ourselves of how momentary it all was and how wonderful it was to help create a family. He reveled with each opportunity to come home a little early from work. When he couldn’t, I had my support system and he knew all bases were covered.

The first delivery (I had c-sections) he came in while the intended parents left the operating room, elated, with their bundle of joy and held my hand while the doctor stitched me up. That’s when I told him I wanted to give again. Although he thought I was crazy, he understood. The joy in the hospital on that day was overwhelming, and having the ability to give that gift was empowering for the both of us.

I share my story to explain to those interested in surrogacy to emphasize the importance of making sure your spouse or partner is completely onboard. You both need to be educated about the process. Also, it is equally essential for them to know their role in the journey.

If you have any questions about surrogacy or are interested in becoming a surrogate, visit www.SharedConception.com, we would love to hear from you!

 

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Pregnancy Skin

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Congratulations! You are pregnant! Exciting times are coming your way and a LOT of changes are in your near future. At Shared Conception, we like to celebrate pregnancy, but we are also conscious that there are some changes we don’t always welcome during our journey. So let’s talk PREGNANCY SKIN.

 

Your skin changes when you are pregnant. Hormones are especially responsible for any unwelcomed skin changes throughout your journey. Acne, stretch marks, skin tags, darkened skin, and random raised bumps can appear anywhere and at any time – LOVELY! Always remember, like pregnancy, this is temporary and usually occurs in the first and second trimesters.

 

But don’t forget the pregnancy glow! A benefit to changes in hormone levels and increased blood flow. The skin glands on your face can produce more sebum (oil) which can give a shiny glow. Increased blood volume can make your skin look luminous which means – no filters are necessary when taking pictures!

 

To help clear skin, use a gentle cleanser twice a day. Make sure you clean your hands before you wash your face to avoid adding bacteria to your skin. There are also a ton of natural home remedies you can access here. Harsh cleansers and topical treatments are not always recommended to use while pregnant. Make sure you speak to your doctor and read any labels – some often read “not for use while pregnant.”

 

It’s also common to develop dark spots on your skin. The most common darkened area is the linea nigra, the dark line stretching from the belly button to the top of the pubic bone. 75% of pregnant ladies notice this line. But don’t worry, it usually fades away a few months post delivery when your hormone levels begin to balance out and stop fluctuating.

 

Are you interested in surrogacy? Give Shared Conception a call today. For more information, visit us online at www.SharedConception.com– we would love to hear from you!

 

 

References:

https://www.parents.com/pregnancy/my-body/

https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/skin-changes-during-pregnancy/

https://www.babycenter.com/0_skin-darkening-during-pregnancy-melasma-or-chloasma_222.bc

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Surrogate Mothers – Stories of Women Who Gifted Parents Through A Surrogacy Journey [ STEPHANIE ]

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[svp]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yg2gNSB3SfQ[/svp]
Remember to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to our channel. TIA!
CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/SubscribeSharedConception

Shared Conception is a full-service, custom-matching surrogacy agency that expertly and compassionately assists you through the process of surrogacy. We deftly offer personalized, efficient service that results in couples bringing their dreams of a having a family into reality.

Shiva Landry founded Shared Conception, LLC in 2011 and it is one if the most reputable and results-oriented surrogacy agencies in Houston, Texas and across the nation. No stranger to pregnancy-related difficulties, Shiva Landry has battled with her own infertility issues and so personally understands much of the related emotions. Paired with her experience in the medical field along with her extensive business experience that her Masters in Business Administration (MBA) and successful business career brings her, she and her staff knowledgeably and compassionately guide intended parents and surrogates through the process.

Shared Conception understands how overwhelming the process can be for first time surrogates. Thus, the agency’s support and experience is invaluable to the surrogates they will be supporting. Our staff is consistently available throughout the process – from the initial inquiry about the program to the time she delivers that bouncing baby.

Shiva Landry is a member of ASRM (American Society of Reproductive Medicine) and SEEDS (Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy) and professionally adheres to all established ethics and guidelines.

With Shiva Landry’s personal desire to help build and complete families plus her business experience, Shared Conception is committed to providing our clients with exceptional and individualized personal attention, education, support and confidential third party services.

☎️ For more information on Surrogacy and how you can apply, visit our website at http://
www.DeliverADream.com” >www.DeliverADream.com
and fill out the brief inquiry form.

http://DeliverADream.com

PS: Remember to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to our channel.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE: http://bit.ly/SubscribeSharedConception

———————- BEGIN TRANSCRIPTION ————————-
My name is Stephanie. I’ve completed one journey and I decided to become a surrogate after I had my daughter, my second child. I knew that the joy that my children brought to my life and I want it to be able to help someone else have that if they weren’t able to or needed a little bit of help starting a family. Surrogacy for me being single, I had a ton of support from my friends, my family and especially my church members. My friends and family were supportive of my journey. They were at, some were excited, some needed a little bit of help understanding and once they did, everyone was great and supportive.

My children, were really excited about the thought of me becoming a surrogate. I used the book, the Kangaroo Pouch to approach surrogacy with them and once we all sat down and read the book together, I explained to them that that was something that mommy wanted to do and they thought that it was a great idea.

I did a lot of research online and then I also have a coworker who is a surrogate again and she explained the process a little bit more to me. Things that you don’t find online and having the joy and the experience of talking to her, it’s sold it for me. I knew then it was something that I wanted to do. The compensation has helped my family by me being able to do things with my children that I normally would have to save up a little bit longer to do or put off for a little bit longer. We’ve been able to just be able to do things and enjoy things without, having to put them off any longer than we normally would.

I chose shared conception because I have a friend who was a surrogate with shared conception. She had nothing but wonderful things to say about shared conception. When I first spoke with Shiva, she was just amazing and took the time to answer all of my questions. I felt like out of all women that they could possibly be speaking with on a daily basis that my concerns were heard and my questions were answered and I felt completely comfortable in surrogacy. It is not your biological child. It is the biological child of the intended parents.

I have felt completely supported by shared conception. I’m so happy that I found this agency and I can’t imagine doing a journey anywhere else. My most favorite part of my journey has been delivery day. Seeing the joy on my intended parents face when they saw their child for the first time and when I saw my intended mother holding her child and do skin to skin with this baby that she’s so longed for and I’ve been wanting and praying for all this time is it has to be my most favorite moment. If someone is interested in learning more about surrogacy at definitely suggest contacting Shared Conception. Asking them questions, no matter what the question is. Ask.

Odd but it didn’t have to be

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Coming out on DVD and Blu-ray this holiday season is the film The Odd Life of Timothy Green.

The story is about Cindy and Jim Green; they’re portrayed as one of the 7.3 million infertile couples in America who desperately wants to have children.

Jim suggests to his wife that she write down all the characteristics and qualities she would love to have in a child. They bury the piece of paper and a rainstorm that hovers over their house waters the newly planted note.

Shortly thereafter a ten-year-old boy named Timothy Green sprouts from the earth. He is the culmination of all they desired. Of course the couple wants to legally adopt him but run into problems and are unable to do so. As most feel-good movies go, the story does end well and we won’t spoil the ending for you.

But the story didn’t have to be odd.

We would have written it this way.

A couple meets with their doctor and is told they can’t have children. Instead of deep despair they find hope and their own bundle of joy courtesy of a loving surrogate.

Ours would be a shorter movie and certainly not quite as interesting as a boy that sprouts from the ground. But the good news is our version is played out nearly everyday for families all across the world and isn’t the least bit odd.

So go ahead and watch the movie. Just know that Timothy Green’s life didn’t have to be an odd one and normal alternatives like surrogacy exists to alter how a family’s story ends.