Pregnancy and the Related Hormones

Posted by Shiva Landry on September 29, 2023

When conceiving naturally, hormone levels undergo changes, with varying effects from person to person. However, achieving a successful pregnancy without these essential hormones is challenging.

Initially, a surrogate mother’s body does not naturally produce pregnancy hormones. Therefore, physicians utilize medications to stimulate their release and maintain appropriate levels in the body. Fortunately, hormone therapies for surrogates are highly effective and boast a high success rate. Here’s more information to reassure you about pregnancy hormones and surrogacy.

Why are hormone treatments essential for surrogates?

During a natural pregnancy, specific hormones are produced by the body to prepare for the upcoming journey. These hormones are crucial for a successful and healthy pregnancy as they facilitate the development and growth of the embryo.

For surrogate pregnancies, hormone treatments can mimic the effects of the natural hormones present at the time of conception.

Which hormones are vital during a surrogate pregnancy?

The critical pregnancy hormones include:
• hCG
• Estrogen
• Progesterone
• Estrone (E1)
• Estradiol (E2)
• Estriol (E3)
• Prolactin
• Relaxin

Human chorionic gonadotropin, or “hCG,” is one of the earliest hormones released when you conceive. It plays a significant role in preparing the ovaries during the first trimester, and home pregnancy tests detect this hormone in urine. Thus, hCG serves as a “trigger” hormone, signaling the body to release more estrogen and progesterone by forming the corpus luteum.Estrogen aligns with a woman’s menstrual cycle. Its levels remain elevated during pregnancy, peaking a few weeks before childbirth. Notably, there are three types of estrogen: E1, E2, and E3.

E1 is a weaker form produced post-menopause, while E2 is the primary estrogen in adults. E3 is closely related to pregnancy as it’s responsible for building a healthy womb lining.
Progesterone assists the womb in supporting a healthy embryo and prevents womb contractions and premature labor. Physicians may recommend additional progesterone during the first few weeks.
Prolactin initiates breast milk production, while relaxin stops the womb from contracting and induces relaxation during labor for a smoother birth.

What are the benefits of using pregnancy hormones?

The primary benefit of using pregnancy hormones is their effectiveness. Administering pregnancy hormones is time-efficient and safe, especially for individuals in excellent health. A smooth pregnancy is more likely when your body is adequately prepared with the appropriate hormone levels to support a healthy baby.

If you have any questions at all about surrogacy or becoming a surrogate, please contact us at Shared Conception. Our team is here for you.

The Significance of Surrogacy Contracts

Posted by Shiva Landry on June 30, 2023

The desire to become parents is a deeply personal and meaningful experience for many individuals and couples. However, for some, the path to parenthood may present unique challenges due to infertility, medical conditions, or other circumstances. In such cases, surrogacy offers a ray of hope and the opportunity to fulfill the dream of having a child. Surrogacy contracts play a vital role in this process, providing a comprehensive legal framework that protects the interests and rights of all parties involved. In this blog, we will explore why surrogacy contracts are an absolute necessity and the benefits they offer to everyone involved.

Clarity and Understanding
Surrogacy contracts establish clear expectations and guidelines for both the intended parents and the surrogate. These contracts outline various aspects of the arrangement, including the responsibilities, rights, and obligations of all parties involved. By clearly defining the roles and expectations, surrogacy contracts help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts that may arise throughout the surrogacy journey. Clarity in terms of financial agreements, medical decisions, and post-birth arrangements allows all parties to enter the process with a shared understanding, fostering a positive and harmonious relationship.

Legal Protection
Surrogacy contracts provide a crucial layer of legal protection for all parties involved. By outlining the rights and responsibilities of the intended parents and the surrogate, these agreements ensure that all parties’ interests are safeguarded. Surrogacy laws can vary significantly across jurisdictions, and having a well-drafted contract helps navigate the legal landscape and protects everyone involved from potential legal challenges. Additionally, surrogacy contracts address issues such as parental rights, custody, and the surrogate’s decision-making authority during pregnancy, providing a solid legal foundation for all parties.

Financial Security
Financial considerations are an integral part of the surrogacy process. Surrogacy contracts establish financial arrangements, including compensation for the surrogate, payment schedules, and provisions for unforeseen circumstances. These contractual agreements help create transparency and trust, ensuring that the surrogate is fairly compensated for her time, effort, and any potential risks involved. Similarly, intended parents can have peace of mind knowing that their financial obligations are clearly defined and protected by the contract, minimizing any financial disputes or concerns that may arise during the process.

Medical Decision-making and Consent
During the surrogacy journey, numerous medical decisions need to be made, ranging from prenatal care to delivery methods. Surrogacy contracts address these issues, clearly defining the rights and decision-making authority of the intended parents and the surrogate. These agreements enable the intended parents to actively participate in important medical decisions while respecting the surrogate’s autonomy and choices. This legal framework ensures that all parties have a voice in the process and that decisions are made in the best interest of the child and the individuals involved.

Emotional Support and Expectation Management
Surrogacy contracts also serve as a means of emotional support for both the intended parents and the surrogate. These agreements may include provisions for counseling, support groups, and mediation services to help navigate the emotional complexities that can arise throughout the journey. Moreover, the contract can address the expectations and boundaries of the relationship between the intended parents and the surrogate, ensuring that all parties have a shared understanding of the emotional aspects involved. By promoting open communication and empathy, surrogacy contracts contribute to fostering healthy and respectful relationships between the parties.

Surrogacy contracts are an essential component of the surrogacy process, providing a solid legal framework that protects the rights, interests, and well-being of all parties involved. These contracts establish clarity, address legal considerations, ensure financial security, support decision-making, and manage emotional expectations. By setting the foundation for a positive and transparent surrogacy journey

Interested in Surrogacy?
If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please visit www.deliveradream.com or give Shared Conception a call today.

Preparing Your Home for the Arrival of a New Baby

Posted by Shiva Landry on June 23, 2023

Bringing a new baby home is an exciting and joyous time for any family. As expectant parents, it’s important to ensure that your home is a safe and welcoming environment for your little one. Preparing your home in advance will not only provide a peaceful atmosphere for the baby but also help ease your transition into parenthood. In this blog, we will explore essential steps and considerations to prepare your home for the arrival of your new baby.

Create a Nursery: Designate a dedicated space for your baby’s nursery. Ensure the room is well-ventilated, has proper lighting, and is easily accessible. Invest in essential furniture such as a crib, changing table, comfortable chair, and storage solutions. Decorate the room with soothing colors and baby-friendly decorations. Install window blinds or curtains that provide sufficient darkness for nap time.
Safety First: Baby proofing is crucial to ensure the safety of your little one. Get down to the baby’s level and identify potential hazards such as sharp corners, loose cords, and reachable electrical outlets. Install safety gates at the top and bottom of staircases. Secure heavy furniture to the walls to prevent tipping accidents. Cover electrical outlets with safety plugs, and place safety latches on cabinets and drawers.
Stock Up on Supplies: Prepare for the baby’s arrival by stocking up on essential supplies. Invest in a sturdy diaper changing station and stock it with diapers, wipes, creams, and extra clothes. Purchase a comfortable crib mattress, fitted sheets, and blankets. Organize a supply of baby bottles, formula (if needed), burp cloths, and pacifiers. It’s also advisable to have a thermometer, baby-safe toiletries, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
Clean and Declutter: Before the baby arrives, thoroughly clean and declutter your home. Pay special attention to the nursery, ensuring it is free of dust and allergens. Declutter other areas of the house to create a serene and organized space. Minimize the use of harsh chemicals during cleaning and consider using natural alternatives. Wash all baby clothes, bedding, and towels with a gentle, fragrance-free detergent.
Establish a Feeding Area: Designate a comfortable and quiet area in your home for breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Arrange a cozy chair or glider, a side table for essentials, and a dim light source for nighttime feedings. Keep nursing pillows, burp cloths, and a water bottle within reach. Consider adding soothing elements such as a white noise machine or soft music to create a calming atmosphere.
Set Up a Baby Monitor: Invest in a reliable baby monitor system to keep a close eye on your little one. Choose a monitor that suits your needs, whether it’s audio-only, video, or one with additional features like temperature monitoring. Install the monitor in the nursery and make sure it is properly positioned for a clear view of the crib.

Preparing your home for the arrival of a new baby involves careful planning and attention to detail. By creating a safe, comfortable, and organized environment, you’re setting the stage for a smooth transition into parenthood. From baby proofing to creating a nurturing nursery and stocking up on supplies, taking these proactive steps will help you embrace the joys of parenthood with confidence and peace of mind. Enjoy this exciting journey and treasure every moment with your precious bundle of joy! The team at Shared Conception is here for you if you have any questions.

Nurturing Minds and Families: The Vital Link Between Mental Health and Surrogacy

Posted by Shiva Landry on June 16, 2023

In recent years, society has become increasingly aware of the significance of mental health, recognizing its impact on overall well-being. Simultaneously, alternative reproductive methods, such as surrogacy, have gained attention as viable options for building families. This blog delves into the crucial connection between mental health and surrogacy, shedding light on the importance of open discussions surrounding these topics.

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health plays a fundamental role in our lives, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Ignoring or neglecting mental well-being can lead to various issues, including anxiety, depression, and even physical ailments. Recognizing the significance of mental health helps destigmatize these conditions and encourages individuals to seek the necessary support and treatment.

Understanding Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a process in which a woman carries a pregnancy and delivers a child for another individual or couple, known as the intended parents. This method allows people who are unable to conceive or carry a child to experience the joys of parenthood. However, surrogacy can also involve emotional and psychological challenges that require attention and support.

The Mental Health Journey of Intended Parents

Intended parents embarking on a surrogacy journey often experience a rollercoaster of emotions. Infertility struggles, unsuccessful attempts at conception, or medical complications can result in feelings of grief, loss, and shame. The process of entrusting another person with carrying their child can also evoke anxiety and apprehension. It is crucial to provide support and resources to help intended parents navigate these complex emotions.

The Emotional Well-being of Surrogates

Surrogates play a selfless and compassionate role in the surrogacy process. While their choice to help others build a family can be immensely rewarding, it is not without its own psychological challenges. Surrogates may experience mixed emotions, including attachment to the child they carry and concerns about the post-birth relationship with the intended parents. Providing surrogates with adequate mental health support is vital for their well-being.

Breaking the Stigma and Raising Awareness

Open discussions about mental health and surrogacy foster understanding, empathy, and support within communities. By encouraging conversations, we break down stigmas and misconceptions surrounding both topics. Increased awareness enables individuals to seek and access the appropriate mental health resources, while also ensuring that surrogates and intended parents receive the emotional support they need throughout their journeys.

The intersection of mental health and surrogacy highlights the importance of addressing emotional well-being throughout the process. By prioritizing open conversations, we can nurture the mental health of intended parents and surrogates alike, facilitating healthier outcomes for all parties involved. If you have any questions about the surrogacy process or how Shared Conception can help, please call us or contact us here.

Creating a Strong Support System: Nurturing Relationships during the Surrogacy Journey

Posted by Shiva Landry on June 9, 2023

Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a monumental decision that requires not only physical and emotional strength but also a robust support system. Building a network of supportive individuals can help intended parents and surrogates navigate the unique challenges and triumphs of this path with greater ease and reassurance. In this article, we’ll explore practical tips for creating a strong support system during surrogacy.

Open Communication: Clear and open communication lays the foundation for a solid support system. Start by having candid conversations with your partner, family, and close friends about your decision to pursue surrogacy. Ensure that everyone understands your hopes, fears, and expectations. Openness fosters understanding and empathy, reducing potential misunderstandings and conflict down the line.
Seek Professional Guidance: Working with a reputable surrogacy agency such as Shared Conception can provide essential guidance and emotional support throughout the surrogacy process. Our professionals can help educate you about the journey, facilitate communication between intended parents and surrogates, and connect you with support groups or counseling services tailored to surrogacy. Their expertise can be invaluable in addressing any concerns or questions that arise.
Join Support Groups: Connect with other individuals or couples who have experienced or are currently going through surrogacy. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, seek advice, and find emotional support from those who truly understand the intricacies of the journey. Online communities and local support groups can provide a sense of belonging and help alleviate feelings of isolation during this transformative process.
Foster Relationships with the Surrogate: Building a strong and trusting relationship with the surrogate is crucial for both intended parents and surrogates. Engage in open and honest conversations, establish boundaries, and maintain regular communication. Attend medical appointments together, if possible, and involve the surrogate in the planning and preparation for the baby’s arrival. Nurturing a compassionate and respectful connection will create a supportive environment that benefits all parties involved.

Surrogacy is a remarkable journey that requires a solid support system to ensure emotional well-being and successful outcomes. With Shared Conception, our experienced and professional team helps create the best plan for your journey. We want everyone involved to have a positive experience. Please contact Shared Conception by calling us today or filling out our form on: contact us.

Legal Requirements for Surrogacy in Texas

Posted by Shiva Landry on April 28, 2023

In the state of Texas, the legal requirements for surrogacy can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the surrogacy arrangement. Here are some general guidelines:

Surrogacy Contract: The intended parents and the surrogate must have a written surrogacy agreement that outlines the terms of the arrangement, including the financial compensation and the surrogate’s responsibilities. This agreement must be signed by all parties and their respective attorneys.
Medical Requirements: The surrogate must undergo medical and psychological screenings to ensure she is physically and mentally able to carry a child to term. The intended parents may also need to undergo medical testing to ensure they are able to have a child.
Parental Rights: In Texas, the intended parents are considered the legal parents of the child born via a surrogate mother. The surrogacy agreement must address issues related to parental rights and responsibilities.
Pre-Birth Order: To establish legal parentage, the intended parents may need to obtain a pre-birth order from a court. This order declares them the legal parents of the child, and allows them to make medical decisions on behalf of the child.
Adoption: Adoption is not necessary in Texas since the pre-birth order establishes legal parentage.

It is important to note that surrogacy laws can be complex. It is highly recommended that individuals seeking a surrogacy arrangement in Texas work with an experienced surrogacy agency to ensure that all legal requirements are met.

With Shared Conception, our experienced and professional team helps create the best plan for your journey. We want everyone involved to have a positive experience. If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy options or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us at 713-622-1144, and we will be here to help you with any questions.

How Intended Parents Can Support Their Surrogate

Posted by Shiva Landry on February 24, 2023

As the intended parents, it is important to provide positive support to your surrogate mother. There are many ways you can do this.

Because surrogacy is such a selfless gift, one way to show support or appreciation is to do thoughtful acts of kindness in unexpected ways. This could include giving her a gift card for a manicure or pedicure. Some med spas even have prenatal packages designed specifically for pregnant women. Other ideas include gift cards to her favorite restaurant or a food delivery service such as DoorDash—remember, it’s simple things that can mean the most.

Involving your surrogate in some of the decisions, such as letting her help choose the baby’s first outfit, can be all she needs to keep her mind from her discomforts, aches, and pains. Sharing your excitement as a new parent-to-be can help your surrogate feel appreciated and build a level of comfort in your relationship.

Pregnancy is physically demanding and makes simple chores sometimes hard to complete. If your surrogate feels comfortable with the idea, consider hiring a housekeeper once every couple weeks to help with housework. This takes the pressure off both your surrogate and her spouse.

Another way you can support your surrogate mother is by trying to get to know her better. Take her out for tea or coffee or a bite to eat, just to talk. Surrogacy is an emotionally charged journey for both parties, and sometimes having that comfortable, open line of communication can make everything easier for both the surrogate and the intended parents. As the Intended Parents, it is ok to periodically check on your surrogate, invite her out, and give her calls to see if she needs anything, but remember it is also essential to give her space, so she does not feel like she is being micromanaged.

When you doubt how you can support your surrogate, just ask her! She will know what she needs better than anyone else. The kind of support she needs will change throughout her pregnancy, so this is always a great option if you are unsure how you can help. Your support and that of those around her are such an instrumental part of her journey.

If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us at 713-622-1144, and we will be here to help you with any questions.

Introducing Your New Baby to Your Pets

Posted by Shiva Landry on January 27, 2023

Dogs, cats, and other pets can make great playmates for your baby. However, it’s essential to understand that the adjustment period for your pet may be a little difficult.

Prepare Your Pets

When you bring home your baby, there will be a lot of changes for your pet. Experts recommend making the transition as gradual as possible. One way is to start doing things around the home to prepare, such as decorating the nursery to allow your pet time to become accustomed to this room and the new smells. If you don’t want your pets to visit the nursery, putting up a baby gate still allows them to see and hear your baby without feeling isolated.

Even if you don’t plan to use a gate for your baby’s room but around other areas of your home– you may also want to get your dog used to the idea before the baby arrives and use them at regular intervals. Help them understand that gates are not a punishment by placing treats in the area you want them to stay in.

Plan in Advance for Pet Care

Having a newborn is an exciting new experience, but it’s also exhausting. Many new parents need extra help. It’s important to plan for pet care in advance. Having someone who can feed and care for your animals, especially if you’ll be traveling to bring your newborn home with you, can be a huge weight off your shoulders. You may even ask someone to walk the dog for you for the first few weeks of your baby’s life.

Continue to Make Time for Your Pets

It’s important not to neglect your pets when the baby comes.

If possible, you should adjust your schedule before you bring your baby home. If you gradually reduce the amount of time you spend with your pets, having the new baby won’t be such a drastic change for them. If you need to adjust their feeding schedule, it’s also best to do this ahead of time.

If your pet is used to spending more time with one of the partners, it may be a good idea to get them used to the other one now. This gives you more flexibility when one of you is busy with the baby. Either way, it’s good practice to make sure that someone spends at least 10 minutes of quality time with your pet every day. It may help you relax, and it will mean the world to your pet.

Introducing Your Baby to Your Pet

Introducing your new baby to pets is a lot like introducing your pets to another new pet. If possible, you should bring home something that smells like the baby and show it to your pet first. This could be a blanket or burp rag, or piece of clothing. Dogs are especially grateful for exploring new scents.

When you bring your baby home for the first time, someone else should hold the baby while you approach your pet for a warm welcome. Spend time with your pet, talk to them, pet them and give them some treats. If your dog gets too excited, it’s best to take the baby out of the room temporarily and help them calm down and try again. Then you can let your dog approach the baby and allow them to get to know each other. Of course, any interactions between your pet and your baby should never be forced, but they must always be supervised.

How to keep Your Baby Safe

While most dogs and cats are worthy of your trust, you cannot predict what will happen. Babies startle easily and make sudden movements that could seem scary to a pet. A pet could also accidentally hurt a baby by doing what they normally do with you, such as sitting on your lap. A dog may even want to carry a baby around, much like they would with a newborn pup. They don’t mean any harm, but it can put your baby at risk. For these reasons, you should ensure that all interactions between your pet and your baby are supervised. Otherwise, it’s best to ensure there’s a physical separation.

You should keep your pets from licking your baby’s face, since your newborn’s immune system is still weak. It’s important to keep your interactions with your pet positive and not to add new restrictions unless they’re necessary. For example, if your dog has always been allowed to sit on the couch, they should still be able to do so once the baby comes. Don’t forget to enjoy the friendship that is bound to form between your baby and your pets.

Are Surrogacy Expenses Tax Deductible?

Posted by Shiva Landry on January 20, 2023

As any parent knows, welcoming a baby into your life can be expensive. These costs are even higher when your parenthood is made possible through surrogacy. Intended Parents face a large range of expenses: agency fees, surrogate compensation and expenses, clinic fees, and legal costs.

Before embarking on your surrogacy journey, you should have a good understanding of what expenses are involved and what may or may not be tax-deductible. It’s also important to understand the tax laws that apply to your own state, as these vary between states.

Consulting with an accountant can be helpful as they will be able to explain more about taxation policies as they pertain to your own situation. Tax laws can change regularly, so what is true right now, may not be true in six months.

What surrogacy expenses are tax-deductible?

Surrogacy and donation expenses are mostly not tax-deductible. However, there are a few exceptions.

Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017*, some significant changes were made regarding the ability of Intended Parents to claim tax back on surrogacy expenses.

The changes to the deductibility of medical expenses have been a little tricky for some IPs who have created families through third-party reproduction (also known as assisted reproductive technology or ART). ART includes clinic fees for standard procedures involved in surrogacy, as well as hormone therapy and sperm donation. It also covers more advanced procedures, such as IVF and the use of egg donation.

In most cases, if medical expenses such as ART exceed a certain percentage of the parents’ Adjusted Gross Income (AGI), they can be deducted in the same year that expenses not reimbursed by healthcare insurance are paid. When applying for medical deductions, there may be instances in which you will need to exceed a certain limit.

AGI comprises all of an individual’s income before other deductions or decreases are made.

From 2019 through 2025, qualifying medical expenses are only deductible to the extent they exceed 10% of AGI.

The good news is that most forms of ART are deductible under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.

The following surrogacy expenses are generally deductible:

Any medical fees directly involving you and/or your spouse
Egg retrieval
Sperm donation
Sperm freezing
IVF-related fees

Unfortunately though, surrogacy is not. This is because the expenses incurred in using a surrogate are not for medical procedures performed on the bodies of Intended Parents (the taxpayers). Instead, surrogacy requires the participation of a third party.

Non-deductible surrogacy expenses include:

Compensation for your surrogate
The surrogate’s medical bills
The surrogate’s medical insurance
Any costs for procedures or tests not directly attributed to you or your spouse

Other avenues for obtaining surrogacy tax deductions

There are cases in which Intended Parents may obtain a Private Letter Ruling (PLR) from The Internal Revenue Service (IRS)*. The purpose of a PLR is to get permission from the IRS to deduct specific expenses that are not made clear by law. If you are successful in getting a private ruling awarded in your favor as Intended Parents, the entire process including the surrogacy agency fees could be tax-deductible.

Obtaining a PLR would involve the Intended Parents engaging with a CPA to write a letter to the IRS requesting permission to deduct the expenses. The letter should encompass all the expenses that are likely to be involved in their surrogacy journey. It should detail why the parents are incapable of having children (due to a structure or function of the body) and that their situation may qualify as medical care under section 213. The IRS would then respond with its decision. If the PLR is ruled in their favor, the Intended Parent would be provided a letter to attach to their tax return.

How do you obtain a Private Letter Ruling (PLR)?

To obtain a PLR, the taxpayer must be able to show that they have been tested and confirmed as infertile. It is important to note that the PLR process is neither quick nor simple. Once you’ve submitted your documentation, the ruling may take 3 to 6 months to finalize.

Interested in Surrogacy?

If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy options or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us at 713-622-1144, and we will be here to help you with any questions.

*Resources:

frequently asked questions from intended parents

Intended Parents FAQs

Posted by Shiva Landry on January 13, 2023 with 1 Comment

When Intended Parents start exploring the option of surrogacy, many questions run through their minds. It can definitely be a confusing process—how to choose a surrogacy agency, how do you get matched with a surrogate, how to get started, etc. In this blog, we try to cover some of the most frequently asked questions.

What is the difference between being a gestational surrogate and a traditional surrogate?

With no genetic link to the baby she is carrying, a gestational surrogate is simply the carrier of the fetus. The intended mother or egg donor provides the egg, and the intended father or sperm donor provides the sperm. The gestational surrogate has absolutely NO biological connection to the child.

A traditional surrogate is where the surrogate uses her own biological eggs. As there are numerous emotional and legal aspects of traditional surrogacy, Shared Conception does not handle traditional surrogacy agreements and exclusively offers gestational surrogacy where the eggs of the surrogate mother are never used.

How do you match couples and surrogates?

The information gathered from our initial meeting, and your application is vital to the matching process. After professionally reviewing your needs and circumstances, we immediately start the matching process and will find the ideal surrogate for you. The process of finding the right surrogate mother can be quick or it could take some time, as we are looking for someone whose needs, expectations and views are similar to yours.

Once we have a possible match, we will contact the surrogate and you. If both parties are interested in moving forward, Shared Conception will arrange a conference call between you, the potential surrogate, and a member of the Shared Conception team. If everyone is in agreement, a video will occur, and you and the surrogate-to-be can start building rapport and determine if you want to journey through this surrogate process with each other. A Shared Conception representative will always attend this introductory meeting.

What is our first step in retaining your agency?

We look forward to hearing from you! Simply call or email us. We will promptly contact you so that we can get started on your journey to parenthood!

How much contact will we have with our surrogate throughout the process and after the birth?

The amount of contact between you, the intended parent, and your surrogate is completely based on both of your comfort levels. The majority of surrogates want to develop a comfortable rapport with the intended parents because they realize that these soon-to-be parents want to be a part of the pregnancy.

Shared Conception understands the sensitivity of the overall situation. We will be sure to take both sides’ thoughts, feelings, and wishes into consideration BEFORE making a match.

When do I pay the Surrogate?

After Shared Conception custom matches you with a surrogate and all legal paperwork has been prepared and approved, you will deposit monies into an escrow account managed by an independently-owned escrow agency. These funds will be used to pay for mutually agreed-upon fees including the surrogate’s compensation, medical premiums, travel expenses, etc. Payments typically begin the month following the confirmation of pregnancy.

What happens if my surrogate wants to keep the baby?

It’s important to remember that all parties are psychologically screened and that legal contracts are created to protect everyone’s interest BEFORE we start the surrogacy process. Based on our research, most surrogates want to ensure that YOU, the intended parent, are committed to moving forward as they are not interested in having any more, kids-especially one that is not theirs.

For more FAQs asked by our intended parents, visit our Surrogacy FAQ page here.