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Happy Easter from Shared Conception!

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Many of our surrogates have promised themselves to eat as healthy as possible when they find out that they are pregnant. But cravings can take the wheel. And, when holidays such as upcoming Easter come around, we are constantly surrounded by candy and sweet treats. It’s everywhere this time of year. The chocolate covered treats in the stores are very tempting. I don’t know about you. but that Reese’s® peanut butter egg gets me every time! It’s not easy to resist when filling the children’s Easter baskets or seeing the large selection of baked goods at Easter Brunch. Being pregnant is not a free pass to consume every chocolate egg in sight! Be aware of too much sugar.

Gobbling down Cadbury Eggs®, Jelly Beans® (and other candy) will cause your blood sugar level to spike. Unless you are pre-disposed to gestational diabetes, you do not have to completely avoid sugary goods. It is okay to have sweet treats while pregnant, as long as it’s in moderation. That is the key. You don’t want to replace nutrient-dense foods or take in too many calories. Candy is nothing but empty calories and can cause excessive weight gain and possibly gestational diabetes.

While pregnant, many things can trigger cravings for sweets. Hormonal status and a growing baby are all factors that can contribute; depending on which trimester of pregnancy you are in.  Believe it or not, fatigue is a very common cause of these cravings. This is why it is important to reduce your load of responsibilities. Take the help offered to you, ask for help and nap. That pile of laundry can be folded later, the dishes in the sink can sit for a little longer and you can call someone in your support system to help so you can rest.

So, before you reach for that hollow chocolate bunny, fill up on those nutrient-dense foods. Shared Conception wishes you and your family a Happy Easter! If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, give us a call today or check out our website for more information at www.SharedConception.com! We would love to hear from you!

 

 

matching a surrogate with intended parents

It’s a Match!

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What is a match? Webster’s dictionary defines it as, “to be equal to (something or someone) in quality or strength; to make or to be harmonious.” What a perfect definition to describe how the staff at Shared Conception “matches” intended parents and surrogate mothers! Our definition has a little more heart. At Shared Conception, matching is“a wonderful process in which Shared Conception excels in. This is when a surrogate is paired with intended parent(s). Shared Conception matches surrogates with intended parents that are good matches based on legal requirements, personality compatibility, preferences and similar expectations.

We want to ensure that the surrogate and the intended parents are certainly equal in their beliefs and most importantly inner strength, and that the surrogate has a harmonious pregnancy.

Shared Conception’s objective is that the surrogate and intended parents interact in an extraordinarily comfortable environment and that both parties build a good, solid rapport and partnership. With that said, we strive to pinpoint your core beliefs and innate desires so that everyone is mentally comfortable and relaxed throughout the entire pregnancy.

If you are comfortable with the intended parents we match with you, we will immediately contact them. Then, Shared Conception will coordinate a three-way phone conversation between the intended parents, the surrogate and a member of our team. If all parties agree to move forward, then the next step is to either have a video call or face-to-face meeting so everyone can discuss the partnership and expectations.

This is such an exciting time in the process. Imagine all the hopes, dreams, expectations and anticipation all wrapped up into the actual match between two families. It’s simply amazing!

If you are curious about becoming a surrogate, read more to see how surrogacy works in our great state of Texas. The process does vary between states. Not only is surrogacy a legal process, but it is also an emotional and physical process. Make sure to educate yourself, your spouse or partner, and surrounding support system about surrogacy. If you are considering surrogacy and live in Texas, you will have only one option: gestational surrogacy. This is where the embryo is created in a fertility clinic using an egg and sperm from the intended parent (or donor) then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus through the process of IVF.

It helps to work with an experienced agency such as Shared Conception. We carefully screen and match both intended parents and surrogates with our professional matching process. Help create a family with Shared Conception. Interested in surrogacy? Call us today! You can visit us online www.sharedconception.com

 

 

 

 

 

why a previous pregnancy to become a surrogate

Now is a great time to apply

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Some of us have had a hard couple of weeks. It’s been scary. Worrying about getting sick, who is around us and our families, having enough food and supplies, is stressing us out. Not to mention not knowing whether or not we will have jobs depending on the industry. Money is going to be tight for all of us, and we would like to offer you a solution.

Shared Conception is a surrogacy agency that helps create families. And we can’t do this without you; our wonderful potential surrogates. The most important quality in a surrogate is her love for being pregnant. All of our surrogates share this similar quality. Many love being pregnant and the joy of surrogacy so much, that they have been a gestational carrier with Shared Conception two, three or even four times!

And yes! You get paid! Now is a great time for that much needed extra income. You and your family will benefit from this selfless act of kindness. You can earn up to $40,000 by helping create a family. It’s a win-win!

You can learn more about How to become a Surrogate in our blogs. Here are some frequently asked questions, answers and links with more information:

  1. How long does it take to become a surrogate with Shared Conception? Read more here. It will walk you through the beginning processes of surrogacy from the preliminary application (which you can fill out here), to the matching process and other required screenings.
  2. What other processes do I have to go through? A medical and psychological evaluation along with a background check is required as well. You can read more about it Don’t be concerned about small infractions such as speeding tickets. This won’t disqualify you from being a surrogate.
  3. What is the IVF medical process like? Read this blog to learn about the IVF transfer, and the protocols for pregnancy and delivery.

Shared Conception pledges wholeheartedly to support you throughout the entire pregnancy, and we will still be there afterwards! Our client coordinators will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are tactfully brought up and handled. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing that you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an information request form. We would love to hear from you.

 

 

proper way to wash hands

Corona Virus and Pregnancy

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This pandemic has thrown us for quite a loop. Have your prenatal appointments changed to telemedical appointments? With the ever-changing news, uncertainties and restrictions imposed in our lives, what does this mean for those of us who are pregnant? What is known however, is mostly positive. Pregnant women don’t seem to be particularly susceptible to the virus. This does not mean that they are immune to it either!

Currently, our understanding of the impact of COVID-19 on reproduction and pregnancy is limited. There are reports of women who have tested positive for COVID-19, who have delivered babies who do not have disease. Additionally, there is limited information from published scientific reports about the susceptibility of pregnant women to COVID-19 and the severity of infection. Available data are reassuring, but are limited to small case series.

As of late, hospitals are taking extra precautions to help people give birth during this pandemic. This includes limited amount of support allowed in the labor and delivery room. This does not include virtual supporters. Check with your doctor about their preferences and guidelines, as it changes daily.

If you are delivering, it is said that hospitals are making plans to ensure that healthy pregnant women are separate from the infected ones. Also, hospitals are following CDC guidelines to evaluate pregnant women for Covid-19 symptoms. Anyone who exhibits symptoms is given a mask and delivers in a separate area.

Currently there is no evidence that a pregnant person can transmit the virus to the fetus during pregnancy or birth. There is also no evidence that the virus passes through breastmilk but as always, it’s best to check with you OB if you’re planning on pumping.

It’s important to note that coronaviruses are unrelated to the ZIKA virus, which has very clear implications for pregnancy and fetal development. Miscarriage and still birth are more common with influenza infection in pregnancy, and therefore could be a risk of COVID delaying pregnancy until risk of infection is low would be prudent to minimize the above risks.

Unfortunately, this has become our new reality. Stay informed and wash your hands! Pregnant women should continue to practice social distancing, diligent hygiene and seek information from your doctor! Shared Conception is there for our surrogates at any time.

pregnancy and sun exposure

Belly, Baby and the Sun

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In Texas, we get a short Spring season, a long spring break and tend to hit the beach and poolside as early as April. If you are pregnant, you have to consider protecting that precious cargo from the sun. We all know that overexposure to the sun’s UV rays can be damaging to anyone. And yes, it is different when you are pregnant.

Due to hormonal changes, your skin is more sensitive while you’re pregnant. You are prone to hives and heat rash. Also, with the increased amount of melanin in the skin, this often results in a condition known as melasma, also called “the mask of pregnancy.” As a result, caution and shade is one way to defend your precious pouch. Bring a beach umbrella, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and keep cool by staying hydrated.

Another additional worry while being in the sun and pregnant is the ingredients in sunscreen. Sunscreen is a must! But what is in it? A common chemical found in sunscreen, oxybenzone, has been linked to low birth weight. It is wise to avoid sunscreens containing this ingredient and find one that contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are considered better options for those that are pregnant. Seek advice from your doctor for the safest types of sunscreens to use during pregnancy.

The sun also causes concern beyond UV damage. Be careful not to overheat. This also involves staying hydrated. Avoid overheating by keeping water close by at all times and prevent heatstroke by staying indoors at the height of the day’s temperature. When you are pregnant, your body temperature is higher and busy pumping extra blood to meet the needs of the baby. Therefore, it is easier to overheat.

Although vitamin D is necessary for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby, the best source can be found in lots of different foods and supplements. If you prefer to get your vitamin D in the great outdoors, remember, a little sun will go a long way. ALWAYS talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have when it comes to your journey.

Shared Conception pledges to support you throughout your journey and beyond! We ensure that any questions, sensitive or difficult subject matters can be easily handled by Shared Conception. We want our surrogates to be healthy, informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing they contributed to the world in a unique way. Interested in surrogacy? Give us a call today for a no pressure conversation, or visit www.deliver-a-dream.com to fill out an application request form. We would love to hear from you.

 

 

References: https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/tanning-during-pregnancy/

Airplane Germs and how to disinfect

How to Disinfect Your Airplane Seat

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In recent light of the Coronavirus and all the media attention it is receiving, airplane travel while pregnant can cause a bit of a hesitation. Sometimes, air travel is a necessity. Since you’re pregnant and on high alert about your health, we can’t help but draw attention to this concerning and potential health hazard.  Studies have shown how germ-filled airplane seats, seat pockets, seat belts, tray tables and arm rests are. But those who are concerned, can take action with these small steps to make their assigned seats a little less contaminated.

With a few purchases at your local drugstore or through Amazon and a little bit of time to plan ahead, you can have the cleanest seat on the plane.

Disinfecting wipes and how to use them

As soon as you board, take out these wipes! By creating only a minor spectacle, you can wipe down all the hard, nonporous surfaces thoroughly. Remember, the surface has to stay visibly wet and saturated for a short amount of time to receive all of their benefits. There are directions on the package that will tell you the correct amount of time. This is when the wipes do their best germ-killing job. And, don’t forget about that seat belt buckle and arm rests!

Disinfecting the fabric seats

As for the upholstery, the wipes will not work. If you are concerned about that exposure to germs from the seat fabric, there are seat and table tray covers available on Amazon. Or, you can purchase covers for the head rest only. Most planes now have pleather seats, and those can be wiped down with the disinfecting wipe.

Hand Sanitizer

Clean running water and soap is not always readily available, or you just can’t access it because of that darn seat belt light. Having hand sanitizer in your travel bag is always a good idea. You can use it before you eat, after you use the bathroom, or any other time you come in contact with areas you suspect have germs. It will not work on hard surfaces like the tray table, that’s what the disinfecting wipes are for.

Seat pockets

The seat pockets have the highest concentration of germs alive. It’s also where we tend to stash our water bottles and snacks. We haven’t been able to find a disposable liner available for the pocket, so it’s best not to use them. Keep a leak proof water bottle (that you can fill up on the plane or before you board) in your bag for germ-free hydration.

Stay hydrated

An airplane’s cabin can dehydrate you. Depending on how long flight time is, you can easily get dehydrated. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids before your flight, during a long flight and post flight.

Flying isn’t always easy when pregnant. Always make sure to contact your doctor before embarking on any travel plans. Shared Conception pledges to support you throughout your journey and beyond! We ensure that any questions, sensitive or difficult subject matters can be easily handled by Shared Conception. We want our surrogates to be healthy, informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing they contributed to the world in a unique way. Interested in surrogacy? Give us a call today for a no pressure conversation, or visit www.deliver-a-dream.comto fill out an application request form. We would love to hear from you.

 

 

 

 

pineapple and ivf relationship

Pineapples and IVF

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Have you noticed the abundance of pineapples when researching IVF or Surrogacy? This fruit has become adopted as a symbol of infertility and IVF. There really is no scientific evidence proving that pineapples improve implantation when undergoing IVF, but many believe that they do. Why?

Bromelain

Bromelain is an enzyme naturally found in pineapple juice and core. This is found only in fresh pineapple, not canned. It’s used to reduce inflammation in the uterus and can possibly help with embryo implantation. It’s also believed to be a mild blood thinner, which some believe can aid in implantation too.

You will find those who swear by it, believing it has helped with their IVF – and you will find others that could take it or leave it. Bromelain has a long history of medicinal use. If you would like to give this a try before your IVF procedure, as always, talk to your doctor and remember, include the core. The juice by itself is not believed to contain enough.

Bottom line, if you enjoy eating pineapples, keep on eating them. They can be part of a healthy diet for a woman undergoing IVF. As with anything, eat in moderation. Large amounts of bromelain can cause your uterus to contract and this is not a good environment for an embryo looking to implant itself.

Regardless of its powers (or not), the pineapple remains a symbol of the fertility community for many of our journeys. If not an aid in IVF; it is a symbol of strength for those who need a boost of confidence, hope and strength or just a snack!

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our coordinators will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are tactfully brought up and handled. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing that you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit www.deliveradream.com to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you today!

 

loss of bladder control after birth

Bladder Control!

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Ok ladies…here is the problem…you have had one or two (or maybe even more) of your own children and then chose to selflessly bless another family by becoming a surrogate. Now, you are noticing that your bladder isn’t as strong as it used to be. Actually, you may feel that it’s not doing its job at all. Even the thought of jumping on a trampoline could make you have a little accident.

Don’t worry. This is a common postpartum symptom and the more children you deliver, the weaker your bladder could become. Pregnancy and delivery weaken muscles around the bladder. On top of that, your uterus shrinks after delivery and perches right on top of your bladder, causing a control issue. Even more debilitating, your hormones change. This can take effect on your bladder control too.

What can you do?

  • Kegals! Start small and try to work your way up to 3 sets of 30 per day. These also come in handy in the sudden event of a cough, sneeze or laugh.
  • Lose those extra pregnancy pounds. Extra weight puts more pressure on your bladder.
  • Go more often. If you go, or try to go about every 30 minutes or before that sudden urge arises, you end up training your bladder. And then try to go every 45 minutes; therefore, building up your time.
  • Drink water. Cutting back on water will dehydrate you. And that is not healthy and can cause more problems that the occasional dribble.
  • Certain foods such as coffee, citrus, tomatoes, soda and alcohol can irritate your bladder. Avoiding these irritants can preserve your bladder control.
  • A panty liner or pad will absorb a leak. Most likely you are wearing them after delivery, so they can serve more than one purpose. Just change them often to avoid infection.

Ultimately, it takes between 3 to 6 months, or longer, to regain complete control. If accidents continue after the postpartum healing period, talk to your doctor. Shared Conception pledges to support you throughout your journey and beyond! We ensure that sensitive or difficult subject matters are easily handled by Shared Conception. We want our surrogates to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing they contributed to the world in a unique way. Interested in surrogacy? Give us a call today for a no pressure conversation, or visit  www.deliveradream.com to fill out an application request form. We would love to hear from you!

you can be a surrogate

You Can be a Surrogate!

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Surrogate, journey, intended parent, gestational carrier, IVF……there is a lot to learn when considering surrogacy. Not everyone is cut out for this job, but more women qualify than you may think. If you are thinking about becoming a surrogate, here are some common characteristics among our surrogates that you may be able to identify with.

You’re a mom.

One of the standard requirements to become a surrogate is that you have had at least one child of your own. If you have not. We cannot accept your application. This way, since you have already been through a pregnancy and delivery, you have realistic expectations. With that said, all of our surrogates are moms. Children unlock a large part of our heart, so giving this gift to another family is something any mom can appreciate the most.

You have a great support system.

A successful surrogacy has an established support system that surrounds you, the surrogate, with positive vibes, a helping hand, and a shoulder to lean on throughout the surrogacy. Whether this is your spouse, partner, friend or relative, this reliable point person and group of people has proven to be vital among all surrogacy journeys.

You are healthy.

When you apply to become a surrogate with Shared Conception, there are some initial medical qualifications to be met. One of the most important qualifications for a surrogate is a healthy lifestyle. Also, you (and spouse/partner) are required to pass a medical and psychological evaluation. This ensures a healthy process for both surrogate and baby.

You are a good communicator.

A great surrogate is open-minded and can go with the flow. Part of your job as a surrogate is to keep everyone “in the know.” It means a lot to your intended parents to supply them with updates about appointments, baby growth, how you are feeling and more!

You have a clean record.

You must not have any type of criminal record. Understandably so, you are going to be carrying someone else’s baby and a history of making good choices, makes you a good choice! Small infractions like speeding tickets won’t disqualify you from being a surrogate. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Shared Conception.

Shared Conception pledges to wholeheartedly support you throughout the pregnancy. Our director will expertly act as a liaison between you and the intended parents. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are tactfully brought up and handled. We want you to be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in a unique and precious way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream/ to fill out an application request form! We would love to hear from you

 

 

Acupuncture and Surrogacy

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*This blog serves as an informative article. Consult your doctor before trying any new procedure.

Originally a Chinese practice, acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. It has been used to balance energy in your own body for preventing and treating sickness and disease and also for general health. Very tiny needles are put into specific places on the body to alleviate certain conditions. These treatments have been said to have benefits advantageous for fertility and some surrogates swear by it!

Acupuncture has been shown to increase blood flow throughout the body, including the uterus. Eastern medicine doctors believe that this can reduce inflammation that could prevent the egg from implanting into the uterus and growing. This can increase the lining thickness in the uterus prior to embryo transfer. Treatments can also increase beta-endorphins which are said to decrease pain in labor.

Additionally, treatments are believed to decrease stress levels. This is important for two reasons. It can help balance progesterone in your system and lower stress which translates to a better quality of life and a better environment for the baby to thrive.

It doesn’t hurt. Yet, surrogates more than likely spend their first trimester injecting progesterone into their backside, so the idea of more needles can be off-putting. The needles used in acupuncture are hair-thin. Just as there are risks with any kind of treatment, there are minimal risks associated with acupuncture therapy.

From time to time, intended parents ask surrogates to consider acupuncture as part of their transfer process. Although this is not always the case, acupuncture is believed to possibly help the IVF cycle be more successful. With all the time, money and emotional investment in a transfer process, it is not hard to imagine some intended parents asking their surrogate to consider this procedure. But really, it’s your choice. Intended parents can only ask you to agree to acupuncture.

If acupuncture is an avenue you want to consider, talk with your doctor and intended parents first. A lot of topics similar to this are discussed and considered before the legal phase. But along the way, an extra treatment such as this can be discussed between both parties. Shared Conception pledges wholeheartedly to support you throughout your journey. We will ensure that any sensitive or difficult subject matters are comfortably handled. We want to you be informed, fulfilled and satisfied knowing you contributed to the world in this unique way. Interested in becoming a surrogate? Give us a call today or visit https://sharedconception.com/deliver-a-dream/ to fill out an application request form. We would love to hear from you!