New Year’s Resolutions for Surrogates

Posted by Shiva Landry on December 29, 2023

Keeping New Year’s resolutions can be challenging, but leveraging your pregnancy as a powerful motivator can make a significant difference in self-care. Our surrogates at Shared Conception share popular resolutions that align with a healthy and positive pregnancy journey.

Eat Well: A balanced diet is crucial for the baby’s growth and provides essential nutrition for a joyful and healthier pregnancy. Amidst the tempting holiday treats, incorporating a daily dose of fruits and vegetables helps keep unhealthy snacks to a minimum.
Stay Active: Integrating even a small amount of exercise into your daily routine benefits both you and the baby. Simple actions like parking farther from the mall entrance or opting for stairs instead of escalators contribute to a more comfortable journey. One of our previous blogs discusses exercises you can safely do while pregnant.
Remain Positive: Pregnancy can be stressful, but maintaining a positive outlook is linked to better, healthier pregnancies. Activities such as yoga or meditation, tailored for pregnancy, can help foster a sunny disposition. We wrote a blog earlier this year that includes 10 tips for managing stress as a surrogate.
Rest: Embrace the notion that as a pregnant individual, you deserve extra care. Take advantage of your situation by indulging in moments of rest, naps, and relaxation. Recognize that your body is working around the clock and requires more rest than usual.
Believe in Yourself: Recognize the incredible feat you are accomplishing. While pregnancy may not always be easy, you have the strength to navigate it successfully. During challenging times, reach out to your Shared Conception coordinator or connect with fellow surrogates through our private Facebook page for valuable support and understanding.

We hope these insights contribute to a more fulfilling surrogacy experience for both you and the intended parents. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, feel free to reach out to us for a pressure-free, informative chat. Happy New Year!

Can I Use CBD Oil During My Pregnancy?

Posted by Shiva Landry on December 22, 2023

CBD oil is gaining popularity for addressing various issues, including pain relief, nausea suppression, anxiety management, and promoting restful sleep. It’s natural for pregnant individuals to contemplate using it to alleviate pregnancy-related side effects. However, the safety of CBD oil during pregnancy is questionable.

What is CBD Oil?

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is present in marijuana and hemp plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it doesn’t produce the intoxicating “high” associated with recreational marijuana. CBD oil, resembling an actual oil, is extracted and refined using ethanol. It comes in various forms such as pills, gels, gummies, vape oils, creams, and oral tinctures.

Effects of CBD Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is a lack of comprehensive research on the impact of CBD on the developing fetus, pregnant individuals, or breastfeeding infants. The FDA is actively collecting and studying data on potential harmful effects during these stages. Although conclusive evidence is lacking, the FDA expresses significant concern based on existing knowledge.

High doses of CBD in pregnant test animals have demonstrated issues with the reproductive system of developing male fetuses. The FDA anticipates some CBD transfer to infants through breast milk. Additionally, there’s a potential for CBD products to be contaminated with substances, including THC, posing risks to the fetus or breastfed baby. Reports of CBD containing contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, bacteria, and fungus are also under investigation.

Known Risks of CBD

CBD carries known risks for the general population, including liver toxicity, extreme sleepiness, and adverse interactions with other drugs. The FDA is examining CBD use in various contexts, including lifelong exposure to CBD-containing products such as food, cosmetics, or supplements, as well as potential effects from their combined use.

Legal Status of CBD Oil

While the government approves CBD derived from hemp, state laws vary, and some are diverging from federal regulations. It’s crucial to be aware of your state’s specific laws. The FDA has only approved one CBD product, a prescription drug for treating rare, severe seizure disorders in children, and the benefits of CBD for other purposes remain unclear.

FDA Recommendations

The FDA strongly advises against using CBD during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient research on its safety in these populations. The official stance on the FDA’s website is a clear warning: “FDA strongly advises against the use of cannabidiol (CBD), tetrahydrocannabionol (THC), and marijuana in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.” Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals are urged not to jeopardize their well-being or that of their infants by using cannabis products.

Always consult with your doctor or other health care professional if you have any questions or concerns about certain products during your pregnancy.

Benefits of a Prenatal Massage

Posted by Shiva Landry on December 15, 2023

For centuries, therapeutic massage has been a go-to practice to enhance well-being, alleviate stress, and alleviate muscle tension. In this blog, we wanted to discuss the benefits of prenatal massages.

Prenatal massage therapy serves as a crucial support during pregnancy. One technique is the Swedish Massage. Swedish Massage focuses on easing muscle tension, enhancing lymphatic and blood circulation, and addressing common discomforts associated with hormonal changes affecting the skeletal and circulatory systems.

It’s important to differentiate between therapeutic prenatal massage and perineal massage, the latter aimed at reducing the risk of episiotomy or trauma during childbirth by manually stretching tissues around the birth canal.

Studies conducted in the last decade reveal significant alterations in relaxation and stress-related hormone levels when massage therapy becomes part of women’s prenatal care. This, in turn, regulates mood and improves cardiovascular health, with a notable reduction in stress hormones and an increase in mood-enhancing dopamine and serotonin.

The positive impact extends to childbirth, with fewer complications reported, including a decrease in instances of low birth weight. Incorporating therapeutic massage into regular prenatal care appears to offer tangible benefits for both maternal and newborn health.

Main Benefits:

Reduction of Swelling: Massage stimulates soft tissues, reducing fluid accumulation in swollen joints caused by increased pressure and reduced circulation during pregnancy.
Improvement of Nerve Pain: Sciatic nerve pain, common in late pregnancy, finds relief through massage, addressing inflammation and tension in surrounding muscles.

Prenatal massage reduces back and joint pain, improves circulation, alleviates muscle tension and headaches, reduces stress, enhances oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles, and improves sleep.

Discussing your massage with a certified prenatal massage therapist is crucial for informed decision-making. Making sure your massage therapist is certified ensures proper training and knowledge.

Certain conditions, such as high-risk pregnancy, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, or a recent birth, warrant consultation with a healthcare provider before seeking prenatal massage.

While prenatal massage is generally safe throughout the entire pregnancy, some doctors may advise against it during the first trimester due to the increased risk of miscarriage. Always consult with your obstetrician before getting a prenatal massage or if you have any questions or concerns about other spa treatments.

Interested in Surrogacy or Becoming a Surrogate?

Surrogacy journeys foster a special bond unlike any that you will ever have. If you any questions or are interested in surrogacy or becoming a surrogate, give Shared Conception a call today.

5 Tips for Surrogates During the Holiday Party Season

Posted by Shiva Landry on December 8, 2023

As Christmas and New Year’s Eve draw near, invitations to various parties from friends, family, and work are likely pouring in. For surrogate mothers carrying a baby for enthusiastic Intended Parents, navigating the holiday season can be a bit challenging. Here are a few ways to still enjoy the festivities while keeping you and the baby healthy.

Opt for Mocktails

Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. While your beverage choices might be more restricted, there are plenty of delightful and non-alcoholic mocktails that serve as excellent alternatives. Try options like non-alcoholic ciders, a refreshing cranberry spritzer, or virgin versions of your favorite drinks.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Holiday buffets can be tempting, but striving for balance is essential. While enjoying savory treats, incorporate healthy options into your plate. Politely decline food offers if necessary; you’re not obligated to accept seconds just because they’re offered.

Avoid Skipping Meals

While balanced eating is crucial, it’s equally important not to skip any meals. The baby requires regular feedings throughout the day and night.

Prioritize Adequate Rest

Don’t overexert yourself. Although it might be tempting to say yes to every holiday event, allowing your body sufficient time to rest is crucial. Most doctors recommend that pregnant women aim for 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. Insufficient rest can pose various health risks, including an elevated risk of miscarriage.

Embrace the Festivities

Remember, you’re offering the most extraordinary gift to the Intended Parents. Once the baby is delivered, you’ll have the opportunity to raise a toast with genuine champagne. For now, revel in the holiday festivities like a pregnant rock star and enjoy the unique journey of being a surrogate.

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.

What to Give Your Surrogate for Christmas

Posted by Shiva Landry on December 1, 2023

Intended parents frequently ask about gifts for their surrogates. While gifts are neither obligatory nor anticipated, many IPs wish to show their gratitude with small tokens of appreciation throughout the surrogacy journey, especially at Christmas time.

When Shared Conception pairs a surrogate with prospective parents, we provide the surrogate’s ‘favorites’ list. This document serves as a tool to familiarize you with your surrogate, aiding in the thoughtful selection of gifts.

Here are some gift ideas for your surrogate:

Prenatal massages are a great way to manage the aches and pains of pregnancy.
A pregnancy survival box (this can include things like lotions, comfy slippers, a warm blanket, candles, etc.)
A meal prep or delivery gift card make a great gift. Hello Fresh, DoorDash, UberEats are all examples of meal options. Taking this responsibility off of your surrogate can be a huge help. If your surrogate isn’t on bed rest, you can always send a gift card to her favorite restaurant so she can take her family out for the night.
Hand-made gifts come in so many different varieties and are so meaningful and personalized.

If your surrogate has her own children, consider getting them something small as well. This is a great way to help her children feel involved and appreciated as well. Gifts aren’t the point of the holiday season, so don’t worry too much about it. Many times, the best gift you can give is to just spend some time with your surrogate and catch up with her on how she is feeling.

Interested in Surrogacy or Becoming a Surrogate?

Surrogacy journeys foster a special bond unlike any that you will ever have. If you any questions or are interested in surrogacy or becoming a surrogate, give Shared Conception a call today.

Tips for Communicating with Your Surrogate

Posted by Shiva Landry on November 24, 2023

As first-time intended parents just starting your surrogacy journey, you may be curious about the best ways to foster communication between you and your surrogate. There are many forms of communication that you can choose from. It’s essential to have an open discussion with your surrogate to discuss items such as the preferred type of communication, the frequency of communication, and any other matters related to keeping one another informed.

Specify Your Desired Level of Communication

Prior to selecting a surrogate, it’s essential to determine how frequently you wish to communicate with them. This information will be communicated to the surrogate so they can agree or set their own boundaries. Some individuals may only seek communication around the time of appointments, though they will still receive updates from their caseworkers. Hearing information directly from the surrogate can provide a sense of reassurance for them.

On the other hand, some people desire more regular updates directly from the surrogate. The amount of communication ultimately depends on the comfort levels and preferences of everyone involved.

Maintain a Positive Communication Approach

Consider the tone and manner of communication during your conversations. Strive to keep your exchanges positive and constructive. Avoid engaging in angry or sad conversations, especially when dealing with sensitive issues – let the agency and caseworkers handle more intense discussions. While it’s crucial to share necessary information, particularly from the agency, try to convey it in a manner that encourages a positive and supportive environment.

Be Clear and Concise in Your Communication

During this challenging period, clarity is of utmost importance in your communications. It might be beneficial to outline a list of topics you wish to cover before composing an email or engaging in a phone conversation. This approach can help streamline discussions, minimizing the need for multiple calls.

Be Mindful of the Surrogate’s personal Responsibilities

Surrogates have their own spouses, children, work, family obligations, etc., so be respectful of their time and give them grace if you don’t hear back from a call, email, or text right away. Just know that you and the baby are always on their mind and important to them.

If you are interested in surrogacy or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Shared Conception. You can visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

Intimacy During Surrogacy

Posted by Shiva Landry on November 17, 2023

Surrogacy is a wonderful journey, allowing individuals or couples to experience the joy of parenthood when faced with challenges in conceiving. However, being a surrogate comes with certain responsibilities and guidelines, including considerations about one’s intimate life.

One important aspect of being a surrogate is the need for abstinence from sexual activity for a specific period before and after the embryo transfer. Typically, surrogates are advised to abstain from sex for at least two weeks before and after the transfer. This precaution is essential to optimize the chances of a successful transfer and ensure the well-being of both the surrogate and the developing embryo.

After a successful embryo transfer, surrogates can resume their normal sex life. It’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided in the surrogacy contract if there are any. The contract may outline specific guidelines regarding the duration of abstinence and other relevant aspects of sexual activity.

The surrogacy contract is a legal and binding agreement that outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both the surrogate and the intended parents. It’s essential for surrogates to carefully review and adhere to the terms related to their sexual life. Some contracts may stipulate longer periods of abstinence, depending on the preferences of the intended parents and the guidance of medical professionals.

Surrogacy agencies, such as Shared Conception, play a crucial role in facilitating the surrogacy process. It’s highly advisable for surrogates to engage in open communication with their surrogacy agency and clarify any questions regarding sexual activity during the surrogacy journey.

The Shared Conception team is here to answer any of your questions you may have regarding surrogacy, the process and what the requirements are. If you have any questions or are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, please contact us here at Shared Conception or call us at 713-622-1144.

Benefits of Choosing Surrogacy

Posted by Shiva Landry on November 10, 2023

Have you been contemplating using surrogacy as a means to expand your family? If so, you’re not alone. Surrogacy is gaining traction worldwide, and more individuals are viewing it as the best option when they are unable to conceive naturally.

Let’s look at some of the advantages of choosing surrogacy:

Planning for When You are Ready: Utilizing surrogacy to start a family allows for planning the pregnancy to a certain extent. Whether you’re coordinating with life events or aiming for a specific time of the year to have a child, you can establish a general timeline and strive to align with it. While surprises can still occur, you have some ability to guide the process.
Parenting From Birth: If having children naturally isn’t possible, adoption is a wonderful way to become a parent, but it has its constraints. In adoption, the child is typically older, and you miss the experience of bonding with a child from their infancy. With surrogacy, you ensure the opportunity to be there from day one, experiencing the initial smiles, laughter, and milestones. However, both adoption and surrogacy are great options for starting your family.
The Pregnancy Journey: Unlike adoption or other paths to parenthood, surrogacy provides the pregnancy experience. Although you’re not carrying the pregnancy, you still get to witness sonograms, hear the heartbeat, and anticipate the journey to becoming a parent.
Biological Parenthood: If having a biological child is important to you, the only way, apart from giving birth, is through surrogacy. Sustaining a bloodline and passing on genetic traits holds significant value for many individuals, including same-sex couples. Surrogacy allows you to use your own sperm and eggs if they are viable, or you can opt for donors for one or both components.
Empowerment and Control: Uncertainty and high costs often lead individuals to discontinue infertility treatments. The unpredictability can take a toll on their lives, causing them to abandon the pursuit. Surrogacy offers a sense of control. You make crucial decisions, such as selecting a donor egg source, determining when the pregnancy occurs, choosing the surrogate, and more. Your journey toward parenthood begins with taking charge and collaborating with a surrogacy agency.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother or finding a surrogate, we are here to help you. You can contact us at any time, and our team at Shared Conception will answer any questions you have. Visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.

What Happens if Your Surrogate is Put on Bed Rest

Posted by Shiva Landry on November 3, 2023

Bed rest is a common recommendation during pregnancy, especially for women experiencing complications. It involves restricting physical activity and spending a significant amount of time lying down or reclining. This is usually advised to mitigate the risks associated with certain pregnancy complications, such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, or other medical conditions.

When bed rest becomes a necessity during a surrogacy arrangement, it can add layers of complexity to an already intricate process. The surrogate’s health and the health of the unborn child are of paramount concern. Balancing bed rest requirements with the surrogacy journey poses unique challenges for all parties involved.

Health and Well-being of the Surrogate

The surrogate’s well-being is the primary concern. If bed rest is advised due to a medical condition or complication, it must be followed to ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful outcome for both the surrogate and the baby. It is crucial for the intended parents and the surrogacy agency to support and prioritize the surrogate’s health and adhere to medical recommendations.

Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy

Medical professionals closely monitor the progress of the pregnancy and recommend bed rest if necessary to ensure a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications. The surrogate’s compliance with bed rest is vital to support the optimal development of the baby and a successful surrogacy experience.

Emotional Support for the Surrogate

Bed rest can be emotionally challenging for the surrogate. The inability to maintain regular activities and the potential disruption to her daily life can create emotional stress and anxiety. Providing emotional support and reassurance from the intended parents and the surrogacy agency is crucial during this time.

Communication and Planning

Open and honest communication between all parties involved is key to navigating the complexities of bed rest during surrogacy. Transparent discussions about medical recommendations, expectations, and plans for support during bed rest can help address concerns and foster a cooperative approach.

Ways to Help Your Surrogate

If your surrogate is put on bed rest there are a few things that will make navigating the experience a little easier for everyone involved. Work closely with the healthcare team to understand the reasons for bed rest and follow their recommendations diligently. Regular check-ups and assessments will ensure the health of the surrogate and the baby.

Intended parents should offer understanding, empathy and emotional support to the surrogate during this challenging period. Express gratitude for her dedication and commitment to the surrogacy journey. Discuss the possibility of adjusting the surrogacy timeline or making necessary accommodations to support the surrogate while still ensuring the health and safety of the pregnancy.

Finally, having a reputable surrogacy agency, such as Shared Conception, can help mediate communication, provide guidance, and offer emotional support to both the surrogate and intended parents during bed rest or any other challenges that may arise.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate mother, or finding a surrogate mother, please contact us here at Shared Conception or you can call us at 713-622-1144.

The Importance of BMI in Surrogacy

Posted by Shiva Landry on October 27, 2023

Surrogacy is a great option that brings hope and joy to many aspiring parents who are unable to conceive. In the process of surrogacy, a surrogate carries and delivers a baby on behalf of another individual or couple (the intended parents). While surrogacy can be a fulfilling path to parenthood, it necessitates careful consideration of various factors to ensure a healthy pregnancy and a successful outcome. One critical factor in surrogacy is Body Mass Index (BMI), and in this blog, we will discuss why.

Understanding BMI

BMI is a numerical value derived from an individual’s height and weight. It is a widely accepted tool used to categorize individuals into underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese based on their body composition.

BMI is a useful screening tool for assessing body fat and evaluating potential health risks associated with weight.

BMI and Surrogacy

When it comes to surrogacy, both the surrogate and intended parents’ BMI can play a crucial role. Here’s why BMI is important:

Health and Pregnancy Outcomes:

BMI is an indicator of overall health. Maintaining a healthy BMI is associated with a reduced risk of various health issues, including gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and complications during pregnancy. In surrogacy, a healthy BMI in both the surrogate and intended parents can lead to a safer pregnancy and better outcomes for both the surrogate and the baby.

Fertility and Conception:

BMI can affect fertility, for both the surrogate and the intended mother. Women with a higher BMI might experience difficulties in conceiving, which can hinder the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures. On the other hand, being underweight can also affect fertility. Achieving a healthy BMI can optimize the chances of successful conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Medical Screening:

Surrogates undergo comprehensive medical and psychological screenings before the surrogacy process. BMI is an essential parameter in these screenings to ensure the surrogate is in good health and has a suitable body composition for a healthy pregnancy.

Risk Management:

Maintaining an appropriate BMI is a proactive measure to manage risks during pregnancy. Surrogates with a BMI within the recommended range are likely to have fewer complications during pregnancy and childbirth, providing a safer environment for both the surrogate and the baby.

The health and well-being of both the surrogate and the intended parents are paramount in the surrogacy journey, making BMI an important factor to consider when embarking on this remarkable path to parenthood. Shared Conception is extraordinarily selective in selecting surrogates. As a candidate, you MUST pass an extensive and well-thought-out screening, including a medical, psychological, and financial profile. To learn more about the requirements to be a surrogate with Shared Conception, please read our page Become a Surrogate Mother. If you have any questions at all, please contact us at 713-622-1144.

Category: General Topics