Surrogacy is a process where a woman, known as the surrogate, carries out a pregnancy on behalf of another individual or couple. Surrogacy is typically pursued when a person or couple is unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term on their own due to various reasons, such as infertility, medical conditions, or same-sex partnerships.

As a leading provider of surrogacy programs, we discuss what one can expect as a surrogate mother:

What to expect as a surrogate mother?

As a surrogate mother, you can expect to undergo several stages and processes. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect during the surrogacy journey:

Initial screening

You will undergo a thorough screening process, including medical evaluations, psychological assessments, and background checks. The purpose is to ensure that you’re physically and mentally healthy, capable of carrying a pregnancy, and prepared for the emotional aspects of surrogacy.

Matching process

Once you’re cleared as a surrogate, you’ll be matched with your intended parents. This may involve reviewing profiles and preferences to find a suitable match. Compatibility in terms of values, expectations, and goals is crucial for a successful surrogacy journey.

Legal agreements

You, the intended parents, and possibly an attorney will work together to draft and sign a legally binding surrogacy agreement. This document outlines all parties’ rights, responsibilities, and expectations, including financial arrangements, medical decisions, and parental rights.

Medical procedures

If you’re pursuing gestational surrogacy, you’ll undergo medical procedures to prepare your body for embryo transfer. This typically involves hormonal medications to synchronize your menstrual cycle with the intended mother or egg donor. You may also need fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) to create embryos for transfer.

Pregnancy

After a successful embryo transfer, you’ll enter the pregnancy phase. You’ll receive regular medical check-ups and prenatal care to ensure the health and well-being of both you and the baby. The intended parents may be involved in attending appointments and supporting you throughout the pregnancy.

Emotional Support

Surrogacy can be an emotionally intense journey. You may experience a mix of emotions, ranging from joy and fulfillment to occasional challenges and complexities. It’s important to have a support network in place, including therapists, support groups, or surrogacy agencies that can provide guidance and assistance.

Delivery and post-birth

As the due date approaches, you and the intended parents will make arrangements for the delivery. The intended parents may be present at the birth, and they’ll assume legal custody of the child once born. It’s common for surrogates and intended parents to maintain some level of contact or relationship post-birth, although the extent may vary based on mutual preferences.

It’s crucial to note that each surrogacy journey is unique, and the specific details and experiences can vary. Working closely with a reputable surrogacy agency like OC Women’s Surrogacy can provide you with the guidance and support needed throughout the process.

What are the benefits of being a surrogate mother?

Being a surrogate mother can bring various personal, emotional, and even financial benefits. Here are some potential benefits associated with being a surrogate:

Helping others

Surrogacy offers the opportunity to make a profound and positive impact on the lives of intended parents who are unable to have children on their own. By becoming a surrogate, you’re enabling individuals or couples to experience the joy of parenthood and fulfill their dreams of starting a family.

Emotional fulfillment

Many surrogate mothers find deep satisfaction in knowing that they have played a vital role in creating a family. The experience of carrying a child and witnessing the happiness and gratitude of the intended parents can be emotionally fulfilling and rewarding.

Personal growth and empowerment

The surrogacy journey often involves personal growth and self-discovery. It requires a high level of responsibility, commitment, and selflessness. Surrogates often report feeling empowered by their ability to help others and overcome the challenges that may arise during the process.

Financial compensation

Surrogacy often provides surrogate mothers with financial compensation, which can vary depending on factors such as location, agency fees, medical expenses, and the specific terms of the surrogacy agreement. The financial aspect of surrogacy can be significant for some surrogates and can help achieve personal goals, support their own families, or pursue other dreams.

Medical care and support

Surrogates receive comprehensive medical care and support throughout the surrogacy journey. Regular medical check-ups, prenatal care, and access to experienced healthcare professionals ensure that the surrogate’s health and well-being are prioritized during the pregnancy.

Support and guidance

Surrogacy agencies like OC Women’s Surrogacy provide surrogates with support, guidance, and resources throughout the process. They can assist with legal matters, medical appointments, and emotional support and address any concerns or questions that may arise. Joining surrogacy support groups or communities can also offer a sense of camaraderie and connection with other surrogates.

It’s important to note that while there are potential benefits, surrogacy is a significant commitment that requires careful consideration and a thorough understanding of the emotional, physical, and legal aspects involved. Each individual’s experience will vary, and it’s crucial to research, consult with professionals, and thoroughly evaluate your own motivations and expectations before deciding to become a surrogate.

Some FAQs about surrogacy

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that many people have about the surrogacy process:

How do I become a surrogate mother?

The specific requirements and steps to become a surrogate mother can vary depending on the country, state, or agency you’re working with. Generally, the process involves meeting certain criteria such as age, physical and mental health, previous pregnancies, and lifestyle factors. You can start by researching reputable surrogacy agencies or clinics and contacting them for more information.

What are the qualifications to be a surrogate?

The qualifications to be a surrogate can vary, but they often include being of legal age (usually between 21-35), having given birth to at least one child, having a healthy pregnancy history, being in good physical and mental health, and passing medical and psychological evaluations. Some agencies or intended parents may have additional specific requirements.

How long does the surrogacy process take?

The duration of the surrogacy process can vary depending on factors such as the time it takes to find a suitable match with the intended parents, the legal and medical procedures involved, and the specific circumstances of the surrogacy arrangement. It can take several months to over a year to complete the entire process.

How are surrogates matched with intended parents?

Surrogates are typically matched with intended parents based on various factors such as compatibility, preferences, and specific requirements. The matching process may involve reviewing profiles of intended parents and potential surrogates, and both parties may have the opportunity to meet or have discussions before agreeing to work together.

Is surrogacy legally protected?

The legal protection for surrogacy varies significantly from country to country, even within different regions or states. Some jurisdictions have specific laws that recognize and regulate surrogacy agreements, while others may have limited or no legal provisions. It’s important to consult with legal professionals familiar with surrogacy laws in your specific location to understand your rights and responsibilities.

Will I have a relationship with the child?

The level of contact or relationship between the surrogate and the child can vary depending on the preferences and agreements made between the surrogate and the intended parents. Some surrogates and intended parents maintain a relationship and keep in touch, while others may have limited or no contact after birth. This is usually discussed and agreed upon before the surrogacy journey begins.

What emotional support is available for surrogates?

Surrogacy can be an emotionally complex journey, and it’s important to have support systems in place. Reputable surrogacy agencies like OC Women’s Surrogacy often provide emotional support and counseling throughout the process. Additionally, there are support groups, online communities, and therapists who specialize in surrogacy-related issues and can offer guidance and assistance.

Will I have to use my own eggs?

In gestational surrogacy, which is the most common type, the surrogate doesn’t use her own eggs. The intended parents or an egg donor provide the eggs, which are fertilized with sperm through in vitro fertilization (IVF) to create embryos. The resulting embryos are then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.

What medical procedures are involved in surrogacy?

The medical procedures involved in surrogacy can include fertility medications to prepare the surrogate’s uterus for embryo transfer, the retrieval of eggs from the intended mother or an egg donor, in vitro fertilization (IVF) to create embryos, and the actual embryo transfer to the surrogate’s uterus. Surrogates will also undergo regular medical check-ups and prenatal care throughout the pregnancy.

What are the potential risks or complications of surrogacy?

Surrogacy, like any pregnancy, carries potential risks and complications. These can include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) from fertility medications, multiple pregnancies (such as twins or triplets), miscarriage, preterm labor, gestational diabetes, and potential emotional or psychological challenges. It’s important to discuss these risks and complications with healthcare professionals and understand the measures in place to mitigate them.

What financial arrangements are involved in surrogacy?

Surrogacy often involves financial compensation for the surrogate to cover medical expenses, pregnancy-related costs, and compensation for their time and effort. The specific financial arrangements can vary depending on the surrogacy agreement, location, and agency. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the financial aspects, including the terms of compensation, expenses covered, and any additional financial support.

Can I become a surrogate if I have already had my own children?

Yes, having had your own children is often a qualification for becoming a surrogate. The experience of a healthy pregnancy and childbirth can be an important factor in the screening process. However, the specific requirements can vary, and some agencies or intended parents may have different criteria regarding the number of previous pregnancies or births.

Can I breastfeed the baby after birth?

Breastfeeding the baby after birth is possible, but it depends on various factors and the preferences of both the surrogate and the intended parents. If desired, it’s important to discuss this aspect during the matching process and clarify expectations and arrangements regarding breastfeeding.

How does surrogacy affect my own family?

Surrogacy can have an impact on your own family dynamics, especially if you have children. It’s important to consider how your family members, particularly your spouse or partner and children, feel about your decision to become a surrogate. Open communication and involving your family in the process can help address everyone’s needs and concerns.

What happens if complications arise during pregnancy or delivery?

In the event of complications during pregnancy or delivery, the medical professionals involved in your care will take appropriate measures to address them. The specific course of action will depend on the nature and severity of the complications. It’s important to discuss potential risks and complications with your healthcare provider and ensure that there are appropriate medical support and emergency plans in place.

How do I handle the emotional attachment to the baby during pregnancy?

Developing an emotional attachment to the baby you’re carrying is a common experience for surrogates. It’s important to have open and honest conversations with the intended parents about your feelings and expectations. Establishing boundaries, maintaining communication, and seeking emotional support from professionals or support groups can help navigate the emotional aspects of the surrogacy journey.

Looking to earn money through surrogacy? Turn to OC Women’s Surrogacy

Based in California, OC Women’s Surrogacy helps intended parents fulfill their dreams of starting a family through its surrogacy services. The company appreciates the commitment of surrogates to changing lives in the most beautiful ways. Therefore, to make this journey memorable and joyful for them, OC Women’s Surrogacy offers $50,000 in addition to exciting benefits.

OC Women’s Surrogacy continues to serve gestational carriers and families by offering a fulfilling experience through education, important relationships, and guidance on their journey. The company also offers a referral bonus of $1,000 through its surrogate referral program in California, helping individuals earn extra money for every potential surrogate referred.

We allow surrogates and intended parents to meet, bond, and discuss their requirements before making an agreement. Our surrogates undergo a strict screening process to ensure they are healthy.

Give us a call now for more information on our egg donor and surrogacy program!