Spring is the season of rebirth and just look at all these beautiful, growing bumps! We took a few moments to enjoy the sunshine before settling in with our Program Psychologist, Dr. Rad, to check in with all of our Surrogate Mothers. Although every journey is special, we all could not help our excitement as Surrogate Mother, Priscilla, quickly approaches her due date. Keep an eye out for her birth story next month!
One question we are faced with time and time again is “Who are your IPs and why do they choose surrogacy?” While there is no simple answer, we can assure you that we are a need-based agency. What does that mean? It means that infertility knows no discrimination and our intended parents come from all over the world and from various demographics. 1 in 6 couples is affected by this disease. Whether their fertility has been taken from them by illness, decided for them at birth, or is the result of a tragedy, they have all been left in need of our help. We have had our hearts broken time and time again by the stories and struggles of our intended parents. Where once these couples would have to resign themselves to a life without biological children, now, thanks to scientific advancements and the generosity of our surrogate mothers, a dream that was once unimaginable can be achieved. In short, our intended parents are everyday people that for reasons beyond their control, truly need the help of our agency and our surrogates to build their family.
Surrogate Mom, Jeanette, has her transfer today! Although Jeanette has been through this before, she is in for a new treat! She will be having an acupuncture session before, and after the embryo transfer. She is looking forward to relaxation and benefits that this therapy provides. Please join us in sending positive vibes to her and her IPs!!!
At the medical clearance appointment, the doctor will inquire about the Surrogate’s general health and pregnancy history. Basic vitals and a brief assessment of her health will be taken.
We do advise that the Surrogate eat and drink a lot of fluids before the appointment as she will have blood drawn and will also be expected to leave a urine sample. Her blood will be tested for infectious diseases and harmful substances. The doctor may perform a sonohysterogram, which is a procedure where a thin catheter is introduced through the cervix to the uterus. Ultrasound images are taken while the saline solution is injected into the uterus. Although no one has reported pain associated with this procedure, she may consider taking ibuprofen as some mild cramping can occur. An ultrasound is done to look for any intrauterine abnormalities, and also to check the lining of the uterus.
Last, but certainly not least, a nurse will discuss the medical treatment involved with third party reproduction.
We have Intended Parents from all over the world. A majority of our International IP’s reside in the European Countries with the largest percentage coming from Spain. But still, more than 50% of our couples are located locally within the United States! Many actually reside here in Southern California. Regardless of geographic location, we make every effort to involve our Intended Parents in every baby step of their journey! All IP’s have the option of attending appointments with their surrogate mother, either remotely thanks technology or physically if available in Southern California. Curious to know what your journey would look like? Reach out today so that we can start building your family!
One of our Intended Parents started a blog! Read it here! Warning: Grab the tissues before reading. It is touching to read this very open and honest experience and we encourage you to follow along through their journey!
It is amazingly special when the baby is awaited by an older sibling. It means Laura was not only sharing the pregnancy with the parents but with the big sister, too! This little guy’s sister was present for as much as possible and held her baby brother within hours of his arrival into this world. Even though the newness will wear off soon, we expect these two kids will be close for their many years to come.
Happy “Bump” Day from this beautiful bump, and the two tiny beings inside!! Surrogate Mom, Melissa, is now 26 weeks along with identical twins. She is feeling great and managing this pregnancy flawlessly thus far. Yes, you read that correctly, identical twins! Although we do all we can to ensure a singleton pregnancy by transferring only one embryo, mother nature may have other plans. Melissa is already beating the odds of the complications that can be associated with a twin pregnancy, so join us in sending her positive vibes for continued smooth sailing!!!
Birth stories 1, 2, & 3! We had 3 deliveries last month and these girls shared their amazing birth stories during March’s group meeting. Each one unique, and each one beautiful! There was not a dry eye in the room. We love you girls and are so grateful to have shared this journey with you!
We are lucky to have such a great group of Surrogate Mothers in our program. Each month, Dr. Rad gathers everyone together to share details about their journey. The support is beautiful and a key reason for the success of each journey. We can’t wait to see everyone again next month!
