Category: Documenting Your Journey

Whether you are a surrogate or intended parent, your surrogacy story is an amazing one that deserves to be shared. Here’s how.

Best IVF Apps for Surrogacy in 2025

From tracking cycles and managing medication to reducing stress with meditation tools, these apps offer practical solutions for staying organized and informed. Discover the best options to make your IVF and surrogacy experience more manageable.

For those on a surrogacy journey, IVF apps can help you stay organized, reduce stress and save time throughout the process.

Whether you’re tracking medication or managing emotions, these apps for IVF can help you stay on top of the many different aspects of your journey.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, helpful resources and a community of intended parents just like you.

In this article, we’ll explore the best IVF apps available in 2025, including their key features, pricing, and how they can enhance your IVF experience.

What Are the Best Apps for IVF and Surrogacy in 2025?

IVF apps can save time, reduce stress and help you stay organized.

Their utility can improve your experience by:

  • Tracking your cycle and medication schedules
  • Reducing emotional stress with journaling and meditation features
  • Scheduling medication or appointment reminders

While IVF apps can help you stay organized and on top of your surrogacy process, an agency like ours offers expert guidance and tailored solutions to ensure every detail is managed with care and precision. Contact us today to get the support you need.

Whether it’s an IVF meditation app or an IVF calendar app there’s an app for your needs.

#1. Alife Health

Alfie IVF is an IVF tracker app that makes it easy to stay organized and informed throughout your IVF and surrogacy journey. Alife uses AI-powered software to optimize IVF treatment.

  • Key features: Create a timeline,  calendar, reminders, appointment recaps, record medications, track symptoms
  • Platform: IOS
  • Cost: Free
  • Rating: 4.9/5
  • Data security: Encrypted using TLS/SSL, data is stored with Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Learn more.

#2. Medisafe

Primarily a medication management service, Medisafe can be used as an IVF tracker app for your medications. It integrates with your calendar and can sync with other health apps.

  • Key Features: Reminders, syncs with your HealthKit app, report sharing with your doctor
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Rating: 4.5/5
  • Data security: Data is stored on private servers

Learn more.

#4. Embie

Embie is an IVF calendar app and IVF tracker app that provides tools to help you understand and manage your IVF treatment plan.

  • Key features: Calendar for IVF medications and appointments, reminders, track your cycles’ results, community features
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: Free with premium member/subscriber paid plans
  • Rating: 3.8/5
  • Data Security: Encrypted through https, Chino.io Security Platform

Learn more.

#3. Mindful IVF

Mindful IVF is an IVF meditation app designed for each phase of your IVF cycle. Different programs address different phases of the cycle and in 2024 they began offering classes to prepare you for IVF.

  • Type: IVF meditation app
  • Key features: Guided meditations for each stage, miscarriage support, two-week wait support
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: 7 day free trial, monthly and lifetime subscription plans
  • Rating: 4.3/5

Learn more.

#5. Naula IVF

Naula IVF is an IVF calendar app and IVF journal app that was designed so that you can keep track of your IVF medications and appointments all in one place.

  • Key features: Medication and appointment reminders, add notes to appointments or medications, share treatment with your partner
  • Platform: iOS
  • Cost: Free
  • Rating: 2.5/5
  • Data security: SSL encryption for data and NSA-level ASE encryption of personal info

Learn more.

How to Choose the Right IVF App for Your Journey

With so many IVF apps available, it’s important to find the one that best suits your needs.

Here’s how to choose:

  1. Identify your needs: Determine what you need help with most—whether it’s tracking medications, managing appointments or emotional support. For tracking, apps like Naula IVF or Embie are great. For emotional well-being, consider Mindful IVF.
  2. Privacy and security: Look for apps with strong encryption, anonymous tracking and data deletion features to protect your sensitive health information.
  3. Ease of use: Choose an app that’s intuitive and easy to navigate. Read reviews or test the app to ensure it fits your needs without being complex.
  4. Cost vs. features: Free apps may offer basic features, while premium apps can provide advanced tools. Consider what’s worth paying for, like personalized features in apps like Mindful IVF.
  5. Look for community support: Some apps, like Embie, offer community features where you can connect with others on the same journey for advice and emotional support.

Privacy and Security of Apps for IVF: What You Need to Know

When using apps for IVF, privacy and security are critical concerns.

These apps often store sensitive health information, including medication schedules, cycle tracking data and personal medical histories.

Ensuring that your data is protected is essential. Here’s what you should look for in terms of privacy features:

  • Data encryption: Many IVF apps use end-to-end encryption to protect your personal information. This means that only you (or those you choose to share with) can access your data, preventing unauthorized access.
  • Anonymous mode: Some apps offer an anonymous mode, allowing you to track your journey without revealing your identity. This feature is particularly useful if you’re concerned about your privacy or don’t want to disclose personal information unnecessarily.
  • Data Deletion: Be sure to check if the app allows you to delete your data once your IVF cycle or surrogacy journey is complete. For example, apps like Naula IVF ensure that your data is permanently removed once your account is terminated.
  • Third-party access: Understand who has access to your data. Does the app share your information with third parties, or is it used solely for your benefit? Always review the app’s privacy policy to ensure your data is handled appropriately.

By choosing IVF apps that prioritize privacy and security, you can feel confident that your sensitive health information is protected throughout your journey to parenthood.

Getting Started

IVF apps can simplify your surrogacy journey by keeping track of appointments, medication and timelines. But with an agency like ours, you’ll also get personalized support every step of the way—making your journey even smoother.

Reach out today to start your surrogacy journey.

How to Prepare to Be a Surrogate Mother in 2025

With these tips and guidance, you’ll be well on your way to preparing for a successful surrogacy journey in 2025. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Not only do you help a family grow, but you also earn meaningful compensation and experience the unique bond that comes with giving the gift of life.

We’ve got everything you need to know, from the initial steps to navigating the surrogacy process, so you can confidently start your surrogacy journey today.

Ready to make a difference? Start your surrogacy application now to see if you’re a good fit!

How to Prepare to Be a Surrogate Mother

Step 1: Meet the Surrogacy Requirements

The first step to preparing to become a surrogate is ensuring you meet the necessary requirements. These may vary slightly depending on the agency, but typically include:

  • Age range 21-40 years old
  • A healthy BMI and good physical health are essential.
  • You need to have had at least one healthy pregnancy
  • Currently raising a child
  • No major complications from previous pregnancies

Additionally, avoid getting tattoos at least 12 months prior to the surrogacy process and refrain from antidepressants for a year before starting.

Step 2: Commit to the Time Frame

Surrogacy is a long-term commitment, often taking 12-18 months from start to finish.

This includes the time spent on medical screenings, fertility treatments, the pregnancy itself and recovery. It’s important to evaluate your personal and professional life to ensure you can make this commitment.

Make arrangements with your job, family and social obligations and ensure you’ll be able to stay in the same geographical area during this period.

Planning for the long haul? Start making arrangements for the coming months by speaking with a surrogacy specialist today.

Step 3: Make the Appropriate Work Arrangements

As you prepare for this incredible journey, you’ll need to consider your work situation.

Some employers offer maternity leave, but if yours doesn’t or if you expect to lose wages during your pregnancy, you can negotiate this into your surrogate compensation package.

Make sure to check with your human resources department or boss to understand their maternity leave policy and inform them of your plans.

We can help make sure your surrogate compensation package covers these potential losses.

Step 4: Talk to Your Family

Becoming a surrogate is a team effort, and your family’s support is crucial for a smooth and positive experience.

Sit down with your spouse, children and other family members to discuss the journey. Open communication helps everyone understand the process and the emotions that may come up.

This step is an important part of creating a positive experience for everyone involved.

Step 5: Cultivate Healthy Habits

Taking care of your body is one of the best ways to ensure you meet the requirements to become a surrogate and to achieve and sustain a healthy pregnancy.

Preparing physically and mentally will not only help you feel your best but also ensure that you’re giving your intended parents the best chance for success.

Here are some tips to get you ready:

  • Start taking prenatal vitamins
  • Cut back on alcohol and caffeine
  • Get moving with light exercise, such as walking or yoga
  • Prioritize a balanced, nutritious diet
  • Speak with a mental health counselor to ensure emotional readiness
  • Connect with a surrogacy specialist to guide you through the process

These healthy habits will help you stay strong, both physically and mentally, throughout the surrogacy process.

Step 6: Legal and Financial Considerations

You’ll earn surrogate compensation starting anywhere in the range of $50,000-$110,000 depending on your experience and the cost of living in your area.

You are compensated for your time and energy that you’re dedicating toward helping someone else have a family. Your compensation will also include reimbursements for medical expenses and any other costs associated with the surrogacy process.

We will also guide you through the legal process, which includes contracts outlining the responsibilities and rights of all parties.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what to expect and feel confident in the arrangements you’re making.

Questions about surrogate compensation? Contact us today to learn how much you can earn as a surrogate.

Why Surrogacy is Worth It

Becoming a surrogate allows you to bring joy to families who might otherwise never have the chance to experience parenthood while earning compensation to support your family’s future.

It’s a beautiful journey that requires preparation, but the experience is worth every step.

Are you ready to begin your surrogacy journey in 2025? Contact us now to get started, and let’s make your surrogacy dream a reality.

Surrogacy for Gay Parents: Celebrating Pride and Parenthood

Through the stories of surrogacy for gay parents that we’ve worked with, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy and the essence of family.

Family is more than just a biological connection. In today’s diverse and evolving society, stories of gay surrogacy demonstrate the power of love and determination in creating families. These heartfelt journeys of gay intended parents we’ve helped have the family of their dreams highlight the path through the surrogacy process to the joy of parenthood.

Each narrative is a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment and resilience, demonstrating how surrogacy turns dreams of parenthood into reality. Through these stories, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy, fostering acceptance, equality and the true essence of family.

Connect with LGBTQ intended parents on our Instagram.

To learn more about the process of surrogacy for gay parents, fill out our simple form.

Gay Surrogacy Stories from American Surrogacy

Michael and Viet’s Story

For Michael and Viet, becoming parents was the next step in their journey together as a couple. As they considered their family-building options, surrogacy stood out as a way to share a biological connection to their child.

“Surrogacy just gave us an opportunity to complete our family and it completely changed our lives,” says Viet. “We looked at adoption and at the time there was a two year waiting process and the fees were just about the same so we though why don’t we just go through surrogacy and have someone that is part of me in our family which was something we also really wanted.”

After meeting their surrogate, Alissandra, Michael knew she was the person who they wanted to help grow their family.

“The first meeting with our surrogacy Alissandra I definitely felt like it was an instant connection and it was an amazing match because the reasons why she wanted to this were very heartfelt,” says Michael.

It was as if their family grew by two through surrogacy. “After we started the whole process we just got really close and we were a family I felt,” Viet says.

The birth of Michael and Viet’s son through surrogacy fulfilled them in ways they never could have imagined. Viet recalls the first time he held his son.

“The birth of our son was amazing. Alissandra had just given birth and the nurses handed him to me and I just couldn’t believe after all the years and everything we went through that he was finally here.  I was holding my little boy in my arms and he was perfect.”

“My son has filled a part of my existence and should and heart with a love that I just never knew existed,” Michael adds.

Watch more of their story here.

Nicholas’s Story

Surrogacy for gay parents isn’t limited to couples. Nicholas, a single gay man, wanted to have a family. Having a genetic connection to his child was important to him, but he worried that surrogacy wouldn’t be an option on his own.

“You first say, ‘Forget it; it’s too complicated, it’s too risky,” Nicholas says. “And then you start to talking to some people and understanding that it is possible to do so if you really want to, so then you have to sleep on it — and then one day realize this is not just an option, but you can do it.”

After finding American Surrogacy, Nicholas’s surrogacy specialist presented him with Nichole’s surrogate profile. Within moments of getting to know her, he knew she was the perfect fit. “We talked to each other, and it seemed really natural,” he remembers. “But what made me sure that Nichole was perfect was because she came across really genuine, and she wasn’t doing it for the money but truly to help.”

The day Julian, Nicholas’s son was born, was the day his life changed forever.

“I had been waiting for so long that… when I saw Julian, I was just completely overwhelmed,” Nicholas remembers. “It was such a wonderful experience to see Julian coming into our world.”

Read more of his story here.

How American Surrogacy Facilitates Surrogacy for Gay Parents

 For all of our intended parents, we work tirelessly to help them find the perfect surrogate match as soon as possible.

“Within a few weeks of making first contact, American Surrogacy told us we have a very, very strong match for you,” Michael remembers. “It was a really wonderful match. I wish all intended parents to have such a wonderful match like that.”

We help you find the right surrogate for you by showing you profiles of surrogates who possess the qualities you want in the person who will carry your child. We put the best interests of you and your future child at the forefront.

 “You need someone that you’re going to trust to choose a surrogate for you, and American Surrogacy was the only agency I felt comfortable with and was genuine enough for me to choose over the other agencies,” Nicholas remembers. “I spoke to many surrogacy agencies — small and big — and none of them made me feel the way American Surrogacy made me feel.”

We’re here for you every step of the way throughout your surrogacy journey.

“The staff at American Surrogacy made our experience really good. We spoke to [our surrogacy specialist] and she was just comfortable to talk to,” says Viet. “She reassured us when we needed it. Every time we called her, she always answered the phone. They’re very supportive and invested in our process.”

“The whole thing is to truly find people like [my surrogacy specialist], who have experience, patience and care for what you go through,” says Nicholas. “This is such a wonderful journey because you realize you’re not alone, and it gets easier than you think.”

Whether you’re an LGBT couple or individual, parenthood is just in reach through our agency. If you’re ready to begin your journey or have questions about surrogacy for gay parents, contact us today.

Celebrating Mother’s Day On Your Surrogacy Journey

As an intended mother, celebrating Mother’s Day is a way to honor the love and determination you’ve dedicated to growing your family. But if you’re struggling with infertility or in the middle of your journey, there can be complicated emotions that surface. We’re here to help.

Mother’s Day is a day of celebration, but it can also be emotionally challenging for those who have not yet achieved their motherhood goals. Whether you’re experiencing infertility, in the middle of a surrogacy process or have had a child through surrogacy, your experience will be unique.

We celebrate mothers in all stages of their parenting journey. If you’re coping with infertility or in the middle of your journey and struggling with difficult emotions, you can contact us today for support.

 Here’s how to make Mother’s Day positive, no matter where you are:

If You’re Struggling with Infertility

Women who are not yet mothers can find Mother’s Day particularly difficult. The images of happy mothers and children can be emotionally devastating when you desperately want to be a mom. Remember that your emotional well-being is essential. Here are some approaches:

  • Take a Break: If celebrating Mother’s Day feels too painful, it’s okay to sit it out. Do an activity unrelated to the holiday that brings you joy. Use your coping mechanisms to address your emotions.
  • Focus on Loved Ones: Shift the attention away from yourself by celebrating with your own mother and other family members. Sometimes, being around loved ones can help you forget your sadness and enjoy the day.

If You’re in the Surrogacy Process

Being in the middle of a surrogacy journey on Mother’s Day can bring conflicting feelings. Here’s how to navigate them:

  • Include Your Surrogate: If your surrogate is pregnant, you’re likely excited about the little bundle of joy arriving soon. Consider including your surrogate in your Mother’s Day celebrations. A token of appreciation like flowers or a small gift can go a long way.
  • Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that this Mother’s Day might be bittersweet. Allow yourself to feel both excitement and longing. It’s okay to have mixed emotions.
  • Look Ahead: Imagine next year’s Mother’s Day when you’ll finally hold your baby. Let that anticipation fill your heart with hope and joy.
  • Talk to your surrogacy specialist: Your surrogacy specialist can provide a shoulder for you to lean on, help talk you through your emotions or provide helpful resources and coping skills.

If You’ve Had a Child Through Surrogacy

Congratulations! You’ve experienced the miracle of surrogacy. Now, Mother’s Day is about celebrating your journey. Here’s how:

  • Reflect on Your Journey: Take a moment to appreciate the path that led you to motherhood. Remember the courage, patience and love it took to get here.
  • Create Keepsakes: Consider framed ultrasound images, recordings of the baby’s heartbeat, pictures of you with your surrogate. These sentimental items will remind you of this special time.
  • Call or text your surrogate: Call your surrogate and catch up. Update her on how the baby is doing and express your gratitude for her role in helping you have the family of your dreams.
  • Send a card: Send your surrogate a card thanking her for helping you be able to celebrate your first Mother’s Day with your baby.
  • Have Lunch Together: Share a meal with your surrogate, if possible. Celebrate the bond you’ve formed and the beautiful life you’re bringing into the world.

Remember, every stage of the surrogacy journey is significant. Whether you’re waiting, anticipating, or celebrating, Mother’s Day is a day to honor the love and commitment that make motherhood possible. 

Wherever you are in the process, you aren’t alone. Plenty of surrogates, intended mothers, and mothers through surrogacy are ready support you and share their insight. Connect with them online through our Instagram community.

If you’re considering growing your family through surrogacy, contact us today to get started.

The Best Surrogate Apps in 2025

Learn how you can keep track of your surrogate journey with some of the best surrogate apps of 2024.

Becoming a surrogate involves a lot of moving parts, from managing your fertility medications to keeping track of your doctor’s appointments. Staying organized during your journey creates a smoother experience and can help you confidently move through the process.

If you have any questions about how you can become a surrogate, fill out our form to connect with us today.

You can also follow us on Instagram for additional insight from experienced surrogates about their life-changing journey.

With the advancement of technology, several surrogate apps can help you manage all aspects of your journey with the touch of a button.  From calendar apps to fertility apps for surrogates, this guide has you covered.

Here are some of the top-rated surrogate apps of 2024 that can make your path to surrogacy that much easier:

1. Fertility Friend

Fertility Friend is a comprehensive surrogate mother app designed to help you track their menstrual cycles, ovulation and fertility windows. By inputting daily information, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus observations, surrogates can enhance their understanding of their reproductive health.

Download Fertility Friend on the App Store

Get Fertility Friend on Google Play

2. My Calendar

My Calendar is not just a period app but an overall tool that can be customized to suit your specific needs. It’s an easy-to-use tracker that helps you take control of different aspects of your menstrual cycle like ovulation, fertility, moods and other symptoms associated with your surrogate pregnancy.

Download My Calendar on the App Store

Get My Calendar on Google Play

3. Embie

Managing fertility treatments are a crucial aspect of the surrogacy process. Embie is a surrogate app that simplifies this by sending reminders for medication doses, tracking your medication protocol by cycle and providing educational resources to ensure you stay on top of your medication schedule.

Download the Embie on the App Store

Get Embie on Google Play

4. BabyCenter Pregnancy Tracker

BabyCenter is a widely used app that offers a supportive community and a wealth of information about fertility, pregnancy and parenting. It provides an ovulation calculator and a kick counter to help you track the baby.  You can connect with other surrogates and intended parents, sharing experiences, pregnancy tips and stories to gain insights into your unique journey.

Download BabyCenter on the App Store

Get BabyCenter on Google Play

5. Calm

Managing stress and maintaining mental well-being is crucial during the surrogacy process. Calm is the #1 app for meditation and sleep helping you discover a happy, healthier you during your surrogate journey. Calm is for everyone, whether you’re brand new to meditation or are a seasoned expert. It’ll help give you a mental break during your journey to help keep stress at a minimum.

Download Calm on the App Store

Get Calm on Google Play

Remember, the surrogacy journey is a unique experience, and these surrogate apps are here to support you every step of the way. Tailor these apps based on your preferences and needs, and feel empowered as you become the hero in your own story.

If you want to learn more about how to become a surrogate, check out this article or fill out our form to connect with a specialist today.

What is a Career Surrogate?

What is a career surrogate? We break down the benefits to becoming an experience surrogate mother.

Have you heard of a career surrogate? If you’ve been looking into surrogacy, you’ve likely come across this term. In the world of surrogacy, we love to work with career surrogates. Today, we break down what it means to become a career surrogate, the benefits and how you can get started.

Ready to begin your surrogacy journey? Contact a surrogacy specialist to get started.

You can also check us out on Instagram to hear more from surrogates about their experience with the process and why they decided to become a surrogate.

What is a Career Surrogate?

A career surrogate is essentially an experienced surrogate. For many women, this experience is enjoyable and something they want to repeat as they are able to. There are a number of surrogate requirements you have to meet to continue as a surrogate, but once you’ve met them once and gone through the process, you will likely continue to meet these standards. This allows for a smoother process each time you go through the surrogate process.

Surrogacy can be a calling for many women who want to help others. This can create a positive and quality experience for everyone involved. If you find you want to continue being a surrogate and continue meeting the requirements, you can be a surrogate.

Benefits of Becoming a Career Surrogate

One of the main benefits of becoming a career surrogate is the experienced surrogate pay you receive. This can be a life-changing amount for many women and their families. Our experienced surrogate pay ranges from $60,000-$110,000. Where you live and how many times you’ve been a surrogate factor into this amount. For those career surrogates who are on their third or even fourth experience as a surrogate, this can be on the higher end. Surrogate pay often helps with:

  • Paying off debt
  • Purchasing a car
  • Purchasing a home
  • Paying for college
  • Putting money away for kids
  • Creating once-in-a-lifetime memories

Another benefit to being a career surrogate is your ability to understand the process. Because you have been through the entire surrogacy journey before, you understand the physical and emotional demands of the process. This goes a long way when working with parents who want a trusted surrogate to carry their baby. There’s nothing better to many parents than having a trusted individual to carry their child.

Get Started as a Surrogate

When you start your journey as a career surrogate you are not only helping to build families, but you are helping to sustain your own. Through continued experience as a surrogate your service can be beneficial to everyone. With the compensation, you earn as a surrogate, you can do so much for yourself and your family. We acknowledge that what you do as a career surrogate is offering incredible and insurmountable change for others.

We love working with experienced surrogates and would love to work with you. Whether you’re looking to start your first or third surrogacy journey, our surrogacy specialists are ready to assist you. We will walk you through the process from beginning to end, offering a competitive surrogate compensation package to help you feel financially secure

Contact us to get started today!

7 Tips for a Healthy Surrogate Pregnancy

Maintaining a healthy surrogate pregnancy helps ensure the well-being of yourself and the precious life you carry. As a surrogate, the responsibility of nurturing a developing baby requires special attention to physical, emotional and lifestyle factors to promote a safe and thriving pregnancy.

As a surrogate, you’ve been given one of the most important tasks out there: to grow and protect another person’s unborn baby. By prioritizing a healthy and safe lifestyle, you’ll provide a nurturing environment for the unborn child and will offer hope for individuals or couples who are unable to conceive naturally.

Maintaining a healthy and safe lifestyle is crucial as it directly impacts the well-being of the developing child. A commitment to good physical and mental health, regular prenatal care and proper nutrition ensures the optimal growth and development of the baby.

If you have any questions about how to live a healthy lifestyle as a surrogate, then contact us online or call 1-800-875-2229 to connect with a specialist.

In the meantime, here are seven surrogate pregnancy tips to help you have a safe, healthy experience:

1. Attend All Your OBGYN Appointments

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll need to check in with your OBGYN more frequently than you would for a standard pregnancy. Although you may be tired of going to the doctor so many times, these frequent visits help ensure that there are no complications in your surrogate pregnancy journey. Each appointment tracks your health along with your baby’s health as well.

To help make these appointments more bearable, you can invite the intended parents. Even if they’re unavailable, sending them a quick update, photo or video chatting with them after each appointment can help you feel excited as you navigate your surrogate pregnancy.

2. Stay on Top of Eating Healthy Meals and Hydrating

If you live a busier life, it can be easy to resort to fast food to satisfy your cravings. But, you’ll want to make sure that you (and the baby) have plenty of protein, fresh fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. Your health and the baby’s health are of utmost importance, so make sure you’re thinking about ways to eat healthier.

Dehydration is one of the leading causes of premature labor and can cause harm to both you and your baby. Drinking enough water can also provide the essential vitamins and minerals the baby needs. It’s important for both you and the baby that you drink plenty of water to avoid any complications in your surrogate pregnancy.

You’ll also want sure you know what food and drinks to avoid when pregnant and check in with your doctor if you need any tips for eating healthier and staying hydrated.

3. Take your Vitamins

As a surrogate, one of the last things you want to do is add more medications to your routine. But prenatal vitamins are an integral part in your surrogate pregnancy that ensures you and the baby are both getting what you need. Even though vitamins can help contribute to a healthy surrogate pregnancy, you need to make sure to stay on top of your diet at the same time.

Setting a daily alarm to take your vitamins and any other OB-approved medication can be helpful in case you forget.

4. Get Plenty of Rest

Your body is working overtime right now, so it’s important to get at least eight hours of sleep at night and take naps when you can. After the first trimester, try to sleep on your side as sleeping on your back can limit blood supply to the baby and may leave you feeling lightheaded or dizzy.

If you have a hard time sleeping comfortably as your surrogate pregnancy progresses, you can always try a pregnancy pillow or prenatal massages (with your doctors approval) if you’re feeling sore.

5. Try Keeping Stress Levels Low

When you make the decision to pursue a surrogate pregnancy, the link between your cortisol levels and its effect on the baby is pretty strong. Your own physical health is tied to how you’re feeling emotionally, so you’ll want to focus on your emotional health to help keep you and the baby healthy.

Pregnancy often comes with many complex emotions and mood swings that are hard to control. With the added pressures of a surrogate pregnancy, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Make sure to talk with your specialist or another qualified counselor if you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Remember to take plenty of time to recharge, breathe and relax.

6. Journal or Scrapbook your Surrogate Pregnancy

Someday, this child may want to learn about the time you spent together and his or her parents won’t be able to tell that part of the story. It can be fun to write about your surrogate pregnancy experience in letters or a journal. If you want to get more creative, you can create a scrapbook with pictures throughout your pregnancy.

This can be a fun way to tell the child about your time together, your time with their parents and how excited you are to meet them and see them grow up with their family.

7. Involve the Intended Parents as Much as you Can

If you’re unsure when the intended parents should be involved, you can always talk with your surrogate specialist for advice. Generally, most intended parents are eager and excited to be included in your surrogate pregnancy experience to whatever extent you’re comfortable with. Many intended parents would love to see sonograms and pictures of your growing belly.

Most communication involves text messages about how you’re feeling and can include invitations to your doctor appointments. If you live nearby the intended parents, having them stop by for a quick visit can be a nice way for you to get to know each other and build a lasting relationship. Having a strong relationship with the intended parents can make the process a beautiful journey for all involved. For help navigating this, or any other aspect of your surrogacy, you can reach out to other experienced surrogates through our social media.

If you need any more advice on how to have a healthy surrogate pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your American Surrogacy specialist. You can always contact us online or call us at 1-800-875-2229 (BABY).

Benefits of Gay Surrogacy

In honor of June being Pride Month, we want to take the time to highlight the amazing ways that surrogacy can give LGBT+ couples the chance to have the family of their dreams.

Becoming a parent through surrogacy can be one of the most beautiful journeys of your life. Learn the benefits of gay surrogacy here and how we can help you get started on your journey today.

In this article we will share the benefits of gay surrogacy, eligibility requirements, and answer other common questions about surrogacy for gay parents. You can also click here to get help now.

Follow us on Instagram to hear from other intended parents about how surrogacy gave them the opportunity to experience parenthood.

Am I Eligible for LGBT Surrogacy?

At American Surrogacy there are no additional requirements for same sex surrogacy or individual LGBT surrogacy approval. In other words, surrogacy for gay couples, surrogacy for trans or non-binary couples, and lesbian couple surrogacy have the same requirements as surrogacy for any other couple. Similarly LGBT surrogacy as an individual has the same requirements as surrogacy for a straight, cisgender individual.

If you are interested in gay surrogacy, you will need to meet the basic requirements for surrogacy, and then complete the approval process with a surrogacy professional. Your surrogacy professional will help you prepare for the surrogacy process. Get help now when you click here.

LGBT Surrogacy Benefits

  • Opportunity to parent from birth: When you choose LGBT surrogacy for your family, you can have an opportunity to parent from the moment your child is born, which can be a meaningful experience for many parents.
  • Creating a family on a predictable timeline: When you choose surrogacy and get started on the embryo transfer process, it can be easily predicted when you will have your new family member. And at American Surrogacy, we have the fastest matching in the industry.
  • Experiencing the pregnancy process with your surrogate: Surrogacy is a beautiful journey, and if you have been looking forward to pregnancy and seeing your little one even in ultrasounds, you can have this experience. Many surrogates are excited to share each step of the pregnancy with you and help you on your journey to growing your family.
  • Possibility of genetically-related family: LGBT Surrogacy can allow you to have a child who is genetically related to you. In some cases LGBT couples may not otherwise be able to have genetically related children, but LGBT surrogacy can allow one or both partners to have a genetic link to their child.
  • Building a meaningful bond with your surrogate: Pregnancy and birth can build a family, but surrogacy takes an extra step and allows couples

Gay Couple Surrogacy Considerations

Surrogacy for gay parents is the same as surrogacy for other parents in most ways, but there are some special considerations that gay couples

  • Legal requirements
  • Finding surrogates for gay couples or individuals
  • Finding a supportive surrogacy agency
  • Finding donor eggs, sperm, or embryos

Gay Surrogacy Costs

The cost of surrogacy can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the specific services involved, and the individual circumstances of the surrogacy arrangement. At American Surrogacy, we simplify costs by offering services at a flat fee and listing all of the services that are included before you begin your surrogacy journey. And gay surrogacy costs the same as surrogacy for any other couple or individual.

Here are some of the factors to take into account when considering the finances of surrogacy:

  • Agency Fees: Surrogacy agencies typically charge fees for their services, which can include the screening and matching process, legal support, counseling, and coordination of medical procedures.
  • Legal Fees: You will need to work with a reproductive attorney to draft and review the necessary legal agreements.
  • Medical Expenses: The medical expenses associated with surrogacy can include the surrogate’s medical screening, fertility treatments, prenatal care, and delivery.
  • Insurance: The surrogate’s insurance coverage may not fully cover the costs associated with surrogacy, especially if the insurance policy excludes surrogacy-related expenses. Intended parents may need to purchase a separate surrogacy insurance policy or cover any additional medical expenses not covered by the surrogate’s insurance.
  • Compensation and Expenses for the Surrogate: Surrogates typically receive compensation for their time, effort, and the physical demands of the pregnancy. Additionally, intended parents are usually responsible for covering the surrogate’s pregnancy-related expenses, such as travel costs, maternity clothing, and reasonable living expenses.

Get Help Now

If you are excited about starting your LGBT surrogacy journey, you can get help now when you click here.

Women Empowering Women Through Surrogacy

If you’re thinking about pursuing surrogacy, you likely know how the experience will change your life. But, the process also often empowers the women involved. Read on to hear three empowering surrogacy stories.

Surrogacy can help intended parents build their families and surrogates fulfill their financial goals. But, it’s also important to reflect on how surrogacy helps women empower other women.

A recent BBC article touched on this sometimes overlooked part of surrogacy. The moving stories in the piece inspired us to share some of American Surrogacy’s clients’ empowering stories.

When you work with American Surrogacy, the intended parents and surrogate get to choose to help each other, so you’ll have the opportunity of empowering each other’s lives in distinct ways, too.

Check us out on Instagram to hear from intended parents and surrogates about their experience with this life-changing journey/

Contact us if you’re ready to start that journey today. But, continue reading to hear a few empowering surrogacy stories. 

Why People Choose Surrogacy

People choose surrogacy for diverse reasons. Generally, though, intended parents choose surrogacy to have the opportunity to raise a child of their own. And although many surrogates decide to pursue commercial surrogacy to receive fair compensation for their time and service, they also do so to help a person become a parent.

The following stories are kind, loving reminders about how the surrogacy process helps women empower each other to fulfill their family-building goals.

Fran and Gina’s Story

Fran, a mother of two girls through surrogacy, met Gina, the surrogate who delivered her children, on a UK surrogacy Facebook group Gina runs. Gina became a surrogate to help create “a family for someone else” and started the social media group to help women grow their families through surrogacy independently.

In September 2021, Gina noted that her surrogacy Facebook group had more than 1,000 members and that in 2019, independent groups helped intended families have 40 babies.

Empowering Women Through Surrogacy

Fran chose to pursue surrogacy after finding out her cervical cancer treatment affected her ability to carry a pregnancy to term.

“My consultant told me about a woman like me who was now a mum and she was my goal,” Fran said to the BBC. “I want to put my story out there to show others that normal real-life women get through this and take their own baby home.

“I can’t think of a better way of women empowering women.”

Read all of Fran and Gina’s story here.

More Stories of Women Helping Women

The following stories come from women (and their partners) who have worked with American Surrogacy. 

“It Felt More Like a Friendship”

Although Chelsea felt that her family was complete, she loved being pregnant. “I guess that’s where surrogacy started to come into mind,” she said.

Chelsea was excited when she matched with Dave and Melissa and couldn’t wait to get to know them. “We met for the first time through video chat, and we just hit it off so well,” she said.

“You could tell how badly they wanted a baby, and they deserved that. It just felt like a family connection, and it still feels that way.”

Chelsea said her favorite part of the surrogacy experience was seeing the intended parents’ joy.

“I would say my favorite part was seeing how happy Dave and Melissa were when they got to see the ultrasounds of Alden, video chat during doctor’s appointments, hearing his heartbeat, and watching him move around. As a parent, those are really special moments, and I was happy that I got to share that with them.”

“Families are created in different ways,” Melissa added. “To create ours, we had a lot of doctors and a special lady named Chelsea.”

Read all of Chelsea’s story here and Dave and Melissa’s story here.

“Anything That I Wanted, She Wanted”

Lindsey and Shiloh started considering surrogacy after adopting Quinn, their first daughter and then experiencing two adoption disruptions.

They ended up having three embryos left over from their infertility treatments and started to tentatively research surrogacy.

“I was just looking to see what surrogates were available in Kansas, if there were any,” Lindsey said. “I got online and saw that there was a surrogate very close to where my husband and I are both from, and I emailed her, and the rest is history.”

One of the first things that Megan, Lindsey’s surrogate, said to her was: “I’m not in this for the money.”

“When she said that to me, and I knew it was about the connection and giving somebody the gift of life, we had an instant connection.”

Megan added that her surrogacy experience was more than getting pregnant for someone else; it was life-changing.

“I didn’t just have babies for somebody else; I gained an entire family through the whole process,” Megan said. “It was the most rewarding thing in the entire world. I would do it all over again.” 

Read all of Lindsey and Shiloh’s story hereand Megan’s story here.

Ready to Start Your Surrogacy Journey?

Our surrogacy specialists are here to answer any questions you may have about matching with intended parents or a surrogate. And, if you want to hear from someone who has completed a surrogacy journey and understands how empowering it is, contact Alicia today.

7 Ways to Share Your Journey as a Surrogate

Whether you’re just starting your surrogacy journey or you are in the midst of your surrogate pregnancy, your excitement to be a surrogate is likely something that you want to shout from the rooftops. More than ever before, surrogates today have great opportunities to spread awareness of and share their surrogacy story with friends, family and strangers — and you can do so, too.

So, how exactly can you share your surrogacy story? How do you know what to share and what not to share?

When in doubt, we encourage you to contact your surrogacy specialist at 1-800-875-BABY(2229) for guidance. But, to help get your thoughts going, we’ve offered a few suggestions below.

First: Check with Your Intended Parents

Before you decide to share any aspect of your surrogacy story, it’s important that you speak with your intended parents. They are just as much a part of your surrogacy story as you are, and you will need to make sure both parties are comfortable with what information will be shared with friends, family and strangers. Surrogacy is a very intimate partnership; some intended parents may be less likely than others to share their personal journey.

When you first start your surrogacy journey, ask your surrogacy specialist about mediating a conversation about social media and personal information. Your specialist can help you and your intended parents come to an agreement about the level of detail shared by each other. This is an important step in creating a respectful, solid relationship moving forward.

Before signing your surrogacy contract, make sure that this issue is properly addressed by all members of the surrogacy journey.

How to Share Your Surrogacy Story

Once you and the intended parents have decided what to and what not to share with other people, you can move forward with sharing your surrogacy story in the way that works best for you. Which steps you take can also play a part in documenting your surrogacy story for yourself for later.

As a surrogate, you are entering a role in which you have a responsibility to educate others about the surrogacy process. There is a lot of misconception out there about how surrogacy works and, by sharing your story, you can take the steps to help others understand the reality of the process.

Every surrogate is different, which means how you share your story will always be up to you. Here are a few suggestions if you’re wondering how to get the word out about your surrogacy experience:

  1. Use social media.

While it does come with downsides, social media is by far the best way to communicate ideas to a large number of people. If you choose to share and document your surrogacy journey on your social media, you can let people into the intimate details of your surrogacy story — providing a better overall view of the surrogacy process from someone they know and trust.

Social media also provides an opportunity for people to easily ask questions about surrogacy — without having to go far to find the information they want. If you and your intended parents are comfortable doing so, don’t be afraid to share photos, videos, personal stories and more before, during and after your pregnancy.

As you are posting on social media, you can further connect with other intended parents, surrogates and surrogacy professionals by using hashtags. Use phrases like #surrogacy, #fertility, #infertility, #surrogates and more to share your story with an even wider audience. And make sure to share your story with us at our Instagram page!

  1. Use a photo-sharing app.

Sometimes, surrogates and intended parents don’t want to share photos with everyone on the internet — and that’s okay. Instead, you can use secured methods of sharing photos, like Shutterfly or Dropbox or an app like 23snaps. This way, you can share the photos with only the people you want, whether that’s a wide range of family members and friends or just the intended parents. Uploading photos to these sites can also easily document your surrogacy journey and provide a way for you to look back on the experience later.

  1. Join an online support group.

Odds are, before you became a surrogate, you participated in online support groups and forums to learn more about the realities of being a surrogate. Once you become a surrogate, take that chance to give back in the same way — by answering hopeful surrogates’ questions, chiming in on bigger issues and overall sharing your story for those who will most be interested in hearing it. As long as you keep the disadvantages of online support groups in mind, you can share and tell a great deal of helpful information on these kinds of sites.

  1. Keep a blog — or volunteer a blog post.

If you like writing, creating a blog may be the best way for you to share your story. You can start whenever you want in your surrogacy journey, and your words will mean a lot to the women and parents who are considering the surrogacy process. If you don’t wish to maintain a constant blog, consider reaching out to a surrogacy website (American Surrogacy included) to share a blog post about a topic that is important to you.

  1. Share your experiences in real life.

Just as you should be open to answering questions and educating people online, you should do the same in-person. Make sure your friends and family are aware of your surrogacy from early on, and don’t be afraid to bring up your recent experiences during your surrogacy process. Don’t wait until it’s too late; you don’t want to answer the awkward question of “Where is the baby?” after you give birth.

  1. Create a surrogacy memory book.

There’s another important person with whom you may wish to share your surrogacy journey: the child you are giving birth to. To help them understand your surrogacy story down the line, you may work on a surrogacy memory book right now. This memory book can include photos from your pregnancy and delivery, letters you’ve written to the child, and more.

Before you work on this, make sure you speak with the intended parents to ensure their comfort in you doing this — and to see whether they wish to include any memories of their own!

  1. Share your story with your surrogacy professional.

Finally, recognize that your surrogacy story can be incredibly helpful to intended parents and surrogates considering this journey. At American Surrogacy, we offer the opportunity for surrogates to tell their story as part of a testimonial. These stories have been instrumental for those considering surrogacy, and it’s a fairly easy process to complete. To learn more, we encourage you to contact your surrogacy specialist today.