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The Best Surrogate Gift Ideas for the 2023 Holiday Season

Discover some of the best surrogate gifts you can get for the 2023 holiday season with this guide.

The 2023 holiday season is upon us, and it’s the perfect time to show appreciation and gratitude to those who have made a significant impact in your lives. Whether you’re searching for a surrogate or gestational carrier, finding the right gifts for your surrogate can be a heartfelt gesture that speaks volumes.

If you’re still in the process of finding a surrogate this holiday season, contact us online now to begin your surrogacy journey with American Surrogacy. Our specialists are ready to help you become parents.

Surrogate gifts are a thoughtful way to acknowledge and celebrate your surrogate for helping fulfill your dreams of becoming parents. They’re the heroes who are committing over a year of their time and energy to help you reach your dreams of parenthood. Although surrogate gifts are never expected, it can be a great way to show surrogates how much you appreciate them.

Below are seven surrogate gifts to express your gratitude and make this holiday season unforgettable:

1. Personalized Jewelry

Consider a piece of jewelry that holds sentimental value as you look for surrogate gifts. Engraved bracelets, necklaces, or rings with meaningful dates, initials or heartfelt messages can be a cherished reminder of the special bond shared. Some ideas can be a piece of jewelry with her birthstone, a meaningful charm bracelet or something with the baby’s name and birth date on it.

2. Self-Care Gift Baskets

Show appreciation by pampering your surrogate with a self-care gift basket. The surrogate gift basket can be filled with soothing bath bombs, scented candles, organic skincare products and a plush robe for the ultimate relaxation experience.

You can also make a care package that the surrogate can utilize at any point during pregnancy or even right after delivery. Some surrogate gifts you can get her to include in the package can be comfy slippers, books or magazines, hand or body lotion and more. Anything that helps the surrogate relax can be included in the self-care package.

3. Customized Keepsakes

Capture precious moments by gifting personalized photo albums, custom-made photo frames or a collage capturing milestones throughout the journey. These mementos serve as a beautiful reminder of the shared experience. A scrapbook that details her surrogate journey can also be included as a great customized gift for a surrogate mother.

4. Subscription Services

Consider gifting a subscription box tailored to their interests, such as gourmet food, book clubs, wellness products or even a streaming service subscription. It’s a gift for surrogates that keeps on giving throughout the year and can also help them recover post-delivery.

5. Handwritten Letters or Journals

Surrogate gifts don’t have to be something expensive. You can show your appreciation through something simple as heartfelt, handwritten letters or journals. Share your thoughts, appreciation and the impact their support has had on your life. Personalized surrogate gifts often hold sentimental value and remind the surrogate how much you support them.

6. Home Décor and Gift Cards

Help create a cozy and inviting space by gifting home décor surrogate gifts or gift cards to their favorite home goods store. Thoughtful items like decorative throw pillows, cozy blankets or elegant vases can enhance their living space as they prepare for delivery. Surrogates will go through a nesting phase as they prepare for the arrival of the baby and new home décor can help them make their space more comfortable.

7. Thoughtful Experiences

Surrogate gifts can be an experience, such as tickets to a show, a cooking class, a weekend getaway or a spa day. Consider their interests and choose an experience gift for your surrogate that allows them to relax or indulge in something they love. This gift doesn’t have to be extravagant and can be a great way for the surrogate to unwind and have a safe, healthy pregnancy.

Support Your Surrogate This Holiday Season

Remember, the best surrogate gifts are not necessarily the most expensive but those that come from the heart and demonstrate your gratitude for their support.

Before selecting a gift, take the time to understand the surrogate’s preferences and interests. What matters most is the thought and effort put into choosing surrogate gifts that acknowledge their time, energy and sacrifices. This holiday season, let your surrogate know how much they mean to you with a thoughtful, heartfelt gift that reflects your appreciation for their selfless act of kindness.

If you have any questions about how to make your surrogate’s experience better or about the surrogacy process in general, contact us online now to connect with a surrogacy specialist.

What to Know About Insurance for Your Surrogate Pregnancy

As a surrogate, you won’t be expected to pay your medical expenses. Here’s how insurance plays in to your surrogacy journey.

Figuring out how to get your surrogate pregnancy covered by insurance isn’t easy. Although insurance for surrogate pregnancy is tricky, it’s important to know that most of your medical expenses will be covered by our surrogate compensation package.

As the dynamics of insurance policies can be complex, we’re here to do our best to help you understand how insurance for surrogate pregnancy works so that you can confidently navigate your journey.

Click here to learn more about how much surrogacy compensation you’re eligible for.

Does Health Insurance Cover Surrogate Pregnancy?

The insurance for surrogate pregnancy coverage depends on the type of insurance you have. One of the first things you should do is reach out to an American Surrogacy specialist to discuss whether your insurance covers a surrogate pregnancy.

From there, we will be able to assess whether or not your insurance is covered. Because this is all on a case-by-case basis, there’s no easy way to tell if you have coverage with your surrogate pregnancy insurance.

Who’s Insurance Pays for a Surrogate Pregnancy?

If your policy doesn’t have exclusions for surrogate pregnancy, your provider will cover your pregnancy. Even if there are exclusions, you’ll still have coverage from your health insurance for surrogate pregnancy. It’s important to remember that any out-of-pocket costs will be covered by our surrogate compensation package.

Your surrogate specialist will always be there to help you understand whether your insurance will pay for your surrogate pregnancy.

What Insurance Covers a Surrogate Pregnancy?

Insurance agencies like Blue Cross, Aetna, and Cigna may all be able to at least partially cover your surrogate expenses. As always, make sure to check with your surrogate specialist to learn more about whether your insurance covers a surrogate pregnancy or not. Also, remember that you’ll never have to pay for any expenses associated with the surrogate process.

Our competitive compensation package ensures that all your expenses will be covered and that you will receive the highest amount of compensation for the time, energy and sacrifices you make throughout the process.

What if I Don’t Have Insurance for My Surrogate Pregnancy?

If you don’t have any health insurance, the intended parents will either cover all your costs out of pocket or will get you insurance for a surrogacy pregnancy. Some surrogacy insurance companies are able to cover your medical costs. It’s always crucial to work with your surrogate specialist to understand what you can do if you don’t have insurance coverage.

Navigating the Complexities of Surrogacy Insurance

If you are considering insurance for a surrogate pregnancy, you won’t need to bear any expenses associated with the surrogacy process directly, as these costs are usually covered by surrogate compensation. surrogate compensation covers various expenses, including medical bills, prenatal care and other relevant costs.

We’re committed to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring that you embark on your surrogate journey with peace of mind. Whether it’s understanding the nuances of insurance for your surrogate pregnancy or securing the highest amount of surrogate compensation available, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to ensure that your surrogacy experience is not only fulfilling but also financially secure. With our comprehensive assistance and expertise, you can navigate the path ahead with confidence.

To speak with a specialist about the intricacies of insurance for surrogate pregnancy, contact us online now.

What Surrogate Medications Will I Take?

As a surrogate, you’ll take a variety of medications to prepare your body for pregnancy. Here’s what you can expect.

When you consider becoming a surrogate, you likely have questions about what goes into the surrogacy medical process. Gestational surrogacy is a common way of becoming pregnant and one of the important aspects of that process is the surrogate medications you’re required to take.

Whether you’re thinking about beginning your journey as a gestational surrogate or exploring options for surrogacy without medications, understanding the various medications, timelines and potential side effects can help you prepare for what to expect.

If you want to learn more about the steps in the surrogacy medical process, check out this article.

What Medications Does a Surrogate Take?

Gestational surrogacy, the most common form of surrogacy, involves the use of medications to prepare your uterus for embryo implantation. These medications typically include:

Oral Contraceptives – Often the first step, oral contraceptives are used to synchronize the menstrual cycles of the surrogate and the intended mother or egg donor.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormones – These hormones stimulate the development of multiple eggs in your ovaries.
Lupron- This surrogacy medication prevents your natural cycle from interfering with the surrogacy process by limiting the secretion of hormones that control your cycle.
Progesterone – Administered through injections, vaginal suppositories, or gels, progesterone supports the development of the uterine lining, preparing it for embryo implantation and supporting early pregnancy.
Estrogen – a vital hormone for uterine lining development is often administered as a surrogate medication to support the preparation of the uterus for embryo implantation during the gestational surrogacy process.

Surrogate Medications Timeline

The surrogate medications timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific IVF protocol used. However, a general timeline for the administration of these medications typically follows this pattern:

Preliminary Screening and Evaluation: Before starting any surrogate medications, both you and the intended parents will undergo comprehensive medical and psychological screenings.
Synchronization of Cycles: You and the intended mother or egg donor may start with oral contraceptives to synchronize your menstrual cycles.
Ovarian Stimulation: Injections are administered to stimulate the development of multiple eggs.
Egg Maturation and Retrieval: Following the administration of injections, the eggs are matured and subsequently retrieved from your ovaries.
Embryo Transfer Preparation: Progesterone supplementation begins to prepare your uterus for embryo transfer.
Embryo Transfer and Post-Transfer Care: After the embryo transfer, progesterone supplementation continues for about 10-12 weeks to support the early stages of pregnancy.

Potential Side Effects of Surrogacy Medications

While surrogacy medications are generally well-tolerated, they can potentially lead to certain side effects, including:

Mood Swings and Emotional Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during the treatment can affect the surrogate’s mood and emotional well-being.
Physical Discomfort: Side effects such as bloating, abdominal discomfort and breast tenderness may occur due to ovarian stimulation medications.
Injection Site Reactions: Progesterone injections may lead to localized reactions at the injection site, including pain, redness, and swelling.

The side effects of surrogate medications can vary from person to person. Communicating with your healthcare provider can help manage these side effects effectively.

Learn More

Understanding the surrogate medications, the associated timelines and potential side effects can help you understand what to expect throughout the medical process. With proper guidance and support your surrogacy journey can be a positive, fulfilling experience.

What are the Benefits of Surrogacy for Parents?

Surrogacy is a family-building option that will empower you in ways other paths may not be able to on your journey to parenthood.

As one of the leading surrogacy agencies in the U.S., we know what it takes to fulfill your dreams of becoming parents. The benefits of surrogacy plus the unconditional support we offer can pave the way on your journey to parenthood. We know the road hasn’t been easy and with our help you’ll be on the right track toward holding your baby for the first time.

We’ve helped thousands of parents start a family and we’re ready to do the same for you.

If you have any questions about the surrogacy process, check out this article.

What Are the Benefits of Surrogacy?

Becoming a parent through surrogacy has never been easier. At American Surrogacy, you don’t have to wait any longer to become parents. One of the main advantages of choosing surrogacy as a path to parenthood is that the wait times are significantly lower. We offer an exclusive program designed to only work with quality surrogates who are American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) qualified.

This can significantly lower your wait time because all our surrogates have been screened to ensure they’re ready for the process. One of the benefits of surrogacy with our agency is that we carefully balance our list of surrogates and intended parents so you aren’t competing with other families for a match.

Why Become a Parent Through Surrogacy? [4 Reasons]

1. An Opportunity to Grow Your Family

Surrogacy is an amazing family-building option, offering hope to parents whose journey to parenthood has been marked by hurdles and setbacks. When other methods such as natural conception or adoption have proven elusive, surrogacy can help you realize your dreams of expanding your family. This method is particularly invaluable for individuals struggling with infertility, same-sex couples or those facing medical conditions that make pregnancy impossible.

With the support of modern medical advancements and legal frameworks, surrogacy has the power to transform heartbreak into joy, uniting parents and surrogates to bring new life into the world.

2. More Control Over Your Family-Building Journey

Surrogacy stands out as a more controlled process for parents when compared to other family-building methods. Unlike adoption, where the process can be unpredictable and may involve complex legal and emotional factors, surrogacy offers a greater level of predictability. In surrogacy, parents can actively participate in the selection of their surrogate, ensuring compatibility and trust, which is often not possible in adoption.

The medical aspects of surrogacy are more manageable, allowing parents to closely monitor the prenatal environment and have a more direct influence on the pregnancy experience. This control is particularly essential for individuals or couples with specific medical concerns or those seeking a specific genetic makeup for their child. Surrogacy provides a structured, customizable, and well-regulated path to parenthood, offering a sense of assurance and empowerment throughout the family-building journey.

3. The Quickest Path to Parenthood

We know how much you’ve wanted to start or grow your family. One of the benefits of surrogacy with our agency is that we bring that wait to an end by helping you find the best surrogate for your family in the shortest amount of time. With our one of a kind 1:1 intended parent to surrogacy ratio, we can help you find a surrogate in an average of 30-90 days.

Because we balance this list so effectively, we’re able to help you become a parent through surrogacy as quickly and efficiently as possible.

3. Partner with High-Quality Surrogates

Opting for surrogacy affords parents the opportunity to collaborate with high-quality surrogates, ensuring a level of professionalism, commitment and medical suitability that may be challenging to find in other family-building methods. Surrogates who choose to embark on this extraordinary journey are meticulously screened, both physically and psychologically, to guarantee their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment for your child.

They are often well-informed and dedicated individuals who genuinely want to help prospective parents achieve their dreams of having a family. This selection process ensures that you can trust in the surrogate’s reliability, health and emotional stability. This level of quality and preparedness, combined with the legal and medical support provided, makes surrogacy a prime choice for parents seeking a secure and positive path to parenthood.

4. Experienced Staff Ready to Support You

Our staff has years of experience helping those who want to become a parent through surrogacy. As you work with us on your path to parenthood, you can be comfortable and confident knowing that our staff has more than 40 years of experience building families through surrogacy and adoption.

Through our financial protection and unlimited matching, we work hard to make sure you experience a safe, secure process.

You shouldn’t have to wait any longer for your child. The benefits of surrogacy with our program are designed to specifically help you become parents as quickly and efficiently as possible. With our thorough surrogate screening process, you’ll be able to connect with a highly qualified surrogate you feel confident moving forward with.

To begin looking at potential surrogates, check out some of the available surrogate situations here. If you would like to connect with a surrogacy consultant, contact us online now.

5 Fulfilling Benefits of Being a Surrogate

Becoming a surrogate not only changes the lives of others but also your own. Learn more about why you should become a surrogate.

Why Become a Surrogate Mother? There is no greater gift than being able to change someone else’s life.

You’ll gain a newfound sense of purpose knowing you were able to give the gift of parenthood. The beauty behind surrogacy is not only do you get to change someone else’s life, but you also get to change your family’s life.

With our competitive surrogate pay and unconditional support, becoming a surrogate with American Surrogacy has never been easier.

To learn more about the process of becoming a surrogate with American Surrogacy, check out this article.

In the meantime, here are five fulfilling benefits of being a surrogate with our agency.

1. Change Someone’s Life By Helping Them Become Parents

When you make the life-changing decision to become a surrogate, fulfilling someone’s dreams of becoming parents is a motivating benefit of being a surrogate. Because of you, they’ll be able to experience the love and joy that comes with raising a child.

You know firsthand how beautiful parenthood can be. Knowing that you have the power to turn a couple into a family makes the benefit of being a surrogate mother that much better.

“Seeing Nicholas see his child for the first time was amazing. A weight was almost lifted off of my shoulders, in a sense that he was healthy and that I was able to give Nicholas everything he had ever wanted.” – Nichole (Surrogate), Read more of her story here.

2. Experience Complete Financial Freedom

As you carry a child for intended parents, you’ll have the chance to receive competitive compensation for your services. This compensation honors the physical, emotional and time commitments you devote to the surrogacy process. This is by far one of the greatest benefits of being a surrogate because it means your family will be taken care of.

You’re making a sacrifice and we make sure you receive the highest amount of compensation to help pay for things like:

Bills or debts
College fund
Family vacations
Down payment for a house or car
And more

Receiving surrogate compensation can be a good thing and you should never feel guilty. This financial opportunity is a great way to improve your and your family’s life.

3. Become a Role Model

Why be a surrogate mother? Because you can become a role model by showing that you made a sacrifice to help others. By choosing to help others create a family, you demonstrate a profound sense of generosity, inspiring those around you to consider the needs of others above their own.

Your willingness to embark on this journey can serve as a powerful example of the importance of empathy, fostering a sense of unity and kindness within your community and beyond.

4. Build a Lifelong Bond

A benefit of being a surrogate is you have the chance to develop a close and meaningful relationship with the family. This relationship is unique and can last a lifetime. Throughout the surrogacy process, you’ll have a chance to connect with the parents to talk about your goals and expectations. This openness creates an environment of trust, helping to foster a strong bond that will last throughout your surrogacy experience.

5. Complete Control in the Process

Another benefit of being a surrogate with American Surrogacy is that we put you in control of the entire process. Most agencies can’t offer the control you deserve. Our surrogacy program is built to address everything that’s important to you throughout your journey. We want to ensure you feel empowered to:

Confidently find the right family
Decide how quickly you want the process to go
Experience a smooth, streamlined process

But, why be a surrogate? By working with a surrogacy agency like ours, you can receive the compensation and guidance you need, knowing that you have a dedicated team supporting you every step of the way.

To experience complete financial freedom, contact us today or call 1-800-875-2229 to begin your surrogacy journey.

7 Tips on Coping With Infertility During the Holidays

The holidays can be a heavy time for couples struggling with infertility. We’re here to help you cope with the emotions that may surface during this time of year.

Infertility can be a challenging journey, especially during the holiday season when the emphasis on family can magnify feelings of loss and isolation.

Coping with infertility during the holidays requires a balance of self-care, emotional support and strategies that prioritize your well-being. If you find yourself struggling as the holidays approach, here are seven helpful tips to help you cope with infertility during the holiday season.

If you want to learn more about surrogacy as a path to parenthood, then check out this article.

How to Deal With Infertility During the Holidays [7 Tips]

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

Acknowledging the complex emotions that you’re feeling about infertility around the holidays is the first step toward healing. Allow yourself the space to grieve and process your emotions. It’s okay to feel a mix of sadness, frustration or even anger.

Understanding and accepting these feelings can be a powerful step toward improving your overall emotional well-being.

2. Seek Support and Emotional Guidance

Don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend, family member or a professional counselor specializing in infertility. Infertility counseling can provide a safe, non-judgmental space to express your feelings and learn valuable coping strategies. Sharing your burden with those who understand and empathize can ease the emotional weight during the holiday season.

You can also participate in a support group online or in person to connect with people who have been in your shoes before. This can help you find solace knowing that you’re not the only person who’s struggled with infertility around the holidays.

3. Create New Traditions

Consider establishing new holiday traditions that don’t revolve around children or family gatherings. Focus on activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Find ways to nurture your well-being, such as volunteering, exploring new hobbies, or planning a relaxing getaway.

Shifting the focus away from traditional celebrations can help ease the pain associated with infertility during the holidays.

4. Set Boundaries

Set clear boundaries with well-meaning friends and family members on conversations and gatherings that might trigger emotional distress.

Communicate your needs and limitations to help them understand the importance of sensitivity and understanding on infertility during the holidays. Take charge of your emotional well-being by prioritizing interactions that bring you comfort and support.

5. Practice Self-Care

During the stress of the holidays, make self-care a top priority. Engage in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga or regular exercise.

Nourish your body with healthy meals and take the time to rest. By taking care of your physical and emotional well-being, you can better cope with the challenges of infertility during the holiday season.

6. Focus on Gratitude

Redirect your focus towards gratitude by acknowledging the positive aspects of your life. Keep a gratitude journal and reflect on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment beyond infertility.

By having a sense of gratitude, you can gain a more positive outlook on infertility during the holidays. This can help you cope with the emotional strain that comes with dealing with infertility during the holidays.

7. Stay Hopeful

If you’re experiencing infertility during the holidays, try to maintain a sense of hope and optimism for the future. Consider exploring different options for family-building, such as surrogacy or adoption, and stay informed about advancements in infertility treatments and technologies.

Remind yourself that infertility does not define your worth or your ability to create a loving family. By staying hopeful, you can navigate the challenges of infertility during the holidays with strength.

You’re Not Alone

Coping with infertility during the holidays can be emotionally taxing, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to find solace and joy despite the challenges. Remember that your feelings are valid, and it is essential to prioritize self-care and seek the support you need this holiday season.

If you want to explore surrogacy as a path to parenthood, then contact us online now to speak with a surrogacy consultant.

Your Guide to Pre-Birth Orders in Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a life-changing journey toward achieving your dreams of parenthood. Having an understanding of how to establish your parentage to your little one is an important component of the surrogacy process.

Surrogacy currently isn’t regulated on a federal level, so each state has their own set of surrogacy laws. Because of this, the legal steps needed to establish parentage can vary.

While state’s laws vary, it’s important to familiarize yourself on how to establish your parental rights. Your surrogacy specialist and lawyer will play an important role in this process. While this guide shouldn’t be taken as legal advice, we’re here to explain everything you need to know about pre-birth orders to help you embark on the legal journey of surrogacy with confidence.

If you have any questions about the legal process of surrogacy, then contact us online now to connect with a trusted surrogate specialist.

What is a Pre-Birth Order and How Does it Work?

Pre-birth orders in surrogacy are legal documents that establish you as the legal parents of your child born through surrogacy before the birth takes place. These orders are crucial in ensuring a smooth and legal transition of parental rights from the surrogate mother to the intended parents.

The process involves a court petition where you request to be recognized as the legal parents of your unborn child. This process varies depending on the jurisdiction, and in some places, it may involve strict requirements such as a genetic connection between one or both intended parents.

What Happens After a Pre-Birth Parentage Order is Granted?

Once a pre-birth parentage order is granted, it provides legal protection for the intended parents, helping to avoid potential custody disputes or legal challenges after the child is born. These orders are an important part in the surrogacy process as they help create a clear legal framework for all parties involved.

It ensures your child’s best interests are protected and that you can assume full responsibility of your child once they’re born.

How to Get a Pre-Birth Order

In order to file a pre-birth order in surrogacy, you’ll work with your surrogacy lawyer to gather certain documents. You and the surrogate will sign statements of parentage for the unborn baby, and your will have to complete an affidavit stating he or she completed the embryo transfer for the surrogates pregnancy.

Your lawyer may also file additional social documents and evaluations that were prepared during the surrogacy process. If you live in a state where pre-birth orders are legal, the order is filed around the seventh month of pregnancy, although the process can start as early as the fourth month.

Filing a pre-birth parentage court order protects your legal rights and helps the hospital process move more smoothly by:

Requiring you to be listed on your child’s birth certificate
Allowing you to make medical decisions for your child
Helping resolve any insurance issues (if any)
Allowing your baby to be discharged from the hospital with you

At American surrogacy, we work closely with you and your lawyer to obtain a pre-birth order based on your state’s laws. Starting the process as early as possible can ensure all the legal guidelines are taken care of.

What Are Pre-Birth Order States?

These surrogacy-friendly states permit surrogacies for all parents, grant pre-birth orders and name the intended parents on the birth certificate.

California
Colorado
Connecticut
District of Columbia
Delaware
Maine
New Hampshire
Nevada
Oregon
Rhode Island
Washington

Non-Surrogacy-Friendly States

On the other hand, these states are generally considered non-surrogacy-friendly states:

Michigan
New York

All Other States

While some states are entirely surrogacy-friendly and some are mostly unfriendly, most states fall somewhere in between. Surrogacy is able to be practiced in these states, but the laws will differ in regards to the levels of protection for both surrogates and intended parents.

Some of these states are more surrogacy friendly than others. In surrogacy-friendly states, gestational surrogacy is usually permitted by statute or there are no laws prohibiting surrogacy or pre-birth orders. Here are some of the states that are considered more surrogacy-friendly:

Alabama
Arkansas
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Illinois
Kansas
Kentucky
Massachusetts
Maryland
Minnesota
Missouri
New Jersey
North Carolina
North Dakota
New Mexico
Ohio
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
South Dakota
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Wisconsin
West Virginia

In less surrogacy-friendly states, surrogacy may be practiced but there may be legal obstacles or additional legal processes that are required to complete the surrogacy. For example, pre-birth orders may not be granted, or surrogacy contracts may be legally unenforceable. These states often have unclear surrogacy laws:

Alaska
Arizona
Iowa
Idaho
Indiana
Louisiana
Mississippi
Montana
Nebraska
Oklahoma
Tennessee
Virginia
Wyoming

How to Get a Pre-Birth Order

Before you explore the process of obtaining a pre-birth parentage order, it’s important to work with a reputable surrogacy attorney who is well versed in the laws in your state. When you chose to work with American Surrogacy, we’ll help connect you with a lawyer who’s familiar with pre-birth order laws to help you navigate the legal landscape in your state.

To begin the legal process of surrogacy, contact us online now to connect with a trusted surrogacy specialist who will guide you through your journey with confidence.

Do Surrogates Get Postpartum Depression?

If you’re struggling with postpartum depression following your surrogacy journey, you’re not alone. We’re here to support you before, during and after your surrogacy journey.

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most life-changing decisions you’ll ever make. Carrying someone else’s child is an emotional process and it’s important to understand some of the feelings that come from being a surrogate mother. One of the most often overlooked topics is the emotional toll surrogacy can have on a surrogate.

Postpartum depression is a serious issue that can affect women who have recently given birth. In this guide, we’ll dive into what surrogate postpartum depression looks like and how American Surrogacy will always be there to support you as you navigate the emotional intricacies of surrogacy.

If you need immediate support from a surrogate specialist, then contact us online now or call 1-800-875-2229.

What is Postpartum Depression in Surrogate Mothers?

Postpartum depression in a surrogate is a type of major depression that occurs after having a baby. The timeframe on when it can affect you is 1-3 weeks after delivery. A lot of women report feeling sad or down for a few days after birth and is commonly known as the period where you experience “baby blues”. If these feelings continue for longer than a few days, you most likely have postpartum depression after surrogacy.

This can affect your behavior and mental health as well as your own health and development, so you want to make sure that you receive help when you start feeling like you may have postpartum.

Do Surrogates Get Postpartum Depression?

Yes, surrogates can experience postpartum depression after surrogacy. While it’s not exclusive to biological mothers, surrogates may also undergo hormonal and emotional changes after childbirth that can lead to postpartum.

The risk factors and experiences may differ, but it’s important to understand that you should seek support if you’re experiencing any postpartum emotions. These emotions can include:

Anxiety
Crying
Restlessness
Sadness
And more.

The Most Common Symptoms of Postpartum Depression After Surrogacy

The symptoms of postpartum can range from mild to severe but in general, if you feel sad, empty, or emotionless you could be experiencing surrogacy postpartum depression. Here are some possible symptoms to watch out for:

Excessive mood swings
Frequent crying
Feelings of hopelessness and shame
Feeling disconnected from family and friends
Lack of sleep
Extreme irritability or anger
Difficulty concentrating
Brain fog
Thoughts of self-harm
Headaches
Stomach pain

How American Surrogacy Supports You

When you choose to become a surrogate with American Surrogacy, we stay connected with you even after the process is complete. Our specialists are available 24/7 to provide support and provide you with the resources you need when you’re experiencing postpartum depression after surrogacy. We recognize the sacrifices you’re making and your wellbeing is one of the most important aspects of this journey.

Our services ensure you’re emotionally ready to embark on this journey. Here are some of the ways we support you:

Thorough screening process to ensure you’re emotionally ready to become a surrogate.
Professional counseling and support services to help you cope with the emotions that come with being a surrogate.
Ongoing support throughout your pregnancy and beyond from an American Surrogacy specialist to ensure you’re taken care of throughout every step of the process.
And more.

If you’re experiencing surrogacy postpartum depression, check out these resources:

If you think you have postpartum depression after surrogacy, please contact us online now to speak with a surrogate specialist. You’re not alone and we’re always here to provide the support you need.

What is the Surrogacy Success Rate?

Becoming a parent through surrogacy is one of the most beautiful journeys you’ll ever take. Learn everything you need to know about the surrogacy success rate with our guide.

When you’re looking to begin your journey of parenthood through surrogacy, one of the most common topics that come up is about surrogacy success rates. Here, we’ll explore the factors that influence surrogacy success rates to help you prepare for the journey ahead.

As you begin this beautiful journey, know that we at American Surrogacy will be there to help you confidently navigate the transfer process.

If you have any questions about the medical process of surrogacy, contact us online now to speak with our surrogacy specialists.

What Are the Gestational Surrogacy Success Rates?

The IVF surrogacy success rates will always depend on the fertility clinic that completes the embryo transfer. This includes any pre-implantation genetic screening that the clinic needs to complete. In general, a little more than half of all IVF transfers will result in pregnancy, with 35-40 percent of transfers failing to implant.

If you experience a failed transfer, know that its normal and we will be there to help you during this time. A failed transfer is normal and we will always be there for this emotional process.

What Affects the Surrogacy Embryo Transfer Success Rates?

There are various factors that influence surrogacy success rates. If you’re looking into surrogacy as a family building option, here are some things that affect the success rate of surrogacy:

Age of egg: One of the most important influences determining how successful a pregnancy is. Most surrogacy pregnancies include egg donors that tend to be young, typically in their 20s, while a surrogate can be somewhere into her early 40s. Once a woman turns 40, the quality of her eggs have become less viable but she can still carry a successful pregnancy.
The quality of sperm: This plays a big part in the surrogacy success rates as well. To increase the chances of a success, sperm should be used or donated from a healthy nonsmoker.
Pre-screening surrogates: While the surrogate’s age isn’t as important as the egg donor’s age, you still want to make sure that surrogates meet a clinic’s medical criteria. A thorough agency, like American Surrogacy, will pre-screen all potential candidates to ensure they meet the IVF clinic guidelines and requirements before the medical screening.
The surrogacy agency: You can always improve your chances of having higher surrogacy success rates by working with the right agency. Although fertility clinics mostly influence surrogacy success rates, we will do everything we can to set you up for success from our end. With our 1:1 intended parent to surrogate ratio, we can help you find a surrogate who’s the perfect fit for you and your family in an average of 30-90 days.

How to Maximize IVF Surrogacy Success Rates

One of the ways you can increase your chances of a successful pregnancy is by making sure you’re using donor eggs and a surrogate with a healthy uterus. You’ll need to have the young eggs transferred to a surrogate who has had healthy pregnancies beforehand.

The chances can be even higher if you’ve had the surrogate undergo pre-genetic testing. In this case, implantation rates and successful pregnancy chances will be high, while failed transfers and rates will be low.

Benefits of Choosing American Surrogacy

As one of the leading surrogacy agencies in the country, we offer many benefits that can help put you on the right path toward a high surrogacy success rate. Because of how we manage our intended parent list, we’re able to put you on the quickest route toward fulfilling your dreams of becoming parents.

Another unmatched benefit we provide is offering a fixed fee structure to help you have confidence in your budget. We provide a flat fee to help you understand just how much you’ll be paying for your surrogacy journey from start to finish. While we can’t influence your surrogacy success rates, we can have an impact on your success by providing unmatched support and short wait times.

Begin Your Surrogacy Journey Today

To learn more about how successful your surrogacy journey can be with American Surrogacy, contact us online now to speak with a surrogacy specialist. We’re always here to guide you on this life-changing journey.

Do Surrogates Get Maternity Leave?

One of the most common questions we get is “Do surrogates get maternity leave?” We’re here to help you understand what maternity leave looks like for surrogate mothers.

Recovering postpartum is hard, and many women need time away from work in order to return to their normal routines. When you become a gestational surrogate, it’s no different. But you may have questions about whether you qualify for surrogate maternity leave if you’re not bringing a child home from the hospital.

Depending on your employer and surrogacy agency, maternity leave for surrogates may be available. In this guide, we’ll explain what it takes to qualify for maternity leave for surrogates to help you as you navigate life postpartum.

If you would like to speak with a surrogate specialist about how much maternity leave you qualify for, then contact us online now to receive personalized support.

Do Surrogates Get Maternity Leave?

As a gestational carrier, it’s normal to wonder do surrogates get maternity leave. Although you won’t be taking a baby home, you still qualify for Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) as long as you meet the normal eligibility requirements.

Through FMLA, you can take up to 12 weeks of surrogate maternity leave, unpaid to recover from the “serious medical condition” of pregnancy.

Even though you won’t be taking care of a child, you will still need time off to physically recover and your job will be protected for up to 12 weeks.

Can You Work While Being a Surrogate?

Yes, you can work while being a surrogate. But, if you work weekdays, you may have to miss work for medical or psychological screenings, doctors’ appointments, the embryo transfer day and OBGYN appointments. Preparing your employer ahead of time can help them prepare for your surrogate maternity leave.

Also, you may need to consider job modifications depending on what you do. Some accommodations include more frequent restroom breaks and the ability to sit down more frequently then what’s usually allowed.

How to Qualify for Maternity Leave for Surrogate Mothers

If you’re wondering do you get maternity leave as a surrogate through FMLA, there’s certain requirements you must meet. In order to qualify for FMLA, you must:

Work for a covered employer
Work 1,250 hours during the 12 months prior to the start of leave
Work at a location where the employer has 50 or more employees within 75 miles
Have worked for the employer for 12 months

How to Talk To Your Employer About Maternity Leave for a Surrogate

Talking to your employer about taking surrogate maternity leave ensures that all your bases are covered following your surrogate pregnancy. Be honest and upfront as much as you think is necessary in your surrogacy journey. Your job will be protected, but notifying your employer can ensure your responsibilities are handled during your maternity leave as a surrogate.

Your surrogacy attorney can help you prepare by making you aware of your local workers’ laws and the compensation policies you’re eligible for. Prepare yourself with a list of talking points and questions so you know exactly what you want to say to your employer. Here are some tips to help you prepare for this conversation:

You’ll want to wait until you’re 20 weeks along to tell your employer about the pregnancy. A lot can happen in the first stage of the surrogacy process and there’s a chance that some things might not work out.
As the surrogate, you get to decide whether you want to tell your employer if you’re carrying a gestational pregnancy.
Avoid giving your employer a set time when you’ll be out of work. Many surrogates recover quickly but you don’t want to force yourself to go back to work too soon. Make sure you take the time you need to rest during your surrogate maternity leave.
Consider what you want to share with your co-workers about your pregnancy. You can help them learn about the surrogacy process if that’s something you want to share.

These conversations about maternity leave for surrogates can be complicated, but you should be proud of the heroic journey you’re embarking on. Our surrogate specialists at American Surrogacy will help you as you navigate life as a gestational carrier. You’ll never be alone on this journey.

Learn More About Maternity Leave for Surrogate Mothers

Still wondering do you get maternity leave if you are a surrogate? Contact us online now to see how much surrogate maternity leave you qualify for. Our specialists are ready to help.