The surrogacy process is a life-changing journey for both the surrogate and the intended parents. It is an experience filled with medical appointments, emotional milestones, and legal considerations. If you are considering becoming a surrogate or are an intended parent, understanding what to expect during the pregnancy and birth of the surrogacy process can help ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience.
1. The Surrogacy Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
1.1 Medical Preparations and Embryo Transfer
Before pregnancy begins, the surrogate must undergo medical and psychological screening. These evaluations ensure she is physically and emotionally prepared for the journey. The process typically includes:
- A thorough medical examination
- Bloodwork and ultrasounds
- A psychological assessment
- A review of the surrogate’s medical history
Once the screening is complete, the intended parents and surrogate enter into a legal contract outlining rights, responsibilities, and financial agreements. Following legal clearance, the surrogate starts a regimen of fertility medications to prepare her body for embryo implantation.
The embryo transfer takes place in a fertility clinic, where a fertilized embryo from the intended parents (or a donor) is implanted into the surrogate’s uterus. The procedure is relatively quick and painless, similar to a Pap smear. After the transfer, the surrogate will rest and undergo blood tests to confirm pregnancy within two weeks.
1.2 The First Trimester: Monitoring and Adjusting
Once pregnancy is confirmed, the first trimester is crucial for ensuring the embryo’s health and stability. The surrogate will:
- Attend frequent doctor visits to monitor hormone levels
- Take prescribed medications, such as progesterone, to support the pregnancy
- Avoid strenuous activities and follow medical guidelines for a healthy pregnancy
Morning sickness, fatigue, and hormonal changes are common during this period. Intended parents may also experience anxiety as they await the official confirmation of a viable pregnancy. Regular communication between the surrogate and intended parents helps establish a positive relationship and shared excitement.
1.3 The Second Trimester: Stability and Bonding
The second trimester is often the most comfortable phase of pregnancy. By this point, the risk of miscarriage significantly decreases, and the surrogate experiences fewer pregnancy symptoms. Key developments during this stage include:
- The first ultrasound to check fetal development
- Feeling the baby’s movements
- A reduced need for frequent medical visits
- Continued communication between the surrogate and intended parents
During this period, many intended parents feel more involved in the pregnancy, attending doctor’s appointments and discussing birth plans with the surrogate. Some surrogates and parents also opt to learn the baby’s gender together, further strengthening their bond.
1.4 The Third Trimester: Preparing for Birth
As the pregnancy progresses, preparations for delivery become the primary focus. The surrogate will:
- Attend regular prenatal checkups to monitor the baby’s growth
- Follow a healthy diet and stay active to maintain a smooth pregnancy
- Prepare emotionally for labor and delivery
- Finalize birthing plans with the intended parents and medical team
It is essential to create a clear birth plan, which outlines:
- Who will be present in the delivery room
- Pain management preferences
- Post-birth contact between the surrogate, baby, and intended parents
- Hospital protocols for surrogacy births
The intended parents typically begin making arrangements for their baby’s arrival, including finalizing legal documents and preparing for parenthood.
2. The Birth Experience: Labor and Delivery
Labor and delivery are highly emotional experiences for all parties involved in the surrogacy process. The surrogate’s medical team will monitor her closely to ensure a safe delivery. The intended parents are usually present, offering support and excitement as they await their baby’s arrival.
During labor, the surrogate may receive pain management options such as epidurals, IV medications, or natural pain relief techniques. In cases of medical necessity, a C-section may be required.
Once the baby is born, the intended parents typically take immediate custody. Many surrogates describe this moment as overwhelmingly joyful, knowing they have fulfilled their role in helping create a family. The hospital staff will facilitate the baby’s transition to the intended parents while ensuring the surrogate receives proper postpartum care.
3. Postpartum Recovery and Emotional Well-being
After delivery, the surrogate enters the postpartum recovery phase, which includes:
- Resting and allowing her body to heal
- Managing postpartum hormone changes
- Attending follow-up medical appointments
- Receiving emotional support as she transitions from pregnancy
Some surrogates experience mild emotional adjustments, while others may need more structured postpartum support. Maintaining a connection with the intended parents, if mutually agreed upon, can provide a sense of closure and fulfillment.
4. Choosing the Right Surrogacy Agency For Surrogacy Process
Finding the right surrogacy agency is crucial for a smooth and supportive surrogacy journey. Acorn Surrogacy Agency is one of the best surrogacy agencies in the U.S., offering comprehensive support to surrogates and intended parents. Their services include:
- Thorough medical and psychological screenings
- Legal guidance for both surrogates and intended parents
- Matching services to find the perfect surrogate-intended parent pairing
- 24/7 support throughout the entire surrogacy process
With a reputation for ethical practices and personalized care, Acorn Surrogacy Agency ensures that both surrogates and intended parents have a positive and rewarding experience.
5. Surrogacy Process Is A Journey of Love and Commitment
The pregnancy and birth process in surrogacy is a remarkable journey filled with medical, emotional, and legal milestones. Surrogates provide an invaluable gift by carrying a child for those who cannot do so themselves. By understanding what to expect at each stage, both surrogates and intended parents can navigate the experience with confidence and joy.
Whether you are considering becoming a surrogate or are an intended parent exploring surrogacy, being well-informed about the surrogacy process helps ensure a smooth, fulfilling journey toward bringing a new life into the world.