Becoming Surrogate Mothers in California is one of the biggest sacrifices women can make in her life. It takes an extremely strong, caring woman to allow her body to be used as a vessel and carry another person’s child. So many couples have been blessed with a child, they otherwise would not have, because of women who have given of themselves and been a surrogate.
There are many things to consider when thinking about being a surrogate mother. If you decide to use an agency, the following information can be very helpful. The first step is to find out if you are eligible to be a surrogate for a couple. An agency will take into consideration your health, age, and previous pregnancies. Each agency has their own set of rules and guidelines. After your application is approved, you will need to have a series of tests done. These tests are performed to determine the state of your mental health, physical health, and if you have any current or past history of sexually transmitted diseases. When using an agency, most surrogates are compensated to help off set the cost associated with this testing and the pregnancy.
There are two ways surrogate mothers can become pregnant. One is called a gestational surrogacy, which is when the biological parents contribute both the egg and the sperm. The egg is fertilized before being placed inside the surrogate’s body. The second is known as a traditional type. The surrogate mother’s egg is artificially inseminated or fertilized using the sperm of the biological father.
After you become pregnant, the most important thing you can do for the expectant parents is keep them involved. Invite them to doctor check ups and ultrasounds. Let the parents know if you are having any difficulties with the pregnancy. Try to reassure them that you are carrying their baby and have no intentions of trying to keep the baby after he/she is born. Be sure to have your own support system to talk to about any concerns you are having.
This can be a very difficult time in your life, but it is also one of the most rewarding. Being a surrogate is the greatest gift you can give to another person.
Center For Surrogate Parenting, Inc. is a world-renowned surrogate parenting program located in California and Maryland. For more information visit http://www.creatingfamilies.com/SM/SM_Info.aspx.