Are you facing difficulties in having a baby the “natural” way? Or has someone approached you to carry his or her baby on their behalf? If you’ve answered ‘yes’ to either question, then you’re likely interested in the gestational carrier process. Although this option has been around for some time, it still provokes a mixed bag of feelings, mainly because many of its components are not well understood.
This article examines the gestational carrier route and what intended parents and the surrogate can expect.
The Process
In gestational surrogacy, several components have to be in place. These are medical, legal, and personal. After selecting a gestational carrier, the intended parents need to ensure she is medically and emotionally capable of carrying their baby. To be able to establish this, the gestational surrogate must complete questionnaires, interviews, and medical tests. The intended parents and the carrier have to agree on the same values, exercise, and diet plan. Together, you will also need to discuss some problematic issues.
An example is, what if the fetus possesses a genetic condition or congenital disability?
Together, you need to formulate a birth plan. It would help if you also discussed whether you prefer (or not) to have contact with the surrogate after the child is born. These conversations are emotionally charged; however, you have an entire support team in the form of case managers (from the surrogacy center), doctors, and experienced couples and gestational carriers to assist you.
Once everyone agrees to the birth plan, the legal requirements, and after-birth conditions, a legal agreement must be signed. After completing this step, the embryo transfer procedure will occur.
The Gestational Carrier – What to Expect
What should you expect after the embryo is transferred into your womb? A gestational pregnancy continues much the same as a traditional pregnancy. You will have regular visits with the Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, as well as routine blood tests, screenings, and ultrasounds to ensure you and the baby are healthy. Often, the intended parents may be present at your appointments to support you. Since pregnancy can sometimes be an exhausting experience, having companionship can help.
The Intended Parents – What to Expect
Choosing another woman to carry your baby on your behalf is overwhelming. You will likely also feel very anxious after the embryo transfer has occurred. One of the best ways to overcome these feelings is to relax and support your gestational carrier. Keep in mind. She needs to be able to rely on you too. If you are both on the same page, it’s also good for the baby.
As you keep attending appointments with your surrogate and talking to her regularly, you’ll find much of your anxiety melts away. As the intended parents, you can discuss your baby’s health with the carrier and the doctors. You will always have an active role in this pre-birth phase.
The decision to work with a gestational carrier requires careful consideration of the gestational carrier process as well as the emotional and financial commitments involved. With the help of a gestational surrogacy agency, this process can result in a smooth pregnancy and a long-lasting relationship between the carrier and the intended parents.