What to Expect After a Surrogate Birth
As a surrogate, you have the chance to make parenthood possible for someone who otherwise would not have the opportunity. If you’re considering making this life changing choice, you have many questions about the surrogacy process and what to expect. Although there are many steps in the process before the happy ending, it is the best step in the process of surrogacy! This blog post gives you an idea of what you can expect from this very special part of a being a surrogate mother.
Online you can find what to expect and what the surrogacy process is like but the best way to learn about a journey as a surrogate is through firsthand experience from someone who knows. For our Surrogate Mother feature, we sat down (virtually) with Surrogate Veronica. Veronica recently delivered a healthy baby girl for her Intended Parents in early January.
How was your delivery and what were your Intended Parent’s involvement?
My delivery thankfully went really well! We had an induction scheduled but baby decided to surprise us all by coming the day before! I called the IP’s and let them know I was in labor and headed to the hospital. We each had our own room in labor and delivery. We agreed IP’s could come in to my room once it was time to push. I absolutely adore my IP’s but I also didn’t want to be nervous trying to labor with them in the room. Other than baby coming one day early, we had an easy delivery where pretty much everything went according to plan. The parents came in when it was time to push so that the baby could go straight to them.
What were your feelings when you saw the IP’s held their baby for the first time?
It was honestly magical! You know, that’s the thing that you’ve been looking forward to all this time— and then it’s finally here! And there’s this crazy sense of achievement. We did it! We decided to do this thing together, to trust each other, and here we are and everything came out as we hoped.
What happened immediately after delivery?
The Intended Mother held the baby, while the Intended Father cut the cord. They took the baby over to a corner of the room where the nurses checked her out and tended to her while my doctor was taking care of me. It was up to the Intended Parents if they wanted to go back to their room or stay with me. I’m so glad they stayed for a while so I could watch them and be a part of their joy. It was really a special moment! After baby and I were each attended to by our respective medical teams, I held her for a minute, and we took some pictures.
What happened before everyone left the hospital?
I only stayed one night and we had different rooms so before I left, I went to their room to say goodbye. We did some paperwork and I held the baby one more time and hugged my Intended Parent’s and told them congratulations!
What type of relationship are you hoping to have with IPs and the baby now?
They have texted me pictures and updates occasionally and that is the perfect relationship for me. I hope that continues into the future.
Did you discuss what type of relationship you would have prior to having the baby?
We kind of agreed whatever happened organically would be good. They will always have a special place in my heart and I’m sure we’ll just send each other the occasional updates on our kids.
How do you feel about your surrogacy process now that you have been through the process?
Since this was my first time being a surrogate mother, I was a little unsure of what to expect about being a surrogate. However, It was everything I hoped it would be. Helping people grow their family is such an amazing gift and I feel so lucky to be able to do that for someone.
Any advice you would give to those thinking about becoming a surrogate?
It’s a really amazing and special experience. There are a lot of hurdles along the way but I’m so glad I stuck with it to get to the end.
Surrogacy is a gift unlike any other and one that only a woman like you can give to hopeful parents. If you’ve decided to become a surrogate, let Pathways to Parenthood Surrogacy Agency guide you through the process. View our guidelines for surrogate mothers to find out if you qualify to become a surrogate. We have helped surrogates and intended parents come together in Kansas, Missouri, Colorado, Oklahoma, Iowa, Illinois and Arkansas, Ohio and Kentucky! You can contact us at 913-469-5500 or at www.pathwaystoparenthood.com
Surrogacy Process For Gay Couples: 5 Steps To Get Started
You found “the one” and you are ready to grow your family! You have multiple options to consider, one being using a surrogate mother to have a baby. If you are considering surrogacy as a family building option, there are many steps in the surrogacy process, and it can be a bit overwhelming to know where to start. You can start here by considering these 5 steps to get you started on what may be the biggest journey of your life!
The surrogacy process for gay couples and straight couples is the same in most ways. There are additional considerations for gay intended parents who are at the early stages of considering surrogacy to build their family.
- Understanding the Differences of Gestational vs. Traditional Surrogacy: In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother (also often called the gestational carrier) is not biologically related to the baby she is carrying. Instead, the embryo is created in the laboratory using in vitro fertilization (IVF). The embryo may be created using a donor egg and the intended father’s sperm. It is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus at the fertility clinic. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate doubles as the egg donor and is the biological mother of the baby she is carrying; the embryos are created using sperm from the intended father in a process called intrauterine insemination (IUI). Because the traditional surrogacy process can be more legally and emotionally complicated, this form of surrogacy is now far less common than gestational surrogacy.
- Surrogate mother options: One of the biggest questions is: who will be my surrogate? Some people choose to find a surrogate they did not previously know, either through an agency or through an independent search. Others feel very strongly that they would like their surrogate to be a trusted friend or family member.
- Independent Surrogacy vs. Agency Surrogacy: Generally, there are two types of surrogacy when it comes to working with a professional: an agency surrogacy and an independent surrogacy. In an agency surrogacy, intended parents (that’s you) and surrogates work with a surrogacy agency throughout the entire process: the initial screening, the drafting of the surrogacy plan, finding a match, and coordination of the different legal and medical processes. In an independent surrogacy, intended parents and surrogates usually only work with a surrogacy lawyer specializing in third-party reproduction and a fertility clinic to complete their surrogacy process.
- Financial Investment: Most parents would agree that children are priceless—but no one would argue that having children is expensive. If you’re considering surrogacy, you may be wondering about the average cost of surrogacy, which includes surrogate compensation, surrogate health insurance, surrogacy medical expenses, legal expenses and more. The cost of surrogacy gives many intended parents pause, but when you consider surrogacy as an investment, it is worth the cost. The reality is that most people don’t have the money laying around at the ready to cover the cost of surrogacy. But there are some strategies hopeful parents can use to find funds. Such as, employee benefits and health insurance. It isn’t terribly common, but your employer may have a surrogacy benefit. Personal savings is another option, if you have cash accessible in a savings account or dedicated investment account, that’s a great place to take funds. Consider asking parents, family and friends for assistance in funding your surrogacy. Many will go the route of a bank loan, a second mortgage, a home equity line of credit or pull from their retirement accounts. Ultimately you need to make the decision in choosing how to finance your family that is best for you and your partner.
- Understanding the legal process: Each state has its own surrogacy laws. Some states are friendlier to the process than others. Before you begin your surrogacy journey, you must understand the legal processes governing surrogacy in your state and this is where an experienced attorney specializing in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) can help.
Lastly, it is important to understand that unlike straight surrogacy, in which both parents’ genetics are often used to create an embryo, gay intended parents must decide whose sperm will be used. This is an important step in the process to discuss with your partner whose sperm will be used to fertilize the egg. Some, intended fathers choose to fertilize multiple eggs for implantation using both partners’ sperm, allowing either or both of them to be the biological father of a child. Because surrogacy for gay men require a surrogate and an egg donor, it’s important to consider if you will use a anonymous egg donor or choose to work with an identified donor like a family member or close friend.
At Pathways To Parenthood Surrogacy Agency we know every family has different needs, and we will take the time to understand your unique situation and individual desires to help you start your family. If you’re a gay couple and you’re considering building your family, the team at Pathways To Parenthood can guide you through the process.
WHY NOW IS A GREAT TIME TO BECOME A SURROGATE
The Covid-19 pandemic has cast its shadow over most things, including family planning. Now more than ever before, individuals and couples are looking for surrogates to help make their dreams of parenthood come true. As a result of all this uncertainty, many women are asking themselves, “Should I move forward with being a surrogate in 2022?” If you’re like many women considering becoming a surrogate, you’ve known for a long time that this is something you want to do. But deciding when to start the surrogate process may not be an easy decision.
- Often, women are hesitant to start the process as it may not be a good time for them to be pregnant. This concern is completely understandable, although it can be difficult to find the “perfect” time to be pregnant! It’s important to keep in mind that the surrogacy process takes time and there are a number of steps you will need to take before ever becoming pregnant. Which is why you may want to consider getting started on this journey sooner rather than later. As a surrogate candidate, you do have some influence on the timing of the steps in the process.
- At Pathways To Parenthood, we know how much you and your family will sacrifice to help another person realize their ultimate goal of becoming a parent — and we feel that you deserve to be compensated fairly in return. That’s why we offer a competitive compensation package for all our surrogates. Contact us today to learn about customizing your compensation package.
- We have many intended families waiting to be matched with a surrogate to grow their families! Amazing surrogates are needed now more than ever!
To help you decide if now is right time for you to become a surrogate, we have information to share from an experienced surrogate who recently started the process to become a surrogate again!. We sat down (virtually) with Surrogate Annie to see why now is the right time for her.
What first brought you to surrogacy? What first brought me to Surrogacy was the fact that I absolutely loved being pregnant. I loved everything right down to the delivery. And I love helping others! Surrogacy is the perfect combination of these two factors. Once my second son was born and our family was complete, I started researching Surrogacy. I knew I was done creating my family and was ready to help others build theirs.
Why did you decided to become a surrogate again? Why now? Since my last surrogacy journey ended back in 2017 another journey has always been on my mind, but the timing was not right. I was raising two young sons and really wanted to concentrate on being there for them. Now that they’re both a little older, I feel it’s a great time to add one more journey to my story. Plus, there are so many families that had to put their family building plans on hold due to COVID, that are in need of a surrogate, I knew now was the right and best time to get started. I hate knowing some families have been on hold for 1-2 years, and now are having to wait to be matched with a surrogate.
Do you have any advice to share with prospective surrogates? First off if you’re even considering becoming a surrogate, you’re already a rock star! Surrogacy is an amazing gift to give a family and it is important to put your whole heart in it. The process can be long but it’s so worth it. My best advice is to find an agency much like Pathways To Parenthood that will have your back and help you through any difficult decisions or questions that you have during the process. If you are considering becoming a surrogate, don’t wait! There are so many people waiting to start their family and need your help. Pathways To Parenthood can answer any and all questions you have to ease your mind and help you make the best decision for YOU!
Why did you decide to be a surrogate with Pathways To Parenthood? Choosing Pathways To Parenthood was an easy decision for me. I wanted an agency close to home and one that felt like family. From the first conversation I had with Pathways I knew they were the agency for me. There are so many large agencies out there, but I didn’t want to feel like just a number. I wanted to have open and responsive communication between me and my agency. The staff at Pathways To Parenthood is exceptional and talking to them is like talking to a friend.
Surrogacy is a gift unlike any other and one that only a woman like you can give to hopeful parents. If you’ve decided to become a surrogate, or if you know other women considering surrogacy, now is an opportune time to join our agency. If you live in the Midwest, we are the surrogacy agency for you! You can contact us at 913-469-5500 or at www.pathwaystoparenthood.com
Understanding Surrogacy Insurance: What You Need to Know
For both surrogates and intended parents, navigating the complexities of insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Many people are surprised to learn that not all health insurance policies will cover surrogate pregnancies, and there are currently no laws requiring providers to offer surrogacy coverage. As a result, both surrogates and future parents must be proactive in determining the best way to cover medical expenses for a surrogacy pregnancy if coverage is not offered in the surrogate’s private health insurance policy.
Understanding insurance options in all potential scenarios is crucial before proceeding with the surrogacy process. Understanding the costs for providing alternate insurance for your surrogate, if necessary, is essential for intended parents when establishing the potential costs of surrogacy. It is important for women who plan to become a surrogate to know whether their personal insurance policy has exclusions related to their pregnancy as a surrogate.
Without accurate information and professional guidance, unexpected insurance and medical costs will create financial surprises and challenges. This guide will answer common questions about surrogacy insurance, clarify what is covered, and help you make informed decisions before starting your surrogacy journey.
Does Health Insurance Cover Surrogacy?
One of the first questions intended parents and surrogates ask is whether traditional health insurance policies cover surrogacy. The answer to this question depends entirely on the surrogate’s specific insurance policy. Some insurance plans include surrogacy exclusions, meaning they will not cover a pregnancy if the policyholder is acting as a surrogate. When there is not an exclusion and coverage is offered, co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance vary widely. For best possible outcomes, it is essential for all parties to be fully informed and prepared before proceeding with a surrogacy pregnancy.
Before committing to the surrogacy process, intended parents should consider other insurance needs related to their surrogacy journey. These include short-term disability insurance, life insurance and loss of reproductive organ insurance policies for your surrogate. It is also helpful to learn what coverage is available for the baby after birth, and when coverage begins. Consulting with an experienced surrogacy agency can help with learning about insurance needs, clarify coverage options, and ensure all parties are prepared and protected.
Insurance for Surrogates: What You Need to Know
Many potential surrogates wonder whether they need to have their own health insurance to qualify for the process. While having personal health insurance coverage is preferred, it is not required. However, every surrogacy pregnancy must be covered by some form of insurance to protect all parties against surprise medical expenses. During the agency screening process, insurance professionals review the surrogate’s existing health insurance policy to determine whether it includes coverage for surrogacy.
If a surrogate’s policy does not cover the pregnancy, the intended parents are responsible for securing an alternative plan. Some intended parents choose to purchase a specialized surrogacy insurance policy, which is explicitly designed for surrogate pregnancies. Others may opt for an Affordable Care Act (ACA) plan, depending on availability during the open enrollment period. Sometimes, intended parents may pay for medical expenses out of pocket. Because surrogacy medical costs can be substantial, it is important to explore all available insurance options and ensure there is a plan in place before proceeding with the journey.
Insurance Considerations for Intended Parents
Intended parents are legally responsible for ensuring all necessary medical expenses are covered throughout the surrogacy journey. This means they are responsible for the cost of the surrogate’s insurance expenses, whether that means covering co-pays and deductibles for her existing policy, purchasing a specialty plan, or securing an entirely new policy for their gestational surrogate. Additionally, intended parents are responsible for any and all medical expenses related to prenatal care, labor and delivery, and any potential complications that may arise that are not covered by insurance. This is typically the amounts paid in the category of co-pays, deductibles and co-insurance.
One aspect of surrogacy insurance that often surprises intended parents is that a surrogate’s insurance does not extend to the baby after birth. While the surrogate’s policy may cover maternity care, it does not provide coverage for the newborn. To avoid unexpected expenses, intended parents should confirm with their insurance provider whether their current health plan will cover their child from birth or if additional arrangements need to be made. Contacting the insurance company before delivery will ensure your baby is properly insured from day one.
Are There Insurance Restrictions for Surrogates?
Some situations may prevent a woman from qualifying as a surrogate due to insurance restrictions. One of the most common barriers involves government assistance programs such as Medicaid. Women who receive Medicaid benefits may not be eligible to act as surrogates because Medicaid considers all surrogacy-related compensation income. Since Medicaid has strict income limits, payments received under a surrogacy contract could make a surrogate ineligible for benefits.
Beyond government assistance programs, insurance coverage for surrogacy varies significantly by state. Some states have more accessible ACA plans that allow coverage for surrogate pregnancies, while others have stricter exclusions. Because state laws impact surrogacy agreements, insurance options, and medical costs, working with a surrogacy agency that understands these complexities is essential. An experienced agency can help both surrogates and intended parents navigate insurance requirements based on their specific state laws and policies.
How Pathways to Parenthood Helps You Navigate Surrogacy Insurance
Understanding surrogacy insurance can be challenging, but working with an experienced agency can make the process much easier. At Pathways to Parenthood, we assist both surrogates and intended parents in reviewing insurance policies, finding the best coverage options, and ensuring all medical expenses are accounted for. Our team has extensive experience in navigating the legal and financial aspects of surrogacy so that you can move forward with confidence.
If you are a prospective surrogate, we can help determine whether your existing insurance policy covers surrogacy or if additional coverage is needed. If you are an intended parent, we can guide you through the process of securing the right insurance for both the surrogate’s pregnancy and your baby after birth. With expert support and guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and focus on the journey ahead.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your surrogacy journey, contact Pathways to Parenthood today for expert guidance on insurance coverage and more. We are here to help you every step of the way!
If you’re ready to take the next step in your surrogacy journey, contact Pathways to Parenthood today for expert guidance on insurance coverage and more. We are here to help you every step of the way!
Final Thoughts on Surrogacy Insurance
Navigating surrogacy insurance is an essential part of the process for both surrogates and intended parents. Since no federal laws require insurers to cover surrogacy, and policies vary widely, it is important to review insurance options early to avoid unexpected costs. By working with a knowledgeable surrogacy agency like Pathways to Parenthood, you can ensure that all medical expenses are adequately covered and focus on what matters most—the journey to building a family.
With the proper planning and support, surrogacy insurance does not have to be overwhelming. Pathways to Parenthood is here to help every step of the way. Start your surrogacy journey with us today!