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5 Considerations When Choosing a Surrogacy or Egg Donation Agency



As you ponder the possibility of embarking on a journey as a surrogate, you are probably immersed in extensive research. Trying to understand the process, from the compensation aspect to the physical expectations, is vital. However, what you might not discover even in the most comprehensive web searches or from consulting agencies is the candid truth about life as a surrogate.


Given this, we sought the wisdom of seasoned surrogates and asked them to share their stories with us. What was their experience like? What took them by surprise? What knowledge do they wish they had prior to becoming a surrogate? We bring to you the hidden truths they discovered while assisting others in expanding their families.


THE HIDDEN TRUTHS OF BECOMING A SURROGATE


1. BECOMING A SURROGATE IS AS REWARDING AS THE PRICELESS JOY YOU'RE OFFERING.

Although it's evident that surrogacy brings immense joy to prospective parents by fulfilling their dream of having a child, the degree of fulfillment it grants to surrogates is less known. Imagine the most meaningful gift you've ever given someone for a special occasion and your anticipation to present it. Multiply that feeling many times over, and you've captured the sentiment of being a surrogate. Besides financial gains, the emotional satisfaction makes an enormous impact on their lives, thus, changing families' lives.


2. THE CONCEPT OF 'GIVING AWAY THE BABY' IS A MISCONCEPTION.


Surrogates commence this journey fully aware that they are solely assisting in building another family. Modern-say surrogacy is gestational, implying that the surrogate is in no way biologically linked to the baby; she doesn't contribute her eggs to form the embryo nor share DNA with the child. Many compare the experience to that of being an aunt– looking after the child without the prospect of taking it home with them.


Elaine, a three-time surrogate, compares it to her experience as a school teacher: "I love and care for my students throughout the school year as they were my own, but when the academic year comes to an end, I'm prepared to see them progress. That was my experience with surrogacy– while nurturing the baby, I treated it as mine, but when the time came for delivery, I was set for the prospective parents to undertake their roles."





3. THE SURROGACY WORLD IS VAST AND FOSTERS A STRONG SENSE OF COMMUNITY.


Researching surrogacy will lead you to numerous social groups and communities equipped to answer any inquiries and share their experiences. Numerous agencies also offer private networks for surrogates to interact and connect, serving as invaluable resources. It's beneficial to hear from surrogates who've been in your shoes as they'll be more than willing to share their journeys and answer any questions.


4. THE POTENTIAL FOR LIFELONG BONDS WITH INTENDED PARENTS.


Surrogacy is indeed an emotional journey, which can span across a couple of years. During this time, you share intimate moments with your intended parents. These ties transcend the immediacy of the surrogacy process, often extending to their extended families.


Emily shared, "Not only am I close with my intended parents, but I've also visited my surrobabies' grandparents, aunts, and uncles even when the surrobabies weren't present! I even coached their aunt through her childbirth process a few weeks after I delivered.”


5. A RECOVERY PERIOD IS ESSENTIAL - BOTH PHYSICALLY AND EMOTIONALLY.


Post-delivery, you'll experience a sense of accomplishment paired with the need for recovery and recalibrating. Surrogacy is an emotional rollercoaster, especially when you deliver your surrobaby. You'll be ecstatic watching prospective parents meet their child while realizing the magnitude of what you've done.


6. YOUR CHILDREN WILL UNDERSTAND YOUR ROLE QUITE SIMPLY.


Children are incredibly perceptive; how you explain your surrogacy journey to them depends on their age appropriateness. No matter your child's age, introducing them to the intended parents aids in their understanding of your role. Plenty of surrogates have shared their experiences of discussing surrogacy with their children, which you might find helpful.


Incorporating the insights of those experienced in this journey, alongside your findings, will help you make an informed decision. Becoming a surrogate is a remarkable journey, leaving women with a wholesome feeling due to their invaluable contribution to their intended parents.
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