As intended parents, delivery day is the pinnacle of your surrogacy journey. We understand that you may have questions about the logistics of this special day, so we’ve tried to answer these questions for you below.
Will I be able to deliver on time?
This is a good conversation with your successor. You want to know at what stage she gave birth to her own children. Is he early? it’s too late? forced?
It’s also a good idea to start communicating about delivery when your surrogate has OB appointments between 34 and 37 weeks. The OB will check her during these visits to determine how much she can grow, and this will give you a better idea of when the baby might arrive. Remember, however, that some women can be 3cm dilated for the week!
Pack your bags!
Bring baby clothes in different sizes because you don’t really know how big or small they will be until they are born. Keep in mind that most hospitals will take newborn photos, so keep an outfit for these photos in mind if this is something you might want to purchase.
Wear comfortable clothes and bring a few extra clothes if traveling. Our Coordinators always suggest bringing nice, fluffy towels and slippers in case you plan to shower in the hospital. Also, don’t forget toiletries, chargers, snacks, cash (for food or parking), games, or a good book. You may want to do something while your surrogate is in labor.
While the hospital will provide formula and diapers, if you plan to bring breast milk, be sure to discuss this with your coordinator, as we will need to discuss hospital policies.
Also make sure and install your car seat before arrival. Germ covers are not required, but they are a good consideration.
Make sure you bring your ID, PBO (legal documents), health insurance card, and any important documents. If you’re traveling, make sure you bring some formula and bottles home.
What happens when the surrogate is in labor?
Leave all your items in the car, even the car seat! Head to the Labor & Deliver unit and check in. The staff will give you wrist bands and you may need to sign some documents. You will move into your own room after the baby arrives, and at that time, you can take your things with you. You will likely be in the hospital for 24-48 hours. You can leave immediately when released by the pediatrician. If you plan to get circumcised, discuss it with your coordinator and find out the hospital policy unless you prefer to see your pediatrician.
What if I miss the actual labor?
It happens sometimes. Babies have their own timing! If you miss a delivery, you will still go to the Labor and Delivery unit when you arrive at the hospital and the staff will check you. They will give you directions where you should go at that time.
We have been discharged! What now?
Many new parents stay in an Airbnb for a few days to adjust to having a newborn. The other parents are going home. Only you know what is right for your new family. If you’re driving, plan to stop along the way to change and feed the baby.
If you are flying, you can wear a baby carrier on the plane (TSA Tips) or take them to their covered carrier. You’ll also want to contact the airline to find out their newborn travel policy and travel documents are required. Usually, you’ll need your release forms from the hospital and the pre-birth order paperwork from your lawyer (You won’t get your birth certificate yet). Again, prepare bottles for your journey home. You also want to make sure you call your insurance and add a baby to your insurance because you only have 30 days to do this.
Our entire agency would like to thank you for allowing us to guide you on your journey to parenthood. We are excited for you and your growing family. We can’t wait to hear all about the birth and see your baby in your arms.
We help Intended Parents Create a Happy Family through Egg donation and Surrogacy
with the help of nursing Egg Donors and Alternates.
Learn More, Surrogacy Costs, Why use an agency, How we are different,
Finding the right carrier, Getting Started
