Surrogacy has become a generous choice for compassionate individuals who want to help others experience the joy of parenthood. As a surrogate, you play an invaluable role in making dreams come true for individuals and couples facing various fertility challenges. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the medical surrogacy process, focusing on the rigorous screening you, as a potential surrogate, will go through before embarking on this transformative journey. Additionally, we’ll explore the important steps taken to prepare your body for conception with fertility drugs, highlighting the important role you play in the beautiful gift of life you offer intended parents. Your generosity and dedication as a surrogate is essential to creating a deep and lasting impact on the lives of others.
Before Surrogacy Treatment: Surrogate Medical Screening
One of the important steps in the surrogacy process is the medical examination of potential surrogates. Patriot Conceptions follows strict guidelines to ensure the health and welfare of both the surrogate and the intended parents. Surrogate medical screening is a comprehensive assessment that includes various examinations and tests to determine if the candidate is physically and emotionally suitable to carry a pregnancy for another person.
In general, surrogate medical screening includes:
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Health History Review: The Patriot Conceptions medical team reviews the candidate’s medical history in detail. Any pre-existing medical conditions or previous pregnancies are considered to evaluate potential risks and complications.
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Physical examination: A thorough physical examination is performed to assess the surrogate’s general health, including vital signs, body mass index (BMI), and any apparent health issues.
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Blood test: A series of blood tests are performed to check for infectious diseases, such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, and other sexually transmitted diseases. Additionally, the surrogate’s blood type and Rh factor are determined.
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Hormone Level Assessment: Hormonal imbalances can affect the success of the surrogacy process. Blood tests are performed to assess hormone levels, including estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones.
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Genetic Testing: Both the carrier and partner undergo genetic testing to identify any potential genetic disorders or inherited conditions.
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Pap Smear and STD Testing: A cervical screening (Pap smear) is done to detect any abnormal cell growth. Additionally, the surrogate is tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
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Psychological Assessment: Surrogacy can be emotionally challenging, so a psychological evaluation is important to ensure that the candidate is mentally prepared for the process. This test assesses the surrogate’s mental health, resilience, and ability to cope with the emotional aspects of surrogacy.
It is important to prepare yourself physically and mentally before the screening and lab day. Proper preparation will ensure that you are in the best possible health to undergo the assessments. Here are some important steps you should take before surrogate medical screening:
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No Alcohol or Smoking: In the weeks before the screening, it is important to avoid alcohol and smoking. Both substances can have adverse effects on your overall health and can interfere with test results. Avoiding these habits will not only improve your well-being but also demonstrate your commitment to the process.
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Follow Medication Guidelines: If you are currently taking any medications or supplements, strictly follow your doctor’s instructions. Inform the medical team about any medications you are using before the screening.
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Avoid Over-the-Counter Medicines: Unless prescribed by your health care provider, avoid taking any over-the-counter medications or supplements leading up to the day of the screening.
Preparing for Conception with Fertility Drugs
Once a suitable surrogate has been selected and her medical examination is complete, the next step is to prepare her body for conception. This involves using fertility drugs to synchronize her menstrual cycle with the intended cycle of the mother or egg donor, increasing the chances of successful embryo implantation.
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Hormonal Drugs: The surrogate will undergo hormone therapy to regulate her menstrual cycle. This usually involves taking estrogen supplements to thicken the lining of the uterus and prepare it for implantation of an embryo.
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Coordination with Egg Donor or Intended Mother: In cases where the intended mother is unable to donate her eggs, or if the couple opts for an egg donor, synchronization is critical. The Patriot Conceptions medical team works closely with all parties to ensure their cycles are appropriate.
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Embryo Transfer: Once the surrogate’s uterus is adequately prepared, the fertilized embryo(s) are transferred into her womb through a minimally invasive procedure. This process is often guided by ultrasound technology for accuracy and precision.
The surrogacy medical process is a complex and carefully orchestrated journey, and Patriot Conceptions is committed to providing exceptional care and support to all parties involved. Thorough surrogate medical screening ensures the health and well-being of the surrogate, the future child, and the intended parents. By preparing the body with an alternative to fertility drugs, Patriot Conceptions enhances the chances of a successful pregnancy, making dreams of parenthood a beautiful reality. If you’re considering surrogacy as a viable option, take heart Patriot Conceptions to be your guiding light through this transformative experience.
