Having a healthy surrogate pregnancy is ultimately desired in any surrogacy process.
Gestational surrogacy is a complex procedure both legally and emotionally. The surrogate has to go through a lot of changes in her lifestyle and as a whole. Being a surrogate, you want to provide the best to the baby. So, if you start healthy not only the baby will be healthy but also you will enjoy your surrogacy pregnancy as well. Following tips for healthy surrogate pregnancy is a win-win situation for all the parties.
Surrogacy presents a remarkable opportunity to assist couples in their journey to start a family and have children. As an experienced surrogate, you are well-versed in the intricacies of childbirth.
Your awareness of the significance of maintaining good health throughout the pregnancy journey is commendable.
But what should a surrogate mother do to keep herself and her baby healthy?
Here are the top 10 tips for healthy and successful surrogate pregnancy:
#1. Stay active throughout your pregnancy
It is not advisable to perform heavy workouts during pregnancy but then you can always perform low-level physical workouts throughout the pregnancy.
Doctors actually suggest that every day during your pregnancy you get at least 30 minutes of low-impact physical activity. Consider things such as yoga, running, swimming, or a course of prenatal exercise.
Exercise will reduce the symptoms of your pregnancy, increase your mood, and make work and delivery much smoother. Please talk to your doctor about the right workout for you.
#2. Eat a well-balanced meal
Consuming a well-balanced meal is always important, but consuming a variety of healthy foods during pregnancy is particularly important.
Eat plenty of protein, vegetables, and fresh fruits. One should always avoid undercooked eggs and meat, some fish that may contain high mercury levels and unpasteurized dairy products. It is also advisable to have only good sources of carbohydrates like whole grains and avoid junk food.
#3. Keep yourself hydrated
Likewise, while you are pregnant, staying hydrated is even more critical.
Dehydration can cause premature contractions, and the transfer of vitamins and minerals to the baby by water is an important part. Try installing an app that encourages you to drink water and purchase an hourly branded water bottle to meet your daily fluid intake.
#4. Get rid of the harmful substances
Clearly, when you are pregnant, you should not take drugs or smoke, or drink, and this is also stated in your surrogacy contract.
Furthermore, you should also be mindful of some other harmful substances— for example, you should avoid exposure to chemicals, including common household cleaning supplies, as well as caffeine.
Before taking any over-the-counter medication, also check with your doctor. Some may be harmful to the baby or interfere with other fertility medicines you take.
#5. Minimize the stress levels
You are likely to experience all of your pregnancy’s daily mood swings and emotional difficulties, so find ways to relax and reduce your stress.
If some of your obligations slip a little, give yourself a break and focus on your support system for surrogacy. If you have difficult feelings, stop complaining to the expected parents— then call your surrogacy therapist or other professional psychological support counselors when you need it.
#6. Take enough sleep
As you know, it’s hard work to grow a child. It is therefore important that you get at least eight hours of a night’s sleep to allow your body time to recover.
The more you sleep, the less likely you will get sick, and the better you will be able to protect yourself and your baby. After your first trimester, you will have to sleep on your side to avoid cutting off the baby’s blood supply.
#7. Take your prenatal vitamins
You will take prenatal vitamins before the delivery of the embryo and throughout your surrogate pregnancy to ensure that you and the baby receive essential nutrients that promote healthy growth and development.
Note that a well-balanced diet should be supplemented by nutrients, not substituted.
#8. Try to receive an increased amount of prenatal care
During your surrogate pregnancy, fertility experts and your own OBGYN will monitor you closely to ensure that you and your baby are safe.
You will probably have checks and appointments more frequently than you would with a personal pregnancy. Having all your prenatal appointments, having your doctor updated during your pregnancy, and expressing any questions or concerns you may have when they arise is important.
#9. Track your pregnancy
Keeping a journal throughout your pregnancy can be helpful. Track your changing symptoms, including weight gain and mood swings, as well as the medicines you take for fertility.
This will help you keep track of any odd signs you might want to tell your doctor about. You have previously experienced childbirth, so listen to your body and be mindful of any discrepancies between this pregnancy and your prior pregnancies.
You may also want to record your pregnancy with photographs— the planned parents would love to have them in their baby book.
#10. Enjoy the experience
Eventually, make sure you relax and enjoy in the first place all the things you love to be pregnant. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by someone else’s burden to carry a baby, but it’s important to maintain your mental health for your sake and the baby’s sake.
Last but not least, for healthy surrogate pregnancy just live in the moment and let each day come with lots of hope and health. Surrogacy can be a new experience for you, so take this time to learn more about your own body and the clinical impact of surrogacy. You’ll have already passed testing to make sure you’re prepared to be a surrogate clinically and psychologically, so know that you can handle the surrogacy challenges, even if things still seem to be challenging.
More resources on surrogate pregnancy:
How to find a surrogate mother?
Conclusion for Tips for healthy surrogate pregnancy
These are the top 10 tips for healthy surrogate pregnancy. But each pregnancy is different and each woman experiences it differently.
One should take extra care of oneself during pregnancy and consult the agency counselor or the doctor whenever you feel something is wrong. But last do not forget to enjoy your surrogacy journey to the fullest.
If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at IVF Conceptions. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services.
FAQs For Healthy Surrogate Pregnancy
What are the essential health considerations for a surrogate during pregnancy?
Essential health considerations for a surrogate during pregnancy include regular prenatal check-ups, proper nutrition, adequate rest, monitoring of pregnancy-related conditions, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Are there specific dietary guidelines for maintaining a healthy surrogate pregnancy?
Yes, specific dietary guidelines for maintaining a healthy surrogate pregnancy typically include a well-balanced diet rich in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, as well as staying hydrated and avoiding harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco.
How can a surrogate mother manage potential emotional challenges during pregnancy?
A surrogate mother can manage potential emotional challenges during pregnancy by seeking emotional support from her support system, joining support groups for surrogate mothers, and engaging in stress-reducing activities such as meditation and counseling.
What medical screenings and tests are typically required for a surrogate pregnancy?
Typically, medical screenings and tests for a surrogate pregnancy include a comprehensive medical evaluation, infectious disease testing, genetic screening, and psychological assessments for both the surrogate and intended parents.
Are there any restrictions on physical activities for a surrogate mother during pregnancy?
Yes, there may be restrictions on physical activities for a surrogate mother during pregnancy. These restrictions are usually discussed with the healthcare provider and may vary based on individual circumstances.
How can a surrogate ensure proper prenatal care and check-ups?
A surrogate can ensure proper prenatal care and check-ups by attending regular medical appointments, following the healthcare provider’s recommendations, and staying informed about the pregnancy’s progress.
What are some potential risks associated with surrogate pregnancies and how can they be minimized?
Potential risks associated with surrogate pregnancies include medical complications, emotional challenges, and legal issues. These risks can be minimized through thorough medical screenings, open communication between all parties involved, and having legal contracts in place.
Can a surrogate mother have a healthy pregnancy while carrying multiple babies?
Yes, a surrogate mother can have a healthy pregnancy while carrying multiple babies. However, multiple pregnancies may pose additional risks, and close monitoring by healthcare professionals is essential.
Are there any support groups or resources available for surrogate mothers during their pregnancy journey?
Yes, there are support groups and resources available for surrogate mothers during their pregnancy journey, offering emotional support, guidance, and information. Such resources can be found through surrogacy agencies or organizations dedicated to reproductive assistance.
What legal considerations should a surrogate mother be aware of regarding the pregnancy?
Surrogate mothers should be aware of legal considerations related to parental rights, custody arrangements, compensation agreements, and the importance of having comprehensive surrogacy contracts in place to protect all parties involved.
