Delivery Day as a Surrogate Mother
Delivery day as a surrogate mother is a significant and emotional moment in the surrogacy process. It is the moment you all worked so hard for! Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman carries a pregnancy for another person or couple who may not be able to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. When the surrogate mother reaches her due date and goes into labor, it marks the culmination of months of hard work, preparation, medical procedures, and emotional investment.
Here is what you can typically expect on the delivery day as a surrogate mother:
Hospital Arrival: On the day of delivery, you will typically check into the hospital or birthing center, where the birth will take place. The intended parents or parent may be present, depending on the arrangement and your prior discussions.
Birth Plan: You and the intended parents should have discussed and agreed upon a birth plan ahead of time. This includes decisions about pain management, who will be present during labor and delivery, and the role of the intended parents in the birth process.
Emotional Support: The emotional aspect of surrogacy can be intense. You may experience a mix of emotions, including joy, excitement, and a sense of accomplishment, as well as sadness. It’s important to have a support system in place, which may include a counselor, therapist, your husband/partner or friends and family who can provide emotional support during this time.It is good to keep open communication with your support people about how YOU are feeling and what you need.
Labor and Delivery: You will go through the labor and delivery process just like any other pregnancy. Your healthcare team will provide medical care, monitor your progress, and assist with pain management if needed. The intended parents may be present in the delivery room to witness the birth of their child if that is part of your agreement.
Post-Delivery: After the baby is born, the medical staff will provide care to both you and the newborn. The baby will be placed in the care of the intended parents, and you will begin the postpartum recovery process. YOU DID IT QUEEN. Now it is time to HEAL!
Legal Procedures: Following the birth, there may be legal procedures to establish the parental rights of the intended parents (depending on the laws in the state you gave birth). This can involve the signing of legal documents and obtaining birth certificates with the intended parents’ names.
Emotional Transition: It is common for surrogate mothers to experience a range of emotions after the birth, including a sense of fulfillment, pride, and potentially some sadness or emotional adjustment. Remember that your feelings are valid, and it’s important to have support during this time. You did an AMAZING thing that you SHOULD be so proud of, but you also have hormones crashing… take care of YOURSELF!
Postpartum Care: You will receive postpartum care and support from your healthcare provider to ensure your physical and emotional well-being during the recovery process.This is also a great time to lean on your support system as you navigate back into your normal, amazing life having created such a miracle for someone else !
The experience of delivering a baby as a surrogate mother can be both rewarding and emotionally complex. Open and clear communication with the intended parents, as well as access to emotional support, is crucial to navigating the challenges and joys associated with this unique and selfless journey. Legal and medical professionals with experience in surrogacy can also provide guidance and support throughout the process.
After the birth of the precious wombmate you carried, you are bound to feel sad that it is over – but the overwhelming amount of PRIDE you feel having created such a profound difference for someone else. You will be sad, happy and fulfilled – it is ok to FEEL IT ALL, and if you ever need any additional support know that we are always here to support you!!!
