Preparing for Your Surrogacy Journey: Essential Tips

Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a life-changing decision, and preparing yourself in advance can make the process smoother and more efficient. Whether you're just starting to explore the possibility or actively getting ready to apply, these essential tips will help ensure you're in the best position to move forward.

1. Check Your Vitamin D Levels

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in reproductive health, and low levels can potentially delay your journey. Before applying, get your Vitamin D levels checked, and if they are low, consider taking supplements to bring them within a healthy range. 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L) or higher is often considered sufficient, while levels below 20 ng/mL are considered deficient. 

2. Birth Control Considerations

If you are using hormonal birth control such as an IUD (like Mirena), a Nexplanon - a progestin implant, or Depo-Provera shots, a hormonal injection - you will need to remove them or stop. You wait at least two months before starting the process. With the shots even for 6 months. These forms of birth control can impact your natural cycle and affect the thickness of your uterine lining, both of which are important factors in surrogacy.

(Until starting the process consider using condoms as an alternative birth control)

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet & Lifestyle

Most fertility clinics require a BMI under 32, and some have even stricter guidelines of 30 or below. Maintaining a balanced diet and active lifestyle can help meet these requirements while also promoting overall health. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle can reduce glucose levels, cholesterol, and even blood pressure—key factors for a smooth surrogacy experience.

4. Keep Your Pap Smear Up to Date

A recent pap smear is required for your medical clearance. Ensure you have an updated test result and a clearance letter from your doctor, as the clinic will request this information during the screening process.

5. Gather Your Medical Records

If possible, try to collect records of your previous pregnancies and deliveries in advance. Having these ready can help expedite the process. However, if you’re unable to obtain them yourself, don’t worry, once you’ve signed the necessary release forms, we will assist in gathering this information for you.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for a surrogacy journey involves both medical and lifestyle considerations but taking these steps ahead of time can help streamline the process. By ensuring your body is in optimal health and your paperwork is in order, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling journey as a gestational carrier.

If you’re considering surrogacy and have questions, feel free to reach out—we’re here to guide you every step of the way!