Important Things to Think About When Starting the Surrogacy Process
Surrogacy is a gift given by a woman who chooses to give birth to a child and then share the gift of that child with a family unable to have a child by natural means. Many families who choose surrogacy prefer to raise a child who has the genes of at least one of the prospective parents. When you decide to participate in the surrogacy process, you may have many feelings and concerns about the process. Here are some things you should consider when you’re at the beginning of the surrogacy process on both sides of the process.
Choosing the Right Kind of Job
Before becoming a parent, consider what type of job and lifestyle you’ll want to have when you are a parent. You’ll want a job with good hours, a good salary, and a promising future. Make sure you research local job listings in the area to see where you can apply.
Reasons to Become a Surrogate
Statistics show thousands of women choose to be surrogates every year. They often choose to be a surrogate to help a family who has struggled with infertility. Other surrogates decide to give birth to a child to help an LGBTQ friend or family member who wants to start a family. There are also women who enjoy being pregnant but don’t want to add to their own families. Those women see the pregnancy as a gift they’re able to give.
Reasons to Use a Surrogate
Most families choose to get the assistance of a surrogate because of one of the partners’ health issues. Often, they’ve struggled with infertility despite trying to have children, or they may have some of the reasons listed above. Some couples choose a surrogate who is part of their family, or they can go through an agency. Surrogacy arrangements may also be made via newspaper or magazine listings.
When You Become a Surrogate
If you’ve decided to become a surrogate, then it’s important to discuss your decision with your family. Emotional and physical preparation is necessary for you when preparing for the coming of this child. Getting your family involved will help you get the emotional support you’ll need.
Important Issues to Be Discussed
Pregnancy can have many outcomes, so the parents and the surrogate should talk about them. For example, what would your plans be if the surrogate should give birth to twins? All the people involved should also discuss whether the surrogate will allow the prospective parents to be in the delivery room for the baby’s birth. It’s also important to thoroughly discuss whether the surrogate wants to participate in the child’s life.
What About the Child’s Future?
If you’re the prospective parents of a child being carried by a surrogate, then it could be crucial to decide where your child might go to preschool. Statistics show that 1.5 million children, including 5% of 3-year-olds and over 30% of 4-year-olds, attended preschool this past year. Some preschools have waiting lists, so it may be suitable for prospective parents to make an application to desired preschools.
Also, you need to ensure you find the right dentist for your child as well. According to Zippia, 46% of dentists have a bachelor’s degree. This is an important aspect to think about when choosing a dentist in the area. Finding a dentist early on can ensure you’re getting the proper care for your child.
Surrogacy continues to be a viable option that can be a solution for someone’s desire to be a parent. Both parties can benefit from this process. By thinking through the above considerations, you will be able to overcome any challenges that could occur during the process, whether you’re a surrogate or intended parent.