The Surrogate’s Complete Guide: What to Expect During Pregnancy

Grace G
Oct 18, 2023
3 min read

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Modern gestational surrogacy is an extraordinary avenue where women selflessly help others fulfill their dreams of parenthood. This beautiful journey is composed of several stages, starting from screenings and medical assessments, and culminating in the moment everyone eagerly awaits: pregnancy and childbirth. Congratulations on embarking on this incredible voyage with Patriot Conceptions! Once your blood test confirms pregnancy, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate each trimester of your gestational surrogacy for a smooth and rewarding experience.

First Trimester: Early Stages

During the first trimester, your pregnancy will be closely monitored by our team of experts, including IVF doctors, at a location convenient for you, either at the recipient parents’ office or a nearby monitoring clinic. Here’s what you can anticipate during the initial trimester:

4-6 Weeks: An ultrasound will be conducted to verify the presence of a gestational sac in your uterus.
6-8 Weeks: Another ultrasound will be performed to confirm the fetal heartbeat.
10 Weeks: You’ll have one to two more visits with our IVF specialists before transitioning to OB care. Your clinical coordinator will guide you on gradually tapering off the IVF medications as per your doctor’s instructions.

Second and Third Trimesters: Transition to OB Care

Once the pregnancy is confirmed with a fetal heartbeat ultrasound, your surrogate coordinator will assist you in transitioning to Obstetrician (OB) care. Together, you, the intended parents, and our team will choose the best in-network OB or hospital to ensure the smooth progression of your pregnancy.

Before your first OB appointment, your Surrogate Match Coordinator will ensure your OB has all the relevant information from your IVF cycle and pregnancy, a copy of your insurance card, and your medical records from the IVF clinic.

Screening Tests in the Second Trimester

Most intended parents prefer non-invasive pregnancy screening tests, including the Nuchal Translucency ultrasound, first and second trimester blood tests, and the NIPT blood test, around 12 weeks. You can coordinate these tests with your OB, or we can provide referrals in your area, if you’re willing to travel.

In some cases, intended parents may opt for invasive testing, such as amniocentesis or Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS), if non-invasive testing raises concerns. Rest assured, you will be compensated for any inconvenience associated with these tests.

Legal Processes

Around the 16th week of pregnancy, the legal parentage process will commence with the same attorneys who assisted with the initial contract. Depending on your state’s laws, both you and your spouse (if applicable) may need to sign documents affirming the intended parents’ legal rights to the baby ahead of the birth. In some states, post-birth steps may be required, potentially leading to a court date to solidify legal parentage.

After Birth Support

After giving birth, please maintain contact with us and the intended parents for any postpartum medical appointments. We’re eager to hear about your recovery and provide support and gratitude whenever needed.

Experience the Rewarding Journey of Surrogacy with Patriot Conceptions

At Patriot Conceptions, we take immense pride in being a leading surrogacy agency, committed to supporting you throughout this life-affirming journey. We highly value your contribution as a surrogate, and we’re dedicated to ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.

Contact Us Today!

Your extraordinary surrogacy journey with Patriot Conceptions awaits! Reach out to us today, and we’ll provide you with all the information and support you need to make this journey as seamless and fulfilling as possible. Your choice to be a surrogate is a gift beyond measure, and we’re here to ensure it’s a truly remarkable experience for you and the intended parents.

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The Surrogate's Complete Guide: What to Expect During Pregnancy