Surrogacy doesn’t end at childbirth. The post-birth phase - or "4th trimester" as it's sometimes called, is the stage where surrogates manage their physical and emotional recovery. In this post, we will take a look at some important tips to help make the transition back to everyday life a bit smoother.
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Immediate Post-Birth Care
1. Medical Recovery: Post-delivery, surrogates receive medical care to monitor and manage recovery. Making sure to follow all healthcare advice is essential for a smooth physical recovery.
2. Hospital Discharge Procedures: Understand and follow the hospital’s specific discharge procedures for surrogates, ensuring all paperwork accurately reflects the wishes and agreed upon terms between you and the parents of the baby. Don't hesitate to reach out to your attorney and/or surrogacy agency should you need any assistance.
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Legal and Administrative Steps
3. Legal Documentation: Confirm all legal documents are finalized, transferring parental rights to the intended parents. Your attorney will guide you on what is needed and when.
4. Communication with Intended Parents: Maintain clear communication with the intended parents to manage expectations, particularly during the newborn’s early days. Your surrogacy contract may specify any visits you plan to have with them and the baby, whether breast milk will be provided, etc.
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Emotional Transition
5. Emotional Support: The postpartum period after any delivery can be challenging, and surrogacy births are no different. As your body regulates hormones and heals, it is normal to experience highs and lows emotionally. Contact your surrogacy agency and don't hesitate to seek professional support or join support groups tailored for surrogates to address any emotional difficulties. Your support network of family and friends will be helpful during this time as well.
6. Reintegration into Everyday Life: Gradually reintegrate into your daily routine, considering your readiness to return to work and family life. Take full advantage of any planned maternity leave from work, and utilize resources agreed upon in your surrogacy contract such as postpartum house cleaning, meal services, child care, etc.
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Just as you would after any childbirth, taking care of yourself during the postpartum period is your first priority. Allow yourself the time and rest you need to fully recover and return to your normal schedule. You have just completed an amazing journey: creating a family! Be gentle with yourself as you refocus your time and attention on yourself, your family and the goals you have set for yourself now that your surrogacy journey has come to an end. You deserve it.