You’ve always wanted to help someone build their family—and now you’re considering surrogacy. But what if you’ve also been managing ADHD with medication? Can those two realities coexist?

Many potential surrogates wonder if taking medications like Adderall, Vyvanse or other treatments might disqualify them from the surrogacy process.

Have specific questions? Reach out to our surrogacy specialists—no pressure, just answers.

This article explores the complex relationship between ADHD medication and surrogacy eligibility, so you can make an informed decision and prepare for the journey ahead.

 Can You Be a Surrogate if You Take ADHD Medication?

No. In general, most surrogacy agencies and clinics require surrogates to be free of medications that could pose a risk to a developing fetus.

Since many ADHD medications, particularly stimulants like Adderall or Ritalin, are classified as controlled substances and are not recommended during pregnancy, you may be asked to discontinue use before moving forward.

However, a diagnosis of ADHD alone does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate.

Learn more about our surrogate requirements and how we walk you through the screening process.

What Medications Disqualify You from Being a Surrogate?

As a surrogate, you are carrying a child for someone else, often for individuals or couples who have spent years, sometimes decades, battling infertility or pregnancy loss.

Any element that introduces avoidable risk must be carefully evaluated to honor the hopes and investments of the intended parents.

We prioritize the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby. As a result, certain medications can be disqualifying. These commonly include:

• Stimulants for ADHD (Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin, Concerta)
• Antidepressants and antipsychotics
• Benzodiazepines and anti-anxiety medications (Xanax, Klonopin)
• Mood stabilizers (Lithium, Depakote)

Many of these drugs are known to carry risks during pregnancy, such as birth defects, low birth weight or neurological impacts on the fetus.

It’s important to disclose all medications honestly and consult with your prescribing doctor and the agency’s medical team.

What is Included in Surrogate Psych Screening?

Mental health is a major component of surrogate screening. Agencies and fertility clinics typically require a thorough psychological evaluation that assesses:

• Emotional stability and coping mechanisms
• History of mood disorders, anxiety or trauma
• Ability to manage stress
• Support system and lifestyle factors

A diagnosis like ADHD does not immediately disqualify a candidate. Instead, the focus is on how well-managed the condition is and whether it might interfere with the emotional demands of surrogacy.

If you’ve been successfully managing ADHD without medication or under the guidance of a mental health professional, this can work in your favor.

Understanding the Effects of Adderall on Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Some ADHD medications are known to carry risks during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Stimulant medications have been linked to potential issues such as low birth weight and preterm birth.

While research is ongoing, many healthcare providers recommend discontinuing these medications while pregnant.

If you’re currently taking ADHD medication, your surrogacy agency or clinic may require you to wean off the medication prior to embryo transfer.

In many cases, a period of medication-free observation is needed to confirm that you can safely manage your symptoms without pharmaceutical support.

Finding Balance with Adderall Alternatives for Pregnancy During Surrogacy

If you’re asked to discontinue ADHD medication, it’s important to explore alternative management strategies. These might include:

• Behavioral therapy (CBT, executive functioning coaching)
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Organizational tools and time management aids
• Diet, exercise and sleep hygiene improvements
• Support groups for adult women with ADHD

Working with a therapist or ADHD coach can help you transition off medication and prepare for the surrogacy journey with confidence.

Surrogate Pregnancy Safe ADHD Supplements

In addition to lifestyle strategies, some individuals explore supplements that may support focus, attention and emotional regulation.

While not a substitute for medication, the following supplements are commonly discussed with healthcare providers:

• Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil) for brain health and cognitive function
• Magnesium to support mood regulation and reduce hyperactivity
• Zinc which may influence dopamine regulation in the brain
• Iron (particularly for those with deficiencies that may exacerbate ADHD symptoms)
• L-Theanine for calm focus and reduced anxiety

Always speak with your physician before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you’re planning to become pregnant, to ensure safety and appropriateness for your individual needs.

ADHD Support Groups for Women

• Moms Living with ADD/ADHD: A Facebook group for mothers with ADHD who are looking for support and advice.
• CHADD: A national non-profit, Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, has an online support group for women with ADHD.
• r/adhdwomen: A subreddit dedicated to women with ADHD to find support and discuss their experiences.

Ready to Move Forward?

Every surrogacy journey is unique and finding the right agency can make all the difference.

We take time to understand your background, listen without judgment and guide you through the process with care are essential when navigating more nuanced eligibility situations like ADHD.

Always consult directly with your surrogacy specialist and fertility specialist to understand their guidelines and expectations.

If you’re prepared to meet the requirements for surrogacy, we can help you begin your journey. Fill out our simple form today.

One of the most important aspects of your surrogacy journey is ensuring both your health and the baby’s well-being, and the RhoGAM shot plays a crucial role in this.

While not every surrogate will be asked to take the RhoGAM injection, understanding what it is and why it is needed helps prepare you if it becomes part of your surrogate journey.

In this article, we’ll explain exactly why the RhoGAM shot is necessary, how it works, and what could happen if it’s missed.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to learn more about what to expect from the surrogacy process during your pregnancy.

Why Do I Need a Rhogam Shot as a Surrogate?

As a surrogate, your role is to carry and nurture the baby for another family. The RhoGAM shot helps ensure a healthy pregnancy by preventing complications related to Rh incompatibility.

If you’re Rh-negative and the baby you’re carrying is Rh-positive, your immune system might create antibodies that could harm the baby’s blood cells.

The RhoGAM shot neutralizes these antibodies before they can cause harm, keeping both you and the baby safe.

What is the Rh Factor in Pregnancy?

The Rh factor is essentially what determines if you have a positive or negative blood type. Negative blood types do not carry the Rh factor protein in their blood cells, while positive blood types do.

Why does this matter during surrogacy? If you’re carrying a baby with a different Rh factor, it can lead to complications.

If a surrogate’s blood type does not match that of the baby, there can be incompatibilities, which can lead to potential medical problems. The RhoGAM shot for pregnancy helps prevent complications.

How Does the RhoGAM Shot Work?

When you’re Rh-negative and pregnant with an Rh-positive baby, your immune system could start producing antibodies that attack the baby’s red blood cells. The RhoGAM shot stops this from happening.

By injecting Rh immunoglobulin (the substance in the RhoGAM shot), your body is prevented from making these harmful antibodies, which protects the baby and helps ensure a smoother pregnancy.

When Do I Get the RhoGAM Shot?

The injection is typically administered around 28 weeks pregnant.

You’ll likely need a second dose within 72 hours after birth—but only if the baby is Rh-positive.

Stay on top of your health by tracking important milestones like getting your RhoGAM shot at the right times. Talk to your doctor about scheduling it at the appropriate times during your surrogacy.

You can fill out our simple form to get a better idea of where the RhoGAM shot may fall in your surrogacy timeline.

Does a Surrogate Have to Have the Same Blood Type as the Intended Parents?

No. What matters most is whether you are Rh-negative or Rh-positive, not the overall blood type. You can still carry a child for another family even if your blood type differs from the intended parents’.

The only time this matters is when you are Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive, at which point the RhoGAM shot is necessary.

What Happens If I Don’t Get the RhoGAM Shot?

Skipping this shot can lead to serious complications like hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), where the baby’s red blood cells are destroyed, leading to anemia, jaundice, or even stillbirth in severe cases.

This is why it’s so important not to skip your RhoGAM injections.

Does the RhoGAM Shot Have Side Effects?

Like any medical treatment, the RhoGAM shot can cause some mild reactions. Common side effects include:

• Pain or swelling at the injection site
• Headache
• Fever
• Nausea

These side effects are usually short-lived and mild. Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience anything unusual, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider.

Next Steps

As a surrogate, your health and the baby’s well-being are your top priorities. By preventing Rh incompatibility, the shot minimizes risks and helps you have a smoother surrogacy experience.

If you have more questions or need further information about the RhoGAM shot and your surrogacy journey, contact a surrogacy specialist or healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Hormonal medications plays a role in preparing your body for embryo transfer and supporting early pregnancy. Without them, the chances of a successful implantation drop significantly.

In this guide, we’ll break down why surrogacy without hormones is typically not possible, what role the hormones play and how to cope with hormone side-effects.

Looking for support during your surrogacy journey? Contact us today to learn more about how we guide surrogates through every step of the process, including hormone management.

Keep reading to learn how to manage your hormones and feel more prepared during your surrogacy journey.

Do Surrogates Have to Take Hormones?

Yes. Surrogates take hormonal medications to prepare their body for implantation and support early pregnancy. These hormones ensure your uterine lining is ready for the embryo transfer and help maintain a stable environment for development.

Here are the key hormones used before embryo transfer:

• Estrogen (Estradiol, Estrace, or patches): Thickens the uterine lining to support implantation.
• Progesterone (injections or suppositories): Maintains a stable uterine lining and prevents early miscarriage.
• Lupron (Leuprolide Acetate): Suppresses natural ovulation to allow precise cycle control.
• Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): Signals the body to maintain pregnancy and supports progesterone production.
• Dexamethasone (steroid): Lowers immune response to prevent rejection of the embryo.

These medications contribute to higher embryo transfer success rates and ensuring the body is fully prepared for pregnancy.

I Want to Do Surrogacy Without Hormones Because I Don’t Like Needles

For many surrogates, hormone injections are a necessary part of the process, but they can be uncomfortable.

If you were hoping to opt for surrogacy without hormones because you want to avoid needles, there are some strategies to reduce the pain and make the experience a bit easier.

• Rotate injection sites: Try switching up the area where you inject each time. Alternate between your thighs and buttocks, and avoid injecting into the same spot repeatedly to prevent irritation.
• Consider shot blockers: Some surrogates find relief by using shot blockers, which are small devices that block the nerve signals during the injection. These can help minimize the pain by numbing the area temporarily.
• Use a warm compress: Before injecting, apply a warm compress to the area to help relax the muscle. This can make the injection feel smoother and reduce post-injection soreness.
• Massage the area: After the injection, gently massage the area for a few moments. This can help disperse the medication more evenly and relieve some of the tightness or tenderness you might feel.
• Use ice before the shot: Ice the area where you plan to inject for a few minutes to numb the skin. This can reduce the initial sting when the needle goes in.

While these methods won’t make the injections entirely painless, they can certainly make a difference in how you feel during this part of the journey. Learn more about hormone shots for surrogacy.

How to Cope with Side-Effects of Surrogacy Hormones

Every surrogate’s experience will be different. Most surrogates have experienced pregnancy before, but it’s important to note you may have a different reaction to these hormones than you had in your past pregnancies.

Dealing with hormonal shifts can cause significant discomfort, disorientation and mood swings. Even though surrogacy without hormones is not recommended, there are a few ways you can minimize these negative effects:

• Being purposeful with your diet: Creating a balanced diet can help your body stabilize itself during this period, and can have wonderful benefits for your health as well.
• Setting an exercise schedule: Getting consistent exercise helps you in several different ways, including helping manage your hormone response by introducing exercise-related endorphins.
• Leaning on your support system: Your family, friends, or whoever you have in your corner can help you adjust to this new phase of life. Don’t underestimate the importance of your support system.
• Talking with professionals: Discussing hormone regulation and coping strategies with your doctor, nutritionist, or even a councilor can only help.

Dealing With Hormones After Surrogacy and Child Birth

If you’re dealing with long-lasting affects after your surrogacy, here are some ways to cope with the recovery process:

1. Prenatal vitamins: Even after labor and delivery, pre-natal vitamins carry benefits for you. Remember our discussion of estrogen, serotonin and postpartum depression? Some supplemental estrogen can help minimize the harsh drop in serotonin, letting you adjust more steadily to your new chemical balance.
2. Reasonable expectations: It’s important to approach your post-pregnancy with an open mind. You’ve gone through a significant event, and your body has changed.  It may be quite a while before your body is back to its pre-pregnancy self.
3. Post-pregnancy workouts: Certain low-impact core and pelvic floor exercises carry extreme benefits to your body post-pregnancy.  Consult your physician for personalized care.
4. Ask for help: Your support network doesn’t disappear just because you’re no longer pregnant. Ask for help, be open about your needs, and lean on the people you trust. Be sure to maintain your scheduled checkups postpartum.

Can Hormones From Surrogacy Cause Cancer?

The hormones used in surrogacy are considered safe, with no proven link to cancer.

If you’re wondering about surrogacy without hormones because you’re worried about long-term risks, research has not found a direct link between fertility medications and an increased cancer risk.

What the research says:

• Breast cancer: Some studies have looked into whether estrogen-based fertility drugs raise the risk of breast cancer. So far, there’s no strong evidence to suggest they do.
• Ovarian cancer: Early research raised concerns about a possible connection, but more recent studies have found no clear link between fertility medications and ovarian cancer.
• Uterine cancer: While long-term estrogen exposure can be a risk factor, fertility treatments are only used for a short time and don’t appear to contribute to this risk.

Your fertility specialist can help you understand any potential risks and guide you toward the safest approach for your surrogacy journey.

Learning More about Surrogacy Hormones

Remember, hormonal shifts are only temporary. Even if they linger after pregnancy, things will eventually balance out. Until then, you have resources that can support you:

• Surrogate Mothers Online is a group of surrogates like you who share their experiences and support each other through virtual meet-ups and online chats.
• All About Surrogacy is a forum where you can find all kinds of people sharing their experiences with surrogacy.
• Some online communities like Instagram communities, Facebook groups and Subreddits can function as support-oriented forms as well.

Ready to take the next step in your surrogacy journey? Our team is here to support you every step of the way. Fill out our simple form to get started.

Being a surrogate may still be possible if you have a history of shoulder dystocia in prior pregnancy.

Understanding your risks and options can help you move forward with confidence, whether you’re considering becoming a surrogate now or in the future.

In this article, we’ll explain how shoulder dystocia may impact your ability to become a surrogate and what medical professionals consider when reviewing your eligibility.

Have more questions about your eligibility? Speak with a surrogacy specialist today to get personalized guidance tailored to your medical history.

Can I Become a Surrogate After Experiencing Shoulder Dystocia During Birth?

In some cases, yes, but your medical history will be reviewed by a doctor.

While a history of shoulder dystocia in a prior pregnancy can increase the chances of it happening again, surrogacy may still be an option if your doctor determines the pregnancy would be safe and low-risk.

Having experienced shoulder dystocia during birth, you know how frightening it can be when complications arise during delivery. Many intended parents have waited a long time to become parents and don’t want to take any unnecessary risks.

The possibility of recurrence may make surrogacy less viable, as doctors must ensure both you and the baby are safe.

Wondering if you’re eligible for surrogacy after shoulder dystocia? Contact us today for a free consultation.

Potential Complications of Shoulder Dystocia

Shoulder dystocia during birth occurs when the baby’s head is delivered, but the shoulders are stuck behind the pubic bone.

This can cause complications for both you and the baby, which can be mild or severe.

Fetal Complications from Shoulder Dystocia

When shoulder dystocia occurs, the baby is at risk of several potential complications, including:

• Fractures of the arm or collarbone: the baby’s arm or upper chest may sustain fractures as a result of the force needed to release the shoulder.
• Hypoxia: If the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck for an extended period, oxygen flow may be compromised, leading to low oxygen levels in the baby’s blood (hypoxia).
• Injury to the baby’s nerves: Apart from brachial plexus injuries, there may be damage to other nerves that can lead to weakness or loss of function in certain parts of the body.

Shoulder dystocia is not only dangerous for the baby, but it can also pose serious risks to you.

Maternal Complications from Shoulder Dystocia

The complications that mothers may experience as a result of shoulder dystocia include:

• Postpartum hemorrhage: Excessive bleeding after birth, which can occur if the uterus does not contract properly or if there is significant tearing. Shoulder dystocia can increase the risk of this complication due to the force and pressure applied during the delivery.
• Tearing or lacerations: The pressure from the baby’s shoulders can cause tears in the vaginal walls, cervix, or perineum.
• Infection: Any lacerations or surgical interventions required to resolve shoulder dystocia increase the risk of infection, particularly if the area is not properly cleaned or stitched during the immediate postpartum period.

What Are the Chances of Shoulder Dystocia Happening Again?

A handful of studies have shown the risk of recurrence of shoulder dystocia to be around 10-16%, which is higher than the rate of occurrence in the general population.

While experiencing shoulder dystocia increases your chances of shoulder dystocia happening again, it is still possible to have a healthy pregnancy in the future.

It is up to your agency and medical provider to determine if surrogacy can be a safe option for you.

Can I have a normal birth after shoulder dystocia or will I need a C-section?

One of the most common concerns after experiencing shoulder dystocia is whether a C-section is required for future deliveries.

While a past occurrence of shoulder dystocia does increase the risk of it happening again, it does not automatically mean that all future births must be delivered via cesarean section.

Medical providers will evaluate factors such as:

• The severity of the previous shoulder dystocia event
• The baby’s birth weight and size
• Whether additional medical interventions were needed to complete the delivery
• The mother’s overall health and pelvic structure

In some cases, doctors may recommend a planned C-section, especially if the baby is expected to be large or if the previous dystocia event was severe.

However, many women still have the option of a vaginal delivery if the risks remain low. If you are considering surrogacy, a medical professional will help determine if a vaginal birth is a safe option based on your medical history.

How Do Surrogacy Agencies and Clinics Evaluate This Condition?

Surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics follow strict medical guidelines to ensure both the surrogate and baby remain safe throughout the pregnancy.

If you have a history of shoulder dystocia, your medical records will be reviewed carefully to determine if you meet the medical requirements for surrogacy.

Our Surrogacy Requirements at American Surrogacy

Our surrogate requirements are based on industry standards set by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and built to protect surrogates, babies, and intended parents. Some of our requirements include:

• Age range: 21–40 years.
• At least one successful pregnancy.
• No more than five vaginal or three C-section births.
• Currently raising a child.
• No felony convictions.
• No major pregnancy complications

We have medical professionals who review every surrogate’s medical records before you are approved to become a surrogate.

Knowledge of any complications or potential complications can be critical in helping ensure your safety as well as the safety of babies.

That being said, in some cases there are exceptions to the surrogate requirements on a case-by-case basis, and in some cases that may include the complication of shoulder dystocia.

Am I Eligible to Become a Surrogate after Shoulder Dystocia?

Ultimately, the decision to become a surrogate after shoulder dystocia will depend on a variety of factors, including your medical history, overall health, and the evaluations conducted by healthcare professionals.

Contact a surrogacy specialist today for a free consultation to discuss your unique situation and get the answers you need to make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

What disqualifies you from being a surrogate?

Several factors can disqualify you from becoming a surrogate including: age, lack of previous successful pregnancy, felony convictions, and pregnancy complications, among others. However, in some cases there are exceptions.

Can I be a surrogate if I had a placental abruption?

If you have had a placental abruption, it is unlikely that you will be a good candidate to become a surrogate, however, you can always talk to a surrogacy professional who can help you determine what is best in your unique situation.

Can you be a surrogate if you had a postpartum hemorrhage?

If you have had a postpartum hemorrhage, it is unlikely that you will be a candidate for surrogacy, however, you can always talk to a surrogacy professional to confirm.

Can you be a surrogate if you had a C-section?

Having an uncomplicated C-section does not disqualify you from becoming a surrogate, however, if you have had multiple C-sections, you may be unable to become a surrogate.

You can read more about surrogacy complications and requirements here.

The two week wait (TWW) after an embryo transfer is the critical period when surrogates and intended parents await pregnancy confirmation.

Focusing on your physical and emotional well-being can help these next two weeks will fly by.

Keep reading to learn how to increase your implantation chances, and navigate the next two weeks physically and emotionally.

The two-week wait can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out today and let’s talk about how we can support you through this phase of your surrogacy journey.

What is the Two Week Wait?

The two week wait refers to waiting two weeks after embryo transfer before testing for pregnancy.

Pregnancy tests look for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG. Your body always has a small amount of HCG, but on a successful implantation, production of the hormone ramps up.

It takes between two and three weeks for HCG to build up enough to detect a pregnancy. This means if you take the test too soon, it won’t be able to make an accurate determination, and will likely read as negative.

For the most accurate results, wait between 14 and 16 days before testing.

Two Week Wait Symptoms

Some women experience many early pregnancy symptoms and some don’t experience any at all. Early pregnancy symptoms can present as very similar to premenstrual symptoms.

This means, whether you have symptoms or not isn’t necessarily predictive of pregnancy.

Some of the more common two week wait symptoms include:

• Cramping. Mild uterine cramping can be expected early on after implantation.
• Fatigue. It’s thought that the rapid hormone production is partially responsible for the common feelings of tiredness that occur throughout the first trimester.  
• Increased urination. During pregnancy your body has much more blood than usual, which causes your kidneys to produce more urine.
• Irritability. The influx of strong new hormones can cause mood swings and extreme emotions.
• Light spotting. This may be one of your first signs of pregnancy. Implantation causes some minor bleeding as embryos attach to the lining of your uterus. This usually happens between 10 and 14 days after implantation.

If you have any questions or concerns about symptoms during the two-week wait, contact your physician immediately.

Learn more about what symptoms and side-effects you may experience during the two week wait by reading our article about what to expect after the embryo transfer.

When to See a Doctor

Severe symptoms should be taken seriously. If you experience any of these, contact your doctor and seek medical attention immediately.

• Heavy bleeding
• Severe pain
• Fever

How to Support Implantation in the Two Week Wait

There are plenty of ways during the two week wait to help embryos implant. The most important thing during this period is taking care of yourself.

Be intentional about your self-care, and pay attention to your mood, your stress levels and your physical symptoms.

Remember, you’re not alone. Your intended parents are on this journey right alongside you, and are likely experiencing much of the same anxiety and anticipation as you are.

Relying on and communicating with each other through this time can lead to an enduring and greatly fulfilling support system.

What to Do During the Two Week Wait:

• Rest and relax: Rest allows your body to conserve energy and focus on nurturing the embryo during the critical implantation period.  
• Stay hydrated: Staying hydrated supports healthy blood circulation and hormonal balance.
• Eat a balanced diet: A nutrient-rich diet can help your body create a healthy environment for embryo implantation. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
• Take prenatal vitamins: Prenatal vitamins contain essential nutrients that help support implantation. Continue taking prenatal vitamins as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Practice gentle movement: Gentle physical activity increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, which can help facilitate implantation. With your doctor’s approval, engage in low-impact activities like walking, swimming or yoga.
• Avoid stressors: Stress hormones can disrupt your body’s hormonal balance and interfere with the implantation process.
• Stay in touch with your doctor: Keep your doctor informed about any unusual symptoms or changes you experience during this time.

What to Avoid During the Two Week Wait

• Overexert yourself: Intense physical activity can elevate cortisol levels, which might disrupt hormone balance. Avoid strenuous workouts, heavy lifting or any activity that puts undue pressure on your body.
• Overanalyze symptoms: Obsessing over symptoms can increase anxiety and lead to unnecessary stress. Instead, trust the process and give your body the time it needs to adjust.
• Test too early: Pregnancy tests rely on the hormone HCG, which may not be detectable until about 14 days after the embryo transfer. Avoid taking pregnancy tests early on in the two week wait.
• Isolating: The emotional stress of the two week wait can feel overwhelming. Reach out to your support system, including your intended parents, friends or a counselor if you need additional emotional support.
• Smoking: Avoid smoking and recreational drugs. Certain substances or lifestyle choices can interfere with the success of embryo implantation.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid During the Two-Week Wait

• Caffeine: Caffeine can constrict blood vessels, potentially affecting the uterine lining and implantation success. Excessive caffeine can also lead to dehydration. Avoid coffee, black tea, energy drinks and sodas that contain caffeine.
• Alcohol: Alcohol is linked to an increased risk of miscarriage, failed implantation and developmental issues.
• Unpasteurized dairy: Unpasteurized dairy products, like certain cheeses, milk and yogurt, carry a risk of bacterial infection (such as Listeria), which can negatively impact implantation and pregnancy.
• Processed or junk foods: Highly processed foods are often high in sugars and additives that can disrupt hormones necessary for implantation. Avoid fast food, packaged snacks, sugary drinks and foods high in trans fats.

How to Involve Your Intended Parents During the Two Week Wait

The two-week wait is a unique and emotionally charged time for both surrogates and intended parents. Involving your intended parents in the process can help strengthen your bond and provide mutual support.

Have questions about how to support your intended parents? Reach out to us for guidance today.

Here are some ways to keep them engaged and informed while maintaining emotional balance:

1. Share Milestones and Updates

While waiting, keep your intended parents updated on any milestones, no matter how small.

Whether it’s a positive feeling you’re experiencing or a health update, involving them in the journey can help them feel connected and reduce their anxiety.

2. Keep Them in the Loop with Symptom Tracking

Consider sharing your symptoms and how you’re feeling physically. If you’re experiencing fatigue, cramping or mood changes, let your intended parents know.

This involvement can help them feel a part of the process while also providing them reassurance.

3. Encourage Positive Communication

Encourage your intended parents to reach out, even if it’s just a quick message of support. Regular check-ins, even if brief, can help you feel supported while also easing their anticipation.

Sharing positive thoughts, encouragement and excitement can create a hopeful atmosphere.

4. Reassure Them with Your Self-Care

Let your intended parents know that you’re taking great care of yourself. Share the steps you’re taking to relax, de-stress, and stay healthy, whether it’s yoga, walks or extra sleep.

This can help ease their worries, knowing that you’re physically and emotionally prepared for whatever comes next.

5. Ask for Their Support When You Need It

If you’re feeling anxious or uncertain, it’s okay to lean on your intended parents for emotional support. Even if they can’t take away the uncertainty, their words of encouragement can make a big difference.

Sharing your vulnerability can strengthen the trust and connection between you.

Coping During the Two-week Wait for Surrogacy

This can be a challenging wait, so remember to be gentle with yourself. While you wait, try to stay positive, practice self-care, reach out to your community and find ways to stay busy.

• Maintain a routine: A predictable daily routine can provide structure, reduce anxiety and gives you a sense of control during a time when much feels uncertain.
• Limit online searches: The temptation to research every possible symptom or read about others’ experiences is high, but this can lead to unnecessary stress or confusion. Set limits on how often you check online forums or search symptoms.
• Lean on your community: Reach out to your family, friends and other connections you value. Surrounding yourself with caring, compassionate voices during this critical time can be uplifting.
• Stay busy: Keeping your mind occupied can prevent overthinking and make the time pass more quickly. Pass the time with books, TV, crafts, talks with friends, exercise or whatever makes you happy.
• Be prepared for the possibility of any outcome: Keeping an open mind and setting realistic expectations can reduce the emotional blow if the outcome is not what you hoped for. Talk with your partner about what you would both do if the test is positive or negative.

Two Week Wait FAQ:

Can you Exercise during the Two Week Wait?

Yes, generally you can exercise during the two week wait, but try to keep to low-impact activities and avoid strenuous exercise.  Talk with your physician for personalized direction.

Can you Use a Hot Tub during Two Week Wait?

No, avoid entering a hot tub during this time period.

Can you do Hot Yoga during Two Week Wait?

No. Hot yoga is considered strenuous exercise. Light aerobic activity (like yoga at a regular temperature) is a better option for surrogates.

Can you fly during Two Week Wait?

Yes, flying will not affect your chances of implantation.

Can you swim during the Two Week Wait?

Yes. Generally swimming is not advised against. Talk with your physician for personalized direction.

Can you Drink Coffee during the Two Week Wait?

No. It’s thought that caffeine causes blood vessels in the uterus to constrict, which will negatively impact your chances of implantation. Avoid all forms of caffeine, including coffee, decaf coffee, dark sodas, black tea and decaf tea.

Can you Eat Sushi during the Two Week Wait?

No. Raw food carries a heightened risk of causing infection or food poisoning, which will negatively impact your chances of implantation. Avoid any food that contains raw meat or eggs, like sushi, torisashi, steak tartare, eggnog, cookie dough and other similar foods.

Can you drink during the Two Week Wait?

No. Drinking alcohol is not advised during this wait or at any point during gestation. Alcohol use in early pregnancy or even pre-pregnancy is linked to miscarriages and failed implantations.

Can you have Sex during Two Week Wait?

No. While sex may not have negative effects during this time for naturally conceiving couples, it’s generally advised against after an embryo transfer. It could also go against the terms of your surrogacy contract. Check with your physician and your surrogacy coordinator.

Can you take Advil during the Two Week Wait?

No. Anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen (the primary active medication in Advil) changes your blood pressure. Usually, this change is small enough to not cause problems; however, there are some studies that link ibuprofen and its side effects to early-pregnancy miscarriage.

Can you take Antibiotics during the Two Week Wait?

Yes. Antibiotics will not affect your chances of implantation.

Can you take Benadryl during the Two Week Wait?

Yes. Benadryl is safe to use during the two week wait, however, it becomes unsafe later in pregnancy. Talk with your physician for personalized direction.

Surrogacy Support

Your two week wait is a delicate time, full of anticipation, but we believe you can make it through. Wherever you are in the process, we’ll be here with you every step of the way.

Are you ready to begin your surrogacy journey? We’re here to provide support, from the two-week wait to your delivery day. Contact us today.