As a Surrogate, the weeks and days leading up to your embryo transfer can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You want to do everything you can to ensure your Intended Parents get their BFP (Big Fat Positive)! You may feel like the weight of the world is resting on your shoulders… and your uterus.
We know how stressful each cycle can be for you. We commend you for following your heart and giving someone else the gift of love, the gift of parenthood. You’re doing a wonderful thing. There are truly no words that express just how selfless and loving the act of gestational surrogacy is.
With a family dream riding on each cycle, you understandably want to do everything you can to support the success of your embryo transfer. We are here to support you every step of the way.
Take a moment to acknowledge just how amazing what you are doing is.
While not every tip is right for every person, here are a few things we have seen be helpful to Surrogate Mothers and Intended Parents in the past.
Get your folic acid.
You should begin taking a folic acid supplement as soon as you can. Ideally, you begin taking prenatal vitamins 3 months prior to your transfer or at the direction of your fertility clinic.
Hydration.
Avoid those nasty sugar and artificial dyes in Gatorade and other sports drinks by hydrating with coconut water or electrolyte drinks from a health food store. Staying hydrated maintains good health and balance in your body and prevents uterine spasms at the time of your transfer by keeping your muscles nourished and your hormones properly diluted in your blood stream.
Try warming your lower abdomen before your transfer.
You may want to try a heating pad or rice pack before your transfer to warm the area. It is only recommended that you apply heat to your abdomen before the transfer, not after.
Eat for success.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, pregnancy is a warm state. Eat cooked vegetables, warm bone broths and avoid cold and raw foods that may interrupt this delicate balance.
Avoid simple carbohydrates and dairy which may increase phlegm production and impact your uterine environment.
Avoid high impact exercise and heavy lifting.
You don’t want to strain the muscles that support your uterus. Proper alignment of your uterus and the surrounding muscles can play a role in supporting a healthy transfer, implantation, and pregnancy. Stick to low impact activities like gentle walks and yoga both pre-transfer and during pregnancy.
Acupuncture or Acupressure.
Acupuncture is becoming widely accepted as a complimentary therapy for fertility treatments. Be sure to choose a professional that has experience with acupuncture for fertility. Acupressure can be a good option for people who dislike needles or would like to use self-treatment. Ask your acupuncturist how to administer acupressure to yourself for optimal results.
Live, Love, and Laugh.
Studies have shown that embryo transfers seem to have a better chance of success if you’re feeling happy and entertained. All those feel good hormones appear to have an impact of whether or not the transfer will result in a viable pregnancy. Rent a romantic comedy or choose someone who makes you laugh to accompany you on transfer day!
Unless your fertility doctor instructs otherwise, you don’t need to spend the day in bed following your transfer.
Keep those happy hormones flowing with a fun day full of laughter and positivity. Enjoy a healthy dinner out with your transfer companion or Intended Parents. Go for a walk or see a light hearted movie. Those good feelings can improve digestion, support relaxation and improve blood pressure and circulation!
We recommend you discuss any preparation for your transfer cycle with your fertility clinic. With the right preparation for your transfer, you can enjoy a low-stress positive experience and improve your chance of becoming pregnant.
Happy transfer day!