First of all, let me just say—if you’re considering becoming a surrogate, you’re stunning! Becoming a gestational carrier for another family is such a selfless and beautiful choice, and preparing your body for the journey is one of the most important steps. Surrogacy pregnancies can feel more strenuous due to all of the moving pieces, so it’s worth putting in a little extra effort to make sure you’re physically ready. So, let’s dive into some practical (and doable!) tips to help you get started.
The first thing you should do is book a full medical checkup. Think of this as your baseline. Your doctor will assess your overall health so you can decide if your body is ready for another pregnancy. You may get some blood tests, a pelvic exam, and screenings to rule out any potential issues. And yes, prenatal vitamins are your new best friend. This is the perfect time to ask your doctor which would be right for you. If you choose to work with an agency, this will all be part of the onboarding process. Catching anything early means a smoother journey ahead, and who doesn’t want that?
Next, focus on maintaining a healthy weight. Your body is about to do some serious baby-growing, so finding your ideal weight range is key. Being underweight or overweight can increase pregnancy risks, so chat with your doctor about where you should be. A nutritionist can help if you’re not sure where to start. Eating like you’re pregnant (almost) is essential. Think colorful plates loaded with fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and those good-for-you fats. Avaca-don’t mind if I DO!
If you’re still smoking or indulging in that nightly glass of wine, now’s the time to stop. These habits aren’t pregnancy-friendly and can mess with fertility too. Oh, and caffeine? Keep it to a minimum—your morning cup is fine, but skip the octo-shot lattes. While we’re liqui-lecturing (and we know you’ve heard it before!) drinking enough water is one of those simple things that makes a huge difference. Aim for 8-10 glasses a day or half your body weight in ounces (if you weigh 160 pounds, you should drink around 80 fl.oz. per day). Staying hydrated keeps everything in your body running smoothly.
Exercise is your secret weapon for preparing your body for pregnancy. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can work wonders. They’ll boost your cardiovascular health, tone your muscles, and even help with stress. Just make sure that you’re easing into it, this is all about keeping your body in balance.
Let’s be real, the surrogacy journey can get a little emotional. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as physical prep. Try mindfulness, meditation, or just taking a few deep breaths when life gets overwhelming. If you’re feeling extra anxious, a therapist who understands surrogacy can be a game-changer.
Lastly, don’t forget to lean on your support system. You’re not in this alone! Whether it’s your partner, friends, family, or other surrogates, having people to lean on can make all the difference. Surround yourself with cheerleaders who will lift you up when you need it most.
Preparing your body for a surrogacy pregnancy isn’t just about eating right and exercising—it’s about creating a strong foundation for the incredible journey ahead. By taking these steps, you’re setting yourself (and the baby you’ll carry) up for success. So take a deep breath, follow these tips, and trust that you’ve got this. Here’s to a healthy and beautiful surrogacy experience!