The Miracle of Pregnancy Hormones and Medications
If you’re reading this, you’re probably curious about surrogacy and all that goes into it. As someone who’s been through the process, I wanted to share my experience with the medications involved. Trust me, I know it can seem overwhelming at first, but I promise it’s not as scary as it might sound.
When I first started my surrogacy journey, I was pretty nervous about all the meds. But the clinic staff were amazing – they walked me through everything step by step. Once I understood what each medication was for, it all made a lot more sense. So let’s break it down:
Estrogen: The Foundation Builder
We usually start with estrogen. Its job is to make your uterus a cozy home for the embryo. You might take it as pills, wear patches, or do injections. It’s all about prepping your body for pregnancy.
HCG: The Egg Whisperer (for egg donors)
If there’s an egg donor involved, they’ll take something called HCG. It basically tells the eggs, “Okay, time to get ready!” This part doesn’t affect surrogates directly, but it’s good to know about.
Progesterone: The Pregnancy Keeper
Once the embryos transferred, progesterone becomes your new best friend. It helps keep everything in place and supports early pregnancy. Fair warning: the injections can be a bit uncomfortable, but you get used to it. Some surrogates use suppositories or gels instead.
The Dynamic Duo: Estrogen and Progesterone
For the first few months, you’ll likely keep taking both estrogen and progesterone. They work together to support the pregnancy until your body takes over.
Here’s the thing – everyone’s experience is a little different. What worked for me might be slightly different for you. The most important thing is to stay in touch with your medical team. They’re there to help, so don’t be shy about asking questions or raising concerns.
I remember feeling pretty overwhelmed at first, but it gets easier. You start to get into a routine, and before you know it, it’s just part of your day. And honestly, knowing that you’re helping create a family makes it all worth it.
If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, or if you’re intended parents trying to understand the process, just take it one step at a time. It’s an incredible journey, and these medications, while sometimes a hassle, play a crucial role in making it all possible.
Remember, you’ve got this! And you’re doing something amazing.
If you want to talk to someone about whether surrogacy is the right decision for you, our team at Stork Baby would be happy to answer any questions you have.
