West Coast Surrogacy, Inc.

Surrogacy Compensation Increase

2012-02-01T11:07:00.000-08:00

Our Surrogate benefit package has increased! A first time Surrogate will recieve a base fee of $26,000. Repeat Surrogate's base fee is now $31,000. If you apply with our agency on or after February 1, 2012, you will qualify for the new benefit package. We offer an abundance of support and would love to speak with you if you are considering surrogacy.
Please contact West Coast Surrogacy at 949-362-8200, or toll free 877-492-7411. We look forward to speaking with you!

The Gift of Family

2011-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Out of the many stories we have heard about the struggles of infertility, this one really touched our hearts and brought us to tears. The beginning of the story of Kathy and Rob Adzich’s is a familiar one, a young happy couple starting out their lives together deciding to embark on the journey of having their own children. Quickly, they learn they are pregnant, but their story diverges from most when Kathy starts having contractions in her second trimester. The initial elation of expecting a baby is replaced by sorrow, when at 22 weeks, when Kathy gives birth to a stillborn child.

They try again a few months later, but sadly, the couple is struck another blow as a second stillborn child is delivered at 16 weeks. The third pregnancy, Kathy is confined to bed rest and agrees to undergo the extreme step of having her cervix sewn shut to prevent a premature delivery. At 19 weeks, Kathy starts having contractions and with the help of powerful drugs, the delivery is postponed another month. The third child, Jakob, is born alive, but he is frail with underdeveloped lungs. He eventually passes away in Kathy’s arms at 3 weeks of age. Devastated, the Adzich’s leave the hospital without a baby for a third time in three years.

All the while, an angel named Stephanie Kalenda stood by watching thes traumatizing events unfold from her post as a labor and delivery nurse in the hospital where the Azdich’s event's took place. Days later Stephanie calls them with an amazing offer, “ I have a good uterus, let’s use it.” Stephanie explained that she had seen many people come in and out of the delivery center, and some were not fit to be parents whereas others were, and she assured the Adzich's that they were and she was going to help them become parents. And so their surrogacy journey together began as Stephanie was implanted with embryos from the couple and together they conceived beautiful baby, Gabe.

The Adzichs and Stephanie were invited on the Today show with Meridith Veira to talk about the miracle of surrogacy and how it bonded them and created the dream of a family. Please click here to see the video of this amazing story.

Complaints Arise From India's Surrogacy Arrangements

2011-05-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

Myleen and Jan Sjodin with Baby Amari

Joining an ever growing chorus of complaints, more couples are speaking out about their negative experiences with Indian surrogacy agencies. Recently, the Los Angeles Times published an article about this growing problem, highlighting couples who have had very serious problems with Indian surrogacy clinics.

Myleen Sjodin and her husband Jan, both of Toronto, Canada were elated to become parents through surrogacy after Myleen having survived uterine cancer. They contracted through one of the many Indian surrogacy clinics and after going through all of the process, they learned they were to be parents. According to the Times article "It all turned into a nightmare as the doctor hiked her fees just before the baby was born, hitting them at their psychologically weakest point. She also didn't pay outside hospital bills and tried to use India's infamous bureaucracy to delay their homecoming." "We were robbed of our joy as first-time parents," Jan Sjodin said.

They felt fearful that they may have problems with customs and the hospital so they paid the extra $7,000 in fees and left quickly. Myleens' motivation for speaking out is that other intended parents don't get manipulated. She says "I love Indian culture and we thought we were getting a good deal, but in the end we've paid nearly as much as doing it in the U.S."

Other problems with Indian surrogacy involve citizenship, such as the 2008 case of the Japanese baby, whose parents divorced during the surrogate's pregancy, resulting in the mother giving her up. Baby Manji's citizenship was left ambiguous as Japan refused to recognize her as one of theirs. Last year, a Canadian couple who had contracted with an Indian surrogacy clinic were dumbfounded to learn the twins they had were biologically unrelated to them. Given the vast problems surrounding surrogacy in India, people considering this option are urged to weigh these issues out before pursuing surrogacy outside the US.

Click Here for LA TIMES article.

The High Cost of Lower Cost International Surrogacy-Part 2 of 2

2011-04-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

In addition to many the human rights concerns, surrogacy arrangements in the developing world can also be challenging in terms of the geographical distance, language barrier, and cultural differences, making it difficult for well-meaning intended parents from abroad to cultivate deep relationships with their surrogate. This divide also hampers the conscious intended parent from offering emotional support to the surrogate, and insuring that during her pregnancy, she is receiving access to the best nutrition and health care on the planet. For these reasons, many parents opt to contract with more reputable, highly regulated agencies in the US or UK. Agencies, such as West Coast Surrogacy, connect their clients face to face with potential surrogates, and encourage frequent, open dialogue between all parties throughout the pregnancy. West Coast Surrogacy takes great care in screening each potential surrogate for psychological and emotional well being, physical health, a history of bringing babies full term, a stable home environment, and a commitment to a healthy pregnancy. Every WCS surrogate must have regular prenatal care, live a healthy lifestyle and avoid any high-risk behaviors. Such careful screening results in top-notch surrogates who are treated well, have overwhelmingly positive experiences and who often come back to have the experience all over again.

In addition to high expectations, WCS surrogates are also expected to have regular phone and email contact with the agency and the intended parents. Frequently, the bonds that are forged throughout the process result in the parties desiring to continue the relationship, long after the arrival of the new life they've created together. To learn more about West Coast Surrogacy, click here.

The High Cost Of Lower Cost International Surrogacy- Part 1 of 2

2011-04-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

For many people seeking to become parents through surrogacy, the monetary cost is certainly a big consideration. For this reason, scores of well-intentioned people have turned to the Internet to connect them with lower cost surrogacy options in the developing world. In response to this growing demand, countries such as India, home to a massive population of poor, uneducated women, have become popular places to contract surrogacy services. Because surrogacy is a relatively new concept, and newer still in the developing world, many countries, such as India, have not created clear policies and regulations that are absolutely critical to protecting both parties within such a delicate arrangement. Without these safeguards, ethical dilemmas and human rights problems emerge and are further exaggerated by extreme poverty, lack of opportunity, corruption and greed. According to the online magazine The Star, India’s “surrogacy-related fertility tourism has long been fraught with ethical and human rights concerns in the country.” While there is a non-binding guideline, “current rules are ambiguous about vital issues like the rights of the surrogate, their minimum age, details about the contracts, informed consent and adoption requirements. This opacity often leads to legal ambivalence for would-be parents or exploitation of poor Indian women who rent out their wombs to earn money.” “The trade in India also breeds unscrupulous middlemen who entice and push marginalised women into surrogate motherhood. There’s no protection against the misuse of a surrogate child for purposes of terrorism, prostitution or unethical genetic engineering research.” This is an alarming problem and an ethical quandary for childless couples looking for a lower-cost way of having their own biological child. Many parents are not aware that such corruption exists since there is relatively little negative press about the topic in comparison to all the sites that are promoting the industry. Click here for full story.

Another problem that emerges out of India is the question of citizenship. Because the offspring of surrogates are not automatically given Indian citizenship , the resulting non-citizen status may create difficulty in obtaining citizenship at a later time through the parent's home country. In one instance, a couple from Germany who went to India to have twins through a surrogate, were emeshed in a two year legal battle to obtain a visa for thier children to return with them to Germany. Click Here for the full story. All this uncertainty leads many people to look to select states in the US as the ideal place for surrogacy arrangements. Each child born within our borders, regardless of their parents county of origin is automatically given US citizenship. California leads the country in pro-surrogacy legislation offering more clarity and legal protections than any other place in the US. West Coast Surrogacy, located in Orange County is proud to be the premier agency in Southern California. We screen our surrogates carefully and support them throughout the pregancy resulting in many of them becoming WCS surrogates again. We also employ a team of professionals, including psychologists and lawyers who ensure our clients have the best possible outcome. Please visit our website to discover how our premier full service agency can assist you. West Coast Surrogacy

Medical Miracles Make Way for Cancer Survivors to Have Babies

2011-04-18T13:37:00.000-07:00

New medical breakthroughs are offering more and more pathways for survivors of cancer to experience the miracle of becoming parents.

Ovarian tissue harvesting is one of the newest developments in fertility medicine, allowing a thin sliver of a woman’s ovaries to be harvested and frozen, similar to the way sperm and embryos have been stored. The difference is that this delicate tissue can then be implanted into a woman after treatment, allowing her to produce her own eggs again.

Another procedure that is newly being offered is a procedure of storing unfertilized eggs rather than embryos. For women that do not have the luxury of waiting two months to hormonally stimulate and fertilize their eggs, this is an amazing option for women who must start cancer treatments immediately.

Another popular option for those cancer survivors unable to carry their own children, is surrogacy. Gestational surrogacy is the process by which an embryo is transferred into another woman's womb, to carry it until maturation and delivery. The intended mother can use her own eggs or that of an egg donor so that the surrogate is not biologically related to the child. Click here to learn more about surrogacy…..

According to Gina Shaw, breast cancer survivor and author of “Having Children After Cancer” writes that many survivors share the strong desire to have children, in part to show they have beat the disease and moved on with their lives. Click here to learn more about new medical procedures.

Celebrities Choosing Surrogacy

2011-04-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

If you’ve recently flipped through a tabloid or one the celebrity sites on the web, you’ve probably noticed a growing number of stars are having babies through surrogacy. And while some speculate that the choice to use a surrogate is one of convenience or vanity, this is certainly not the norm. Like 6 million other Americans, these celebrities have gone through the heartache of wanting children without being able to conceive them naturally. While many stars wanting to become a parent choose to adopt, like Sandra Bullock, Lionel Richie and Diane Keaton, other celebs look to surrogacy as their best option. Each choice has it's pros and cons but the common desire to have a child is the same.

Broadway actress and star of Hairspray, Marissa Jeret Winokur knows firsthand the challenges of infertility. After being diagnosed with cervical cancer at 27, and undergoing a hysterectomy, she was grateful to be able to have her own child with the help of a surrogate. She says. “For people out there who don’t understand surrogacy, it’s very important that they understand it’s not about someone in Hollywood who doesn’t want to gain weight. It’s not like Sarah Jessica Parker didn't want to have her own baby. For everybody that has a surrogate, that was their last chance. That was their last option-that was their only option. It’s the most amazing, wonderful thing, but it’s also a really hard decision to make because you’re trusting the most important thing to somebody.”

Elizabeth Banks, star of 30 Rock, together with hubby Max Handelman, are the latest well known couple to have their child through surrogacy. Banks shared that her life has been filled with opportunities and blessings and yet, "The one true hurdle I've faced in life is that I have a broken belly. After years of trying to get pregnant, exploring the range of fertility treatments, all unsuccessful, our journey led us to gestational surrogacy." She is overjoyed to finally have Baby Felix in her life.

Banks joins a list of celebrities who have experienced the deep satisfaction of becoming parents through surrogacy, such as Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, Dennis and Kimberly Quaid, Elton John and his partner and Ricky Martin. If you are interested in learning more about surrogacy options, we would love to help you. West Coast Surrogacy is a boutique agency which caters to individuals seeking a solution to their fertility challenges. Regardless of whether you are a celebrity, we will treat you like one, offering you the highest level of professionalism, discretion, and compassionate guidance you could possibly desire. To learn more about how we can help you accomplish your dreams of becoming a parent, click here.

A Refreshing New Guys' Perspective on the Perils of Infertility

2011-04-14T19:18:00.000-07:00

What He Can Expect When She's Not Expecting

In this insightful and original new book, Marc Sedaka, offers a man's prospective on what it's like to go through the perils of infertility. In it, he conveys the helpless feeling so many men feel watching their partners go through the trials and dissapointments of IVF. Sedaka, whose day job is a comedic TV and film writer, infuses his wit as he tackles these issues. Having been through six years of fertility treatments, including 9 in-vitros, 16 artificial inseminations, 3 miscarriages and a small fortune trying to have a baby, he and his wife finally got their happy ending with the birth of twin girls via surrogacy. For the guys out there who’ve ever identified with feeling like an “indentured sperm donor” and not knowing how to offer support to their partners during this personal challenge, this book can offer some humor and insight from a guy whose been through it all. Click here to see the Sedaka's interview on Today.

Jackie's Story Part 2

2011-03-25T14:20:00.000-07:00

Once Jackie had decided to become a surrogate, she chose a surrogacy agency, where she met Amy Kaplan, who would be her case manager and guide along the way. She describes Amy as someone who “truly cares about you”. She says Amy’s experience as an egg donor, surrogate, IVF clinic manager, case worker, and mother gives her the ability to see “every point of view”. With Amy’s guidance and support, Jackie began her extensive series of physical exams, psychological counseling, background checks and reviews of her medical history. After she passed all of the necessary requirements, she was interviewed by potential parents until all parties felt like it was the right match. This was another critical step in the process since the lives of all individuals would be inextricably linked once she became pregnant.

In order to prepare physically, Jackie was given medication to block her own ovulation and hormones to prepare her body for pregnancy. This step was difficult as it made her physically tired and irritable at times. Finally, the long-awaited day arrived when she would undergo her first embryo transfer. Jackie was given Valium, and using a catheter, the doctor transferred the delicate embryo into her uterus. A fantastic glow lit up the ultrasound when the embryo was implanted. It is as if the life force of the embryo was showing itself. Often, this moment brings a sense of awe and wonder to all who witness it as new life is taking root right before your eyes.

Following the transfer, Jackie remained lying on an inverted table for another 45 minutes, feet up, letting the force of gravity assist in the process. Next, she relocated to her hotel room nearby, where she would stay on 48-72 hour bed rest. Later that month, when she returned to the doctor, she was disheartened to learn that her first embryo transfer had failed, a common occurrence in the world of IVF. Resolved to try again, two months later, Jackie was overjoyed to learn she had become pregnant.

Jackie felt even more thrilled because her hopes of developing a loving relationship with the intended mother were also coming true. Not only was the new mother actively engaging in the relationship with Jackie, but she was also expressing great interest in the lives of Jackie’s children. She would surprise the children with gifts and call Jackie frequently to make sure she was doing well. Jackie could not have been more pleased with how beautiful the whole process was going, feeling fantastic most of the way through. At 38 weeks, she delivered a healthy 7 lb boy to the waiting arms of the new parents.

With the birth complete, Jackie unexpectedly found herself a little let down. While she was prepared for the time when she would deliver the baby to the arms of the new family, she was unprepared to let go of the new relationships she had forged with the family. She had hoped the relationships could be long-lasting, and that she could receive updates from time to time on the baby, but not all parents choose this route, and she had to grow to accept that.

Although the ending of her first surrogacy was bittersweet, Jackie couldn't help but feel she had done something truly incredible. For the first time in her life, she discovered what she was really good at. Being a surrogate had given her a sense of purpose, and a new clarity to her mission in life. She had the the ability to protect, nourish and bring to life another living being, filling the void and heartache of people who yearned to be parents. The joy and deep satisfaction of that realization made her want to become a surrogate again. She also grew wiser in the process and became better attuned to her own expectations and needs. In turn, she also got better at communicating those ideals to potential parents, ensuring it was the right match for them and for her. Luckily, her life lessons and preparation paid off, because the second time, Jackie got her happy ending.

To Be Continued…

New Hope For Infertile Men

2011-03-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

In the wake of last week's tragedy, Japanese scientists from Yokohama University have just announced that they have unlocked a medical mystery that has confounded biologists for years. They have discovered how to reproduce viable sperm cells in the lab, a scientific leap for creating fertility in men who are infertile. Scientists made this discovery by using IVF technology, stem cell research and surrogacy using laboratory mice. They harvested the sperm, soaked it in a solution that encouraged stem cell growth, and discovered that in a few weeks time, the sperm cells reproduced into viable sperm, complete with heads, bodies and tails. These sperm were used to fertilize eggs and the embryos were implanted into surrogate mice. This resulted in normal offspring that had the ability to reproduce. This breakthrough is significant because it could potentially pave the way for infertile men, particularly those who were once fertile to become biological fathers for the first time in history.

Click here for full story

My Life As A Surrogate-Jackie's Story Part One

2011-03-14T11:27:00.000-07:00

She was sitting at Starbucks, the day I met her, with her tousled red hair resting shoulder high, and her medium build wrapped loosely in a blue and white snowflake sweater. Jackie has sparkly blue eyes, pale freckled skin, and girlish smile that instantly puts you at ease. I immediately feel her positive energy, which might explain why Jackie has been chosen time and again to be the surrogate to families in need. As a seasoned surrogate, Jackie is a rare wealth of knowledge and a sought after professional in her field.

I tell her I want to know everything about her story, from the time she decided to become a surrogate, her multiple deliveries and her latest attempt to become pregnant for a lucky new couple. “I’m an open book” she declares and her voice happily trails off into the story of how she became a surrogate and the path that led her to West Coast Surrogacy.

When the last of her children was born in 2004, Jackie knew she was satisfied with having two beautiful children of her own and decided to have her tubes tied. As a single mom, she was looking for a way to stay at home with her kids and have balance in her life. Out of curiosity, she responded to an ad for egg donation. The woman on the line informed her that at 29, Jackie was too old, but that surrogacy might be an option. The more she learned about it, the more she felt it was right for her.

Jackie knew she loved being pregnant and she also knew herself well enough to know she could remain detached and clear about whose baby she would carry. This is something extremely important that she feels all surrogates must know for themselves before making this decision. Knowing how deeply she loved her own children, and how much they enriched her own life, she felt becoming a surrogate could be a meaningful and personally rewarding way to support her family and do something life-changing for others struggling with infertility. She decided to go for it. Along the way, she would discover the exhilaration, exhaustion, heartbreak, complication and ultimately, the satisfaction of her life-altering decision.

To Be Continued…

Good Morning America Salutes Surrogacy

2011-03-06T08:30:00.000-08:00

This week on Good Morning America, audiences around the country got a chance to get better acquainted with the emerging new field of surrogacy. In this highly informative segment, Dr. Jacques Moritz defined what surrogacy is and explained how gestational surrogacy differs from traditional surrogacy. The segment also covered just some of the health reasons that prevent women from being able to carry their own child. He also discussed how California has emerged as the best place in America for those seeking surrogacy arrangements, since laws in this state are most protective of surrogates and intended parents. Click here to watch.

If you are considering surrogacy, we invite you to look closely at who we are and what past clients are saying about us. West Coast Surrogacy, based in Southern California, is a client-centered agency, committed to upholding the highest levels of legal protection, professionalism and discretion. Our founder and executive director, Ms. Amy Kaplan, has been working in reproductive medicine since 1990. Her profound desire to help those with fertility challenges led her to become an egg donor, a surrogate of twins and finally to birth her vision of the ultimate agency, West Coast Surrogacy. We believe our agency, WSC is uniquely qualified and capable of being your guide along your wonderful journey of having a baby. It would be our greatest honor to do so. Please visit our website at http://westcoastsurrogacy.com

2011-02-19T14:48:00.000-08:00

Commercial Surrogacy Banned in Parts of the Land Down Under.

Australia, a country known for its’ progressive policies and open-minded thinking, has just passed legislation that some might label as restrictive, invasive and not representative of the will of it’s forward-thinking citizenry. New South Wales, Australia’s most populous state and home to it’s capital city Sydney, has just passed one of the most controversial pieces of legislation around, which criminalizes activities associated with commercial surrogacy.

This bold piece of legislation, which goes into effect March 1, 2011, prohibits residents from entering commercial surrogacy arrangements both at home and overseas. It defines commercial arrangements as those arrangements where a fee is paid to the surrogate mother, which is above and beyond any reasonable expenses incurred by the surrogate, related to giving birth. Such specified expenditures, such as medical expenses, travel, and lost earnings due to maternal leave, must be backed by receipts and documentation.

Failure to satisfy these criteria may result in imprisonment and a steep fine for any intended parents and surrogates who are citizens of NSW, even if the arrangement is done overseas. The law also regulates altruistic surrogacy, by defining what are the minimum ages of a surrogate and an intended parent, what type of medical need necessitates the arrangement, and a host of other legalities.

While the law does exempt people who have entered into a written contract overseas before the March 1st deadline, interested parties should be advised to carefully look over the existing Part 1A of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) , where residents actions overseas could be an offence under NSW law. If you are a resident of NSW, who thinks you may be affected by this change in law, we recommend seeking legal advise.

To learn more, please click The Surrogacy Act 2010.

A Somewhat Different Path to Parenthood

2011-02-16T16:35:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like the majority of our clients, you know all too well the hopes, disappointments and tribulations along the path to becoming parents. You've looked on with joy, and a tinge of sadness as many people around you have become proud parents. And all the while, you've envisioned the day when your own precious child that you hold in the crook of your arms, will look back at you with your eyes reflected in theirs.

We think stories like this one, will help keep that vision alive.

This is one woman's story of how she nearly gave up hope of having her own biological child when she learned that DES, the fertility treatment that was supposed to help her conceive, had actually created a harmful environment for fetuses. She grieved the loss of a child she would never know until she learned about surrogacy.

Click here for the full story

ELTON John and Partner David Furnish - Proud Parents to a Baby Boy

2010-12-28T11:22:00.000-08:00

Sir Elton John and David Furnish have become parents to son Zachary Jackson Levon Furnish-John, the couple tells UsMagazine.com exclusively.

The baby boy, who was born Dec. 25 in California via a surrogate, weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces.

"We are overwhelmed with happiness and joy at this very special moment," John and Furnish told Us Magzine in a joint statement. "Zachary is healthy and doing really well, and we are very proud and happy parents."

This is the first child for John, 62, and Furnish, 48. The couple married in 2005 after 12 years together.

A rep for the couple has stated that they intend to protect and respect the privacy of their surrogate, and will not be discussing any details relating to the surrogacy arrangements.

The Daily Telegraph
Picture: AFP PHOTO/ANDY STUART Source: The Daily Telegraph

A Man's Point of View

2010-11-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

Surrogacy is often focused on the surrogate mother and the mother to be.
Here's a look into surrogacy from a man's point of view.

Click Here For Full Article

Common Pain Relievers and the Risks During Pregnancy

2010-11-08T19:52:00.000-08:00

Aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen during pregnancy can cause reproductive problems in male offspring according to researchers in Scandinavia.

Click Here For Full Article

The Gift of Surrogacy

2010-11-04T14:27:00.000-07:00

Ricky Martin, after having twin boys via surrogacy, shares on Oprah's show that he needs to be honest for his sons.

Click Here for more information

San Diego Fertility Expo

2010-10-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

Come join us at the San Diego Fertility Expo on Saturday, October 16.

Key Speakers & Topics include:

Marc Sklar, LAc (CA), DA (RI), MSTOM, FABORM
Coreen Reinhart, Clinical Nutritionist
Dr. Arlene Morales M.D.
Brenda Strong, Fertility Yoga
Dr. Brian Acacio, M.D.
Dr. Gabriel Garzo, M.D.
Dr. Michelle Mathews, M.D.
Dr. Deirdre Conway, M.D.
Jennifer Lindeman, Hypnotherapist
Dr. Lila Schmidt M.D.

Come find our West Coast Surrogacy booth!
Click Here for more information

Stress and Fertility

2010-09-12T07:31:00.000-07:00

We all know, or assume, that stress has an impact on our physical well being. Acupuncture, yoga, meditation, counseling; these are all important tools that are available for people undergoing fertility treatment; including surrogate mothers. Many of our surrogates at West Coast Surrogacy find that having acupuncture during an IVF cycle reduces stress and provides a time for relaxation. Monthly support groups with a trained counselor are also an important part of our program. Private sessions with the counselor are available for the Intended Parent(s) as well.

For more information on becoming a surrogate mother (Gestational Carrier), please contact our office at 949-362-8200 or visit our website HERE.

Preservation of Fertility in Patients Undergoing Cancer Therapy

2010-08-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

Each year, cancer is estimated to occur in 113 per 100,000 women under age 50 in the United States. Treatment of cancer has improved dramatically over the past several years, and it is estimated that 77% of patients under 45 survive at least 5 years. The trend toward delaying childbearing means that many patients will not have had children when they are diagnosed. While there is recognition that cancer therapy can affect a patient’s fertility, less than 25% of oncologists inform their patients about their risks and options.

Click Here for story

West Coast Surrogacy: Orange County Register

2010-06-22T14:33:00.000-07:00

West Coast Surrogacy featured in the Orange County Register today. Here's a personal look at my own experience as an egg donor and a gestational surrogate.

Click Here for story

Surrogacy still not an option for Indian gay, lesbian couples

2010-05-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

NEW DELHI: Gay and lesbian couples, Indian or foreign, can't have children born with the help of an Indian surrogate mother.

Click Here for story

Birthing a Mother: The Surrogate Body and the Pregnant Self

2010-05-27T21:57:00.000-07:00

“There is a common belief that surrogate mothers bond with the baby they carry, and later decide to keep it,” Teman said in a recent interview. “The truth is that less than one-tenth of 1 percent of cases end up in court. Surrogates don’t bond with the babies. They bond with the women — the women they are making into mothers.”

Elly Teman, an Israeli anthropologist at the University of Pennysylvania, explores issues and topics related to surrogacy in her new book Birthing a Mother: The Surrogate Body and the Pregnant Self.

I just ordered a copy for myself!

5 Myths of Acupuncture

2010-05-18T14:39:00.000-07:00

From Dr. Kathleen Albertson at OC Acupuncture;

1. "Acupuncture works only if you believe in it."

Not so, acupuncture has a physiological affect on the body and brain chemistry. Proven to release endorphins and to positively affect and balance the sympathetic, parasympathetic, autonomic and central nervous systems it creates homeostasis in the body. When the body is in homeostasis I it is unencumbered by disease. The body is working more efficiently and effectively. Acupuncture restores blood flow and increases circulation to ligaments, muscles and nerves. It reduces stress and fatigue and, supports your immune system.

2. "Acupuncture needles hurt!"

Not so. They are hair-like, and very thin. They are not anything like injection needles or needles used to draw blood. Rest assured. You may only feel a tiny pinch if anything, and then they are left in for anywhere from 20-40 minutes while you are resting. I use only the best for my patients.

3. "Herbs aren't safe."
Herbs used properly are very safe and have little or no side effects as do western pharmaceuticals. An herbalist usually provides you with what is in an herb formula and how it functions for you. It isn't a two page, double-sided sheet, in 6-point type, listing side effects. Western pharmaceuticals companies thrive on profit. They have no interest in curing your disease or resolving your health issues. Western drugs mask symptoms. Herbs many times, help treat and remove the root of your problems. Western medicine is important, but exhibits no concern for keeping you healthy! My herbal formulas are specifically and uniquely made for your constitution and disorders---that is why you get such great results.

4. "Acupuncture is expensive."

Not so, either. Several insurance companies cover acupuncture. Check with your carrier. If you do not have insurance, the costs of treatment are reasonable given that it often can solve your pain issues, or restore your health. Isn't your quality of life worth it? Ask about our wellness and prepayment discount programs.

5. "Once I start treatment, do I need to continue forever?"

No. Acute problems like a sports injury, a cold, or flu, fatigue, stress, or digestive upsets resolve quickly. Chronic problems vary in the number of treatments required. Everyone responds differently. Generally, I see success in over 80% of my patient base. Your practitioner will assess your prognosis and progress and advise what is appropriate for you.

It is time to bridge the gap between Western and Eastern medicine. Be your own advocate and seek holistic treatment to resolve your health problems more naturally. Western drugs are harsh on your liver and kidneys. Improve your health now by taking more holistic care of yourself. Improve the quality of your nutrition and balance your lifestyle ...you will feel better.

For more information, contact OC Acupuncture www.orangecountyacupuncture.com

CNN to air documentary on same-sex surrogacy

2010-05-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

From News on News:

IN AMERICA – GARY & TONY HAVE A BABY
Coming in June 2010 (two hours)

Gary and Tony are life-long gay activists. They also share a classic, traditional dream – marriage and a baby. Unable to legally marry in the U.S., they travel to Canada, get married, and spend thousands on an arduous journey toward parenthood via surrogacy and in vitro fertilization. CNN anchor & special correspondent Soledad O’Brien finds that though Gary and Tony had hoped for a happy extended family, they discover instead ambivalence about same sex marriage. With court battles, and struggles against their hometown community – can these men achieve a life as mainstream as their parents?

A Conception Story

2010-05-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

A new Web-only reality series on TLC.com, "A Conception Story", brings the story of six participants who have been provided with digital cameras. The idea for this series came not from producers, but from First Response, a brand that makes home pregnancy tests and ovulation kits. A brand that many Surrogate Mother's use after an embryo transfer!

Click Here for story

Infertility treatments may raise preterm birth risk

2010-03-23T09:57:00.000-07:00

A new study suggests that couples who conceive through certain types of infertility treatment may have a higher-than-normal likelihood of having a premature baby. This study included only singleton births.

Click Here for story

Woman 1st giving birth twice with ovary transplant

2010-03-02T11:07:00.000-08:00

Remarkable medical advances are being made in the field of reproduction. A woman who had tissue from her ovary removed prior to undergoing chemotherapy, later has ovary transplant resulting in the birth of two children.

Click here for story

iPhone Fertility Calculators application

2010-01-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

Apple has already very successfully developed apps, which can include everything from music players to fertility calculators, on its iPhone.

After four years of struggling to conceive, one woman claimed last week to have given birth at Glasgow Southern General Hospital after using the iPhone’s fertility app.

Lena Bryce, 30, said she entered her body temperature daily and the app calculated when she would be most fertile. It also correctly predicted the baby’s birth date.

Click Here for complete article

Is Your New Year's Resolution to Overcome Infertility?

2010-01-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

Children - they're everywhere, especially during the holidays. A chubby baby surrounded by a circle of admirers is a key visual icon of the season. For couples and individuals who long to conceive but cannot, such constant cues during the holidays can serve as painful reminders of their thwarted desire for a child. With recent advancements, most infertility cases -- 85 to 90 percent -- are treated with conventional medical therapies or surgery, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. However, for those for whom fertility treatments are not an option, gestational surrogacy - an arrangement whereby a woman agrees to become pregnant for the purpose of giving birth to a child for others (intended parents) to raise - is a bold route. Each year in the U.S., an estimated 750 babies are born through gestational surrogacy, a Dec. 12 article in the New York Times stated. For those determined to have children of their own, 2010 could be the year that their resolution becomes reality through the aid of a reputable surrogacy agency.

See the following link for the complete story;

http://www.topix.net/content/prweb/2009/12/is-your-new-years-resolution-to-overcome-infertility-and

New York Times article; Building a baby with few ground rules

2009-12-15T14:32:00.001-08:00

Most surrogacy agencies, like West Coast Surrogacy, have strict regulations in place to screen surrogate candidates as well as parents in need of surrogates. When this doesn't happen, in a state that doesn't support surrogacy, it can be a recipe for disaster.

Click Here to see the article in the New York Times

Embryo Adoption or Embryo Donation?

2009-12-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

In the LA Times, Shari Roan shares with us that the American Society for Reproductive Medicine's preferred term is "embryo donation," rather than "embryo adoption". I happen to agree.

Click Here for story

A Birth Story; Suzie's story

2009-11-23T19:31:00.000-08:00

Here's a note that West Coast Surrogacy surrogate, Suzie, wrote to her fellow surrogates after the birth of twins.

Hello Ladies,
Sorry for the delay, but here's how things turned out!
I was scheduled for my c-section on Wed at 3PM. I woke up early at 5
to have my "last meal" and went downstairs. After I was finished
eating, I noticed that I felt a little "wet" and went upstairs to
change my underwear...wondering if maybe my water broke.
I decided to stay up for a little bit to "monitor the situation" and
started getting ready. After doing my make-up, I didn't feel anymore
'leaking' so went and laid back down....with a towel under me, just in
case!
I woke up a little before 7 and felt a little more damp so debated on
calling my husband to come home early...he usually gets home at 9ish
but the lights go on at the fire station to wake them up at 7. I
decided not to call yet and got up to finish doing my hair and to get
the kids ready...my Mom was picking them up at 9ish to go see Thomas
the Train and keep them for the day.
I continued to have a small drip for the rest of the morning but
decided to hang out, figuring that even if I went to the hospital
early that they'd make me wait until 3 when surgery was scheduled. My
hubby went upstairs to take a nap (turns out he was up since 5 for a
car accident on the 10 anyway...) and I laid down on the couch.
At about 10:30 I got up to use the restroom and had a small 'gush' of
water so I immediately called the Doctor, Amy, my IP's and headed
upstairs to wake my hubby. I continued to have intermittent leaks all
the way to the hospital but no contractions..even up to surgery time.
At the hospital they bumped my surgery time up to 1:45 and we were
able to confirm that my IP's would be allowed into the OR. Before
surgery I met my IF's Mom and sister and was able to say HI to IM's
Mom and 2 daughters before we headed off to get ready....
In the OR things were really relaxed....the anesthesiologist gave me
my epidural and then they covered me all up and 'raised the curtain'
so that the surgical area was obscured and then they let in my hubby
and IP's. At 2:12 Baby A made his 6lb 8oz first gurrgly cries,
followed by Baby B 1 minute later weighing 5lbs 6 oz. It was
wonderful hearing those first cries and then within a few minutes
being able to see my IP's get to hold their babies for the first
time! I don't think there is anything that I have ever experienced
that was as uplifting besides the birth of my own children.
The babies had good APGAR scores and were 19 and 18 inches
respectively. Baby B ended up having a low blood sugar that corrected
after one dose of glucose and Baby A had some jaundice....but there
were pronounced "Perfect" by their pediatrician on Saturday.
They brought the babies in to visit me that evening...I was still
unable to move anything besides my arms, so they placed the babies on
either side of me on the bed. The following day they brought them to
see me in the morning and when my Mom came to see me, IM took her to
their room to introduce her to the babies. That evening before they
got released, they brought the babies and a couple beers over and we
all celebrated (IM and I did not drink since she is breast feeding and
I was drugged!). My husband and I walked them to the elevators when they
left and it was such a happy picture to see them leaving together!
Mom in the wheelchair holding both babies, Dad carrying the carseat
and big sis taking pictures of everything! I thought that I might get
emotional, but I haven't once felt "sad" that the babies are gone!
They have been texting me and sending me pictures ever since Thursday
and I am sure that we will get together soon!
I was released on Friday afternoon...less than 48 hrs after my
surgery. Apparently that is really quick, it's usually 3 days. I
think that since I didn't have a baby to look after that the doctor
thought it would be safe to let me go early. I haven't had any pain
from the incision sight, but girls let me tell you! The gas pain that
builds up after a c-section is astonishing! I never knew gas could be
so painful! Today was the first day that I didn't cringe when the car
hit a bump...which is good because I had to go to the doctor to have
my staples out this morning.
When my kids got home on Friday (Grandma had them when Daddy picked me
up), the first thing my 4 year old did was run up and put her hand on
my tummy. Then she lifted my shirt up and asked if the babies were
gone. I said Yes and then showed her my "owie" so that she'd
understand why she still couldn't jump on Mommy. She was happy that
the babies had "gone home with their Mommy and Daddy" and that I was
home...but she said my belly was still big! LOL...my 3 year old
looked at my belly once, echoed her sister and then moved on! They
have both seen the pictures on my phone and don't seem to have any
concerns at all about where the babies have gone. They were unable to
see the babies due to new regulations on visitors because of
H1N1...they couldn't even come into the waiting area in the hospital
to visit me but they were excited to spend 3 days with Grandma so
didn't seem to mind too much!
Well, that's pretty much it! It was just as amazing and rewarding an
experience as you could ever ask for and I can't wait for the rest of
you first timers to tell your stories!! And....I only have 12 more
pounds left to lose!

How to become a surrogate

2009-11-05T19:37:00.000-08:00

If you are reading this, you are obviously doing your research and gathering information before making the commitment to be a surrogate — good for you!

The agency you chose to work with will play a very important role in your experience as a surrogate. I recommend that you interview at least 2–3 agencies before choosing to align yourself with one.

With West Coast Surrogacy, we conduct an initial phone interview. During the conversation, we review your health and pregnancy history, outline the program in detail and see if we are a good fit for each other. It is more important to our agency that you have the experience that you are looking for, rather than having you partner with us if it’s not the best fit.

Once the initial discussion is complete, we mail an informational packet that contains multiple consent forms and a profile questionnaire. We also ask that you submit your medical records from your previous pregnancies along with a recent Pap Smear test result. Once we receive your completed information and medical records, our agency will arrange an in-person meeting at your home.

After the in-person meeting is complete, your profile will then be made available for intended parents to view. You will also have the opportunity to view the intended parent’s profile.

Once the intended parent(s) wish to move forward, we arrange a meeting that I will attend with you and the intended parents. From this point on, you are on your way to becoming a pregnant surrogate mother!

Fertility Guidelines Updated on Number of Embryos to Be Transferred During In Vitro Fertilization

2009-10-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

See the following article from Medscape Today:

October 20, 2009 — The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) have released new guidelines for the number of embryos to be transferred in in vitro fertilization cycles in an effort to reduce high-risk multiple pregnancies. The guidelines, based on ASRM and SART data from 2007, were published online October 19 in Fertility and Sterility.

"High-order multiple pregnancy (three or more implanted embryos) is an undesirable consequence (outcome) of assisted reproductive technologies (ART)," the guidelines state. "Multiple gestations lead to an increased risk of complications in both the fetuses and the mothers."

The guidelines are meant to assist ART programs and patients to determine the appropriate number of cleavage-stage (usually 2 or 3 days after fertilization) embryos or blastocysts (usually 5 or 6 days after fertilization) to transfer, and they can be modified according to the patient's age, embryo quality, and the opportunity for cryopreservation. They may also be changed as clinical experience with newer techniques accumulates.

The guidelines include the following recommendations:

In women younger than 35 years who have a more favorable prognosis, no more than 2 embryos (cleavage stage or blastocyst) should be transferred, and consideration should be given to transferring only a single embryo.
In women between the ages of 35 and 37 years who have a more favorable prognosis, no more than 2 cleavage-stage embryos should be transferred; all others in this age group should have no more than 3 cleavage-stage embryos transferred, and no more than 2 blastocysts should be transferred if extended culture is performed.
In women between the ages of 38 and 40 years who have a more favorable prognosis, no more than 3 cleavage-stage embryos or 2 blastocysts should be transferred; all others in this age group should have no more than 4 cleavage-stage embryos or 3 blastocysts transferred.
In women between the ages of 41 to 42 years, no more than 5 cleavage-stage embryos or 3 blastocysts should be transferred.
The guidelines also state that women with 2 or more failed fresh in vitro fertilization cycles or a less favorable prognosis may have 1 embryo transferred according to individual circumstances. These women must also be counseled about the risks for multiple pregnancies, and both the counseling and the reason for exceeding the recommended limits must be documented in the patient's permanent medical record.

The guidelines also state that data are insufficient to recommend a limit on the number of embryos to transfer in women 43 years and older.

The guidelines warn that in vitro fertilization programs that have a high-order multiple pregnancy rate that is more than 2 SDs above the mean rate for all SART reporting clinics for 2 consecutive years may be audited by SART.

This report was developed under the direction of the Practice Committee of the SART and the Practice Committee of the ASRM. Members of the ASRM Practice Committee have disclosed various financial relationships with IntegraMed, Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals, Inc; Third Wave Technologies, Inc; Wyeth; EMD Serono, Inc; Ferring Pharmaceuticals; Tokai Pharmaceuticals, Inc; Pfizer Inc; Boehringer Ingelheim GmbH; Teva Pharmaceuticals USA; Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc; Schering-Plough; Theralogix, LLC; Femasys Inc; Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc; Bayer HealthCare; and Ausio Pharmaceuticals, LLC. Members of the SART Practice Committee have disclosed various financial relationships with EMD Serono, Inc; Schering-Plough; Ferring Pharmaceuticals; Theralogix, LLC; Femasys Inc; Irvine Scientific, Inc; Incept BioSystems, Inc; and Molecular Biometrics, Inc.

Fertil Steril. Published online October 19, 2009.

Hospital error leads to radiation overdoses

2009-10-13T16:03:00.000-07:00

Although this article has nothing to do with surrogacy, I am compelled to share it.

Click Here for Los Angeles Times

The Gift of Life, and It's Price

2009-10-12T09:04:00.000-07:00

Multiple Embryo Transfers with IVF and the risks of twin pregnancies. In surrogacy I see more twin pregnancies than singletons. Is it worth the risk?

See the following article in the New York Times;
Click Here

Embryo mix-up

2009-10-02T20:33:00.000-07:00

A devastating scenario for one couple calls forward their humanity and generosity to help another family.

Click Here for story

Fertility and women with early-stage ovarian cancer

2009-09-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

Young women with early-stage ovarian cancer can preserve fertility without compromising the success and effectiveness of surgical treatment. See the attached article.

http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/healthquest/fertility-and-women-with-early-stage-ovarian-cancer

UC Irvine settles lawsuits of stolen eggs, embryos

2009-09-11T14:51:00.000-07:00

Having been an egg donor myself back in the early 1990's, I find this article of interest.

Click Here for Article in the Los Angeles Times

Induced Lactation: Breastfeeding is possible!

2009-09-02T18:26:00.000-07:00

April Kurtyka, West Coast Surrogacy's lactation consultant, writes about the possibility of a woman inducing lactation while she prepares for the birth of her child through surrogacy. A phenomenal experience available to women today!

More and more babies are being brought into the world with the help of Surrogates. This is nothing short of a miracle and these Surrogates are often thought of as “Angels on Earth” for what they do.

What many families are unaware of is that even though mothers are not always able to birth their own babies, they are still able to nourish them once they are here. Through a process of induced lactation a woman who has never even been pregnant before is able to feed her own child and reap the many benefits that breastfeeding has to offer.

As a Board Certified Lactation Consultant I have helped several mothers bring in a milk supply for their child, regardless if they have birthed that child or not.

How in the world is this possible? We simply trick the body into thinking it’s pregnant by using birth control, and together with other medications establish a milk supply, so by the time the baby is born they are able to feed their baby themselves. Sometimes supplementation is needed, but often a woman is able to achieve a full supply. The longer a woman has to prepare, the better results we see.

Even women who have had a hysterectomy or are in the midst of menopause can do this! How exciting that mothers are able to enjoy breastfeeding their children, no matter how they entered this world!

April Kurtyka IBCLC, HCHI, PES
www.confidentbeginnings.com
April@westcoastsurrogacy.com

What is the fate of frozen embryos?

2009-08-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Click Here
What do we do with the hundreds of thousands of frozen embryos stored around the country? Do we donate them to medical research or to another couple? Are they discarded or left frozen for decades until someone else chooses their fate?

Do egg donors realize prior to a donation cycle that embryos remaining in storage may be passed on to another couple?

The choice of disposition is a difficult one for thousands of people around the United States. An interesting and ethically charged discussion.

Fertility Preservation a Viable Option for Women With Cancer

2009-08-12T08:54:00.000-07:00

click here for story.

Two Hundred Hospitals Nationwide Will Replace Formula Sample Bags with Breastfeeding Support Sample Bags

2009-08-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Click Here to see what some hospitals around the country are doing to support breastfeeding.

Fertility Spa Offers Hope to Would-be Parents

2009-07-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

Fertility Spa Offers Hope to Would-be Parents
Lynette Romero KTLA News
3:44 PM PDT, July 23, 2009

SANTA MONICA -- There's a new fertility treatment in town that's not all about science.

You take one step inside the Santa Monica Fertility Specialists Clinic and you'd think you were in the wrong place. There are candles, waterfalls, acupuncture and massage. It's a full service spa but it's all about the business of making babies.

Dr. John Jain says he wanted to combine traditional fertility treatments like IVF with holistic medicine. And in the past year it seems to be working. "we've followed 12 women so far who have completed the program and in nine we have a pregnancy or have delivered a baby.

That's a 75 percent success rate compared to about 40 percent with just IVF alone. I was "completely stressed out and scattered everywhere" says 37 year old Emi Macuaga. After years of trying to get pregnant the "spa way" turned out to be the right way for her. She is expecting her first baby in a few weeks. She says "I was able to find a positive energy...and get centered".

It's giving hope to couples like Roxanne and Mattias Tornyi. They've had 2 failed IVF attempts. This time Roxanne took a leave of absence from her job as an IT specialist. She says she gets it now, her body AND mind have to be ready. "I'm taking this seriously and I'm committed to this and I'm going to do whatever I can to maximize those chances." She'll find out tomorrow if the acupuncture, meditation and the IVF worked.

Surrogacy and Parental Rights

2009-06-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

I think the following article offers information for parents looking at surrogacy regarding the legal aspect of parental rights. I do work with attorney Tom Pinkerton and the National Fertility Law Center, who were a resource for this article.

http://www.slate.com/id/2221399/

Laptop Fertility Warning

2009-06-15T21:51:00.000-07:00

Tips for men to protect fertility;

http://www.scienceagogo.com

ASCO: Fertility Preservation Not A Top Priority for Oncologists

2009-06-03T11:27:00.000-07:00

I found the statistics in this article alarming. A national survey of Oncologists reports that less than 25% refer patients recently diagnosed with cancer to a fertility specialist. These patients will most likely be left sterile after treatment and are not properly educated by their physicians as to options for preserving their fertility.

http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ASCO/14486

C-Sections: Are we doing too many?

2009-05-18T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here's an interesting article in the LA Times regarding the number of C-Sections in the United States. Sometimes surrogate mothers (gestational carriers) have had a C-Section previously and prefer to have a vaginal birth during a surrogate pregnancy. What are the risks? Dr. David Lagrew from Saddleback Memorial Hospital addresses this concern.

Dr. Lagrew was my OB during my pregnancy as a surrogate carrying twins. He could have easily taken Baby B via C-Section after Baby A was born vaginally. Instead he waited close to two hours for Baby B to move into place and arrive as his brother did!

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-cover-birth17-2009may17,0,7665456.story?page=1

Cancer victim takes steps to realize dream of being a mom

2009-05-12T14:12:00.000-07:00

Photo of Alice Crisci, by Sean Hiller

Here's a story from the dailybreeze.com about a cancer survivor that is starting her own non-profit, http://www.myvision.org/, geared toward the preservation of fertility. Definitely worth looking at!

http://www.dailybreeze.com/news/ci_12332538

Surrogate and Parent Relationships

2009-05-04T08:37:00.001-07:00

"What kind of relationship will we have with our surrogate after the birth?"

This is a common question that I'm asked while sitting down with a new intended parent or couple.

The majority of the surrogates that I know and work with, ideally, would like to develop a friendship with the parents of the baby she carries; a friendship that lasts a lifetime. This friendship evolves throughout the pregnancy and is not one that can be forced. It can be somewhat awkward initially after you meet her while waiting for the legal contract to be finalized, waiting for your protocol to start your IVF cycle, until the moment you are sitting with her in the embryo transfer room and surprisingly there is an instant bond between you. What do you say to this woman who has so generously given of herself to you?

Relationships grow and evolve throughout the pregnancy. After the birth, many parents send photos to their surrogate on a regular basis. Some surrogates get together with the parents and the baby/babies and stay in close contact. While others may choose to stay in touch via email and phone calls.

Not all relationships continue after the pregnancy. There are cases in which either the surrogate or the parents choose to no longer communicate (after the birth). In these situations, it is important for all parties involved to have closure and complete their relationship in a respectful manner. Our counselor, Ellen Winters Miller, is a wonderful resource for our surrogates and parents. Not only does Ellen provide support for the surrogates and parents during the pregnancy, she is also involved after the birth, offering a platform of communication and support to all parties.

What kind of relationship will you have with your surrogate after the birth? Our hope is that you and your surrogate create an experience together in a way that has you feeling related and fulfilled.

Joan Lundon and Surrogacy

2009-05-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed reading Joan Lundon's recent blog on Surrogacy. Speaking from her own experience she offers readers a glimpse into the intimate process of having a baby through surrogacy.

http://blog.joanlunden.com/2009/05/surrogacy-gift-of-life.html

The Ethics of Human Cloning

2009-04-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

In the following story by ABC News, Fertility doctor Panayiotis Zavos claims to have cloned human embryos and transferred these embryos into 4 women. None of the embryos resulted in a viable pregnancy. What does this mean for the world of infertility? Is this regulated?

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine issued a statement calling attempts at human cloning unethical.

Personally, I don't see a place for this in our society. Read the article, watch the video and tell me what you think.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=7406854&page=1

Family Planning When Cancer Intrudes

2009-04-23T06:57:00.001-07:00

Here's an article I found interesting in the LA Times pertaining to cancer treatment leaving men and women infertile. What are the options? Are the doctors telling their patients about sperm freezing and egg freezing before the patient becomes sterile?

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/21/health/21brod.html?_r=2

Time Magazine Story; Single Embryo Transfer

2009-04-09T14:12:00.000-07:00

Time Magazine reports on new research that suggests that a single embryo transfer, followed by subsequent thawed single embryo transfers, may be as effective as a multiple embryo transfer in the long run. This would decrease the amount of multiple pregnancies among IVF patients, including surrogate mothers. Yet, is this really cost effective?

http://www.time.com/time/health/article/0,8599,1888299,00.html

The Cost of Surrogacy

2009-03-30T11:09:00.000-07:00

Since the birth of the now-famous octuplets, talk of in vitro fertilization as a means of relatively inexpensive infertility treatment has remained etched throughout media discussion. Some have defended what Nadya Suleman did – having multiple fertilized embryos implanted all at once to better her odds of having a healthy child – by citing the great cost of each individual IVF treatment (approximately $12,000). This technique is beginning to be viewed as the conception option of the middle class, while other methods, such as surrogacy and egg donation are reserved only for the very wealthy.

Nothing could be further from the truth. As workers at a Chicago egg donation and surrogacy organization have observed, couples who turn to surrogacy as a way to have a child of their own rarely do so without making financial and personal sacrifices, but they always find the effort to be entirely worth it.

Robin von Halle, president of the Chicago-based fertility agency, says that some of their intended parents “take out second mortgages. Others work two or three jobs. We know one couple whose family and friends held benefits for them to help cover the costs. […] And nobody’s ever shown regret."

Similarly, at West Coast Surrogacy, intended parents have often made special efforts to cope with the financial toll of a surrogacy birth. Some have turned to their families for assistance, adjusted their living situations, or even cashed in on their retirement savings in order to meet the expense. Fortunately, the end result far outweighs the sacrifice.

So although the cost may seem daunting, it can be beneficial and comforting for couples and individuals considering surrogacy to know that it is not impossible, and it’s certainly not an option open to millionaires alone. Many people in similar financial situations have (and are) finding ways to make it happen. We hope that you can too!

If you have questions or concerns about the financial aspects of the surrogacy process, or about our organization in general, please feel free to call or write us at info@westcoastsurrogacy.com

Read the PR Newswire article in its entirely here:
http://sev.prnewswire.com/health-care-hospitals/20090217/CG7167417022009-1.html

A New Day for Stem Cell Research

2009-03-23T16:48:00.000-07:00

Last week, President Obama addressed the country with a new policy on stem cell research, which allows scientists much freer access to embryonic stem cells in particular and reverses the tight restrictions set by the Bush administration in 2001. The president’s plan offers many potential benefits and greatly enables scientists to conduct their research more thoroughly and effectively. They will now be able to study among thousands of embryonic stem cell samples, instead of the mere 21 lines allowed previously. These 21 lines were not ethnically or genetically diverse and therefore far from ideal for accurate research. Studying from a diverse and unrestricted sample size will help scientists better understand how to treat heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s, as well as spinal cord injuries and many other serious health conditions.

Obama’s lifting of the previous administration’s restrictions also means that it will no longer be illegal for scientists in the private sector to share facilities, equipment and findings with their government-funded colleagues. This will make the research process much more conducive to real medical breakthroughs. And that’s what this change of executive position is really about – facilitating the uninhibited flow of knowledge. It is this open exchange of study and ideas that has brought us medical advancements like our modern fertility treatments and cures for countless life-threatening diseases.

Of course, there is still a great deal of controversy over the use of embryonic stem cells in scientific study. Adult stem cells can also be used for valuable research, but it is the cells from embryos that have the ability to develop into any kind of cell in the body. This is what makes them special, but it is also their potential to start a new life that stirs so much debate. However, the vast majority of these embryonic stem cells come from IVF clinics and may have been discarded anyway. So why not use them for potentially life saving research instead? What do you think?

Here’s a Newsweek article on the subject which includes an interview with Amy Comstock Rick, CEO of the Parkinson's Action Network and president of the Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR), a group formed in 2001 to advocate for embryonic stem-cell research.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/188454/page/1

Egg Freezing; A Patient's Perspective

2009-03-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

Watch Lindsay Nohr Beck, founder of Fertlile Hope, as she moves us with her thoughts on Oocyte Cryopreservation - The Patient's Perspective, at the 2008 American Society for Reproductive Medicine conference in San Francisco, California.

http://www.ivfpodcasts.com/IVF_Podcasts/Podcasts.php?Oocyte-Cryopreservation-The-Patient-s-Perspective-16

Visit Fertile Hope at http://www.fertilehope.org/

Acupuncture and Infertility

2009-03-16T11:32:00.000-07:00

During my experience as a gestational carrier, I received acupuncture from Dr. Kathie Albertson, L. Ac., on a weekly basis starting prior to the embryo transfer, post embryo transfer, and for the duration of the pregnancy. I attribute not only the success of the embryo transfer, but also my health and well being during the pregnancy, to acupuncture. Kathie has a gift and has dedicated her life to others.

The following was written by Dr. Kathie Albertson, L. Ac.;

Why is Acupuncture now being recommended for Infertility? Why will you want it? How can it help?

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) includes acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. It has successfully treated infertility, gynecological, male factor, and many other illnesses and health problems facing couples for 5,000 years. Western medicine as we know it is just over 200 years old. TCM protocols differ from the procedures used in Western medicine-but their use offers hope for many for whom Western medicine is trying to or who has not yet helped. Several studies prove that your chances of conception, pregnancy and take home baby rates are increased when using acupuncture whether you are trying naturally or in conjunction with IUI or IVF. Some reports indicate a 40-60% improvement rate when used concurrently increasing the success of take home babies!

So how does it work?

TCM treats holistically, balancing, nourishing and supporting your blood and organ systems. A balanced body system is necessary for a male to have an adequate sperm count, motility and morphology and for a woman to make good follicles, good eggs, sufficient uterine lining and to help prevent miscarriage. Our body becomes "out of sync" with chronic stress, overwork, poor nutrition, long term use of medications, exposure to toxins and chemicals, smoking, alcohol use, etc. Your body is like a "circuit board connecting with your brain". Life is busy and stressful for most of us ...so it is easy for our bodies to "shut down" and be unbalanced. It is like some of the switches on our "circuit board" have been turned off creating blockages causing physical or emotional imbalances. TCM restores balance and blood flow and opens up our "circuit boards" so that the body functions better without stress or duress. The body and endocrine system feel safe and in better working order to conceive, carry and deliver!

For more information, please visit http://www.orangecountyacupuncture.com/

Carrying someone else's dream

2009-03-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

In a recent article in the L.A. Times, the media takes another look at military wives as surrogates. This story, in my opinion, chooses to look beyond the topic of health insurance and financial motivation and shows us a realistic view of surrogacy. Read the story of Angel Howard who went through similar experiences of that of an infertile woman while trying to achieve a pregnancy as a surrogate. Through her struggles, loss and perseverance, she offers her story of being a surrogate mother.

Read the story and tell us your thoughts;
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-surrogates11-2009mar11,0,6263939.story

Fatherhood Dreams

2009-02-26T21:39:00.000-08:00

http://www.fatherhooddreams.com/index.htm

Surrogacy provides couples (and individuals) from all walks of life with an alternative way to have biological children of their own – even those couples deemed less-than-traditional by societal norms. In the 2008 Canadian documentary, Fatherhood Dreams, director Julia Ivanova, explores the stories of several gay couples who have become fathers either through adoption or surrogacy.

The film has been highly praised for its introspective look at families who -- through their basic desire to have children -- expand the very definition of the word “family.” It has also served as an inspiring testament for other gay couples out there who wish to start a family of their own and could benefit from the triumphant examples of others.

In the film and in extended interviews, the gay couples discuss the obstacles they’ve encountered and how they managed to make their dreams come true despite society’s predisposition for the heterosexual family. One man, who tells of how he had always wanted children of his own, explains that when he came out to his mother, she supported him but was instantly depressed because she believed it was now impossible for him to become a father. Now, as the proud father of his own biological twins by a surrogate mother, he muses over how new technologies have allowed him to fully attain his dreams.

Although they may not be your typical families, the moms and dads highlighted in the film all emphasize how innately natural it is to love and learn from their children – a theme in parenting which, in a happy, nurturing home, always seems to ring true regardless of the genders present.

Watch a group interview with the families who participated in the documentary, as well as some very touching clips from the film on Youtube.
http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=fatherdream&view=videos

Article about the documentary on GreatDad.com
http://www.greatdad.com/tertiary/358/3490/documentary-about-gay-dads-honored.html

Breast Cancer and Fertility : Part Four

2009-02-21T11:30:00.000-08:00

The members of the Northwest Women’s Survival Group and Young Survival Coalition all agree that no facet of their lives, large or small, has been left untouched by their cancer. Motherhood is no exception -- whether it’s the unspeakable fear that they may not always be there for their children, or even becoming pregnant. Even after completing all cancer treatments and reaching the remission stage, an increase in their amount of estrogen during pregnancy is, for some, a guarantee that their cancer will return. One survivor discusses how surrogacy may be her chance to have a child of her own and a means of breathing new meaning into her life and relationship.

http://www.q13fox.com/pages/video/?clipId=3087893&topVideoCatNo=71694&c=&autoStart=true&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=

Breast Cancer and Fertility : Part Three

2009-02-11T15:02:00.000-08:00

In spite of what many believe, when it comes to cancer, youth and a healthy family history are not always a deterrent. The women of these survival groups discuss the shock and difficulties of dealing with this fact, and reveal how their cancer has left them with more to overcome than purely physical pains and scars. How do you plan a family when you’re no longer physically able to become pregnant? How do you form and hold onto a relationship when cancer is in the picture? Some discover that their disease ends up illuminating the most compassionate sides of their significant other.

http://www.q13fox.com/pages/video/?clipId=3062491&topVideoCatNo=71694&c=&autoStart=true&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=

Breast Cancer and Fertility : Part Two

2009-02-07T14:48:00.000-08:00

As we continue the story of a group of women in Seattle, we see that the relative youth of these women often implies that in addition to their constant battle with breast cancer and the possibility of infertility, they must also maintain their relationships, careers, and the raising of younger children. A common note expressed by several members of the survival group is a newfound desire to redirect their work towards worthy causes including the campaign to cure breast cancer itself.

http://www.q13fox.com/pages/video/?autoStart=true&topVideoCatNo=default&clipId=3037678

Breast Cancer and Fertility : Part One

2009-02-04T09:54:00.000-08:00

In the city of Seattle, a group of determined, young women find support and renewed strength by sharing their common experience of coping with breast cancer and the daily challenges that come hand in hand with the disease. Fox News presents special coverage of the inspiring members of the Northwest Women’s Survival Group and the Young Survival Coalition.

http://www.q13fox.com/pages/video/?clipId=3012712&topVideoCatNo=71694&c=&autoStart=true&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat

As cancer patients, these women often must contend with the loss of much more than their health alone. Many cancer treatments can cause infertility in both women and men. Chemotherapy and radiation can often damage a woman’s eggs beyond use, and the hormone therapies used to treat breast cancer specifically can also affect a woman’s ability to conceive or carry an embryo to full term. For certain cancers in women, a hysterectomy or oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) may be part of the treatment.

Fortunately, several options exist for preserving fertility in female cancer victims. In vitro fertilization, or embryo freezing, is the most common method today. Fertilized embryos can be frozen and preserved for future use after the patient has reached the remission stage of her cancer treatment. If the mother is unable to carry a child due do to her cancer or cancer treatments, surrogacy is an option.

Other more experimental techniques used to preserve fertility are egg freezing -- where unfertilized eggs are collected and frozen for future use --, and ovarian tissue freezing -- where part of a woman’s ovary is removed and divided into thin strips to be frozen. After a her cancer treatment, this tissue can be transplanted back into her body usually near the fallopian tubes, the abdomen, or even in her forearm. The eggs produced by the transplanted tissue can then be removed and fertilized in a lab.

Birth of octuplets is not a 'medical triumph,' caution fertility experts

2009-01-29T11:28:00.000-08:00

It’s fine to celebrate the healthy delivery, said Sean Tipton, spokesperson for the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. But, a pregnancy resulting in this many babies is “clearly is not a medical triumph. Eight babies is not an outcome anyone should want.”

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28902137

Birth of Octuplets Illustrates the Extent of Modern Fertility Methods

2009-01-28T10:59:00.000-08:00

Listen to an NPR account of the amazingly rare event as described by a doctor who assisted the birth.

Doctor in Octuplet Delivery Speaks
All Things Considered, National Public Radio
Jan 27, 2009
http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=4&islist=true&id=2&d=01-27-2009

Watch MSNBC Today Show interviews with two more doctors (there were a grand total of 46!) who also aided the octuplet birth.
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/26184891/vp/28871000#28871000

Yesterday, on January 27, the unbelievable birth of 8 especially tiny infants – octuplets-- inundated media headlines. Several of the 46 doctors and nurses who assisted the delivery gave interviews and updates to news audiences eager to hear about the amazing event – one which has occurred in the U.S. only once before. The Cesarean section birth lasted only about 5 minutes at the Bellflower Medical Center in Bellflower, CA. Luckily, all eight babies were healthy and able to breathe on their own by the end of their first day, despite being born 9 weeks premature and ranging in weight from 3lbs. 4oz to a mere 1lb. 8oz. The mother was reported to be healthy as well although she was closely under watch for possible problems involving an over-extended uterus.

It is almost a certainty that these remarkable multiple births would never occur if not for the infertility treatments being practiced today. A woman having difficulties conceiving may opt to have artificial insemination while ovulating multiple eggs in one cycle, or having several fertilized embryos implanted in her uterus at one time. The option of selective reduction is available for parents that don’t want to undertake the risks associated with carrying a pregnancy of three, four, five, six, seven, and even eight babies. Naturally, the idea of a controlled miscarriage in order to bear one or two healthy children raises much ethical debate, and regardless of a woman’s moral opinion there are always inherent health risks to consider as well. Normally, the female uterus is designed for no more than 2 fetuses at a time. The risk of complications arising for both the babies and the mother is increased with the number of births. Multiple birth children often initially have problems breathing on their own because of underdeveloped lungs and are more prone to asthma later in life. As infants, they are more likely to suffer from seizures. As growing children, they can experience physical and mental developmental issues as a result of their smaller size.

The story of the octuplets can be both inspiring and unnerving at the same time. If anything, it encourages discussion of what some women are willing to undergo in order to give birth to a child of their own, and to what extent are they willing to risk their own health and that of their unborn children? In surrogacy arrangements, this topic is discussed when you begin the process to ensure that you are matched with a surrogate that is willing to either carry a multiple pregnancy, or selectively reduce a high risk multiple pregnancy of more than two fetuses. All parties involved are in agreement prior to the embryo transfer, alleviating any concern as to “what would we do if this happened to us?”

Laura: A Surrogate Mother

2009-01-26T12:26:00.000-08:00

My Story, Part 3

The Transfer

The night before the transfer I had dinner and fun girl time with my Intended Mother and her mom. It was just perfect, like hanging out with a girlfriend or a sister, and her mom made me feel just as comfortable. We had an amazing time at dinner talking for hours, before I knew it was after 10pm and I still had to drive about 45 minutes home (they were staying near the IVF clinic). We didn't plan that well, my IM even said “you should have brought your clothes and just stayed the night here”, oh well, hind sight, right? The next morning Amy came to pick me up and off we went, I never felt nervous or scared, just plain and simple excitement; like a kid on Christmas. When we arrived at the clinic they took me right back, had me take a Valium and in walked everyone, the doc, my IM and before we knew it the doc called the lab to bring in the embabies. When the lab person walked in with those beautiful little ones, the energy in the room changed, it was so amazing like a lovely white calming light and we all felt it, the tears were rolling in that room and we all knew that beautiful life was there, then as they entered my womb I felt that energy enter my body. I am crying now just writing about it. In my life this was one of the most powerful experiences, right up there with the birth of my children and my wedding day.

After the transfer off to the hotel I went for 2 days of bed rest. I really enjoyed it; my husband brought the kids to see me twice, my dad, and my good friend all came to visit during my stay, and in between my visits and naps I had lots of rest, yummy room service (I felt so bad ordering so much room service, I never do that!!), and the Sex in the City series on my laptop.

On the 3rd day at 10am I was finally aloud to get up and SHOWER!!! It was also my son’s 5th birthday so the rest of the day was full of preparations. Even though I have been busy since the transfer after the bed rest, I can't help but notice I have the usual symptoms of pregnancy and hope and pray the little "omelets" as my IM calls them, made a nice home. My blood test is Tuesday, Jan. 20th inauguration day!!!

The Wait and Results

It really wasn’t bad, transfer was on Saturday, bed rest for 48 hours, and then to work for 3 days until my husband, the kids and I went up to visit our IP’s for the weekend. They live on an amazing ranch, we were all so excited to go and see it, especially the kids. As soon as we were all together of course the question came up; should we take a home pregnancy test this weekend or just wait until Tuesday for the blood test? Well that question was answered the next morning when my IM’s mom brought me a couple of urine tests to take. And what did we see??????? A big FAT POSITIVE!!!!!!!! It was so great, everyone found out the news together and all of us were of course in tears. It was an amazing weekend to say the least.

Tuesday finally came and although we had been now getting positives on home tests, the blood test is what we all were waiting for before we would rest assured we were in fact pregnant. I went for my test in the morning and eagerly waited all morning until lunch for the results. By 1pm I was frantic, calling the IVF center, emailing the nurse, and then I got the call!!! The nurse from the IVF center said,” Well, we are going to have to have you test again on either Thursday or Friday and you are definitely pregnant, your beta number was 584, looks like twins but of course we can not confirm that until the ultrasound!” We were all in shock, that is an amazing number. Then I got to be the one to call my IM and give her the good news, wow all I have to say is WOW!!!!! The second blood test came back great too with a beta of 1030. We are all so happy and look forward to the ultrasound in 2 more weeks so we can know for sure how many “omelets” are in there!!!

CBS News Sunday Morning

2009-01-25T08:11:00.000-08:00

This morning, CBS News aired a story on surrogacy, showing a realistic view of who surrogates are and why they choose to become a carrier. Melissa Brisman is interviewed as an attorney/agency owner, while Dr. Smotrich of La Jolla IVF helps a couple from Italy achieve a twin pregnancy with a surrogate. Tom and Jeffrey have twins with the help of a surrogate, and Melissa; a woman who was left infertile after undergoing radiation treatment, sees the birth of her baby with her husband, Michael, by her side.

Read the story; http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2009/01/25/sunday/main4751784.shtml

Guest Blogger: Egg Freezing

2009-01-21T21:02:00.000-08:00

Egg Freezing has been a big topic for the last few years and particularly in the last few days. We can all see the merit for young women to preserve their fertility through freezing their eggs when they are young so that they can have their own biological children in the future when they are ready to start a family. But what about the freezing for donor eggs for intended parents in need of an egg donor. So far, I find that my clients(intended parents), are not interested in perusing frozen donor eggs if they have the option to do a fresh egg donor cycle. Yet, I see clinics and donor programs are offering frozen egg donor cycles more and more.

The technology is exciting but what will make this option appealing for intended parents. I think the answer may be that when the cost of a frozen egg cycle is lower than the cost of a fresh cycle and the success rate for a frozen cycle is equal to the success rate for fresh. But so far in most cases fresh is still more of a sure thing than frozen. Intended parents are not impressed with the pioneer technology they want guarantees and of course there are never any guarantees.

The advantage to a frozen egg donor cycle is that the intended parents don't have to plan their cycle around the egg donors cycle. Though, most intended parents are usually happy to do what ever it takes to work with a really appealing egg donor. I do think at some point egg banking may become the norm but for now I don't know why an intended parent would choose frozen egg donor over fresh. I look forward to others thoughts on this topic.

Gail Sexton Anderson,
Founder, Donor Concierge
www.donorconcierge.com

Carla's Story: An Intended Parent's Point of View, Part 2

2009-01-12T10:53:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

It has been a very interesting three months as Michael and I have now realized we are becoming parents. And we are so excited. The first couple of days when we got the good news (via Jackie which was great) Michael and me could only walk around going 'PAPA - 'MAMA'. We both had not much to say, just smiling and those two words was enough to keep us going. Our friends and family must have thought we are a very weird couple.LOL.

It is a little bit strange because the last six months we only have been focusing on, blood-test, contracts, medication, flights, date's that you almost forget what the outcome will be. We were also (at least I was) preparing myself for the fact that something could go wrong, such as the eggs would not be a good quality, not enough embryos, the embryos did not nestle in Jackie womb (that would have been very rare as even I nestled close to her after the egg transfer). Jackie just has this fantastic glow about her, very familiar to me.

So after the first 8 weeks: more pregnant worries, will the babies be healthy? What if, What if..blah blah. It was nice that Amy always told me that worrying is normal and it will not get less, it will only change the type of worry when kids grow older.

However when Jackie got really ill, I was feeling a bit worried and not completely myself because there was nothing I could do to make her feel better and she is doing the hard work for me. It really made me realize that I definitely made the right choice about not carrying babies myself. Pregnancy is not a simple and easy thing. Jackie is a strong healthy woman in all matters and she has been really sick. I think the twins look like Mike and I already, strong minded and energetic, they have not left Jackie alone for a minute. She is doing great and we are so happy!

It is a delight telling people that we are pregnant. When I told the Grandmother of Mike she said: wow I will have a grandchild! When I said, well you will have two, we are expecting twins. I am still deaf on one side as she screamed her lungs out. That was such an enjoyable moment for us. My mom told all my Aunties and Uncles on the New Years Reception and recorded the announcement with a camcorder!! When Mike told his mom she thought he was joking regarding having twins and Michael had to say, ' I am not calling you on Christmas Day to tell you a joke' She was saying afterwards she needed a drink (she never drinks). It was a real good time and these moments make you strong for the comments who are not so sophisticated and comments you prefer not to hear. Such as: But how do you know they are yours? Maybe they swapped stuff around in the lab? What if your surrogate does not give your babies to you?...We heard these comments, and it gives me goose bumps. Michael seems to deal with them very easy and he helps me (again) dealing with that with less tress and he helps me to understand that some people just do not know much about surrogacy these days because the media only publishes the negative stories of the old days and that is a shame. Because all the moms who now are surrogates deserve a compliment. It is a fantastic thing to do! I am the lucky one, I have a prince on a white horse and a lovely surrogate called 'Jackie'

So how is our pregnancy going, very good, we are 12 weeks and 2 days today! Jackie is only sick once a day but still very tired. However we are again all excited because our 'big scan' will be on the 20th of February and Michael and me are 'coming to America’!!

Laura: A Surrogate Mother

2009-01-08T15:20:00.000-08:00

My Story, Part 2

Our cycle

Well, the cycle came and went with the holidays and in only 2 days we are transferring 2 beautiful embryos!!! But first to backtrack a bit into the cycle phase, we finally got THE CALENDAR!!!! Can I tell you how exciting this is for both surrogates and IP’s, this outlines exactly when this entire wonderful baby making process will begin. I started the 1st of many medications in the middle of December; Lupron which suppressed my normal hormones in order to get me ready for the docs to be able to manipulate me and my hormones just how they would like, so I can be a nice fluffy home for the embryo’s to come. Just about a week and a half later my Intended Mother started her cycling meds and before we knew it, it was retrieval time and that went just perfectly!!!! On the other side of the retrieval are the dreaded Progesterone injections I now have to do until I am 9-12 weeks pregnant. I knew all along I was going to have to do these so I tried my best not to psych myself out about it and it worked; I was successful. Since then I have done the injection each time without a problem, just a little soreness afterwards which wears off in just enough time for it to be time for the next injection. ALL I know right now is that I am so EXCITED I can’t stop smiling and am so looking forward to the transfer in 2 days. Then we get to hurry up and .................WAIT!!!!! The dreaded 2 week wait!!!!until we get the 1st BETA results. I plan to do my best and not test at home before then, we will see!

Carla's Story : An Intended Parent's Point of View

2009-01-07T17:13:00.000-08:00

My name is Carla, I am Dutch and my partner, Michael, is from New Zealand. We lived in London for 5 years, and are now happily engaged and living in Australia. Amy asked if I would write about my experience working with West Coast Surrogacy; I would do everything for Amy and just like to say to you: 'you hit the jackpot'. Obviously I do not know your life story but I can tell you mine and I hope this would help you in making decisions regarding picking your surrogate agency.

In London I found out that I should not carry my own kids because of a heart condition. I was devastated as we all are when we find out. However, the hospital in London has been fantastic and introduced us to the option of a surrogate. I got used to the idea and when we moved to Australia I contacted the local IVF centre to get started. It was hard, as they are very relaxed in Australia and I wanted children. Better yesterday then today. Most of the visits to the IVF Doctor ended up in tears. It was just not going fast enough, did not get the answers I wanted and to make it short 'from December 2007 until June 2008 were pretty frustrating. We did one egg retreival in Australia and got 2 frozen embryos. Finally our doctor contacted an IVF doctor in Los Angeles, Dr. Ringler.

When I spoke to Dr. Ringler the following week he gave me a couple of surrogate agencies contact information. I contacted them by email and that is where our journey changed from being a long tearful process into a happy, understanding and cheerful trip of a lifetime.

Amy called me as soon as she received my email. It did not stop her even if we are based on the other side of the world!! We talked and she was so understanding and positive...I think that day I just walked around in disbelieve. Amy is easy to talk to and knows everything from fertility details up to contracts, accounts and passports etc. She does not make you feel if you are standing alone, she has done it, been there and just understands. I was so happy that day and still am. Since that day we have been emailing back and forwards. She emailed me profiles from surrogates and my eye fell on Jackie! As I am Dutch I seem to be a very realistic person, not very pink but when I saw Jackie I knew she was the one who I would feel relaxed with, the one who I could give a cuddle, have a joke with and simply feel not stressed with the complete treatment.

Amy did the match pretty good and then Amy organized everything. Me and Jackie started emailing each other. She helped us with organizing contracts and everything that we needed to do. Michael went over first to deliver his semen (this needs to be in quarantine for one month) Amy spoke with the centre to organize all this. When Mikes plane was delayed she cancelled his hotels, organized the appointments to be re-scheduled. I did not have to do a thing, except biting my nails. LOL. Jackie, Mike and Amy went for a nice lunch, organized by Amy. Amy went with Mike to the clinic and supported him through the first exciting but scary visits.

Then after 3 month it was my turn to go to Los Angeles to do the egg retrieval and transfer. Amy and Jackie came to pick me up from the airport; I was so excited. It was if meeting some old friends and it did not feel uncomfortable for even a minute!! We went to my hotel and when that seem to be completely in a wrong area. Amy did not let me stay there and organized another hotel for me. She did not make a fuss, she just does it! We had a lovely afternoon together. On the Saturday we went to the horse races with her family which was so cool. I had the winning horses (sorry just had to mention that).

And to keep it short (I am really trying but there is so much to tell) Amy supported me for two weeks. She organized my appointments, took phone messages for me as I did not have a phone. She did it all. She stayed with me in the hotel when I had my egg retrieval, After the egg retrieval I was a bit disappointed in myself as I only had 5 eggs. After 3 days we had 3 beautiful embryos.

On Tuesday Amy and Jackie came to pick me up from the hotel and we were having the transfer done at 10.30 am. Jackie already took her valium in the car and we had such a good time. Again Amy was there with us and gave Jackie and me an angel coin. I still have that coin and carry it with me all the time...

Amy did such a great effort it was hard to say goodbye and go back home. I was in LA for over 2 weeks but it flew by. However, now we still email like three times a week. Just a little chat, just a little hello, and we discuss some 'jackie' details about morning sickness because WE ARE PREGNANT...WE ARE HAVING TWINS.
Poor Jackie has been really sick but she is doing fantastic.

I got to know them both, Jackie and Amy will stay in my life forever! I cannot wait to go back to LA as I so want to see them again. Jackie is so special for me, it is hard to describe, I am very happy Amy introduced us.

Instead of having this period in my life as dramatic and negative it is now a privilege and enjoyment thanks to Amy and of course Jackie! I was right about the embryos being fighters as Jackie has found out. Hopefully the morning sickness goes down by the 10-12 weeks, Amy said so, so it must be true!

Take care,

Mommy to be,

Carla

Single Men Turning to Surrogates

2009-01-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

Precise figures of surrogacy statistics are somewhat difficult to come by due to the fact that surrogacy is unregulated in the United States and mostly handled through private individuals; however, it is quite clear that in the past year, surrogacy has been experiencing a baby boom. Within this increase in the demand for surrogates has been a steady growth of single men seeking to become fathers via surrogacy.

Often times attempts at adoption for single parents can result in failure or be quite difficult to obtain, regardless of being male or female. These failed attempts at adoption are “emotionally draining,” and as a result, many people turn to surrogacy. The rigorous process of adoption can disqualify many people seeking children in an attempt to ensure that those adopting are appropriate as parents and the right intentions in mind. This is for the safety of the children being adopted, but it can also result in a very rigid and difficult process for those wishing to be single parents, especially males, whether straight or gay.

Gestational surrogacy has increased since IVF was introduced in the early 1980s, and has made surrogacy even more accessible to men opting to become single parents. Often men, both homosexual and straight, realize that they just wish to start a family, with or without marriage.

West Coast Surrogacy does not discriminate based on age, sexual orientation, or marital status. All individuals seeking to become a parent (or parents) through means of surrogacy are invited to visit our website www.westcoastsurrogacy.com.

For more on Single Men Turning To Surrogates, follow the link below;
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/12/23/single.men.parenting/?iref=mpstoryview

Fertility Patients Unsure What To Do With Leftover Embryos

2009-01-03T15:52:00.000-08:00

An emerging dilemma in fertility is now the issue of what to do with frozen embryos that are no longer needed by fertility patients. Currently, about half a million are frozen, and are likely to remain frozen without “satisfactory options” for patients to dispose of their embryos.

The largest study ever done on fertility patients and their embryos took place at nine fertility clinics. Of 1,020 respondents, only about 600 said they were likely to use their embryos, and of the entire 1,020, more than 50% said they were very unlikely to donate extra embryos to other couples. This finding highlights the political aspects of embryo preservation and exposes the idea that wanting to keep an embryo does not necessarily equate wanting that embryo to become a child.

The most popular alternative was donating the embryos for research, but with a current ban on federal funds for embryonic research, most fertility patients are unable to select this option. This inability for patients to find an appropriate way they wish to use their embryos (other than for children) has encouraged the permanent freezing of embryos, as well as less common alternatives like asking for their own embryos and dealing with them personally and privately.

As this problem begins to grow with more and more patients unsure of what to do with their embryos, it emphasizes the necessity of considering “what to do with leftover embryos” at the beginning of fertility treatments rather than trying to find an appropriate way to dispose of them after the treatment is complete.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2008-12-04-embryos-fertility_N.htm

Secondhand Smoke Raises Odds of Fertility Related Problems in Women

2008-12-24T10:22:00.001-08:00

In a research study just concluded, the University of Rochester in New York has proven that women who were exposed to secondhand smoke as children or young adults were later more likely to have trouble getting pregnant and suffered more miscarriages than women not exposed to smoke.

Previous studies have linked smoking with miscarriage, birth defects, and sudden infant death syndrome, but only now have the links with secondhand smoking been proven. The significant differences in fertility problems with women that had not been exposed to secondhand smoke are astounding, and reflects the long-term repercussions of secondhand smoke.

Despite all of the information available on the “effects of tobacco usage and exposure… 15 percent of mothers continue to smoke throughout pregnancy, and an estimated 43 million women in the United States are exposed to cigarette smoke from others.” This latest research on the effects of secondhand smoke serve to support further restrictions on smoking as well as demonstrate the lasting effects of smoke-exposure on women during childbearing years.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/12/081205113932.htm

http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNews/idUSTRE4B405120081205

Ova Time: Women Line Up to Donate Eggs for Money

2008-12-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

With the United States in a recently declared recession and everyone affected, belts are beginning to tighten all around the country, and in this economic crisis, clinics are now reporting a surge in the number of women donating their eggs for money or attempting to become surrogate mothers.

In some reproductive agencies, the amount of would-be egg donors has been up almost 30% in recent weeks—about 60 calls a day. There is no longer a wait for egg donors with the offers coming in so rapidly for donation. Even advertisements are running that call for specific traits; for example, “100% Jewish with… high SAT scores… attractive, at healthy body weight and free of genetic diseases.”

This squeeze on the economy is bringing women of all backgrounds into our surrogacy world—women who have college loans, who want to buy a house, or who need to provide for their own children’s education.

In all this uproar for eggs and surrogates, the women who are only looking for some quick cash get turned down—most agencies, including West Coast Surrogacy, only accept a tiny fraction of applicants, and the qualifications are stringent. There are numerous disqualifiers for the candidates as well as requirements of appropriate weight for their height and very good health.

Despite the rise in egg donations and surrogacy applicants in this recession, there has been no drop in demand for donor eggs despite the costs of each attempt. Many of the couples seeking egg donors and surrogates are from Europe, where paying for such surrogacy services is illegal and waits can take many years.

Read more on this topic in the Wall Street Journal;

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122878524586490129.html

Laura: A Surrogate Mother

2008-12-02T17:13:00.000-08:00

My Story, Part 1

My name is Laura, I am a 32 married mother of two beautiful children ages 3 and 4. We have been so blessed; with our children and I loved being pregnant. As sappy as this sounds, I just feel this is my calling. It’s just me; I like to always feel I am helping. As a college student I majored in Psychology and have gone on to work in many different counseling, job coaching, teaching, and social work positions. While attending college I was first introduced to egg donation; this is where my journey to help those who need help with building their families begins.

After completing our family, egg donations, surrogacy just seemed like the next step. I have been lucky with easy pregnancies and knew that I still had more in me to give. I started researching surrogacy and after speaking with many agencies decided I was well informed and ready to bring this idea and research to my husband. He was not exactly jumping up and down but to my surprise he has come around and is now very supportive and I think just as excited as I am. This will be such an amazing experience and example for all around us, especially our children. We teach our children everyday about sharing and that is exactly what I will say to our children when it’s time to talk about the baby or babies growing in my tummy, or to anyone who asks for that matter. I hope not only to give a family what they have dreamed of but to also set a great example to others. We have already been surprised by our families who have had amazing positive reactions and look forward to supporting us through this journey.

Now I know that everything will not be roses. I have already had experiences that were less than my dream of a perfect surrogacy. At my first appointment with the Reproductive Endocrinologist I found out that I have uterine polyps. Emotionally this hit me pretty hard, I had feelings of inadequacy, thoughts that maybe I would never be able to be a surrogate, and knowing that I had them worried me as well. This very first hurdle taught me so much, I now know that there will probably be many hurdles along the way and to just relax because everything will workout for the best. I like to focus on the positive side, the light at the end of the tunnel so to speak and everything happens for a reason, as long as I know I am doing my best, what will be will be.

Meeting our IP’s

This of course was something we were very nervous about, but instantly I felt comfortable with my IM, as if we had been friends for a long time. This was exactly what I had hoped for; I can’t imagine going through such and intimate experience with a family I didn’t feel comfortable with. After a couple months, legal, screening, evals, etc, we are on our way!!!

Coming soon; Our cycle!!!

Against the Odds in Britain: A Surrogate Story of Success

2008-12-01T11:38:00.000-08:00

In Great Britain, it is currently illegal to advertise yourself as a surrogate mother. This limit in surrogacy advertisement has consequently had a huge negative impact on the amount of surrogacy that takes place in the United Kingdom today. In the past 23 years, despite vast leaps in both traditional and gestational surrogacy, there have only been 600 successful surrogate births in the UK, and the subject of surrogacy still remains an “almost taboo” subject.

Yet here is a story of success against the odds for a surrogate couple and the intended parents.

Surrogate Parents: Vanessa and Kyle Hastings

To Vanessa Hudgens, “giving birth is a gift, something she is good at, and something she has always longed to share with others.” This positive mentality has enabled Vanessa to be a mother of three as well as a surrogate mother twice to three children. She had always wanted to be an egg donor, and in looking into it, she found the world of surrogacy. The support that her husband, Kyle, had for her decision allowed nothing to hold her back from being a surrogate mother.

Because surrogate advertising is illegal in the United Kingdom, Vanessa was able to meet with people wanting to get involved through a support organization, Surrogacy UK. Vanessa and Kyle met and befriended Sabreena and Robert Sutcliffe, the eventual intended parents, and through a support program, the two couples were able to create a friendship before the surrogacy. This relationship will allow Vanessa to remain in contact with the two children even after the birth of the twin daughters she is carrying for the Sutcliffes.

The Hastings have stressed that their own children fully understand the process of surrogacy and have known exactly what was happening in each surrogacy.

Intended Parents: Sabreena and Robert Sutcliffe

Sabreena Sutcliffe had always known she wouldn’t be able to have children. She was born without a womb and knew if she ever wanted children, it would be a difficult process, and in preparation, she began freezing her eggs since 21-years-old.

Sabreena and her husband, Robert, knew from the outset that they wanted to go through with a surrogacy in order to have children. After their previous attempt at surrogacy had resulted in a miscarriage, they began to feel the pressures of having children even more, until they met the Hastings in their support group. They quickly became friends and decided that they could work together to have Sabreena and Robert’s children.

Once the process had been taken care of and paid for, both couples were surprised and delighted to find that Vanessa was unintentionally pregnant with twins. Both couples fully intend to stay in contact and remain friends for life. Sabreena and Robert are determined to explain to their new daughters exactly how they came into the world, and that “it is nothing to be ashamed of or stigamatised about.”
http://www.northamptonchron.co.uk/news-features/Surrogacy-our-story.4639609.jp

Interview With A Surrogate: Laura

2008-11-25T17:15:00.000-08:00

Q:Why did you choose to become a surrogate?
A:Well I love to help!! I have been and egg donor and found it so rewarding to know I was helping people with their dreams of a child. As a retired egg donor I did not feel I was done helping in this way, I loved being pregnant and my family is complete. It felt natural to want to help now in this way.

Q:Is your family okay with your decision?
A:Yes, surprisingly all of them. I have some very conservative family members whom I thought were going to have a problem with this decision but to my surprise they have been nothing but supportive!!

Q:How was the experience of meeting the couple you are matched with?
A: I have to say I was nervous. I wanted to feel comfortable, like old friends, with a potential couple so my expectations were high. It turns out that we were all pretty comfortable in that first meeting which made deciding to work together easy.

Q:Has the process so far been what you expected?
A:Well honestly I expected I was in perfect health after being an egg donor twice this past year and did not expect any surprises when going in for my medical screening. To my surprise the Dr. found some uterine polyps that needed to be removed before moving forward with surrogacy. This has already taught me that anything can happen in surrogacy and to try not to have too many expectations; just to stay positive and do all that I can.

Q:Where are you currently in your surrogacy journey?
A:We are currently about to cycle, everything is done; contracts, medical and psychological screening, we are currently waiting on a calendar from the clinic and hoping for a December or January transfer.

Q:Do you think it will be difficult to give the baby to its intended parents after you give birth? A:NO!! I am so excited to be able to give this gift that I will be overjoyed!! And I really don’t want another baby, we are happily complete.

Q:Would you want to keep in contact with the child and its parents?
A:Yes, I feel like this is a journey that we are on together and hope to become closer and closer as we go along. I look forward to a lifelong friendship.

Q:Is it worth it to go to all this trouble in order to have a child that isn’t yours?
A:Yes, even though we do not want any more children, I am very much looking forward to being pregnant again. I loved it and still want that experience for myself and what a great way to help someone while doing something I LOVE. Also my faith has much to do with this decision. I have been blessed with fertility, have a beautiful family and believe it is my way to share, give back, help, purpose, however you want to word it. I am MEANT to do this.

Interview With A Surrogate: DeLacey

2008-11-23T17:42:00.000-08:00

Q: Why did you choose to become a surrogate?
A: I love being pregnant and I enjoy pregnancy. I also don’t want anymore kids at this point in my life, and I didn’t realize that my last pregnancy would be my last. I would love to be able to help another couple beginning a family of their own and experience the joy of having children!

Q: Is your family okay with your decision?
A: They are all very supportive of my decisions and my husband is very happy that I would be willing and able to be a surrogate.

Q: How was the experience of meeting the couple you are matched with?
A: It was actually a very smooth, easy, and joyful experience. I was a little nervous but Amy made it more comfortable. She talked us through everything before it happened and answered any questions that we might have.

Q: Has the process so far been what you expected?
A: I really didn’t have many expectations going into this, I kind of thought that it would be a quick, non friendly experience and it has been anything but that.

Q: Where are you currently in your surrogacy journey?
A: We are matched with a couple right now, we are waiting to start a cycle. We have had a couple bumps in the road which have caused a delay in doing the transfer, but will be moving forward shortly.

Q: Do you think it will be difficult to give the baby to its intended parents after you give birth?
A: I’m sure it will be somewhat hard but seeing the emotion that has come with this experience I am sure that it will be much easier when the time comes. I really do believe that a child, whether from a surrogate, or adopted or whatever means necessary ends up with the parents that it was meant to be with!

Q: Would you want to keep in contact with the child and its parents?
A: I am really not sure, I have never done this before so I am willing to do whatever is comfortable with the parents. I’m sure that I would like at least a picture every once in a while just so that I can remember this experience.

Q: Is it worth it to go to all this trouble in order to have a child that isn’t yours?
A: I say definitely, I don’t think that you could ever experience anything like it. What a wonderful thing to be able to help a couple start a family and be able to experience the joys of having a child and completing their family.

Surrogacy Process for International Clients

2008-11-21T21:56:00.000-08:00

The financial aspect of surrogacy is generally the first and primary concern for most couples embarking on this journey. The following is an overview of the surrogacy process for parents that reside outside of the United States.

Initially, you will be asked to complete paperwork for West Coast Surrogacy in order for us to find your ideal match. West Coast Surrogacy has no upfront fee for evaluating surrogate profiles, and you are given the opportunity to review profiles of available surrogates as well as speak with a candidate via phone or email if you are interested. Once you have selected a surrogate that you would like to meet, an initial agency retainer fee is paid.

You will be asked to come to the United States to meet with your surrogate, the director of West Coast Surrogacy, your IVF physician, as well as the counselor and attorney that will be representing you.

A meeting will be arranged with your surrogate and her spouse, as well as the director of West Coast Surrogacy, to discuss the entire process. Any particular concerns you may have will be addressed, and you will have the opportunity to spend time getting to know each other. After the meeting you will have time to decide whether you want to move forward with this surrogate. If so, your surrogate will be medically evaluated by your IVF physician in preparation for the process. These fees will be paid by you directly to the IVF center and can vary from center to center.

Ellen Winters Miller, our psychologist, will meet with your surrogate for an evaluation and testing. It is preferred that you attend this meeting with Ellen and your surrogate if you are available. Ellen is available to you, the intended parent, and the surrogate throughout the entire pregnancy via phone and email. Your surrogate will be in contact with Ellen every two weeks throughout the pregnancy and will have access to speak with her at anytime.
The surrogate receives a payment from West Coast Surrogacy once the screening and testing process is complete, and you will later receive an invoice to reimburse the agency.
Provided is a recommended attorney to draft your legal contract. You will pay the attorney the initial retainer fee which varies depending upon the attorney. Once you retain the attorney, a trust fund is established in your name for the surrogacy process. Once the trust fund is established, all future payments to the surrogate, the attorneys, the psychologist, and the agency will be paid by this account.

Once the surrogate has completed her medical and psychological testing , the legal contracts will be finalized and the embryo transfer cycle may begin. This process generally takes 4-6 weeks. In your absence, our director (or a representative from West Coast Surrogacy) will attend appointments with your surrogate. We will also attend visits with her to the obstetrician once pregnancy has begun. We will continue to stay in close contact with your surrogate during the entire pregnancy and relay any information to you as needed. In addition to you, we will be available to her for support throughout the process. The director is easily reached by phone or email as much as needed and has a commitment to be accessible 7 days a week.

Once the surrogate is pregnant, she will begin to receive monthly payments as outlined in the Surrogate Benefits Package. The terms of these payments will be specified in your legal contract drafted by your attorney. The attorney who drafts your contract will also manage your trust fund. No payments will be paid unless both the attorney and the agency approve such requests. If the payment falls outside the terms of the legal agreement, you will be personally contacted and asked for your approval.

It is preferable for you come to the United States once or twice to visit your surrogate during the pregnancy and attend physician appointments with her. These will provide you an opportunity to see your baby/babies by ultrasound and allow you to spend time bonding with your surrogate.

After the birth of your baby/babies, you will be required to stay in the United States for approximately 4-8 weeks while a birth certificate for your child/children is obtained. West Coast Surrogacy will assist you with hotel/lodging arrangements as needed during this time.
Completing the necessary paperwork to begin the matching process is the first step to the surrogacy process, and you can be on your way to meeting your surrogate and bringing home your baby/babies!

Surrogacy Advances in Connecticut

2008-11-13T14:03:00.000-08:00

In light of the recent election and this past year of 2008, gay rights in Connecticut have clearly made memorable advances. Same-sex couples officially have the right to wed rather than accepting civil unions that carry the same rights of a married couple without the title, “married.” Connecticut joins Massachusetts as being the only two states that allow gay marriage in the entire country.

The demand for equality of gay rights in Connecticut can be exemplified in the recent case of a homosexual male couple attempting to have children via gestational surrogacy in an agreement with a married heterosexual couple.

A Texas gay couple, married in Canada as well as in Massachusetts, entered a gestational agreement with a Connecticut heterosexual married couple. Both the gay men contributed sperm in order to create a fertilized embryo with an egg from an anonymous donor. The surrogate mother became pregnant and carried two babies to term, and despite the fact that both of the men are the biological fathers of either one of the babies, they have made no plans to figure out which child is theirs.

The entire issue stems from the law in Connecticut, that when a child is born, the birth mother’s name is automatically placed on the birth certificate; however, in gestational surrogacy, a “replacement” certificate is created with the legal parents listed. Objections have been raised because of the men’s decisions to not genetically test which of the children was actually theirs.

The Connecticut Health Department holds that since there is the possible “absence of a genetic tie” between the children and the men and that “only a biological or adoptive parent should be listed on a birth certificate,” that the men should not be listed on the birth certificate as the legal parents.

This objection to allowing the two men to adopt the children fell flat when the judge accepted the declaration from both the Texan men that their sperm created the embryos, and because they planned to raise the children together as spouses, there was no need for genetic testing. This precedent has widened the avenues by which gay couples can attempt to have children of their own, as well as show the flexibility of surrogacy laws and process in Connecticut.

http://news.aol.com/article/gay-marriages-allowed-in-connecticut/241707

http://www.gaycitynews.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20190340&BRD=2729&PAG=461&dept_id=568860&rfi=6

Jackie - A Surrogate Mother, Results Are In!

2008-11-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been a long two weeks since our embryo transfer and we finally made it! Actually I cheated; I did 3 home pregnancy tests (which all came back positive by the way). My Intended Parents didn’t want me to tell them though. So, Monday morning I had a blood test. I got the call later that day. We are pregnant and our beta number is 500! I have never had a number that high before. I have a feeling that this is a twin pregnancy. The hard part is, now we have to wait a full week before the next blood test and at least 2 weeks for the ultrasound. Then we will know exactly what is going on. Hopefully the next 2 weeks won’t take so long this time!

Jackie - A Surrogate Mother, My Story Part 2

2008-11-07T13:36:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to update everyone on what has been going on in my life as a surrogate. I have a new couple. They are from Australia. They are THE sweetest couple I have ever met. The Intended Mother and I talk by email almost every day. We have been able to form a very good relationship. I feel like we can talk about absolutely everything. She is almost like a sister in a way.

Well, we had our embryo transfer on October 28th. We were lucky enough to get 3 beautiful embryos and we transferred them all. I was on bed rest for about 3 days and I have just been taking it easy since then. While I was in the hotel I felt a lot of cramping. I even felt nauseous on the car ride home. Since I have been home, the cramping got a whole lot worse and then stopped. I have heard that this is a good sign. It could be a sign of implantation. So I haven't really been concerned. I have also experienced a lot of nausea on a daily basis. All of these are good signs of pregnancy. I am just unable to be excited since my last attempt at surrogacy ended in a negative pregnancy test. I am being cautiously optimistic at this point.

My blood test is scheduled for November 10th. It has been a long wait. I am really trying not to use a urine test (like I have with EVERY other pregnancy). So we will just have to continue waiting for our results. So everyone, please think positive thoughts! We are hoping for a singleton or twins. I will keep you all updated as we go.

In The News: 56 Year Old Surrogate

2008-10-26T23:33:00.000-07:00

In Cleveland, a 56 year old woman gave birth to her grandchildren; 3 of them!
At what age do we say it's not in a woman's best interest to carry a pregnancy? This is a beautiful story for this family, I'm sure. Yet at what risk did this mother put herself in to carry triplets for her daughter? What are your thoughts?

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081024/ap_on_fe_st/odd_grandmother_surrogate

Proposition 8 and Surrogacy

2008-10-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

Proposition 8 and Surrogacy
As many of you know, Proposition 8 is an initiative measure on the 2008 California General Election ballot titled Eliminates Right of Same-Sex Couples to Marry. If passed, the proposition would change the California Constitution to eliminate the right of same-sex couples to marry in California. A new section would be added stating "only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."

California state law does allow for a same sex couple, whether married or not, to have the names of both parents on a child’s birth certificate. This will not change if Proposition 8 passes. What will change, however, are the rights of these parents to marry the person they love, the father or mother of their child, which I see as a fundamental right of all human beings.

Please vote NO on Proposition 8.

The Cristina Show is looking for Surrogate Mothers

2008-09-29T14:30:00.000-07:00

The producer for the Cristina Show and Univision Network, the number one Spanish television talk show in the world, is currently producing a show for October 8th, 2008 titled "Surrogate Mothers". The show will focus on a journalistic and informative level. They are looking for Spanish Speaking Surrogate mothers (currently pregnant or have been in the past) willing to share their story. The Show is already booked but they are in need of a Spanish Speaking military wife, surrogate mother and a Spanish speaking gay couple who have gone gone through a pregnancy with a Surrogate mother and had a great experience in the process.
If you are interested in contacting the Cristina Show regarding "Surrogate Mothers" you may do so by calling:
Martin Fernandez Producer Cristina Show Univision Communications Inc. 305-471-8205 Tol. 877-492-0978 mafernandez@univision.net

Surrogacy In The News: Birth Certificate Issued to Baby Born In India

2008-08-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

A birth certificate issued Saturday for a surrogate baby who has been in legal limbo since she was born in India may pave the way for a reunion with her biological Japanese father, a doctor said.
http://news.yahoo.com/story//afp/20080809/wl_sthasia_afp/indiajapanbabysurrogacyadoptionlaw

Surrogacy In The News: Baby born to surrogate Indian mother in legal limbo

2008-08-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

A baby born via surrogacy in India is unable to leave the country with her father. A story that hopefully will arrive at a happy ending very soon;

http://news.yahoo.com/s/afp/20080806/ts_afp/indiajapanbabysurrogacyadoptionlaw

In The News: Soy Linked to Lower Sperm Count

2008-07-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

Should men who are trying to conceive reduce the amount of soy in their diet? U.S. researchers said on Wednesday that eating a half serving a day of soy-based foods could be enough to significantly lower a man's sperm count,
http://news.aol.com/health/article/soy-linked-to-lower-sperm-count/98038?icid=200100397x1206393436x1200336151

In the News | Daybreak OC Interviews WCS

2008-07-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was interviewed on KDOC-TV’s Daybreak OC. We talked about the state of surrogacy with the media influence of Baby Mama. We also talked about the special relationship that is shared between a surrogate mother and the intended parents. You can watch the interview on the new video section of our Web site.

New method may help predict IVF success: study

2008-07-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

Follow the link to an interesting story on a new method that may help predict the success of IVF;
http://health.yahoo.com/news/reuters/pregnancy_invitro_dc.html

Frozen embryos 'better for IVF'

2008-07-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

An interesting new study shows frozen is better than fresh when it comes to transplanting embryos in IVF treatment:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7494772.stm

In the News | Women's eNews | Surrogacy and the economy

2008-07-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

With the current state of financial uncertainty in our country, more people are tightening their budgets. Many consumer-driven businesses are seeing the effects of the looming financial hardships. Surrogacy is also seeing an impact. Women's eNews correspondent Molly Ginty interviewed West Coast Surrogacy for her article: Tough Economy Tightens Surrogacy Market.

Momprenuer

2008-06-26T12:32:00.000-07:00

Being a mom is probably the driving force behind the creation of West Coast Surrogacy. Without my children; Tyler and Mia, I don't know that the passion I have for helping other women become mothers would be quite as strong. I was recently interviewed by a local Mom's Blog in Orange County;
http://ocmomsblog.com/2008/06/23/oc-moms-new-momprenuer.aspx

How to get started as an Intended Parent

2008-06-11T13:35:00.000-07:00

If you are reading this, you have most likely been on a journey of building a family for quite some time. Making the decision to use a gestational surrogate is not always easy. There are usually many questions and concerns about what it will be like to have another woman carry your baby.

At West Coast Surrogacy, the path to become an intended parent starts with a phone call. During the initial call we review our program, talk about your specific needs and answer any questions. Following the call, we send you an information packet that includes an overview of the financial commitments and introduces attorneys and psychologists that specialize in surrogacy.

After reviewing all the information, we begin the process of matching you with a gestational surrogate that is right for you and your family. You will be able to view available surrogate profiles and if you reside locally, we will come to your home to further discuss the program and address any concerns you may have.

Our agency does not charge an upfront fee to view surrogate profiles. You will not have to pay any fees until you select the surrogate you wish to work with.

Once you are matched with your surrogate and become our client, we are available 7 days a week to answer any questions and to assist you on your journey to parenthood. It is our commitment to provide you with the utmost level of care and compassion during this exciting and prolific time in your life.

How do I get started as a gestational surrogate?

2008-06-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

What happens when a surrogate doesn’t get pregnant?

2008-06-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

This is a question that I am asked many times by intended parents, and occasionally by a surrogate. Most surrogates, being fertile, believe that they will get pregnant on the first attempt. However, this is not always the case.

The IVF center, the laboratory, and the physician all play a roll in the outcome of an embryo transfer. There are many factors that contribute to the success of an embryo transfer to a gestational surrogate:

The quality of the embryos being transferred – quality is greatly impacted by the age of the woman who’s eggs are being used
The number of embryos being transferred
Are the embryos fresh or have they been frozen for a long period of time

Having said this, it’s no wonder that not all surrogates get pregnant on the first attempt. So, what happens if the surrogate doesn’t get pregnant? The answer to this question depends on what the intended parents choose. Many intended parents will go on to do another IVF cycle to create new embryos for transfer, while others may have embryos remaining frozen in storage from their last IVF attempt. The majority of surrogates want to do what ever it takes to get pregnant – including numerous embryo transfer cycles.

If a surrogate does not get pregnant after several attempts, the IVF physician may suggest that an egg donor be utilized. Using an egg donor along with a surrogate has a very high rate of success.

In my personal experience as a surrogate, I did not get pregnant with the first embryo transfer. The intended parents had frozen embryos and decided to try a second transfer. I became pregnant and delivered healthy twin boys two years ago. I am grateful that the intended parents I worked with decided to try a second transfer because our lives would not be what they are today.