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Your Fertility Story Podcast


The fertility journey isn’t always an easy one. It’s easy to find yourself feeling overwhelmed and rushed by (sometimes very expensive) decisions. Each week on Your Fertility Story podcast you’ll get unbiased information, expert insights, and encouraging stories. Each episode tackles the questions you really want to know the answers to, and empowers you to be your best advocate.

Jul 23, 2024

Discover the heartfelt journey of Michelle, a surrogate mother who turned her love for pregnancy into a lifeline for a hopeful couple. From the intricacies of matching and medical screenings to the emotional highs and lows of embryo transfer day, Michelle shares her transparent and inspiring story.

Michelle had always cherished the experience of pregnancy, finding it to be a remarkable and special journey. After having two children, with her youngest being around two years old at the time, the desire for another child started to grow within her. However, her husband felt their family was complete, and Michelle had to come to terms with this decision.

Despite accepting they wouldn’t have more children of their own, Michelle’s love for being pregnant didn't fade. She realized that surrogacy could be the perfect way to fill the void she felt, allowing her to once again experience pregnancy. Surrogacy felt like a natural fit, as it would not only let her enjoy the incredible journey of carrying a child but also help other families fulfill their dreams of parenthood.

Michelle’s story highlights her deep appreciation for the unique and amazing experience of pregnancy, and her thoughtful consideration of how to continue enjoying this phase of life while positively impacting others.

 

Below are the key takeaways from this episode:

  • The Surrogate's Journey: Michelle shared her experience of becoming a surrogate, from initial communications to the embryo transfer and subsequent pregnancy, emphasizing the emotional fulfillment and lack of physical discomfort during the transfer process.
  • Choosing Intended Parents: Michelle highlighted her criteria for selecting intended parents based on personality, lifestyle, and their humble, appreciative nature, which helped form a strong, supportive relationship.
  • Communication and Openness: Emphasizing the importance of transparency, Michelle maintained limited public information about her surrogacy but was open with close family and children, involving them in milestones like transfer day and the positive pregnancy test.
  • Delivery and Emotional Experience: Michelle described her experience of delivering the baby for the intended parents, preparing for the hospital delivery, and the heartfelt, positive emotions associated with not holding the baby immediately, showcasing the mutual gratitude and bond formed.
  • Support and Legal Aspects: Discussing the necessary legal procedures, Michelle detailed the importance of negotiating contracts, the pre-qualification and matching processes, and the psychological support crucial for both surrogates and intended parents throughout the journey.

 

Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:

Website: mariafeekes.com

Facebook: facebook.com/mariafeekes

Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCWSEMH4ce2qkzW4mf4o0I6A

https://www.smartpathfertilityintl.com