Post-Birth Support for Surrogates and Intended Parents

The months after a surrogate birth are filled with joy, relief and adaptation. Yet they can also bring unexpected challenges. Both surrogates and intended parents need supportive resources to navigate recovery, bonding and emotional change. Here’s how to find help and thrive in the fourth trimester of a surrogacy journey.

Emotional Impact on Surrogates

Surrogates may feel a mixture of joy, relief and sadness after the birth. Postpartum depression can occur in surrogates, with symptoms like anxiety, crying, hopelessness and restlessness within one to three weeks after delivery. Recognising these feelings and seeking early support is essential.

Support Resources and Counseling

Agencies and clinics provide counselling services and connections to mental health professionals. American Surrogacy emphasises that surrogates should have access to 24/7 support and resources such as Postpartum Support International. Support groups and online communities help surrogates share experiences and cope with emotions.

Bonding and the Intended Parents

Intended parents may worry about bonding with their newborn since they weren’t pregnant. Skin-to- skin contact, feeding, babywearing and responsive caregiving foster connection. Inducing lactation can allow intended mothers to breastfeed; healthcare providers can prescribe medications and advise on breastfeeding protocols.

Medical Follow-Ups and Physical Recovery

Surrogates require postpartum medical care to monitor physical recovery. Check-ups ensure proper healing, mental health screening and general wellbeing. Intended parents should be aware of their surrogate’s health needs and express gratitude for her commitment.

Case Study

After giving birth to twins for a couple from Montreal, surrogate Jenna felt both pride and emptiness. She reached out to her agency’s counselor and joined a peer support group. Over six months, she processed her feelings and watched the twins grow through regular updates. Jenna now advocates for comprehensive post-birth support for surrogates.

Testimonials

“My counselor helped me acknowledge my feelings without judgment.”

– Jenna, Surrogate

“We bonded with our baby through skin-to-skin contact and felt like a family immediately.”

– Lucas & Hari

“Peer support groups normalized my postpartum emotions.”

– Aria

Helpful Resources

• Emotional aspects of surrogacy
• Insurance and risk management
• International surrogacy logistics

FAQs

Q: How long do postpartum emotions last?

Ans: They vary; some surrogates recover in weeks, while others need extended support.

Q: Can intended parents bond with the baby immediately?

Ans: Yes, through skin-to-skin contact and involvement in care from birth.

Q: Are support services mandatory?

Ans: They are not mandatory but are highly recommended for both surrogates and parents.

Next Steps with Patients Medical NYC

At Patients Medical NYC, post-birth care doesn’t end with delivery. We offer counselling, support groups and referrals to resources that help surrogates and new parents thrive. Reach out today to learn more.