Your Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Surrogate Successfully

Overview

Navigating the surrogacy process can be both an exciting and emotional journey for intended parents. We understand that every journey is unique, and it’s natural to have concerns and questions along the way. This article serves as a comprehensive guide, aiming to support you through each step of this significant experience.

To start, emotional preparation is crucial. Acknowledging your feelings and those of your partner can lay a strong foundation for the journey ahead. Choosing the right agency is another vital step; it’s essential to find one that resonates with your values and understands your needs. As you navigate this journey, matching with a surrogate who shares your vision can foster a meaningful connection.

Managing legal agreements is also an important aspect, ensuring that all parties are protected and informed. It’s important to remember that strong support systems play a key role in maintaining engagement throughout the process. Informed decisions, backed by a solid understanding of the steps involved, can lead to a rewarding surrogacy experience.

As you reflect on this journey, consider the support available to you. We are committed to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring that you feel empowered and informed. Together, we can make this experience as fulfilling as possible.

Introduction

Embarking on the surrogacy process can evoke a mix of excitement and apprehension, as intended parents navigate a deeply personal journey to create their families. We understand that this path is filled with emotional challenges, and it’s essential to have the right support and information. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the vital steps and emotional considerations involved in successfully using a surrogate.

As you navigate this journey, you may find yourself asking important questions:

1. How can you foster a harmonious relationship with your surrogate?
2. What legal protections are necessary to safeguard the interests of everyone involved?

By addressing these crucial aspects, we aim to empower you to approach surrogacy with confidence and clarity. Together, we can pave the way for a rewarding family-building experience.

Understand the Surrogacy Process

The surrogacy process can be a deeply emotional journey, and understanding its essential stages is crucial as you navigate this path:

1. Initial Decision: Take a moment to evaluate if gestational arrangements align with your family’s needs. Reflecting on your emotional readiness and financial capacity is vital, as these factors play a significant role in making an informed choice.
2. Research: It’s important to gain a thorough understanding of the various types of surrogacy—gestational and traditional—and the legal implications specific to your state. This knowledge will empower you to of the process with confidence.
3. Consultation: Engaging with a reputable surrogacy agency or legal expert can provide clarity. Their expertise is invaluable as you explore your options and understand the steps involved in this journey.
4. Matching: Once you decide to move forward, the agency will assist in finding a carrier who shares compatible values and personality traits. This alignment can enhance the likelihood of a successful partnership.
5. Legal Agreements: Drafting clear legal contracts is essential to safeguard the interests of all parties involved. This step helps prevent potential disputes and ensures a smooth process.
6. Medical Procedures: Completing necessary medical evaluations and procedures, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) if applicable, is critical for preparing for a healthy pregnancy.
7. Pregnancy and Birth: Providing ongoing support to your surrogate throughout her pregnancy is vital. This phase is not just about logistics; it’s also about emotional support and building a connection.

By understanding these stages, intended parents can navigate the journey of having a surrogate with greater confidence and clarity. Remember, every journey is unique, and we are here to support you every step of the way as you build your family.

Prepare Emotionally and Educate Yourself

Preparing emotionally for surrogacy involves several important steps that lay the groundwork for a successful journey:

1. Self-Reflection: Begin by evaluating your emotions regarding surrogate parenting and its significance for your family. Acknowledge any fears or concerns you may have. Understanding your is crucial for resilience as you navigate this path.
2. Education: Equip yourself with knowledge by utilizing resources from Nascency’s [Surrogacy Learning Center](https://nascency.com). This invaluable resource offers articles, videos, and expert insights that clarify the process of using a surrogate. Educating yourself helps you navigate the emotional complexities involved, ensuring you are well-prepared for a healthy pregnancy.
3. Support Systems: Build a support network of friends, family, or support groups who can provide encouragement and understanding. These connections are essential during the emotional highs and lows of becoming a surrogate.
4. Counseling: Consider professional counseling to help navigate complex emotions and prepare for the journey ahead. Therapists specializing in reproductive mental health can offer tailored guidance to enhance your emotional readiness.
5. Open Communication: Discuss expectations and feelings with your partner and potential surrogate to foster a strong relationship. Open dialogue fosters trust and mutual respect, which are vital elements for a successful childbearing experience.
6. Emotional Rituals: Engage in intentional rituals, such as writing gratitude letters or creating memory-making moments, to nurture your emotional connection with the baby. These practices can enhance your bonding experience and provide emotional closure.
7. Post-Birth Preparation: Be aware that after the baby’s arrival, you may experience a mix of joy, relief, and emotional exhaustion. Preparing for these responses can help you navigate the transition into parenthood more smoothly.

By actively participating in these steps and utilizing the resources provided by Nascency, you can build a strong emotional base that will assist you throughout the process. Ultimately, this preparation can lead to a more rewarding journey into parenthood, where every unique experience is valued and supported.

Choose the Right Surrogacy Agency

Selecting the right agency for gestational assistance is a vital step in your journey to parenthood. We understand that this process can be filled with emotions and uncertainties. Here are some essential criteria to consider:

1. Research: Look for agencies that have received strong positive reviews and heartfelt testimonials from previous clients. A high average rating, such as 4.5 out of 5 stars, often reflects client satisfaction and trustworthiness. For instance, Nascency has garnered enthusiastic feedback from prospective guardians who appreciated the tailored assistance and efficient match-making.
2. Services Offered: It’s crucial to ensure the agency provides a comprehensive range of services, including legal, medical, and emotional support. Navigating the complexities of substitute parenting requires thorough care. Nascency prides itself on being an innovative and trustworthy family-building platform, offering personalized solutions to meet the unique needs of each client.
3. Experience: Take the time to research the agency’s background and success rates in pairing surrogates with prospective guardians. Agencies with a proven track record, particularly those boasting a success rate of over 90%, tend to be more reliable. Nascency’s team consists of skilled industry experts who have direct experience with the process, enhancing their ability to assist clients effectively.
4. Transparency: The agency should be open about costs, processes, and potential challenges. Clear cost structures foster trust and set realistic expectations, helping to minimize the risk of unexpected expenses. Typically, the using a surrogate ranges between $160,000 and $180,000, a significant consideration for prospective guardians. Nascency emphasizes clear communication and transparent practices regarding pricing to ensure clients are well-informed throughout their journey.
5. Personal Connection: Arrange meetings with agency representatives to gauge their empathy and understanding of your unique needs. A supportive and responsive team can greatly enhance your experience with a surrogate. As one intended parent noted, “Choosing the right agency can make or break your experience.” Nascency’s compassionate approach and commitment to individualized assistance have been highlighted by clients who felt truly valued throughout their journey.

By thoughtfully evaluating these factors, you can choose an agency that aligns with your values and expectations, paving the way for a smoother surrogacy journey.

Match with a Compatible Surrogate

Matching using a surrogate can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in this journey. It involves several important steps that can help you find the right match:

1. Criteria Establishment: Start by defining the qualities that matter most to you in a surrogate, such as lifestyle, values, and communication style. Acknowledging these preferences is crucial to ensure a harmonious connection.
2. Agency Support: Collaborate with your chosen agency, like Nascency, which is dedicated to building an innovative and trustworthy family-building platform. Their experienced team understands the complexities of surrogacy and is committed to providing throughout your journey, making the process smoother and more reassuring.
3. Interviews: Engage in meaningful discussions with potential carriers. This step allows both parties to share expectations, concerns, and personal stories, which is essential for establishing a connection and ensuring comfort.
4. Compatibility Assessment: Reflect on how well you connect with each representative. Evaluate whether you share similar values and goals. Nascency emphasizes clear communication and alignment, significantly enhancing the matching process.
5. Final Decision: Choose a representative with whom you feel comfortable and confident in building a collaborative relationship. A successful match using a surrogate can create a more harmonious experience for all involved, benefiting both prospective guardians and the carrier.

As highlighted by a recent testimonial, intended parents have found immense value in Nascency’s personalized service and effective surrogate matching. Many have experienced successful pregnancies and fulfilling journeys, thanks to the agency’s in-house expertise and dedication to transparency. Remember, you can embark on your journey with confidence, knowing that support is always available.

Navigate Legal Agreements and Protections

Navigating legal agreements in gestational arrangements can feel overwhelming, but it’s a vital step to ensure the protection of everyone involved. We understand that this journey is deeply personal and emotional. Here’s a thoughtful approach to help you through the process:

1. Consult Legal Experts: It’s essential to engage attorneys who specialize in reproductive law. Their expertise is invaluable in crafting and reviewing contracts, ensuring they comply with state regulations and protect your rights. At Nascency, we collaborate closely with seasoned reproductive attorneys, guaranteeing that all legal safeguards are established for both intended parents and gestational carriers.
2. Understand Key Terms: Familiarizing yourself with essential legal terms and concepts related to surrogacy agreements is crucial. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions and communicate effectively with your representative. It’s important to remember that gestational carriers have no parental rights to the baby after delivery, as established in a legally binding contract before embryo transfer.
3. Drafting the Agreement: The contract should clearly outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of both prospective guardians and the carrier. This includes details on compensation, medical care, and parental rights—elements that are vital for avoiding misunderstandings. A well-drafted agreement acts as a safeguard that protects the interests of both parties.
4. Review and Revise: Allow ample time for both parties to thoroughly review the agreement. Open communication during this phase is vital, as it enables both sides to suggest revisions and clarify any concerns before finalization. Statistics indicate that 30% of prospective caregivers report facing more obstacles in the gestational process, underscoring the importance of clear agreements.
5. Sign and Notarize: Once both parties reach an agreement, it’s essential to sign the contract in the presence of a notary. This step ensures the legality and enforceability of the agreement.

A well-crafted legal agreement is more than just a formality; it serves as a safety net that protects the interests of intended parents and surrogates alike. With the evolving landscape of maternity laws, including recent updates that enhance , consulting with experienced legal professionals is more crucial than ever. As a representative from Nascency states, “Having robust support in non-traditional family-building journeys is crucial.” Investing time and resources into this foundational aspect of your journey can help prevent legal disputes and ensure a smoother process.

Manage Medical Procedures and Prenatal Care

Managing medical procedures and prenatal care is essential for a successful experience when using a surrogate. We understand that this journey can bring a mix of emotions, and it’s important to address your concerns as we navigate this together. Here are some key components to consider:

1. Initial Medical Screening: Comprehensive medical evaluations are crucial to confirm the candidate’s suitability for pregnancy. This initial screening helps identify any potential health risks, ensuring that only candidates with optimal health profiles are selected.
2. IVF Process: Understanding the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process is vital. This includes the stages of egg retrieval and embryo transfer, which are critical for achieving a successful pregnancy. Recent advancements in embryo transfer methods have significantly enhanced success rates, enabling more personalized treatment plans designed for each carrier’s needs.
3. Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal appointments are essential for monitoring the health of both the gestational carrier and the baby. Surrogates should be supported in attending these appointments, as they play a crucial role in early detection of any complications. Notably, a recent study discovered that 69% of gestational carriers reported complication-free pregnancies in 2023, a significant improvement from 53% in 2021.
4. Communication with Healthcare Providers: Maintaining open lines of communication with the substitute’s medical team is vital. This ensures that intended parents are informed about any developments and can address any concerns promptly. Effective communication fosters a collaborative environment, which can be achieved using a surrogate that benefits everyone involved.
5. Emotional Support: Providing emotional support to the substitute throughout the medical procedures is essential. Recognizing the physical and emotional challenges she may face can help create a nurturing atmosphere. Experts highlight the significance of counseling for gestational carriers, especially concerning possible pregnancy risks, to improve their overall well-being.

By actively engaging in these medical aspects, prospective guardians can cultivate a supportive atmosphere that benefits both the child and those using a surrogate. We believe that this approach ultimately results in a more , and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Access Emotional Support During the Journey

Navigating the journey of surrogacy can be emotionally complex, especially when using a surrogate, and obtaining emotional assistance is essential for prospective guardians. It’s important to recognize the intricacies and emotional struggles that may arise along the way. Here are some key avenues to consider:

1. Counseling Services: Engaging with mental health professionals who specialize in alternative family planning offers vital support. These specialists help prospective guardians cope with feelings of loss, guilt, and uncertainty, providing tailored coping techniques. Nascency underscores the importance of these services by offering educational resources, mediation, counseling, and referrals to additional support, highlighting the need for comprehensive assistance in the realm of assisted reproduction.
2. Support Groups: Joining support groups specifically designed for prospective caregivers and surrogates fosters a sense of community. These groups create a space for individuals to share their experiences, gain insights, and connect with others who understand the emotional landscape of surrogacy. Many find that these interactions normalize their feelings and provide reassurance. Nascency’s commitment to nurturing community strengthens the emotional resilience of prospective caregivers, emphasizing the essential role of these support networks.
3. Open communication is crucial for establishing transparent communication channels between prospective guardians and those using a surrogate. This openness builds , allowing both parties to express their needs and concerns throughout the journey. Nascency promotes this transparency among all parties involved in the surrogacy process, which is key to fostering understanding and addressing emotional needs.
4. Family Support: Encouraging family members to offer emotional support can significantly enhance the experience. A strong support network helps prospective caregivers feel understood and less isolated during challenging times. Nascency recognizes the importance of family involvement in creating a supportive atmosphere for prospective caregivers.
5. Self-Care Practices: Prioritizing self-care is vital for managing stress and maintaining emotional well-being. Techniques such as mindfulness, regular exercise, and relaxation methods can assist prospective caregivers in navigating the emotional ups and downs of the gestational journey. Practices like breathing exercises and mindfulness offer practical ways to manage stress and anxiety, providing prospective caregivers with valuable tools to consider.

By actively seeking emotional support through these channels and utilizing the resources offered by Nascency, intended parents can navigate their journey with greater resilience and positivity.

Stay Engaged and Proactive Throughout Surrogacy

To stay engaged and proactive during surrogacy, it’s important to consider a few nurturing strategies that can help you connect more deeply with your gestational carrier and enhance the overall experience:

1. Regular Check-Ins: Schedule consistent check-ins with your gestational carrier to discuss her well-being and any concerns. This practice not only fosters a supportive environment but also alleviates anxiety for both of you.
2. Attend Appointments: Whenever possible, participate in medical appointments to show your support and stay informed about the pregnancy. Your involvement between you and the gestational carrier, ensuring everyone is aligned on health updates.
3. Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate significant milestones throughout the journey, such as the first ultrasound or heartbeat. Celebrating these moments can deepen your emotional connection and create shared joy.
4. Maintain Communication: Keep open lines of communication with the surrogate and agency to address any issues promptly. Remember, effective communication is crucial; research shows that regular updates can significantly reduce feelings of stress and anxiety throughout the gestational process.
5. Prepare for Parenthood: Use this time to prepare for the arrival of your child, including setting up the nursery and attending parenting classes. Engaging in these preparations can help you feel more connected to the forthcoming member of your family.

By remaining engaged and proactive, you can foster a positive relationship while using a surrogate, ensuring a successful and fulfilling surrogacy experience. As you navigate this journey, know that you are not alone; we are here to support you every step of the way.

Conclusion

Navigating the surrogacy process can be a transformative journey, filled with both hope and challenges. We understand that making the initial decision and selecting the right agency are crucial steps for intended parents. Each aspect, whether it involves emotional preparation, legal agreements, or medical procedures, plays a vital role in ensuring a smooth and fulfilling experience.

As you reflect on this journey, key insights emphasize the importance of:

• Emotional readiness
• Thorough research
• Building supportive relationships

Engaging with reputable agencies, maintaining open communication with surrogates, and fostering a nurturing environment are essential strategies that can enhance your overall experience. By actively participating in each phase—from matching with a compatible surrogate to managing medical care—you can create a positive atmosphere that benefits everyone involved.

Ultimately, the surrogacy journey is not just about bringing a child into the world; it’s about building connections, understanding emotional landscapes, and ensuring that all parties feel valued and supported. Embracing the complexities of this process with knowledge and compassion can lead to a rewarding experience. As you embark on this path, remember to seek support, stay engaged, and cherish that every step brings you closer to your dream of parenthood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential stages of the surrogacy process?

The essential stages of the surrogacy process include initial decision-making, research, consultation with experts, matching with a surrogate, drafting legal agreements, completing medical procedures, and providing support during the pregnancy and birth.

How should I prepare emotionally for surrogacy?

To prepare emotionally for surrogacy, engage in self-reflection, educate yourself about the process, build a support system, consider professional counseling, maintain open communication with your partner and surrogate, participate in emotional rituals, and prepare for post-birth emotional responses.

What types of surrogacy are there?

There are two primary types of surrogacy: gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate carries a baby created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm, and traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate is also the biological mother.

Why is it important to have legal agreements in surrogacy?

Legal agreements are essential in surrogacy to safeguard the interests of all parties involved, prevent potential disputes, and ensure a smooth process throughout the journey.

What role does a surrogacy agency play in the process?

A surrogacy agency assists intended parents in finding a compatible surrogate, provides guidance on the surrogacy journey, and helps facilitate the legal and medical processes involved.

How can I educate myself about surrogacy?

You can educate yourself about surrogacy by utilizing resources such as Nascency’s Surrogacy Learning Center, which offers articles, videos, and expert insights to clarify the surrogacy process.

What should I consider when building a support system for surrogacy?

When building a support system, consider including friends, family, or support groups that can provide encouragement and understanding during the emotional highs and lows of the surrogacy journey.

What are some emotional rituals that can help during surrogacy?

Emotional rituals may include writing gratitude letters, creating memory-making moments, and engaging in activities that nurture your emotional connection with the baby, enhancing the bonding experience.

How can I prepare for post-birth emotional responses?

Preparing for post-birth emotional responses involves acknowledging that you may experience a mix of joy, relief, and emotional exhaustion, and being ready to navigate these feelings as you transition into parenthood.

List of Sources

1. Understand the Surrogacy Process

• Why Surrogacy Is on the Rise in 2025 (https://nclawyersforyou.com/surrogacy-in-2025)
• Navigating the Changing Landscape: Trending Surrogacy News for 2025 | Patriot Conceptions Blog (https://patriotconceptions.com/blog/navigating-the-changing-landscape-trending-surrogacy-news-for-2025)
• Surrogacy in 2025: A Global Shift in Laws, Ethics, and Family Building (https://inclusivesurrogacy.com/post/surrogacy-in-2025-a-global-shift-in-laws-ethics-and-family-building)
• State of Surrogacy in 2025: Navigating the Changes – SurrogateFirst (https://surrogatefirst.com/surroblog/state-of-surrogacy-in-2025-navigating-the-changes)
• Surrogacy Trends in 2025: What’s new in Global Surrogacy Laws? (https://surrogacy.care/surrogacy-trends-in-2025)

2. Prepare Emotionally and Educate Yourself

• Nurturing the Heart: Emotional Preparation for Surrogacy — A Mental Health Perspective from Dr. Sadaf Sahibzada (https://acrcglobal.com/post/nurturing-the-heart-emotional-preparation-for-surrogacy-a-mental-health-perspective-from-dr-sada)
• Surrogacy & Mental Health: Navigating the Emotional Journey (https://joinphoenixhealth.com/resourcecenter/surrogacy-and-mental-health)
• Emotionally Preparing for Surrogacy: A Guide for the Intended Parent – Embra Health (https://embrahealth.com/emotionally-preparing-for-surrogacy-a-guide-for-the-intended-parent)
• Emotionally Preparing to Become a Surrogate — Road To Baby LLC (https://roadtobaby.com/blog/emotoionally-preparing-to-become-a-surrogate)

3. Choose the Right Surrogacy Agency

• State of Surrogacy in 2025: Navigating the Changes – SurrogateFirst (https://surrogatefirst.com/surroblog/state-of-surrogacy-in-2025-navigating-the-changes)
• 2025 Guide to Surrogacy in the USA: Best Agency, Cost, Legalities & How to get started. (https://owgens.com/guide-to-surrogacy-in-the-usa)
• 2025 Best Surrogacy Agencies in the USA | Surrogacy4All (https://surrogacy4all.com/2025-best-surrogacy-agencies-usa)
• Comparing Surrogacy Agencies | Best Surrogacy Agencies 2025 (https://surrogate.com/intended-parents/how-to-find-a-surrogate-mother/finding-a-surrogate-mother/comparing-surrogacy-agencies)
• ovu.com (https://ovu.com/fertility-insights/best-surrogacy-agencies-of-2025)

4. Match with a Compatible Surrogate

• Surrogate Matching Process: How We Pair Surrogates and Parents (https://nwsurrogacycenter.com/surrogacy/the-matching-process-how-we-pair-surrogates-and-parents)
• Surrogate Matching Process: Your Step-By-Step Guide – Surrogacy by Faith (https://surrogacybyfaith.com/how-surrogacy-works/surrogate-matching-process)
• Surrogacy Matching Process: What Surrogates and Intended Parents Should Know (https://joyoflife.com/blog-post/the-matching-process-what-surrogates-and-intended-parents-should-know)
• Matching Surrogates & IPs | Surrogacy.com (https://surrogacy.com/how-matching-works)

5. Navigate Legal Agreements and Protections

• State of Surrogacy in 2025: Navigating the Changes – SurrogateFirst (https://surrogatefirst.com/surroblog/state-of-surrogacy-in-2025-navigating-the-changes)
• Surrogacy in 2025: A Global Shift in Laws, Ethics, and Family Building (https://inclusivesurrogacy.com/post/surrogacy-in-2025-a-global-shift-in-laws-ethics-and-family-building)
• What Are The Updates Of Surrogacy Laws By State In 2025 – (https://acornsurrogacy.com/what-are-the-updates-of-surrogacy-laws-by-state-in-2025)
• Your Guide to Surrogacy Laws by State (Updated for 2025) (https://joyoflife.com/blog-post/your-guide-to-surrogacy-laws-by-state-2025)
• Surrogacy Trends in 2025: What’s new in Global Surrogacy Laws? (https://surrogacy.care/surrogacy-trends-in-2025)

6. Manage Medical Procedures and Prenatal Care

• Surrogate Moms Have Higher Rates of Pregnancy Complications (https://usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2024-09-24/surrogate-moms-have-higher-rates-of-pregnancy-complications)
• Health Trends in Surrogacy: Marked Improvements in Surrogate Outcomes | Patriot Conceptions Blog (https://patriotconceptions.com/blog/health-trends-in-surrogacy)
• Surrogacy and technology: Advances in fertility treatments | Medical Tourism Magazine | Medical Travel (https://insights.medicaltourism.com/article/surrogacy-and-technology-advances-in-fertility-treatments)
• newsweek.com (https://newsweek.com/surrogacy-pregnancy-risk-fertility-preterm-birth-1958817)
• New ACOG Guidance Recommends Transformation to U.S. Prenatal Care Delivery (https://acog.org/news/news-releases/2025/04/new-acog-guidance-recommends-transformation-to-us-prenatal-care-delivery)

7. Access Emotional Support During the Journey

• Surrogacy Support Options for Surrogates and Intended Parents – American Surrogacy (https://americansurrogacy.com/surrogacy/surrogacy-support)
• Compassionate Surrogacy: Importance of Emotional Support | Patriot Conceptions Blog (https://patriotconceptions.com/blog/compassionate-surrogacy-importance-of-emotional-support)
• Emotional Support for Surrogates: Coping with the Emotional Rollercoaster | Family Choice Surrogacy (https://familychoicesurrogacy.com/emotional-support-for-surrogates-coping-with-the-emotional-rollercoaster)
• Surrogacy and Mental Health: Navigating the Emotional Journey (https://surrogacymentor.com/surrogacy-mentor-blog/surrogacy-and-mental-health-navigating-the-emotional-journey)
• Post-Birth Support for Surrogates and Intended Parents | Emotional & Practical Care (https://surrogacy4all.com/post-birth-support-surrogacy)

8. Stay Engaged and Proactive Throughout Surrogacy

• Keeping The Lines Of Communication Open Throughout Your Surrogacy Journey | Fairfax Surrogacy (https://fairfaxsurrogacy.com/keeping-the-lines-of-communication-open-throughout-your-surrogacy-journey)
• Surrogacy news – Today’s latest updates (https://cbsnews.com/tag/surrogacy)
• Gabrielle Union Opened Up About Having to ‘Fight’ to Build a ‘Connection’ With Her Baby During Surrogacy: ‘It’s Complicated’ (https://cheatsheet.com/news/gabrielle-union-opened-up-fight-build-connection-baby-during-surrogacy-complicated.html)
• The heartbreak and joy of surrogacy, from two women who gave birth for someone else (https://abc.net.au/news/2025-03-14/surrogacy-experiences-australia-shared-by-surrogate-mothers/105003832)