Becoming a surrogate is an incredible commitment. You are not only caring for your own health, but also helping someone else 
grow their family. It is a meaningful journey, and with that comes a little extra responsibility when it comes to daily choices.
Just like with any pregnancy, one of the biggest areas to be mindful of during surrogacy is anything that could increase the risk of infection or illness. This includes avoiding raw or undercooked foods (such as sushi), unpasteurized dairy, and certain types of seafood. These might seem like small things, but they can make a difference. It is always better to play it safe and stick to foods that are fully cooked and properly prepared.
Staying physically active is encouraged, but there are limits. High-impact workouts, contact sports, or activities where there is a risk of falling should be avoided. Things like horseback riding, skiing, or intense weightlifting can put unnecessary strain on your body. Instead, many surrogates find that walking, light strength training, or prenatal yoga are great ways to stay active while still being gentle on the body.
Exposure to high heat should be avoided. Hot tubs, saunas, and even very hot baths are not recommended, especially in early pregnancy. Your body is already working hard, and extreme heat can raise your core temperature more than is considered safe.
Travel can also come with some considerations. While many surrogates can travel without issue during pregnancy, it is important to check with your doctor first. Certain stages of pregnancy may require you to stay closer to home, especially as you get closer to delivery.
While it’s common knowledge to avoid consuming alcohol and smoking, it’s also important to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Even secondhand smoke can result in a long list of complications that include, but are not limited to: premature birth, low birth weight, miscarriage, and even SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).
Surrogates should avoid cleaning or changing the litter box if they have cats in the home. Cats can carry a parasite called toxoplasmosis. This parasite is transmitted through their feces and can cause birth defects. Though not a common pet, during pregnancy, a woman should not handle a reptile. Reptiles can pass salmonella and other bacteria harmful to the fetus.
At Shared Conception, we understand that as a first-time surrogate, you may have a lot of questions. Our team is here to help answer all of them. You can contact us by giving us a call at (713) 622-1144.
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