Self-Care for Surrogates and Egg Donors: Nurturing Mental Wellness
Surrogacy and egg donation are selfless acts that make a difference in the lives of aspiring parents forever. As incredible as it is to give others the gift of a child, it can also be taxing on the mind and body. Here are some steps you can take to nurture your mental wellness as you navigate your surrogacy or egg donation journey:
1. Take Time to Relax
In the hustle and bustle of a busy life, it can often be difficult to take time out of your day to relax. However, as a surrogate bringing a child into the world or an egg donor preparing to give their eggs, your body is going through a lot, making relaxation extra important. You can ease your mind by:
- Meditating
- Practicing yoga
- Taking walks
- Setting aside “me time”
2. Prioritize Sleep
Studies show that poor sleep during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of adverse health outcomes, like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Therefore, for surrogates especially, quality sleep is important. Try sticking to a sleep routine and buy a pregnancy pillow to better support your growing bump and keep you comfortable throughout the night.
Sleep is equally important for egg donors, particularly when preparing for egg retrieval. The hormonal medications that egg donors take can be very taxing on the body, both during retrieval prep and recovery, making it essential for egg donors to get as much high-quality rest as possible.
3. Express Your Feelings
While surrogacy and egg donation are incredibly powerful, unique, and beautiful experiences, they can also come with a wide range of complex feelings. Because you're donating your eggs or carrying a baby for someone else willingly, you may feel like your feelings aren’t as valid. However, that couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Surrogacy is pregnancy, which brings about many changes to the body and mind. While egg donation is less invasive, it can still be emotional thinking about having a child out in the world who’s biologically related to you, but you’ll potentially never know them. No matter what you’re feeling, don’t be afraid to express it to those close to you who can provide adequate support.
4. Reconnect with Your Partner
If you have a partner supporting you through surrogacy or egg donation, reconnecting with them during this time can shift the focus away from the surrogacy or egg donation process — even if just for a night. Plan a romantic date night or do a fun activity together.
5. Don’t be Afraid to Ask Questions
As a surrogate or egg donor, it’s normal to have a lot of questions, especially if it’s your first time undergoing either process. Talk to your donor or surrogacy agency about any concerns and ask as many questions as you need to feel satisfied and confident. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey!
Fertility Source Companies Is Here for You
Nurturing your mental wellness during the surrogacy or egg donation process can be challenging at times. However, the gift you’re giving makes you a hero and Fertility Source Companies is here to guide you through each step of the process. To learn more, contact us today.
