Preparing for Parenthood – From Birth to Transfer

Getting ready to bring a baby into a happy, loving family is exciting! However, for parents using surrogates, the process might be a little different from usual, yet still absolutely necessary. Bonding with surrogate-born babies is a process just like any other, and the information here will help you know what to expect.

Preparing Yourself

Before jumping into bonding at birth, it’s important to consider two other steps that’ll help you prepare for parenthood.
Many intended parents have experienced a number of challenges with infertility, including loss. It’s important to recognize that the feelings associated with grief don’t just go away because a new baby is on the way. One of the best ways to confront the feelings you may have is through counseling. What might seem like a small step, could actually be a very important one for the health and bonding of the family.
In addition, it helps to find a support network and/or take parenting classes. While reading up on resources will get you further ahead with knowledge, interacting with others who’ve raised children before can give you a hint of things you never even considered. Staying open minded and flexible will go a long way from the start to get you ready.

Bonding Before Birth

The baby and surrogate mom are able to bond during pregnancy simply by sharing such close quarters, so to speak. Being involved as much as possible during the surrogate’s pregnancy can help you and the child bond with each other before the big day arrives. While the baby can hear voices outside of the womb, intended parents can be there for doctor appointments, decorating nurseries, or even just keeping close with the surrogate in an emotionally supportive way.
Taking an active role before birth can get you in the headspace of being a parent as well. The realization that the baby is really coming soon can give parents just enough of a push to get psychologically ready. This process can lead to preparing all of the small things or even over-preparation, but this also ensures parents are as ready as they could possibly be.

The Big Day: Transfer of the Infant

The transfer of the infant from surrogate to family is a very important step. After bonding with the carrying parent for nine months, the baby is going to have specific needs only the surrogate mother can provide. Best case scenario is allowing the baby to be placed against the surrogate’s chest right after birth to confirm their senses based on what they already know, i.e. the carrying parent.
Afterwards is the physical transfer of the baby, which is important for everyone. The surrogate physically hands over the child to the new family, allowing the surrogate mom to see the complete, happy family they’ve helped provide for. Meanwhile, the baby and the new family get some peace of mind before going through a whole new level of bonding and attachment.

Being Ready

It’s hard to be completely ready to bring a new life into the world and dealing with everything that comes after. As difficult as the task may be, prospective parents are up for the challenge. Always being willing to learn more and keeping in tune with the child’s needs are some of the first steps to be a successful parent.