A surrogate pregnancy is both like and unlike any other pregnancy. What do you need to consider as it relates to your full time job?
Surrogacy agreements normally compensate you for the expenses and inconvenience of carrying the pregnancy to term, so being a surrogate is no substitute for full-time work. Unless you have a spouse or other support, chances are you’ll have to work.
Beginning the process
While you are trying to get pregnant, you will be taking hormonal medications that can mess with your moods. If it takes you several cycles to get pregnant, you may be attending many monitoring appointments. While you are entitled to your privacy, it may be wise to confide in your supervisor or HR department. Repeated unexplained requests for time off may raise red flags.
General pregnancy considerations
You may be tired, nauseated and uncomfortable. You’ll have doctor’s appointments to get to. No pregnancies are alike, so even if you have had uneventful previous pregnancies, you could have complications.
Once you pass your first trimester, it’s best to inform your employer that you are pregnant. You need not reveal that you are a surrogate, but depending on your comfort level, you may want to.
You’re under a lot of stress. Clear your schedule of non-essential activities as much as possible. Make time for light exercise, relaxation and family time.
Recovery
You will want to take some time after the birth to recover. Most surrogacy contracts include a clause for your IPs to compensate you for your lost wages. Typically they pay for four-six weeks for a vaginal delivery, six-eight weeks for a c-section. Your return will be dictated in part by when your physician releases you. Don’t rush your return. While you don’t have an infant to care for, it takes time for your body to recover from the trauma of birth. You may also want to spend some time reconnecting with your family.
Your rights as an employee
You are unlikely to be covered by FMLA since it is designed for caring for yourself or family members, but you might be covered by short-term disability. Discuss your rights and responsibilities with an attorney specializing in the infertility laws of your state.
If you want to learn more about becoming a surrogate in Texas or Florida, the experienced staff at Surrogate Solutions is here to help. Gayle and her team will be happy to answer any questions you may have about surrogacy and what you need to get started as a gestational surrogate.
Ready to begin your surrogacy journey or want to learn more? Contact the experts at Surrogate Solutions.
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