In Vitro Fertilization technology has evolved so much over the years that pregnancies with four, five, six or more babies have become increasingly rare. But twin and triplet pregnancies are still pretty common.
Doctors are reluctant to transfer several embryos to the surrogate because multiple child pregnancies bring risks to both the surrogate mother and the babies she carries. But with the expense that IVF carries, it’s common to transfer two embryos to increase the chances that at least one of them is viable. Sometimes you hit the jackpot and both embryos become a pregnancy.
As an intended parent who has struggled to have a baby, hearing that your family of two will soon become a family of four or five can be both exciting and overwhelming. But there are a few ways that you can prepare for both the unusual pregnancy and your growing family.
Remember the Risks
Multiple pregnancies are automatically considered high risk. That doesn’t mean that the pregnancy is any less viable, just that it requires more monitoring. Gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and placental abruption all occur more frequently in multiple child pregnancies.
Premature births are very common with multiples, but doctors can take steps to prevent the surrogate from delivering before the baby is ready. This can include a variety of medications or procedures. Bed rest is frequently advised for late pregnancy.
What does this mean for intended parents?
Of course, you know that you’ll need to buy multiples of every single baby item from car seats and strollers, to bulk packs of diapers and onesies. But medical expenses are also likely to increase. They are typically higher for a multiple pregnancy than they would be for a singleton. Your surrogate may need to stop working early. You could be asked to help with expenses not covered by disability insurance such as daycare for the gestational surrogate’s children to household help.
How can you prepare?
Ask for help. Don’t hesitate to depend on your friends and family for help and advice in both preparing for your growing family and financing your growing expenses. Talk to your surrogacy agency. They can provide tips from other families of multiples and even offer financing options to help you cover the added expense.
Multiple pregnancies bring risks and rewards. As an intended parent, the best you can do is plan for what you can anticipate and roll with what you can’t. For additional information and support, contact the professionals at Surrogate Solutions. There is probably no question we haven’t heard!
