Remaining Friends After the Journey

June 30, 2023 by Frank Golden

Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a remarkable and unique path towards parenthood. It is a journey filled with hope, anticipation, and an unbreakable bond between Intended Parents and Surrogates. While the primary goal is to welcome a precious bundle of joy into the world, the relationships formed along the way can be equally extraordinary. But what happens after the birth? Can the connection built during the surrogacy journey extend beyond the delivery room? As a former Intended Parent myself, who went through two surrogacy journeys with two Surrogates, I would like to shed some light on my experience. So, let’s dive in and discuss the possibility of remaining friends long after the surrogacy journey ends.

Golden Surrogacy tailors a mutual match between Intended Parents and Surrogates.

I recently got asked a question from a former, two-time Golden Surrogate (Mary, if you are reading this, hi, we love you)! Mary asked if, along with my husband Adam, still maintain a friendship with our previous Surrogates. This is an excellent question, Mary, and one that sheds light on the importance of relationships on a surrogacy journey.

To all Intended Parents reading this, it is crucial to assess your expectations regarding the relationships you hope to build during and after your surrogacy journey. Clearly define these expectations from the beginning and communicate them openly with each other. This is typically done during the matching conference call.

Close-up of two Intended Parents holding hands and talking over coffee.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the journey itself can be unpredictable. Surrogacy is a unique experience; no two journeys are the same. Despite setting expectations, it is essential to remain open to the possibility that the relationship may evolve differently than initially anticipated.

One key aspect is allowing the relationship to develop organically. Genuine connections often form when given the freedom to grow naturally. It is also important to give each other some space after the journey. For Intended Parents, the addition of a newborn to their lives can be overwhelming. This can cause the previously established communication pattern to change. Surrogates, on the other hand, may need time for closure and physical recovery after giving birth. Patience, understanding, and compassion are vital during this phase.

How to become a parent through surrogacy.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to approach post-journey relationships. Surrogates may prefer less frequent updates and occasional meetups, while others may want more frequent communication and involvement in the child’s life. The key is open and honest dialogue from the beginning to determine what works best for all parties involved.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to approach post-journey relationships. Surrogates may prefer less frequent updates and occasional meetups, while others may want more frequent communication and involvement in the child’s life. The key is open and honest dialogue from the beginning to determine what works best for all parties involved.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to approach post-journey relationships. Surrogates may prefer less frequent updates and occasional meetups, while others may want more frequent communication and involvement in the child’s life. The key is open and honest dialogue from the beginning to determine what works best for all parties involved.

Intended Mother smiles as she embraces the bump of her pregnant Surrogate.

When it came to navigating the relationships in my surrogacy journeys, Adam and I followed this approach. Despite not living near either one of our Surrogates, the connections with both remained strong during and after the journeys. We maintained close relationships by sending thoughtful gifts, celebrating milestones, and regularly texting throughout the week. In my view, the success of a surrogacy journey hinges on the efforts invested in it. Despite obstacles, we strived to create lasting memories. Adam and I placed great importance on making our Surrogates feel a part of the family. We embraced them into our lives, treated them with respect and dignity, and openly communicated our feelings. Now, as a surrogacy agency director, I hold the expectations that all Intended Parents will extend the same level of warmth and consideration to their Surrogates while embarking on their journeys.

Frank and Adam with their Surrogate who helped bring Sophia into the world.

Frank and Adam with their Surrogate who helped bring Sophia into the world.

So, Mary, I hope this answers your questions and provides insight for others embarking on the surrogacy journey. Remember, each relationship is unique, and what matters most is finding a path that works for all involved.