Surrogacy
Birth Plans
Creating a Surrogacy Birth Plan
Creating a birth plan for surrogacy is an important step, the Law Firm can assist with, to ensure that all parties involved have a clear understanding of their expectations and preferences for the birth of the child. A surrogacy birth plan typically includes the following elements:
Introduction: A statement that outlines the unique circumstances of the surrogacy arrangement. This can help healthcare providers and hospital staff understand the situation better.
Contact Information: Provide contact information for the intended parents, surrogate, and any other essential parties who should be notified when labor begins or if there are any complications.
Birth Preferences: Outline the preferences for labor and delivery, such as:
Location: Specify the chosen hospital or birthing center, if applicable.
Healthcare Providers: Indicate any specific healthcare professionals involved in the surrogacy journey who should be present during the birth.
Birth Team: List the names and roles of individuals who should be present during labor and delivery, such as the surrogate, intended parents, or support persons.
Birth Support: Discuss the level of support the surrogate prefers during labor and delivery, which can include the presence of the intended parents, emotional support, and pain management preferences.
Pain Management: Include any preferences for pain relief methods, such as epidurals or natural childbirth.
Medical Information: Share any pertinent medical information, such as the surrogate's medical history, pregnancy conditions, and any known complications.
Post-Delivery Preferences: Discuss the intended parents' preferences for immediate post-delivery care, including whether they want to have skin-to-skin contact with the baby and any other specific requests.
Baby Care: Specify the intended parents' preferences for baby care, such as feeding (breastfeeding or formula), circumcision (if applicable), and any religious or cultural practices.
Birth Certificate and Legal Matters: Clarify the intended parents' expectations regarding the birth certificate, including the names they want to appear on it and any legal documentation required.
Photos and Documentation: Address the handling of photos, videos, and documentation of the birth, including who will be responsible for capturing these moments.
Contingency Plans: Discuss any backup plans in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as a change in the birth location or a need for emergency medical interventions.
Emotional Support: Acknowledge the emotional aspects of surrogacy and the potential need for emotional support for all parties involved.
Surrogacy Agreement: Mention the existence of the surrogacy agreement and any legal aspects that need to be respected during the birth.
After-Birth Care: Outline the plan for the care of the surrogate after the birth, including recovery and any emotional support that may be needed.
It's crucial to discuss and create the birth plan collaboratively with all parties involved, including the surrogate, intended parents, and healthcare providers. Flexibility is key, as birth can be unpredictable, and it's essential to prioritize the health and well-being of the surrogate and the baby. Additionally, the legal aspects of surrogacy should be well-documented and adhered to throughout the birth process.
Read the University of Pennsylvania Gazette Article that describes the legal challenges that confronted Melissa on her journey to parenthood and how she shaped the law to ensure the parental rights of her three children. Learn how these groundbreaking efforts paved the way for others to realize their dreams.
Read More