Effective communication between intended parents and surrogates is important. It ensures the parents stay informed about the surrogate’s health and the baby’s development. Additionally, it allows both parties to discuss expectations, medical decisions and financial responsibilities.
If you and your partner are intended parents, here are three tips for communication you can use:
Define communication expectations in the contract
You and your surrogate should discuss expectations for communication before, during, and after the pregnancy, and include them in the surrogacy agreement.
How often will you be communicating? Which mode of communication will you use? How can the surrogate contact you during emergencies? What kind of updates should be communicated? etc.
For instance, you can choose to communicate weekly via phone call, use video calls for major appointments, send texts for quick updates and use email for non-urgent updates/after key appointments, such as sending results from ultrasounds/blood tests.
You should respect the boundaries outlined in the contract and set others for a healthy relationship.
Be honest
Honesty is integral to the relationship between the intended parents and the surrogate. Both parties should freely express their concerns, needs or emotions. Doing this helps build trust. For example, have open financial discussions with your surrogate, and help them feel comfortable informing you about medical concerns or any discomfort.
Discuss non-pregnancy topics
Whenever you talk to your surrogate, besides talking about their health and the pregnancy, consider discussing non-pregnancy topics as well. Ask about their work, family, hobbies and so on.
Having casual conversations that flow naturally can help you build a strong bond. Moreover, always show gratitude. Acknowledge their effort and the challenges they may be facing.
Creating a genuine relationship with your surrogate offers substantial benefits. Get more information about other ways to have a successful surrogacy experience.