A Journey of Care and Empowerment with ANU Fertility Consultants
Introduction
Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a remarkable act of compassion and generosity.
As the owner of ANU Fertility Consultants and an experienced surrogate myself and a former maternity nurse with 5 years of experience and 15 years in the surrogacy industry, I understand the importance of providing exceptional support and empowerment to surrogates throughout their journey.
In this step-by-step guide, we will outline the surrogacy process in Canada while highlighting the unique care and empowerment initiatives we offer to surrogates.
Step 1:
Initial Consultation and Profile Creation – The surrogacy journey begins with an initial consultation with our agency.
We, at ANU Fertility Consultants, take the time to understand your personal circumstances, needs and expectations. Together, we will create your profile, sharing your unique qualities, values, and preferences.
We encourage you to be open and honest in expressing your expectations, boundaries, and any specific requirements you may have. Rest assured, you are always in the lead as we walk through each piece.
Step 2:
Matching with Intended Parents – Once your profile is complete, our experienced team will work closely with you to identify potential profiles with intended parents or maybe you found one on our socials that you fell in love with!
We carefully review profiles of intended parents, considering their backgrounds, values, and expectations. We share these profiles with you, allowing you to find the one that makes your heart sing!
Our goal is to find the perfect fit for both you and the intended parents. To facilitate the process, we organize a group Zoom introduction, allowing you to get to know each other better, ask questions, and determine if there is a mutual connection and understanding for the surrogacy journey ahead.
Step 3:
Comprehensive Screening and Support – Once everyone is excited and ready to move forward, we provide comprehensive support throughout the screening process. This includes coordinating and covering necessary expenses related to medical and psychological screenings.
Our team will guide you through the entire process, ensuring that all required screenings are scheduled and completed, including booking any travel, lost wages and/or childcare that may be needed to get to the clinic.
Step 4:
Legal Consultation and Contract Review – After the screenings are completed, we understand the importance of protecting the rights and interests of all parties involved.
As part of our commitment to your care and empowerment, we will refer you to a qualified legal counsel who specializes in surrogacy.
This legal professional will walk you through the entire contract, ensuring that it meets both your needs and the needs of the intended parents throughout the surrogacy journey.
They will provide guidance, answer any legal questions you may have, and ensure that your rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected.
Step 5:
Pre-Pregnancy Wellness and Empowerment – We prioritize your well-being before pregnancy through our unique care initiatives as the first in Canada.
As leaders in this amazing community, we understand the importance of holistic wellness.
That’s why we offer a 5-month pre-pregnancy wellness reimbursement budget, allowing you to be reimbursed for essential expenses such as cell phone bills, internet fees, fitness activities, nutrition, and more.
This support empowers you to prioritize your overall wellness, providing the resources needed to feel strong and empowered.
Step 6:
Medical Procedures and Pregnancy – Once the necessary screenings and legal aspects are complete, medical procedures will begin.
Throughout the pregnancy, you will receive comprehensive medical care and regular check-ups with the medical team of your choice as you lead with your midwife, OB, doula and or doctor.
Our agency maintains open communication, providing emotional support and guidance to ensure your well-being is a priority.
Step 7:
Postpartum Recovery and Empowerment – After the birth, our support continues with a 6-month postpartum recovery program.
We are proud to state that we are the first agency in Canada to initiate this comprehensive program.
It includes pelvic floor therapy, fitness programs, nutrition support, and counselling services. Our goal is to empower you to regain physical and emotional strength during the postpartum period.
We believe in helping you emerge from the journey as strong, if not stronger, than when you began.
Step 8:
Conclusion: In the process of becoming a surrogate, creating your profile and matching with intended parents is an exciting step.
As an experienced surrogate and owner of ANU Fertility Consultants, I strive to make this process as smooth and fulfilling as possible. Our agency is dedicated to ensuring that you find intended parents who align with your values and expectations while being respected throughout each step.
We also understand the importance of support and removing logistical burdens during the surrogacy journey.
By taking care of the expenses and arrangements related to screenings, travel, and legal matters, we enable you to concentrate on your well-being and the journey ahead.
At every stage, our team is committed to providing comprehensive support, guidance, and empowerment.
We are here to ensure that you have a positive and fulfilling surrogacy experience, knowing that you are making a significant difference in the lives of intended parents.
With our experienced surrogates, donors, and leading professionals in the field, you can feel confident in the care and support you will receive.
By choosing ANU Fertility Consultants, you are embarking on a surrogacy journey that prioritizes your well-being, respects your needs and boundaries, and empowers you throughout the process.
We are honoured to be part of your surrogacy story and look forward to supporting you on this extraordinary journey of care and empowerment.
Remember, you are not alone—our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s embark on this incredible journey together!
Lorraine Smith
Pronouns: She/Her
Founder and Managing Director
