Introduction
At Simple Steps Fertility, we understand the profound journey surrogates undertake. Once you’ve completed your online application and requested your medical records, the next significant step in your surrogacy journey is the Match Call with Intended Parents (IPs). This crucial conversation sets the foundation for a successful partnership and ensures that both parties are aligned on key decisions.
What is a Match Call?
The Match Call is an opportunity for surrogates to meet and connect with the Intended Parents. This call goes beyond a simple introduction; it’s a moment to discuss expectations, preferences, and any concerns that might arise during the surrogacy journey. The goal is to establish a strong, trusting relationship from the very beginning.
Preparing for a Match Call
While the idea of a Match Call might seem daunting, there isn’t much you need to do to prepare. The most important thing is to be yourself and communicate your honest feelings about the journey and the process. Here are some tips to help you feel more at ease:
1. Be Genuine and Open: Authenticity is key. Share your true thoughts, feelings, and expectations. This transparency helps build trust and ensures that both you and the Intended Parents are comfortable and on the same page.
2. Discuss Key Topics: Prepare to talk about your previous pregnancies, including any complications you might have experienced, such as nausea or vomiting. Discussing these details openly can help the Intended Parents understand your experiences and set realistic expectations.
3. Share Personal Interests: Start the conversation with a personal touch by sharing your hobbies and interests. This can help break the ice and create a more relaxed atmosphere for both parties.
4. Understand Their Journey: Take the time to learn about the Intended Parents’ story. Understanding their motivations and hopes can deepen your connection and reinforce the significance of the journey you’re embarking on together.
5. Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the Intended Parents about their expectations, preferences, and any specific concerns they might have. This is a two-way conversation, and your questions are just as important as theirs.
Important Questions to Discuss
During the Match Call, we will ask several important questions to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Some of these questions include:
- Preferred Communication: What is your ideal form of communication? Do you prefer emails, phone calls, video calls, or in-person meetings?
- Twin Pregnancy: Are you willing to carry a twin pregnancy if a single embryo splits?
- Therapeutic Abortion: If there is a quality of life scenario for the fetus, will you be open to a therapeutic abortion if that is recommended by the physician?
- Selective Reduction: Are you open to selective reduction if carrying multiple embryos poses a risk?
- Delivery Room: Who are you comfortable having in the delivery room during the birth? These questions are designed to address critical aspects of the surrogacy journey and ensure that both you and the Intended Parents are comfortable with the potential scenarios that may arise.
During the Match Call
Most Match Calls begin with introductions. As a surrogate, you can start by sharing a bit about yourself, including your family, your reasons for becoming a surrogate, and any relevant details about your pregnancy history. Here are some specific points to consider:
- Pregnancy Experience: Discuss your previous pregnancies, focusing on aspects such as duration, labor, delivery, and recovery. Mention any complications you encountered and how you managed them.
- Health and Lifestyle: Talk about your current health and lifestyle choices. Are you following a particular diet? Do you have any routines that help you stay healthy and active?
- Support System: Highlight the support system you have in place, such as family and friends who will be there to assist you throughout the surrogacy journey.
Building a Strong Connection
The Match Call is not just about logistics; it’s about building a relationship. Here are some additional tips to foster a strong connection:
- Empathy and Understanding: Show empathy towards the Intended Parents’ journey. Understand that they might have gone through a lot to reach this point, and your role is to help them achieve their dream of parenthood.
- Positive Communication: Keep the conversation positive and uplifting. Focus on the shared goal of creating a beautiful life and the joy that this journey can bring to everyone involved.
- Future Planning: Discuss how you envision the surrogacy process unfolding. Talk about how you will keep in touch, the types of updates you will provide, and how you will handle any challenges that may arise.
Conclusion
The Match Call is a pivotal moment in your surrogacy journey. By being genuine, open, and prepared, you can create a strong foundation for a successful partnership with the Intended Parents. Remember, this is the beginning of a beautiful journey, and the connections you make during this call can lead to lifelong relationships.
At Simple Steps Fertility, we are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Together, we can make dreams come true.