Many surrogates find that working with international intended parents is rewarding, and a unique opportunity to have a truly global experience. In addition to getting to know people from a different background and gaining an appreciation for a new culture, there is often the added gratification of helping IPs from countries where surrogacy is not an option.  

However, living across an ocean or even in a different time zone than your intended parents can have its unique share of challenges. Fortunately, there are several ways of maintaining a positive connection with your IPs regardless of the distance.

Find a Reputable Agency

In order to ensure a successful surrogacy journey while working with international IPs, you must first find a reputable matching agency. An agency that has experience working with international IPs will be well-versed on legal matters, and will ensure that everyone's rights are protected for the most seamless journey possible. The agency will also serve as the mediator between you as the surrogate and the intended parents to ensure that both parties remain on the same page.

Keep the Lines of Communication Open

If your intended parents live across an ocean, likelihood is you won't see them much during the journey. Some intended parents will make a trip early on to meet with the surrogate in person, others will want to come for the 20-week appointment and the ultrasound, and some will only come for the birth. Regardless of what your unique situation is, there are plenty of ways to keep the lines of communication open and maintain a connection with your IPs.

As long as you account for time zone differences, video chat platforms like Skype or FaceTime are a great way to keep in touch. The frequency of check-ins will depend upon a lot of things - varying schedules, family obligations, time of day, etc - but it will be the mutual decision of you and your intended parents exactly how frequently you would like to connect. Generally speaking, if there is an important appointment, such as the 20-week ultrasound, that is a good time to touch base.

If video chat is too challenging to arrange with the time zone difference, emailing your IPs pictures of the ultrasound is a nice gesture that they are sure to appreciate.

Understanding Travel 

Fortunately, as a surrogate working with international IPs, you will not be required to travel outside of the United States. The only traveling you will need to do will be to the fertility clinic for the testing appointment and embryo transfer. Other than that, you will be able to initiate communication from the comfort of your home, and will not need to worry about international travel at any point throughout your pregnancy.

On the other hand, the intended parents will determine how often they would like to travel to the U.S. throughout the surrogacy process, and will be present for the birth. Your surrogacy agency will work with intended parents to organize the necessary travel arrangements so that you can focus all of your energy on having a safe, healthy delivery.

By trusting in your agency, keeping the lines of communication open, and understanding what is expected of you throughout the process, you will be on track for a seamless and satisfying surrogacy journey.