Many mothers prefer to breastfeed due to the health benefits it provides, as well as the bond it can form with the child. Despite what many may think, it is quite possible to feed your newborn breast milk after conceiving via surrogacy. However, if you wish to breastfeed your child yourself, it takes some planning.
If you wish to breastfeed your child conceived via surrogacy, you’ll need to talk to your doctor about medications to induce lactation, and begin taking hormones prior to birth. After your surrogate gives birth to your baby, you’ll begin pumping. However, you may not produce enough milk to sustain your baby on your own. You may need to use a supplemental nursing system in addition.
Another option is using your gestational carrier’s breast milk. Some surrogates are willing to pump after birth for an extended period of time to provide the entire supply of breast milk or a portion of breast milk.
It’s important to know that there are both pros and cons to feeding your newborn breastmilk. The health benefits and nutrients that breast milk provides are the top reasons that many intended parents prefer breast milk over formula. There is also evidence that breast milk has psychological benefits for both mother and baby. The cons associated with relying on breast milk from surrogates are remuneration for surrogate to pump and costs associated with shipping and supplies.
If you choose hormone supplements to attempt actual breastfeeding, it is important to know that breastfeeding takes time and energy as babies need to eat 10-12 times per day, and it takes time to adjust to breastfeeding. Additionally, it can be simply inconvenient to breastfeed after gestational surrogacy. Mothers will likely still need a supplemental nursing system and it can cost extra money as well.
To breastfeed or not to breastfeed is a personal choice, and there is no right answer. Each mother and infant are unique. Under the right circumstances, breastfeeding a newborn baby can be a rewarding experience that promotes your newborn’s health and development. If breastfeeding is something you’re interested in, talk with your doctor and your surrogacy agency early on in your surrogacy journey.