If you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate, you’ve probably wondered how much your everyday life would change during the journey.
Can you keep working? Is it okay to travel? Do you have to give up your morning coffee?
These are some of the most common questions we hear from women considering surrogacy, and the good news is that, for the most part, you’ll continue living your normal life, with a few extra precautions to help support a healthy pregnancy. Please note, this journey is different for everyone, and some journeys can lead to different restrictions than others. For specific questions about your circumstances, reach out to us.
Let’s walk through some of the biggest questions people have about the surrogate lifestyle.
Can Surrogates Work?
In many cases, yes!
Most surrogates continue working throughout their pregnancy as long as their job is considered safe during pregnancy and their healthcare provider doesn’t recommend otherwise.
Whether you work in an office, teach in a classroom, or work remotely from home, many careers can continue as normal. If your job involves heavy lifting, exposure to harmful chemicals, or physically demanding labor, your provider may recommend adjustments as your pregnancy progresses.
Every pregnancy is unique, so your agency team will help determine what’s safest for you.
Can Surrogates Travel?
Usually, yes, but timing matters.
During the IVF process and around the embryo transfer, your fertility clinic will likely ask you to stay close to home. This allows you to attend monitoring appointments and helps ensure you’re available if anything unexpected comes up.
Once the pregnancy is established, many surrogates are able to travel with approval from their OB provider. Later in pregnancy, travel may become more limited, especially if flying or traveling long distances.
If you’re planning a vacation or family trip, it’s always best to discuss it with your agency team ahead of time.
Can Surrogates Exercise?
Absolutely!
Regular movement is encouraged during most healthy pregnancies.
Many surrogates continue walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, strength training with modifications, or other low-impact activities they were already doing before pregnancy.
Right after embryo transfer, your fertility clinic may recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for a short period while giving the embryo time to implant. After that, your provider will let you know when it’s appropriate to return to your normal routine.
The key is listening to your body and following your medical team’s recommendations.
Can Surrogates Drink Caffeine?
Yes, in moderation.
Most healthcare providers recommend limiting caffeine during pregnancy rather than avoiding it completely. Current guidelines generally recommend staying below 200 mg of caffeine per day, which is about one 12-ounce cup of brewed coffee, though the exact amount can vary depending on the beverage.
Remember that caffeine isn’t just found in coffee. Tea, soda, energy drinks, chocolate, and some medications also contain caffeine, so it’s important to consider your total daily intake.
When in doubt, ask your agency what’s appropriate for you.
Can Surrogates Get Tattoos?
No, not during the surrogacy journey.
Getting a new tattoo or piercing while preparing for pregnancy or during pregnancy is generally discouraged because of the small risk of infection. Even when done at a reputable studio, it’s safest to wait until after you’ve delivered and completed your postpartum recovery.
If you’re considering a new tattoo, it will still be there when your journey is complete!
Living Life While Giving Life
One of the biggest misconceptions about surrogacy is that it completely changes your lifestyle. In reality, most surrogates continue working, spending time with family, exercising, and enjoying many of the activities they loved before pregnancy.
The biggest difference is being a little more intentional. You’ll attend medical appointments, follow your providers’ recommendations, and make choices that support a healthy pregnancy for both you and the baby you’re carrying. Your surrogacy contract will also provide you with specific information and guidelines about what is allowed during pregnancy. It’s extremely important to follow your contract, and if you are curious about if something falls out of those guidelines, be sure to contact your agency!
At Family Choice Surrogacy, we’re here to guide you through every step of the journey. From your first questions to delivery day, our team is committed to making sure you feel informed, supported, and confident along the way.
If you’re wondering whether surrogacy could be the right fit for you, we’d love to help answer your questions and show you what the journey really looks like.