Ep 159: Surrogacy Birth Story with Dr. Lotem

Send us Fan MailDr. Lotem Schulke, a prenatal and pediatric chiropractor in the metro-Atlanta area joins us on the show today to share her surrogacy journey.  We talk about:Her decision to become a surrogateThe entire process from finding an agency, the criteria for selecting intended parents, and the medical screening and legal clearance phases All of the medical phases involved from taking birth control pills and hormone medication to prepare her uterus for implantation to the process of embryo transfer and the challenges faced during pregnancy.She shares her pregnancy journey, which involved hyperemesis gravidarum during the first trimester, hospitalizations due to severe dehydration,irritable uterus diagnosis, and prodromal labor starting at 28 weeks. Despite all the challenges, she shares her birth story, who was on her birth support team, the emotions in the birthing facility with the intended parents and she reflects on her postpartum journey.Connect with Dr. Lotem00:00Embarking on the Surrogacy Journey: Dr. Lotem Schulke's Story04:16Finding the Right Agency and Intended Parents10:50The Lengthy Process of Medical Screening and Legal Clearance23:11Embryo Transfer Process28:03Dealing with a Miscarriage32:51The Emotional Journey of Being a Surrogate37:52Challenges and Complications During Pregnancy42:48Navigating Hyperemesis Gravidarum and Dehydration43:26Managing an Irritable Uterus and Prodromal Labor45:19Monitoring High Amniotic Fluid Levels48:37A Successful Induction and Birth56:10Recovering from a Cesarean Birth59:07The Emotional Journey of Being a SurrogateSupport the showWant to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth CommunityInstagram: Aligned Birth Email: [email protected] Find us online:Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness North Atlanta Birth Services Editing: Godfrey SoundMusic: "Freedom” by RoaDisclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.