Surrogacy rewards parents with an invaluable gift, and is an innovation for which many couples are endlessly grateful.

It’s a beautifully complex process that requires patience, hope, and strength from all involved parties.

You’re likely familiar with the basics, but here’s a refresher.

Pregnant woman holding ultrasound photo

You’ve likely heard of progesterone, the hormone that supports pregnancy.

This is referred to as P4.

Surrogates take supplements, progesterone in oil (PIO), to ready the uterine lining.

Surrogacy highlighted in dictionary

Hysteroscopy (HSC) is another term you may hear in support groups.

The further you get in the process, the more likely this lingo will become second nature.

Exploring forums and support groups

Surrogacy is a deeply tender and unique process.

Pregnant woman on computer

No one truly knows what it feels like unless they’ve walked that path before.

Even well-meaning friends and family may not always understand the surrogacy journey the way you do.

As with most community sites on the internet, you should use your own discretion when consuming the material.