17 Weeks Pregnant as a Surrogate: Entering the Second Trimester | Megan’s Journey, Part 3

Struggling to cut through the noise when it comes to vitamins, nutrition, and what really matters for fertility, pregnancy, and overall family wellness? In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with wellness expert Jessa Johnson, who draws on her personal IVF journey and 15+ years of coaching to reveal surprising truths about inflammation, supplement quality, and the overlooked factors that impact everyone, from surrogates and intended parents to newborns and dads. Discover why your “healthy habits” might not be what they seem, which oils might actually harm your health, and the simple steps you can take to truly nourish future generations. Don’t miss these game-changing insights!Jessa Johnson is a wellness specialist and certified health coach with over 15 years of experience guiding families and individuals toward holistic well-being. After navigating her own fertility journey, including overcoming significant hormone imbalances following IVF and healing her body naturally, Jessa became passionate about empowering others to address root causes through nutrition, environment, and science-backed supplementation. She currently helps people worldwide understand inflammation and optimize their health through education, testing, and high-quality supplements. Jessa’s expertise spans fertility, pregnancy, pediatric wellness, and educating global surrogacy communities.KEY TOPICSHow Jessa Johnson’s personal infertility journey sparked her passion for holistic health and hormone balance [00:02:10]The critical impact of omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and why most Americans live with chronic inflammation [00:05:08]Why most fish oils (and common supplements) may not actually deliver intended health benefits during pregnancy [00:09:01]What to look for (and avoid) in infant formula, plus the importance of whole foods over isolates for children’s development [00:17:20]The best and worst oils for cooking and pregnancy nutrition, and how small swaps can reduce inflammation [00:21:20]Todays guest, Jessa Johnson, can be found online at:Website: http://zinzino.com/2021383150/us/en-us/LinkedIn: http://facebook.com/jessa.johnson.56Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What is a pre-birth order, and how does it relate to legal parentage and birth registration in Mexico? How does the process in Sinaloa compare with voluntary jurisdiction, and what should international intended parents ask before choosing a legal pathway?In this episode of Your Fertility Story, host Maria Feekes speaks with Mexican surrogacy attorney Javier Martinez about pre-birth orders in Sinaloa and the legal questions families face when pursuing surrogacy in Mexico.Javier explains his approach to establishing legal parentage before a baby is born, discusses how court orders relate to obtaining a birth certificate after delivery, and shares lessons from his work with international intended parents. Together, Maria and Javier explore why the legal process, surrogate eligibility requirements, and preparation for birth registration deserve careful attention from the beginning.For single parents, LGBTQ+ families, and couples considering international surrogacy, this conversation offers practical questions to bring to an attorney and a closer look at the legal pathway Javier uses in Sinaloa.In This Episode04:13 • From tax law to surrogacy law: the 2019 case that changed Javier’s career10:41 • How Javier approaches pre-birth orders and legal parentage in Sinaloa16:52 • Pre-birth orders and voluntary jurisdiction: understanding the differences22:06 • Questions to ask before choosing a surrogacy legal pathway in Mexico31:51 • Surrogate eligibility requirements in Sinaloa and preparation for birth registrationAbout Javier MartinezJavier Martinez is an attorney practicing in Sinaloa, Mexico, with more than ten years of legal experience and a background in human rights and constitutional law. His work includes supporting international intended parents, single parents, and LGBTQ+ families through surrogacy-related legal proceedings, including pre-birth orders.About Your HostMaria Feekes is the Executive Director of SMARTPath Fertility International and host of Your Fertility Story. She works with intended parents navigating international IVF and surrogacy, bringing families and professionals together for candid conversations about the path to parenthood.Connect with Maria and SMARTPathWebsite: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: @mariafeekesLinkedIn: Maria FeekesThis episode discusses Javier’s experience and approach in Sinaloa. It provides general information, not individual legal advice; requirements and outcomes depend on the circumstances of each case.

What is it like to reach 17 weeks pregnant when you’re carrying a baby for another family? First-time surrogate Megan shares the relief, uncertainty, and everyday moments that have shaped her pregnancy so far.In Part 3 of Megan’s journey on Your Fertility Story, she joins Maria Feekes and Kristi Campbell from SMARTPath Fertility International for an honest conversation about early pregnancy symptoms, medication changes, medical monitoring, and settling into the second trimester.A mother of two and an adoptee, Megan opens up about the experiences that inspired her to become a surrogate. She shares how she talks with her children, family, and friends about surrogacy, why choosing a trusted OB-GYN matters, and how she approaches emotional boundaries while caring for the baby she’s carrying.Whether you’re considering becoming a surrogate, exploring surrogacy as an intended parent, or following Megan’s story, this episode offers a personal look at pregnancy from a surrogate’s perspective.EPISODE TOPICS00:32 — Early pregnancy milestones and reaching 17 weeks01:42 — Physical symptoms, medication changes, and medical monitoring06:20 — Talking about surrogacy with family, friends, and her daycare community18:48 — Choosing a trusted OB-GYN and building a supportive care team22:15 — Emotional boundaries, bonding, and preparing her childrenABOUT MEGANMegan is a first-time surrogate and mother of two. Her experience as an adoptee helped inspire her desire to support another family through surrogacy. Throughout this series, she shares the emotional and practical realities of her journey as it unfolds.ABOUT KRISTI CAMPBELLKristi Campbell works with SMARTPath Fertility International’s U.S. operations, supporting intended parents and surrogates throughout their journeys. She brings a coordinator’s perspective to the conversation, exploring the communication, care, and personal support involved in surrogacy.CONNECT WITH MARIA FEEKES & SMARTPATHWebsite: https://www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariafeekes/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/Follow Your Fertility Story to hear more of Megan’s journey and conversations with intended parents, surrogates, and the professionals helping families grow.

Dive behind the scenes of international surrogacy with Anastasia, the dynamic coordinator who keeps every detail running smoothly in Mexico’s fertility programs. In this episode, Maria Feekes pulls back the curtain to reveal the hidden challenges, red flags, and heartwarming connections that define the journey to parenthood abroad. From whirlwind emergency calls to the deep-rooted bonds formed with surrogates, discover why trust, transparency, and genuine care can make all the difference. Curious about what really happens beyond the clinic doors? This is the episode you can’t miss.Anastasia is the head of international logistics and surrogacy coordination for SmartPath Fertility International, specializing in surrogacy programs across Ukraine, Mexico, and the USA. Since 2015, she has guided families through every stage of their fertility journeys, ensuring seamless communication, surrogate matching, and the highest standards of care.KEY TOPICSThe unique speed and inclusivity of surrogacy in Mexico [00:01:40]Behind-the-scenes coordination: how surrogate mothers are supported every step of the way [00:07:04]The rigorous screening and cultural warmth of Mexican surrogate mothers [00:26:22]The importance of clinic and legal partnerships for trust, transparency, and baby registration [00:17:46]Ongoing relationships: families, surrogates, and even nannies after the journey ends [00:35:04]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

In this heartfelt continuation of "Your Fertility Story," Maria Feekes sits down with Ivanna to reveal the incredible behind-the-scenes journey of surrogacy in Ukraine. From rapid baby registrations and emotional hospital moments to the sheer dedication involved in caring for surrogates, the episode uncovers the meticulous work, trust, and compassion that make these miracles possible, even amidst unique challenges. Curious how families and surrogates are supported every step of the way, and how a genuine act of kindness can bring someone to tears? Press play for a candid, inspiring look into a world few ever see.Ivanna is the Head of Operations and lead coordinator for surrogacy in Ukraine. With years of expertise, she helps families from around the world navigate the complex surrogacy process, providing hands-on support, logistical leadership, and deep compassion for both intended parents and surrogates. Ivanna is renowned for her meticulous attention to detail, transparent communication, and unwavering commitment. Qualities that make her an invaluable guide through surrogacy’s most delicate moments.KEY TOPICSThe crucial role of trust and returning surrogates in Ukraine surrogacy journeys [02:02]Achieving rapid and efficient baby registration and documentation for international families [05:28]Meticulous behind-the-scenes logistics for seamless parent and surrogate experiences [06:19]Providing personalized care and support for surrogates, from apartment selection to surprise visits [12:18]Balancing authority and compassion: maintaining boundaries with surrogates while ensuring their well-being [19:05]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What happens when care goes beyond protocol and a team’s heart determines the outcome of life-changing journeys? In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Ivanna, the powerhouse behind Ukraine’s surrogacy coordination team, to uncover the stories you never hear, the silent battles, difficult choices, and extraordinary dedication that make hope possible for families across continents. If you’ve ever wondered what it truly takes to keep intended parents, surrogates, and babies safe in the most unpredictable circumstances, you won’t want to miss this revealing, inspiring conversation.Ivanna, Ukrainian surrogacy coordinator and heart behind countless family journeys, joins the show to discuss the invisible care, vigilance, and advocacy required to ensure every step runs smoothly, even when protocols say "wait and see.”KEY TOPICSThe irreplaceable role of Ivanna and her team as "guardian angels" for surrogacy in Ukraine 00:22Why deep emotional involvement, not just protocol drives extra care for surrogates and parents 02:20Real stories of pushing beyond medical guidelines to ensure surrogate safety, including personal fights with doctors 08:42How proactive risk management catches issues before protocols are triggered, preventing crises for families 11:15The unseen emotional labor and critical decision-making behind every “routine” update during surrogacy journeys 21:02Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What does a surrogacy coordinator really do, and what role does a surrogacy agency play throughout a U.S. surrogacy journey?In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Kristi Campbell, U.S. Head of Operations & Coordination at SMARTPath Fertility International, to explain the role of a surrogacy coordinator and what happens behind the scenes during the surrogacy process in the United States.For intended parents, surrogacy can involve a fertility clinic, gestational surrogate, attorneys, escrow, insurance, medical appointments, embryo transfer, pregnancy monitoring, and eventually delivery. A surrogacy coordinator helps connect those moving pieces while supporting both the intended parents and the surrogate throughout the journey.Maria and Kristi discuss:What a surrogacy coordinator does during a U.S. surrogacy journeyWhat happens behind the scenes at a surrogacy agencyHow coordinators support intended parents and gestational surrogatesThe coordinator’s role during surrogate matching, medical screening, embryo transfer, pregnancy, and birthWhat happens when there are delays, unexpected problems, or difficult newsHow coordinators communicate with fertility clinics, attorneys, escrow teams, insurance providers, surrogates, and intended parentsHow a coordinator helps navigate the emotional side of surrogacyWhy good surrogacy coordination is much more than scheduling appointments and managing paperworkWhat intended parents should look for when choosing a surrogacy agency or coordinatorKristi also shares the human side of the work: the difficult conversations, unexpected problems, emotional moments, and behind-the-scenes decisions that intended parents may never realize are happening.If you are researching surrogacy in the United States, how the U.S. surrogacy process works, what a surrogacy coordinator does, what a surrogacy agency does, or how intended parents and gestational surrogates are supported during a journey, this episode offers a real-world look at the people and coordination behind the process.

What is embryo transfer day actually like — physically, emotionally, and mentally?In Part 2 of Megan’s surrogacy journey on Your Fertility Story, Maria Feekes reconnects with Megan shortly after embryo transfer to talk honestly about what the experience was really like from a surrogate’s perspective. Following their first conversation before transfer day, this episode explores what happened during the procedure, how her body felt afterward, the emotional reality of the process, and what intended parents often don’t fully see behind the scenes.Megan shares:What embryo transfer day looks like step-by-stepWhether embryo transfer is painful or uncomfortablePhysical symptoms and recovery after transferThe emotional side of IVF transfer dayWhat surprised her most about the experienceHer message to intended parents waiting and hopingIf you’ve ever wondered:What does embryo transfer feel like?What happens after embryo transfer?What is embryo transfer recovery like?What should intended parents expect emotionally?…this episode gives a real and human perspective from someone living it.To connect with Maria:www.smartpathfertilityintl.com

In this episode of Your Fertility Story, Maria Feekes sits down with Korbet Annis from VitalCells to explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—decisions intended parents can make before their baby is born: whether to preserve newborn stem cells and what that actually means. The conversation begins with Maria sharing why this topic became so relevant after multiple intended fathers in her surrogacy program asked what options existed to protect their future child's health, particularly when using anonymous egg donors.Many families have heard of cord blood banking, but few understand its limitations, the difference between cord blood and umbilical cord tissue, or how advances in regenerative medicine are changing the conversation. Korbet explains these concepts in an approachable way, helping intended parents understand not only the science behind newborn stem cell preservation, but also the practical considerations before delivery.Together, Maria and Korbet discuss:The difference between traditional cord blood banking and umbilical cord tissue stem cell banking.Why many families misunderstand what cord blood can—and cannot—be used for.How regenerative medicine differs from stem cell transplants used for blood cancers.Why newborn stem cells may become a valuable lifelong health resource.How stem cells are collected, processed, expanded, and stored after birth.Whether stem cells may be used for future injuries, inflammatory conditions, and other regenerative therapies.Questions every intended parent should ask before choosing a stem cell banking company.Logistics for babies born through surrogacy in both the United States and Mexico, including transportation and timing after delivery.Whether you're pursuing surrogacy, IVF, egg donation, or simply preparing for the birth of your child, this episode will help you better understand today's options so you can make an informed decision before delivery.About the GuestKorbet Annis is a newborn stem cell banking educator with VitalCells, where she helps expectant families understand the evolving science of newborn stem cell preservation and regenerative medicine. With more than a decade of experience in stem cell banking, Korbet is passionate about educating parents on the differences between traditional cord blood banking and newer approaches that preserve live mesenchymal stem cells for potential future therapeutic use.Connect with Korbet & VitalCellsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korbet-annis-9701154a/Website: https://vitalcells.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalcells_/Disclaimer: This episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The discussion reflects the guest's expertise and perspective. Families should consult with qualified medical professionals when making decisions regarding stem cell banking, regenerative medicine, and future medical care.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Your Fertility Story, leave a review, and share it with someone navigating infertility, IVF, surrogacy, or donor conception. Your support helps us continue bringing expert conversations to intended parents around the world.

What’s it really like to meet your baby for the first time after an international surrogacy journey while adjusting to parenthood in a foreign country? In this episode, Whitney and Hugh share the raw, beautiful, and unexpectedly humorous realities of welcoming their child in Ukraine and what new parents everywhere can learn from their experience.Whitney Shefte is an new parent, documentary filmmaker and journalist. She is currently working on a documentary film about her surrogacy journey and the state of the surrogacy industry around the world. See some of her work on her website.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Warm Welcome and Support: Whitney and Hugh felt fully accepted as parents by the Ukrainian hospital staff during their surrogacy experience and appreciated the guidance they received.Adjusting to Local Realities: While in Ukraine, they found the environment comfortable and safe, with access to all needed amenities, and noticed daily life felt calm and familiar despite the country’s unique circumstances.Parenting Challenges Abroad: They navigated sleep deprivation and newborn care in another country, found affordable help like a night nurse, and encouraged others to accept support when needed.Efficient Documentation Process: Obtaining the birth certificate and passport was fast and smooth, especially with advance preparation and help from local coordinators.Practical Tips for Future Parents: Don’t overpack (supplies are easily found locally), prepare documents in advance, use translation apps, and accept that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions as new parents through surrogacy.Todays guest, Whitney Shefte, can be found online at:Blog: https://whitneyshefte.tumblr.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wshefte/Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/