Supporting Intended Parents: Advice from Marly Steinman, Surrogacy & Donor Consultant

Surrogacy Is a Podcast

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Join us in a heartwarming episode where we start off by sharing the incredible journey of our agency's first surrogate baby! We then introduce Marly Steinman, an LMFT and intended parent and donor consultant, who has dedicated her career to supporting intended parents through the complex world of third-party reproduction. Marly brings both her professional and personal experience, helping intended parents navigate surrogacy, egg and sperm donation.
Navigating the emotional rollercoaster of surrogacy is no small feat. This episode sheds light on the various stages intended parents go through—from grief and denial to acceptance and gratitude. We emphasize the importance of acknowledging these emotions and maintaining a positive relationship with the surrogate. Open communication and support systems, including counseling, play crucial roles in this journey. Marly also shares how connecting with others who have been through surrogacy can provide comfort and alleviate fears, ensuring that intended parents feel supported every step of the way.
Choosing the right surrogacy agency can be overwhelming, but this episode breaks down the critical factors to consider. From setting clear communication and boundaries to understanding agency policies on payments and rematches, we cover it all. Marly offers practical advice on finding the perfect match with a surrogate and the importance of transparency and honesty in building a healthy relationship centered around the baby.

Chapter

1. Surrogacy Advocate Consults Intended Parents (00:00:00)

2. Navigating Emotional Stages of Surrogacy (00:11:45)

3. Navigating Surrogacy Matching and Expectations (00:15:26)

4. Navigating Surrogacy Agency Selection (00:28:04)

5. Navigating Surrogacy Communication and Boundaries (00:38:18)

6. Supporting Intended Parents Through Surrogacy (00:43:59)

7. Connecting With Surrogacy Expert Marley (00:54:20)