7.3 Why OB Summaries Are Essential for Surrogacy & How to Get Them After Each Visit

When you're a surrogate, regular OB appointments are an important part of the journey—not just for your health, but to keep everyone involved informed and prepared. After each visit, getting a copy of your OB summary might feel like a small task, but it makes a big difference. It helps the intended parents stay connected, allows quick decisions if needed, and protects you every step of the way.

Why Your OB Summaries Matter

1. They keep intended parents updated

Surrogacy agreements often include regular medical updates—and that’s because the intended parents truly care. This is their baby, and receiving updates helps them feel involved, reassured, and emotionally connected to the journey. OB summaries are a simple but powerful way to share those moments. They provide clear, official records from your doctor, so there’s no need to worry about remembering medical terms or details. By passing along the summary, you’re giving the parents peace of mind—and helping them feel closer to the life you’re carrying for them.

2. They help everyone respond quickly if something comes up

If any health issue arises during the pregnancy, it’s important that the agency, intended parents, and your medical team are all informed as soon as possible. OB summaries make this easier by providing accurate, up-to-date information. With everything clearly documented, your support team can make timely, informed decisions about care, medication, or next steps—together, and without delay.

3. They protect you

Having official documentation from each visit helps prevent misunderstandings down the road. When everything is clearly on record, it keeps expectations aligned, reduces stress, and gives you added peace of mind. OB summaries offer that extra layer of protection, ensuring everyone involved has the same information and can support you accordingly.

How to Get Your OB Summary

• Ask before you leave: After your appointment, stop by the front desk and ask for a copy of your visit summary. Most clinics can print it for you right away.
• Use your clinic’s portal: If your OB’s office uses an online system like MyChart or AthenaHealth, you can usually log in and download the summary at home.
• Call the office later: If you forget to ask at your appointment, don’t worry—you can call and ask them to email or mail you a copy.
• Work with your case manager: If your OB’s office doesn’t have a system in place to provide summaries, your GSHC case manager can help. We also have an OB summary form that your doctor can fill out to share key information after each visit.
• Check if a release form is needed: Some clinics may ask you to sign a HIPAA form to share records with GSHC.

Tip: At your first OB appointment, ask how they handle medical records so you can get access early and avoid last-minute stress later on.