Hi Mums,
With November coming to an end, it’s time for another catch-up. If you’re new here welcome to Matresa, a platform dedicated to helping mothers on their journey of motherhood. Today we’re unpacking the rising issue of surrogate scams and how to protect yourself from exploitation and misinformation. We’ll also share natural, pregnancy-safe remedies to help you stay healthy through winter, plus a few surprising pregnancy facts you’ve probably never heard before.
The Crazy Truth Behind Growing Surrogacy Scams
Recent reporting has revealed heart-breaking cases in which women trusting surrogacy arrangements, discover that their babies are being sold to completely different parents. Surrogacy arrangements can be used as a front for baby-selling and exploitation rather than legitimate and consensual family building.
In a recent case, the surrogate was led to believe she was helping a couple unable to conceive, a common recruitment narrative used to exploit vulnerability. She was shown a profile of the intended parents, told that they’re unable to conceive, experienced a rushed surrogacy process, and never met the biological parents. She then received a lack of aftercare and support.
The support she did receive consisted of, counselling sessions geared towards making sure she knows that it is not her baby and that she should not feel love towards the baby. Encouraging to ignore any maternal, motherly instincts towards the baby. This isn’t right. As a surrogate it is okay to feel a connection to the baby, you have grown with it for 9 months, and any tie emotionally is natural, so although a difficult situation, know it is completely normal and that you are not alone in this experience.
After birth, the baby was reportedly sold for a substantial amount to another couple, a transaction far removed from the surrogate’s consent or the original agreement. It was later uncovered that the baby, born in the USA, had ended up in foster care here in the UK within 1 year of its life. The surrogate described heartbreak, betrayal, and a deep sense of loss, common among victims of such scams.
You can read more about the case here: At the telegraph
What You Can Do: Stay Informed, Ask Questions, Protect Yourself
If you or someone you know are considering surrogacy or fertility treatments: always verify credentials, ask for legal documentation, and consult independent professionals.
Be aware of warning signs: unusually low prices, no-shows from intended parents to ultra-scans, check ups, appointments, pressure tactics, lack of transparency about medical history or consent.
Spread the word: share stories and warnings. The more we talk, the harder it becomes for unscrupulous actors to prey on vulnerable people
Winter Wellness for You & Baby
Immune-Boosting Carrot, Apple & Ginger Purée
As the colder months arrive, so do the familiar waves of sniffles, tiredness and winter bugs. For mothers, especially during pregnancy or with little ones, staying well can feel like a full-time job. At Matresa, we believe in small, nourishing rituals that support your body naturally. This month, we’re sharing a few simple, comforting winter-time remedies that are safe for pregnancy and suitable for babies
Ingredients:
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
1 small apple, peeled and chopped
Small sliver of ginger (very tiny for baby version)
Water
Method:
Steam the carrots and apple until soft.
Blend with a splash of water and a very small sliver of ginger.
For adults, add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
For babies, serve plain or slightly warmed.
This sweet, comforting blend supports immunity and gut health for both mother and child.
This sweet, comforting blend supports immunity and gut health for both mother and child.
Did You Know? The Motherhood Facts No One Talks About
A few surprising, empowering facts about pregnancy & maternity that every woman deserves to know.
7. Babies can taste what you eat, before they’re even born.
Flavours pass through the amniotic fluid. Carrot-loving toddlers often had mums who ate carrots during pregnancy!
8. The uterus expands 500 times its normal size.
Then over the weeks after birth, it shrinks back down, one of the body’s most incredible recovery acts.
9. The majority of mothers say they were unprepared for the emotional recovery after birth.
Not because they failed, but because the system doesn’t prepare them.
For information on pelvic girdle pain, read our previous newsletter below.
In case you missed it
Join Our Community Feedback Session, We’d Love To Hear Your Voice
We’re building something special, a platform designed to support, empower, and uplift every mother in our community. As we move into the next stage of development, we want to make sure your needs, experiences, and ideas are at the heart of what we create. |
That’s why we’re hosting an intimate Community Feedback Session where we’ll be sharing the wireframes of the Matresa platform. This is your chance to tell us what matters most to you, so we can help you. |
Date: Friday, 9th January
Time: 4:00 PM
Location: 1 Mill Street — Downstairs Lounge
Get involved
Join the Matresa Group Chat
Tap the link below to enter the group and become part of our growing community of empowered, nurturing mothers.
It’s warm. It’s friendly. It’s judgement-free.
Thats it for this week. If you know a mum, mum-to-be, or anyone passionate about maternal well-being, we’d love for them to be part of our growing communi
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P.S Thank you for helping our community grow 💗
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