As someone who has been through the unique experience of surrogacy combined with breastfeeding and pumping breastmilk, I can share some insights that may resonate with many surrogate moms and families. Breast pumping during surrogacy is often an emotional and physical journey — not only because it helps provide nourishing breastmilk for the baby but also because it strengthens the surrogate’s bond with the child she is helping bring into the world. When I started pumping, I focused on establishing a feeding routine with the goal to mimic natural breastfeeding as much as possible, even though I wasn’t the baby’s mother. It was important to me to supply fresh breastmilk, carefully tracking quantities measured in US ounces, as this milk provided vital nutrients and antibodies. One practical tip for others is to invest in a reliable and comfortable breast pump that suits your lifestyle, because pumping sessions can be frequent and sometimes long. Maintaining hygiene and proper milk storage is crucial to ensure safety and quality for the infant. Support groups for pumping moms and those involved in surrogacy can be invaluable. Sharing experiences and advice about managing milk supply, dealing with emotional ups and downs, and balancing life commitments can make this journey more fulfilling. Ultimately, breastfeeding and pumping during surrogacy serve as a beautiful bridge between surrogate moms and the babies they nurture. It’s an incredible gift that supports the baby’s health and honors the surrogate’s nurturing role in this unique family-building journey.