Surrogacy Process: What to expect!
Embarking on a surrogacy journey is both exciting and rewarding, and we’re here to make every step of the way as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Let’s walk through the surrogacy process together!
Finding a Gestational Surrogate
The first step in your surrogacy process is finding a gestational surrogate. Whether through a clinic, an agency, or a known surrogate like a friend or family member, the choice is yours. If you decide to work with My Donor Connection, one of our friendly team members will reach out to learn more about your needs and expectations and answer all your questions.
When ready, we’ll help you create a profile to share with potential surrogates. Once you find a promising match, we’ll send her medical records to your IVF clinic for approval and set up a Zoom meeting so you can get to know each other.
We put a lot of effort into finding the right match the first time, considering factors like health, age, experience, and openness to ongoing communication. We aim to connect you with a surrogate who aligns with your dreams and values.
Medical Screening
As your surrogacy journey continues, the next step is medical screening. Once matched, your surrogate will undergo thorough medical and psychological testing to ensure she’s in good health. This includes:
- Physical and Pap smear
- Infectious disease testing
- Hysteroscopy (a procedure to examine the uterus and cervix)
- Psychological evaluation and personality inventory
- *Occasionally, a mock cycle may be recommended to see how the surrogate responds to the medications.
Legal Arrangements
Legal arrangements are a crucial part of the surrogacy process. Your attorney will draft a detailed agreement covering all aspects of the surrogacy arrangement. The surrogate will have her attorney assist with negotiations. Once the agreement is signed, you’ll fund an escrow account for all related expenses.
As the pregnancy progresses, we’ll revisit the legal parentage process with your attorney, ensuring all legal rights are clearly established. Surrogacy laws vary by state, so consulting with your attorney about specific requirements is essential.
Preparing for Embryo Transfer
With medical and legal clearances in place, the next step in your surrogacy process is preparing for the embryo transfer. The clinic will design a medication calendar for your surrogate to follow before the transfer day. We encourage intended parents to join the surrogate at the clinic for this special moment!
Following the transfer, the surrogate will take a pregnancy test about ten days later. If positive, further tests will confirm rising hormone levels and an ultrasound will be performed roughly a month after the transfer to confirm the pregnancy’s viability. We can start preparing for another embryo transfer if the initial test is negative.
Pregnancy and Delivery
During the first trimester, the fertility clinic will monitor the pregnancy. Afterward, your surrogate’s prenatal care will transfer to her personal obstetrician. Throughout the pregnancy, you can communicate with your surrogate as much as you wish. Join her for medical appointments or stay in touch via text, phone, or Zoom.
As the second trimester progresses, we’ll work on establishing parentage and making arrangements for you to be at the hospital for your baby’s arrival. Our team will be there every step of the way, ensuring your surrogacy process is smooth and joyful.
Embarking on the surrogacy journey with My Donor Connection means having a supportive team by your side from start to finish. With care, dedication, and a little fun, we’ll make your surrogacy journey a wonderful experience!
Want to learn more about Surrogacy? Check out our Blog for helpful information about your surrogacy journey!
Ready to get started? Register today to gain access to our Surrogate Database, where you can expect to begin seeing profiles in as little as 2-3 weeks.
