FAQ About the Surrogacy Process
While surrogacy is not a new process, it is new to many of the people that come to our agency and inquire for more information. And, though the concept can be easy to understand, there are various factors that surprise many.
Whether you’re looking to become a surrogate, are in need of a surrogate, or you simply want to learn more so that you can be better versed in the process, today’s blog is for you! The team at Road to Baby Surrogacy and Egg Donation Agency is going to go over some of the most frequently asked questions and facts that are associated with surrogacy. Let’s get started.
What is surrogacy?
Though surrogacy has been around for quite some time, there are still plenty of people unfamiliar with the process. Surrogacy is a legal and social arrangement between a surrogate mother and intended parents. The surrogate mother will become pregnant through IVF (embryo transfer) and carries the pregnancy for said intended parents. Once the baby is born, the intended parents assume full parental rights and the surrogate is compensated for her services.
What is the difference between gestational surrogacy and traditional surrogacy?
When it comes to surrogacy, there are still options for the intended parents to make depending on their personal circumstances. Choosing between traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy is one of those choices.
In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s own eggs will be fertilized using artificial insemination. This factor makes the surrogate the technical mother of the baby.
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate becomes pregnant through IVF and has absolutely no biological connection to the child.
There are benefits to each form of surrogacy, as well as disadvantages. This truly changes on person to person basis. If you’re not sure which would be the better fit for you, contact our team and we would be more than happy to help.
Can surrogates assist single-parents or same-sex couples?
Surrogates are intended to assist anyone who is unable to naturally conceive a child. In fact, surrogacy is a fantastic option for both single-parents or same-sex couples to add a child to the family.
Who can become a surrogate?
While the gift of helping a family add a child to the family is selfless and wonderful, there are restrictions to who can and can’t become a surrogate. Some of the most common requirements for surrogates include:
A healthy BMI
Between a certain age range
No smoking or drug use
Have to have carried at least one healthy pregnancy with no major complications
No felony convictions
Ability to travel to and from appointments
Receive no government assistance
Submission of medical and drug history information
Full background check and in-home assessment
Psychological evaluation and medical assessment
Overall, surrogates range in ages and ethnic backgrounds, but all surrogates must meet the requirements to take part in the process. If you’re interested in becoming a surrogate, our team can help determine if you’re a good fit.
How much involvement does a surrogate have?
This is one of the more complicated questions that we’re asked, mainly because there isn’t a set answer. Every case is different, so aside from the initial contact with the surrogate before the pregnancy and the medical updates throughout the pregnancy, intended parents and surrogates can agree to how much time they’d each like to be involved in the process. Some intended parents are fine inviting surrogates to the baby shower while others want little to no contact throughout the process. This is something that the agency asks about up front so that they can better match based on this information.
What are the benefits of working with a surrogacy agency?
Whether it’s the intended parents or the surrogate that we’re talking about, a surrogacy agency is a fantastic option. As we’ve mentioned, surrogacy is a beautiful process, but in order to prioritize the health of the surrogate, intended parents, and the child, it’s best to work with an agency that has some experience with the process.
With the help of an agency, both parents and surrogates will be screened before anything begins. There will also be the opportunity to match with a surrogate or couple so that views better align. Aside from that, agencies will also assist throughout the process by tackling factors like the embryo transfer and medical procedures, legal services, counseling and support, and so much more!
Ultimately, utilizing an agency for the surrogacy process is a great way to prioritize the well-being of all parties that are involved while also protecting yourself in the process.
Turn to Our Team for Help
As your local surrogacy and egg donation agency in Carlsbad, our job is to provide the resources that intended parents and surrogates alike need. Education on the topic and the process is something that we strive to improve, not only for those that are currently going through the process, but for the mere need to bring normalcy to this process.
Our website is a fantastic place to learn more about the surrogacy process! From the pages that go through the steps of becoming a surrogate to the blog posts that cover some of the most commonly discussed topics surrounding surrogacy, there is tons of information readily available right online.
If there’s ever a question that you have regarding the surrogacy process, reach out to our team! We would be more than happy to answer questions and provide information. Contact our office today with any questions that you have or to get started as a surrogate or an intended parent. We look forward to helping you.