Author: Louisa H

Using an Auto-Injector for Surrogacy: A Practical Approach to Injections

Discover how auto-injectors simplify surrogacy injections with less pain and more control.

The shots are one of the first things people ask about when they’re considering surrogacy. It makes sense—even if you’re fine with needles at the doctor’s office, giving them to yourself at home feels different. Add in the fact that you’ll be doing this regularly for a few weeks, and it’s natural to wonder if you can handle it.

Auto-injectors could be a helpful way to manage uncertainty. These devices take a lot of the stress out of the process – and you have more options than you might think.

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What Is an Auto-Injector and How Does It Work?

An auto-injector is a device that delivers medication through a needle with one button press. You position it against your skin, click, and it handles everything. From start to finish, it takes a couple of seconds.

They’re designed to minimize user error and make self-administration more straightforward. With a traditional syringe, you’re manually controlling the needle angle, insertion speed, and push rate.

By removing those variables, auto-injectors reduce the worry. It’s a bit like any assisted technology—sometimes less manual control means less mental load.

Key advantages of auto-injectors include:

  • Consistent needle depth and angle every time
  • Faster process (1-2 seconds)
  • No need to watch the needle enter your skin
  • Built-in safety features that prevent accidental needlesticks
  • Reduced room for user error

Using an Auto-Injector for Surrogacy

Can you use an auto-injector during surrogacy? Often, yes—but it depends on which medication we’re talking about. Most hormonal prescriptions in the early surrogacy stages are given subcutaneously, meaning just under the skin. Auto-injectors handle these well.

Progesterone in oil—or PIO—is given as an intramuscular injection—deeper, into the muscle. PIO is oil-based and noticeably thicker than water-based medications. Why does that matter? Not every auto-injector handles it well.

That said, some auto-injectors are built specifically for intramuscular use and work with PIO. Talking to your doctor early is the important step. They’ll clarify which medications you’ll be taking, which administration methods are medically appropriate, and whether an auto-injector makes sense for your situation.

Understanding the Difference Between Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Injections

Two types of injections are used during surrogacy, and the technique and tools differ for each. Understanding which is which helps you prepare appropriately.

Subcutaneous injections go into the layer of fat just beneath your skin. You’ll give these in your abdomen or thigh area, using a shorter, thinner needle.

Most fertility hormones—Lupron, certain estrogens—fall into this category. They tend to be less uncomfortable and easier to self-administer, which makes them good candidates for auto-injectors.

Intramuscular injections go deeper, directly into muscle tissue. For surrogacy, that mainly means progesterone in oil. You’ll give these in the upper buttock or hip area with a longer needle.

Because of its oil base, the liquid is thicker and makes the shot feel more substantial. Some women have their partner help with these, though plenty manage them solo without issue.

Both techniques have their place in the surrogacy medication protocol, and knowing what to expect with each makes the process less daunting.

What’s the Best Auto-Injector for PIO?

Most standard auto-injectors weren’t designed for progesterone in oil because of the thickness and the intramuscular depth required. But specialized devices exist that handle these challenges.

Union Medico’s Super Grip is one of the more commonly mentioned options among women using surrogacy and IVF patients. It’s specifically built for intramuscular shots and accommodates PIO’s thicker consistency.

Availability varies by location, and you’ll likely need a prescription or your clinic’s approval. What works well for one person might not suit another—individual response to these tools varies more than you’d think.

If an auto-injector isn’t feasible for your PIO shots, other strategies make the process more manageable. Talk directly with your medical team about what’s available and realistic for your circumstances.

Can You Still Be a Surrogate If You Have a Fear of Needles?

Yes. A needle phobia doesn’t automatically rule you out—it just means you’ll benefit from some concrete strategies and possibly additional guidance during the medication phase.

First, this portion of the process is temporary. You’ll use injectable medications for several weeks before embryo transfer and a short period after. Once pregnancy is confirmed and progressing normally, you’ll switch to other forms or taper off certain hormones entirely. It’s not a permanent situation, even if it feels daunting at the start.

Second, familiarity reduces fear. Most women report the first one is the hardest, and each one after gets progressively easier. The more you do it, the less intimidating it becomes. Your fertility clinic will provide hands-on training, and your surrogacy agency will offer ongoing assistance throughout the process.

Infertility Impacts Countless Couples; You Can Make A Difference

Effective Ways to Reduce Injection Discomfort

Women have found these concrete methods helpful for managing discomfort and anxiety:

Before:

  • Apply numbing cream like lidocaine to the site about 20–30 minutes beforehand
  • Use a shot-blocker—a small plastic device that confuses your nerve receptors and dulls the needle sensation
  • Apply an ice pack to numb the area, particularly for subcutaneous shots
  • Try a vibrating ice pack—the vibration distracts your nerves from registering the needle prick

During:

  • Take slow, measured breaths to stay relaxed
  • Use distraction—music, a video, conversation with a friend or partner

After:

  • Apply a heating pad to relax the muscle (especially useful after PIO)
  • Use a massage ball to gently work the area and help the oil disperse, preventing lumps or tenderness
  • Move around a little—light walking helps the medication distribute evenly

Making these adjustments meaningfully improves how you feel during the process. If you discover something that works part

icularly well, others will want to hear about it. The community tends to share what helps—why reinvent the wheel when someone’s already figured out the trick?

For more tips from women who’ve been through this, their experiences can provide additional strategies you might not have considered.

Getting Help During Your Medication Phase

During this phase, you don’t have to figure things out alone. Most surrogacy agencies offer resources (both practical guidance and emotional backup when you need it). If you’re feeling anxious about the shots, talk to your agency team.

They connect you with experienced women who’ve been through it. These women can share what actually worked: which products helped, which techniques made it easier.

Resources typically available through surrogacy agencies include:

  • Peer connections for advice and shared experiences
  • Product recommendations based on what’s helped others
  • Someone to talk through your concerns with
  • Help knowing what questions to ask your medical team
  • Regular check-ins during this phase

Your fertility clinic will provide thorough training on safe, correct administration for each prescription. And you’re not the first to navigate this—many women before you have managed these same medications and hormones, and their experiences provide both reassurance and hands-on guidance.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Becoming a surrogate is a meaningful choice, and the shots are just one component of a much larger process. With the right tools, reliable guidance, and some adjustment time, this is quite manageable—even if needles aren’t your strong suit. Manageable, doable, and worth it.

If you have more questions about surrogacy or what the process actually looks like, feel free to reach out.

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Understanding Your Relationship with Your Surrogate After Birth

Explore how surrogates and intended parents can navigate connection, boundaries, and gratitude after birth.

What happens between you and your surrogate once your baby arrives? Some families become genuine friends and stay close for years. Some exchange holiday cards or occasional photos, then gradually lose touch. The rest say thank you, wish each other well, and move forward separately.

Surrogacy coordinators who understand these dynamics help you figure out what works for your situation. At American Surrogacy, we help families navigate these decisions without overthinking it.

Here’s what post-surrogacy relationships look like, how to keep communication straightforward, and what support you can expect from your agency.

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Understanding Your Relationship with Your Surrogate After Birth

Talk to ten families who’ve been through surrogacy, and you’ll hear ten different stories. How you got along during pregnancy tells you something about what comes next. Connected and became friends? You’ll want to keep that going. More professional relationship? It tends to stay that way. But things shift. What seems right at delivery can look different six months later.

Early conversations with your coordinator about expectations prevent a lot of confusion and awkward moments. They also step in when your needs and your surrogate’s don’t quite align.

How Surrogacy Coordinators Support Post-Birth Relationships

Coordinators do more than logistics—they help with relationships, especially once your baby arrives.

Think of coordinators as neutral third parties who help you work through difficult conversations. Monthly photo updates? Holiday cards only? Annual visits? Having these conversations through your coordinator—or with their help—keeps things from getting awkward.

Sometimes your expectations don’t line up. You assume you’ll stay in touch and your surrogate needs space. Or she wants more contact than you can manage with a newborn.

Having someone in the middle who helps both sides understand each other? That makes a real difference.

At American Surrogacy, our coordinators stay available to help with these conversations, offer perspective, and make sure everyone’s comfortable. We see this ongoing support as part of our responsibility to both you and your surrogate.

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Healthy Communication and Boundaries

Staying in touch after birth works when everyone knows what to expect. But what sounds obvious to you might mean something completely different to your surrogate. Talking about it upfront saves confusion down the line.

Start by thinking about what would suit you. Do you want to share big milestones? Send photos every few months? Or do you need some privacy while you’re getting used to being parents? Your surrogate has preferences too.

While some love getting updates and watching the baby grow, others would rather step back and let your family bond independently. Finding common ground matters most.

When this conversation seems uncomfortable, your coordinator will get it started. They’ll also check in later to make sure everyone’s still on the same page. What works at first won’t necessarily work forever. Adjusting as you go is natural.

Choosing How to Stay Connected

Pick whichever communication method seems most natural. Some people text. Some email. Some send actual cards.

Whatever requires the least effort while still being genuine is probably your best option. Staying in touch should be enjoyable, not like another chore.

When Intended Parents and Surrogates Stay Connected Long-Term

The most meaningful post-surrogacy relationships? They happen when families stay close well beyond those first few months.

What Long-Term Relationships Look Like

What that looks like depends on the people involved. You send photos when your kid hits milestones. She sends a card at Christmas. You meet up for coffee when you’re in the same area, or she comes to birthday parties. Some families consider their surrogate an aunt or godmother.

These friendships work when both people want them, not because you sense an obligation. Trying to force a close relationship rarely goes well. But when it’s natural and both of you put in some effort? It can mean a lot—including to your kid someday when they’re old enough to understand their story.

Hear Surrogacy Success Stories

When Your Surrogate Prefers Limited or No Contact (and Why It’s Not Personal)

Many surrogates want space afterward. It doesn’t mean she regrets anything or doesn’t care about you—it means she’s ready to get back to her regular life.

Pregnancy takes over everything for nine months: appointments, physical changes, hormones, giving up foods and activities. Once the baby’s here, most surrogates want to focus on their own kids, get their body back to normal, and return to their routine. She’s prioritizing self-care.

Some surrogates find that staying in touch makes it harder to move forward emotionally. They need distance to process everything and close that chapter. It doesn’t diminish what she did—she just needs to handle it her own way.

Those bonding chemicals that happen during pregnancy don’t know you’re not keeping the baby. Some surrogates need space to let those feelings settle.

Your surrogate telling you she needs distance? Don’t take it personally. Her request is about her own emotional needs, not her feelings about you or your baby. The best response is respecting that and being grateful.

When It’s Time to Move On: Finding Closure

Not every surrogacy relationship lasts forever. Sometimes the right move is a sincere thank you and goodbye, then moving on with your lives.

People’s lives go in different directions. The closeness from pregnancy fades once everyone returns to normal routines.

You might prefer closing this chapter to focus on your own family, live too far apart for regular contact, or realize you don’t have much in common beyond the surrogacy experience.

Choosing closure doesn’t mean you failed or lack gratitude. You can deeply appreciate what she did without staying in each other’s lives permanently.

Not sure how to handle it? Your coordinator will help. They can set up a final conversation, coordinate exchanging notes or small gifts, or reassure you it’s acceptable to move on.

Some people want a formal goodbye meeting, while others prefer a heartfelt phone call or text. Whatever seems right for you both works.

Talk to a Coordinator About Your Situation

The Role of the Agency After Delivery

Our work at American Surrogacy extends well beyond delivery day. Coordinators stay available for questions, help with difficult conversations, and provide support while everyone adjusts to this transition.

Ongoing Support and Resources

Coordinators answer questions about what’s normal, help you work out boundaries, and give you an outside perspective when emotions are running high. Sometimes you need someone who understands these dynamics to tell you whether what you’re feeling makes sense.

We also connect families with resources that can help during this transition:

  • Surrogacy-specialized therapists who understand the unique dynamics of these relationships
  • Group sessions where you can process your experience with others
  • Peer connections with families who’ve navigated similar situations

We usually check in at two weeks, six weeks, three months, and six months. These check-ins help us spot concerns early and ensure everyone’s doing well.

How to Talk to Your Coordinator About Post-Birth Expectations

Bring this up during pregnancy, ideally in your second trimester. That’s after you’ve gotten to know each other, but before the third trimester when everything gets more stressful. Gives everyone time to think without pressure.

Tell your coordinator what you’re hoping for regarding contact, and ask them to help you have that conversation with your surrogate. That way everyone knows what to expect before delivery.

Your coordinator can help with questions that seem awkward to bring up yourself:

  • How often do you want to hear from each other?
  • What’s the easiest way to stay in touch?
  • Are you both comfortable meeting in person, or would you rather stick to digital communication?
  • What happens when someone’s feelings change?

It could be a little uncomfortable at first. But having these conversations now beats dealing with hurt feelings or confusion after your baby’s here and everything’s more emotional.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Relationship Alone

Navigating your relationship with your surrogate involves unfamiliar territory for most people. Professional guidance makes this easier.

Our surrogacy specialists know how to facilitate tough conversations, help you set boundaries that work, and adjust when circumstances change.

Your surrogate did something significant for you. Finding the right way to acknowledge that—whether it’s staying close or parting ways with gratitude—is about being honest about what works.

Our coordinators help you navigate that in a way that respects everyone involved.

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Why is it So Hard to Match with a Surrogate? Avoiding Competitive Surrogacy Waitlists

Many families struggle to find a surrogate—but it doesn’t have to be that way. See how better screening and balance speed up your match.

Here’s the thing: finding the right surrogate doesn’t have to feel impossible. When you work with the right agency and understand how matching really works, you can connect with a qualified surrogate in 1-4 months. It’s about knowing what slows things down—and avoiding those pitfalls.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how our pre-screened surrogates and balanced waitlists can help you become a parent faster

Let’s talk about why it is so hard to find a surrogate, what actually makes the difference between a quick match and a painfully long wait, and how we help families skip the frustrating parts.

Why is it So Hard to Match with a Surrogate?

There’s no single answer to why it is so hard to find a surrogate. The challenges of finding a surrogate really depend on which agency you choose and how they run things.

The biggest issue? Simple math. There are way more intended parents looking for surrogates than there are surrogates available.

At a lot of agencies, you’re joining a crowded waitlist where you’re competing with dozens of other hopeful families for the same small group of women.

But here’s what makes it worse: some agencies let you browse and pick surrogates who haven’t even finished screening yet. You might think you’re making progress, but then weeks later you find out she doesn’t qualify—and you’re back to square one after getting your hopes up.

Surrogates are in high demand, but the real question isn’t whether surrogates exist—it’s whether the ones you’re seeing are actually ready to go.

The Surrogate Screening Process—and Why Timing Matters

Understanding the surrogate screening process helps explain why timing matters so much when you’re trying to match with a surrogate. Here’s what real screening looks like:

  • Step 1: Initial Basic Screening (ASRM Guidelines): Making sure she meets the basic health, age, and pregnancy history requirements.
  • Step 2: Social Questionnaire, Interviews, and Home Assessment: Deep-dive conversations about her life, support system, and why she wants to do this. We visit her home to make sure everything’s stable.
  • Step 3: Past Pregnancy Medical Records Review: We look at records from her previous pregnancies to catch any red flags.
  • Step 4: Criminal and Background Checks: Everyone’s safety matters—we do thorough background screening.
  • Step 5: Psychological Testing and Counseling: A licensed professional makes sure she’s emotionally ready and understands what’s ahead.
  • Step 6: Intended Parents’ Clinic Review: Your fertility doctor does their own final medical check based on their specific requirements.

Here’s where other agencies mess up: they let you pick someone after just Step 1, then do the rest of the screening after you’ve already chosen her. Imagine connecting with someone perfect, only to learn weeks later she doesn’t actually qualify. Talk about heartbreaking.

We do things differently. Our surrogates finish Steps 1-5 before you ever see them. So when you’re looking at potential matches, you know she’s truly qualified and ready.

Why Matches Fall Through

Even when you think you’ve found her, things can still fall apart. Here’s why.

Bad screening is usually the culprit. When agencies don’t properly vet surrogates upfront, problems pop up later—medical issues, psych concerns, background problems that should’ve been caught from the start.

Every failed match means starting over and losing months.

Sometimes surrogates drop out, especially if they weren’t really ready to begin with.

Some women start the process without fully understanding how demanding it is. Others have unexpected life stuff come up. When the screening isn’t thorough enough to spot low commitment, more people bail.

And if you try finding a surrogate on your own without an agency? You’re risking scams. Some people actually pretend to be surrogates just to take money from desperate families. An agency protects you from that nightmare.

Becoming a parent faster means avoiding these problems before they happen.

How Agencies Manage Waitlists and Matching

Not all agencies handle waitlists the same way, and this makes a huge difference in how long it takes to find a surrogate.

Some agencies pack their intended parent lists way too full. You’re waiting behind dozens of other families for just a handful of available surrogates. Even if you’re perfect candidates, you could wait months or years simply because others got there first.

We don’t do that. We keep a 1:1 intended parent to surrogate ratio—meaning we’re not bringing in more families than we can actually match. No massive waitlist. No brutal competition.

Our marketing and outreach also sets us apart. We actively recruit qualified surrogates nationwide, which means way more potential matches for you.

This whole system is why intended parents experience the shortest wait times with us. We built everything around cutting out unnecessary delays without sacrificing quality.

How Long Does it Take to Find a Surrogate?

Families find a match within an average of 1–4 months when they work with us. That’s because we maintain a large pool of pre-screened, qualified surrogates and keep our intended parent and surrogate lists balanced.

You’re not competing with hundreds of other families—or wasting time reviewing profiles of women who might not even qualify. Every surrogate you see has already passed medical and psychological screening and is ready to match.

Other agencies often skip pre-screening or overload their waitlists. The result? Long delays, broken matches, and months (or even years) of waiting. Those setbacks can be emotionally exhausting and completely avoidable.

The difference between a 2-month match and a 12-month wait often comes down to one thing—choosing an agency with the right system. At American Surrogacy, that system is already working for families like yours.

How American Surrogacy Supports Intended Parents

You deserve a partner who gets what’s at stake. We know every month of waiting feels eternal when you’re ready for your family.

We help you create a profile that really connects with surrogates—showing who you are, what you value, what makes your family special. A strong profile leads to better, faster matches.

We also offer unlimited matching at no extra cost through our full-service programs. If a match doesn’t work out for any reason, you won’t pay again. That peace of mind matters.

What if finding a surrogate didn’t have to be the hardest part? With the right support, pre-screening, and approach, it doesn’t have to be.

Schedule a consultation today and let us show you exactly how we’ll help you match with a qualified surrogate faster than you thought possible.

Can You Be a Surrogate on Medicaid?

You usually can’t be a surrogate on Medicaid, but with the right help, you can switch insurance and still qualify to change a family’s life.

You usually can’t be a surrogate while on Medicaid. Most surrogacy agencies — including American Surrogacy — require private insurance that covers pregnancy-related care. But that doesn’t mean this path is off the table.

With the right guidance, you can transition to a qualifying plan and move forward with confidence — helping a hopeful family experience parenthood while improving your own family’s financial future.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how you can still become a surrogate, even if you’re currently on Medicaid.  

We’ll explain why Medicaid typically disqualifies you, what insurance options are available, how to make the switch, and how American Surrogacy can support you every step of the way.

Can You Be a Surrogate on Medicaid?

In most cases, no—you can’t be a surrogate on Medicaid getting Medicaid coverage. Nearly every surrogacy agency, including us, requires surrogates to have private health insurance that covers pregnancy and childbirth.

Here’s the deal: Medicaid has income limits. When you get paid as a surrogate (we’re talking $65,000 or more), that money usually pushes you over Medicaid’s income threshold.

If you stay on Medicaid while getting paid, you could face serious problems, more on that in a second.

Plus, Medicaid wasn’t designed to cover surrogacy pregnancies.

You’re carrying someone else’s baby, and Medicaid sees that as outside what they’re supposed to pay for. Using Medicaid for a surrogacy pregnancy breaks program rules and creates legal and financial risks for you and the intended parents.

Why Medicaid Usually Disqualifies Surrogates

Most surrogacy agencies won’t work with surrogates on Medicaid for three big reasons:

Your income changes everything

Medicaid eligibility depends on how much money your household makes. When you earn surrogate compensation, your income will likely jump above Medicaid limits.

That means you’d lose coverage halfway through your pregnancy, leaving you stuck without insurance when you need it most.

Insurance fraud is a real risk

If you keep getting Medicaid benefits while earning money that makes you ineligible, you could get accused of not reporting your income.

The consequences are serious—you might have to pay back benefits and face legal trouble.

Medicaid doesn’t cover surrogacy

Federal Medicaid rules don’t allow coverage for pregnancies where you’re carrying a baby for someone else.

Even if your income technically keeps you eligible, using Medicaid for surrogacy breaks the rules and puts everyone at risk.

Do I Need Insurance to Become a Surrogate?

No, you don’t need insurance before you apply.

If you already have coverage through work, your spouse, or somewhere else, we will look at your plan and figure out what it covers for surrogacy.

If your current insurance doesn’t fully cover a surrogate pregnancy, or specifically excludes surrogacy, we’ll work with the intended parents to fill those gaps.

Usually, intended parents buy extra insurance or set up complete coverage to make sure you’re protected.

Here’s how it works

Once you match with intended parents, they pay for any pregnancy-related medical costs your insurance doesn’t cover.

That includes deductibles, co-pays, and any special care you need. You won’t pay anything out of pocket for surrogacy healthcare.

Sometimes intended parents buy a separate surrogacy insurance policy just for you. These plans cover everything about a surrogate pregnancy, giving you full protection from start to finish.

What If You’re Currently on Medicaid?

If you’re on Medicaid now and want to become a surrogate, you’ll need to switch to private insurance first.

It might sound like a roadblock, but American Surrogacy helps women through this transition all the time. Your main options:

  • Work insurance. If you or your spouse have a job that offers health benefits, you can sign up during open enrollment or after a life event. Many employer plans cover pregnancy, making them perfect for surrogacy.
  • Marketplace plans. You can buy private insurance through healthcare.gov. These plans are available during open enrollment or after qualifying life events. Some are affordable and cover everything you need for maternity care.
  • Insurance paid by intended parents. Sometimes intended parents will buy a private policy for you to make sure you have the right coverage. This removes the financial barrier completely.

American Surrogacy works with you to figure out which path fits your situation. We’ll explain timelines, costs, and what’s covered so you can make the switch confidently.

Once you have qualifying insurance, you can start the screening and matching process.

Can My Kids Receive Medicaid if I’m a Surrogate?

Probably not once you start getting surrogate pay.

Medicaid looks at your entire household income, and the money you earn as a surrogate counts toward that—which could determine whether or not your kids can receive Medicaid if you’re a surrogate .

But your children won’t go without healthcare. Here’s how you can keep them covered:

  • Family plans through work often cover dependents at a reasonable price. If you or your spouse have employer insurance, you can add your kids to that plan.
  • CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) gives low-cost coverage to kids whose families make too much for Medicaid but still need affordable options. CHIP eligibility varies by state and might work depending on your total household income.
  • Private insurance through the Marketplace lets you buy family coverage that includes your children. Based on your income and family size, you might qualify for help that lowers your monthly payments.

American Surrogacy gets how important your whole family’s healthcare is. We’ll help you look at coverage options for your kids and connect you with resources to make everything easier.

Reach out, and we’ll guide you through getting coverage for everyone.

Transitioning from Medicaid: How to Become a Surrogate with Confidence

Switching from Medicaid to private insurance might feel overwhelming, but you’re not doing this alone. American Surrogacy helps women in your exact situation every single day.

Whether you’re looking at work plans, considering Marketplace options, or need help with intended parent-paid insurance, we’re here for each step.

Schedule a consultation today—because somewhere out there, a family is waiting, and your surrogacy journey begins with just one conversation.

We’ll explain enrollment timelines, what needs to be covered, and how to protect your family’s healthcare during your surrogacy journey.

How Long Does the Surrogacy Legal Process Take?

Understand the surrogacy contract timeline, what can delay it, and how the right agency and attorneys keep your journey on track.

The surrogacy contract timeline typically ranges about 1–2 months, but with the right legal team and agency support, it moves faster and feels easier than most people expect

At American Surrogacy, we partner with trusted surrogacy attorneys who know how to keep your contract timeline on track and your journey protected from start to finish.

Schedule a consultation today to get connected with experienced legal professionals who will guide you through every detail.

Because the legal process isn’t just paperwork — it’s what safeguards everyone involved and ensures that every expectation, decision, and right is clearly defined. Here’s what really happens during this stage.

How Long Does the Surrogacy Legal Process Typically Take?

Most contracts go from first draft to signed and done in about 1-2 months. But here’s the thing: your journey is unique, and your situation might speed that up or stretch it out a bit.

A few things affect how long it takes:

  • Your state’s laws – Some states make surrogacy contracts pretty straightforward. Others? Not so much.
  • Getting attorneys scheduled – You and your surrogate both need your own lawyers, and coordinating everyone’s calendars takes time.
  • How much back-and-forth happens – If either side wants to tweak the terms, you’ll need extra rounds of review.
  • Pre-birth order stuff – Depending on where you live, getting your parental rights sorted before birth adds another layer.

When you work with an experienced agency like American Surrogacy, we keep everything moving so you don’t get stuck waiting.

Curious about the surrogacy timeline? Get the whole picture.

Surrogacy Contract Timeline: Step-by-Step Breakdown

So what actually happens during those 1-2 months? Those circumstances we mentioned above will dictate how it will actually play out but here’s how it could go:

  • Step 1: Contact Your Attorney: You and your surrogate each get your own lawyer who specializes in reproductive law. This keeps everything fair—each side has someone looking out for their best interests.
  • Step 2: Draft a Surrogacy Contract: Your attorney writes up the first version. It covers everything from compensation to medical expectations to who makes what decisions during pregnancy.
  • Step 3: Negotiate (If Needed): Your surrogate’s attorney reviews it and might ask for changes. Most contracts need 2-3 rounds of edits before everyone’s happy with the terms.
  • Step 4: Sign the Contract: Once it’s perfect, everyone signs. Now you’ve got a legally binding agreement that protects you both.
  • Step 5: Complete a Pre-Birth Order (If Possible): In surrogacy-friendly states, your lawyer can file paperwork that establishes you as the legal parents before your baby’s even born. Pretty huge.

What Happens During Legal Contract Negotiation?

Negotiation might sound intimidating — but it’s actually a straightforward, supportive process. Here’s how it works:

1. Everyone Has Their Own Attorney

You’ll have your attorney, and your surrogate will have hers. This separation protects both of you by keeping things fair and avoiding any conflicts of interest.

2. You’ll Cover the Important Topics

Most of the discussion focuses on three key areas:

  • Money and expenses: Your surrogate’s compensation, monthly allowances, and all pregnancy-related costs.
  • Medical expectations: Procedures, prenatal care, and delivery preferences.
  • Rights and responsibilities: Who makes decisions during pregnancy, how often you’ll communicate, and whether you’ll stay in touch after birth.

3. Your Agency Keeps Everything Moving

American Surrogacy coordinates communication between you, your surrogate, and both legal teams. We help clarify details, resolve confusion, and make sure every step feels smooth and collaborative.

The goal isn’t just to sign an agreement — it’s to make sure everyone feels confident, protected, and ready to move forward together.

What Can Affect the Speed of the Surrogacy Contract Timeline?

Even with a great team, some factors can stretch your surrogacy contract timeline a bit. Here’s what to expect — and why it’s all worth taking the time to get right.

1. More Negotiation Than Expected

If one side wants bigger adjustments or has concerns about certain contract terms, there may be extra back-and-forth.

It can add a few weeks, but that careful review ensures everyone feels comfortable and protected before moving forward.

2. State-Specific Legal Requirements

Where you live matters. Surrogacy-friendly states like California usually move faster, while states with newer or less defined surrogacy laws might require additional paperwork or even court filings.

Knowing your state’s legal process helps you plan ahead.

3. Attorney Availability

Each legal team needs time to review documents, meet with their clients, and coordinate with one another.

When attorneys are managing multiple cases, timelines can slow slightly — but your agency helps keep communication on track.

4. Complex Situations

If your journey involves egg or sperm donors, nontraditional parental rights, or international arrangements, your contract will need additional legal provisions to make sure everything is airtight.

No matter what your situation looks like, the key is working with professionals who’ve seen it all — and know how to keep your surrogacy contract moving smoothly toward embryo transfer.

How Your Surrogacy Agency Supports the Legal Process

Here’s what makes American Surrogacy different: you never do this alone. We’ve walked thousands of intended parents through this, and we know exactly how to make it work.

From day one of the contract process, we:

  • Connect you with top reproductive attorneys who know surrogacy law inside and out
  • Coordinate between everyone so you, your surrogate, and both legal teams stay in sync
  • Make sure you get it so there’s zero confusion about your rights, responsibilities, and protections
  • Stay available whenever you’ve got questions or concerns

Connect With Surrogacy Legal Experts Through Our Agency Today

The contract phase isn’t just another step — it’s what makes the rest of your surrogacy journey possible.

With experienced attorneys and an agency that knows how to guide the process, these 1–2 months protect everyone involved and lay the foundation for a smooth path toward embryo transfer and parenthood.

American Surrogacy partners with trusted legal professionals, including firms like Foster + Bloom, to connect you with attorneys who understand the unique details of surrogacy law.

Start your surrogacy journey with confidence

Fill out our simple form today to begin building your family with a team that supports you every step of the way.

Finding a Surrogate in Another State When Surrogacy Isn’t Legal Where You Live

You can pursue surrogacy even if your state has restrictions—agencies help coordinate safe, legal journeys across state lines.

Even if surrogacy isn’t allowed where you live, you can still grow your family by working with a surrogate in another state.

With the help of an experienced agency, the legal process, medical coordination, and emotional support are all handled for you, no matter where you live.

Ready to explore your options? Fill out our simple formto take the first step toward matching with a surrogate quickly.

Yes, You Can Work with a Surrogate in Another State

Living in a state with restrictive or unclear surrogacy laws doesn’t mean you can’t grow your family through surrogacy.

Surrogacy agencies like ours work with surrogates across the country and help intended parents find a match in a state where surrogacy is permitted and legally supported.

When surrogacy takes place across state lines, each party will have their own attorney familiar with the surrogacy laws in their respective states. This helps ensure everyone’s rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected throughout the process.

With the right legal guidance and agency support, working with a surrogate in another state can be a smooth and secure experience.

In What States is Surrogacy Illegal or Restricted?

Knowing which states make surrogacy difficult helps you understand why finding an out of state surrogate might be your best move.

There are a few states that either ban or restrict compensated surrogacy:

States Where Surrogacy is Banned

Louisiana is the on only state the legally bans compensated surrogacy. Entering into a paid surrogacy contract can result in criminal penalties.

Because of this, we do not work with surrogates in Louisiana, but we can match you with surrogates in a surrogacy-friendly state.

States That are Not Surrogacy-Friendly

In some states, surrogacy is not illegal, but compensated surrogacy contracts are void and enforceable.

Nebraska: Due to Nebraska’s complex surrogacy laws, we don’t work with surrogates in this state.

Arizona and Indiana: We do not match surrogates and intended parents in these states with each other.

For intended parents in these states, we usually match you with surrogates in states that allow compensated surrogacy where your rights are protected from day one.

If you’re in any of these states, finding a surrogate in another state isn’t just an option, it’s often the smartest path forward.

How We Can Help You Find a Surrogate in Another State

Connecting intended parents with qualified surrogates is what agencies do—and it matters even more when you’re looking across state lines.

We have a nationwide network of pre-screened surrogates in surrogacy-friendly states. You won’t have to figure out how to find a surrogate on your own in a different state with different laws.

Here’s what we offer:

  • Personalized matching: We take the time to understand your values, background, and family goals, then match you with a surrogate who truly aligns with your preferences.
  • Comprehensive screening: Every surrogate in our program has already completed medical, psychological, and background evaluations, so you can move forward with confidence.
  • Full coordination and support: From clinic communication to legal steps and surrogate compensation, our team helps manage every part of the process to keep your journey organized and stress-free.

What if the most important decision you make this year started with just one conversation? Contact us online and see how we can match you with the right surrogate.

Best States for Surrogacy (and Why They Matter)

Not every state approaches surrogacy the same way. While surrogacy is permitted in most states, some have clearer laws that outline the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved.

These include:

  • California: Widely considered the national standard for surrogacy. Allows pre-birth orders, recognizes all types of parents (including LGBTQ+ couples and single parents), and has long-standing laws that support surrogacy.
  • Illinois: Offers strong legal protections. Parents can obtain pre-birth orders, and parentage is recognized even when there’s no genetic connection to the child.
  • Nevada, Colorado, and Washington: Known for clear, inclusive surrogacy laws and straightforward legal processes that protect everyone involved.

Learn more about your state’s surrogacy laws today.

Why this matters

When your surrogate lives in a state with well-defined surrogacy laws, the legal process tends to be more predictable and your parental rights are better protected.

You’ll also work with attorneys familiar with that state’s system, and in many cases, you can secure legal parentage before your baby is born — offering valuable peace of mind.

How the Legal Process Works Across State Lines

One of the biggest questions people have about working with an out of state surrogate is: how does the legal side even work?

Good news—when you work with an experienced agency, doing surrogacy across state lines is pretty straightforward.

Here’s how it generally works:

You’ll work with attorneys experienced in surrogacy law to create a contract that reflects everyone’s rights and responsibilities.

In many surrogacy-friendly states, the legal process includes a court order (often called a parentage order) that establishes you as the baby’s legal parents — sometimes even before birth.

Your surrogacy specialist and attorney will coordinate with professionals in both states to make sure the process complies with all applicable laws and that your parental rights are properly recognized.

Bottom line: Even if your home state’s surrogacy laws are restrictive or unclear, it’s often possible to move forward safely by working with qualified professionals who understand interstate surrogacy.

Why Working with an Agency Matters Even More in This Situation

Surrogacy is complicated—medical coordination, legal contracts, finances, emotional support. Add in crossing state lines and it gets even more complex. That’s why working with an experienced agency is so valuable.

Here’s what we do:

  • Fast matching: We can help you find a qualified surrogate in another state in just a few months instead of you spending years searching alone.
  • Legal help: We connect you with lawyers who specialize in your surrogate’s state laws, so your contracts work and your rights are protected.
  • Financial protection: Our escrow services and transparent processes protect both you and your surrogate.
  • Day-to-day coordination: From medical appointments to keeping communication flowing, we handle the logistics that can get overwhelming when you’re managing everything across state lines.
  • Peace of mind: Our team has helped thousands of families in your exact situation.

Next Steps: Find an Out-of-State Surrogate Today

If surrogacy isn’t legal where you live, you have options, and they’re more doable than you might think.

Working with a surrogate in another state is a real path to parenthood for people living in states with tough surrogacy laws. Your dream of becoming parents doesn’t have to wait.

Get the support you deserve today to start your out-of-state surrogacy journey.


What are Cheaper Ways to Do Surrogacy?

Surrogacy costs what it does for a reason. Learn how to invest smartly, avoid risky “cheap” options, and protect your journey and budget.

There are ways to spend less on surrogacy—but here’s the thing: cutting corners on the important stuff can actually put your whole journey at risk.

The real trick isn’t finding the cheapest option out there. It’s knowing where to invest smartly so you don’t waste time, money, or your peace of mind.

Speak with a specialist who can show you the smartest path forward—not just the cheapest one.

Let’s talk about what surrogacy actually costs, the sneaky expenses that come with “bargain” options, and how the right financing can make this way more doable than you think.

Are There Cheaper Ways to Do Surrogacy?

Sure, there are cheaper ways to do surrogacy. But cheaper doesn’t always mean better—or even less expensive when everything’s said and done.

Surrogacy costs what it does for a reason. Every dollar goes toward things that actually matter: making sure your surrogate is healthy and ready, protecting you legally, keeping everything organized, and supporting you through what’s honestly one of the most complicated things you’ll ever do.

When you see agencies advertising way lower prices, it usually means they’ve cut out some of these services.

That might save you money at first, but it often leads to longer waits, matches that fall through, surprise legal bills, or medical issues—and all of that ends up costing you more than what you saved.

So the real question isn’t “How do I make surrogacy cheaper?” It’s “How do I do this smartly so I don’t end up paying twice?”

The Real Costs You Can’t Cut — and Why They Matter

No matter what, there are some expenses you just have to plan for. These aren’t optional—they’re what makes surrogacy safe and legal:

  • IVF and Creating Embryos: You need IVF to create embryos for gestational surrogacy. This includes medications, egg retrieval, sperm collection (or donor sperm), and transferring embryos to your surrogate.
  • Egg or Sperm Donation (If You Need It): If you’re using donor eggs or sperm, you’ll pay for donor compensation, medical screening, and the legal paperwork.
  • Paying Your Surrogate: Your surrogate deserves fair compensation for carrying your baby, plus all her pregnancy-related medical care, maternity clothes, travel to appointments, and lost wages if complications come up.
  • Legal Fees: You absolutely need a lawyer to write up contracts, establish your parental rights, and handle your state’s specific laws. Skip this and you could end up in a custody nightmare.
  • Insurance: Your surrogate needs insurance that covers surrogacy. Pregnancy complications can get expensive fast, and without the right coverage, you could be on the hook for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
  • Travel and Baby Costs: You’ll travel for the birth and might need to stay for weeks while you establish parental rights. Plus, you need all the newborn basics—car seat, clothes, doctor visits.

These aren’t extras. They’re the foundation. Trying to save money here can mess up your whole journey.

Why “Cheaper” Surrogacy Can End Up Costing More

Lower prices look great when you’re already stressed about money. But “affordable” surrogacy usually comes with costs that pop up later—sometimes when it’s too late to fix them.

Here’s what you’re really risking:

Why Low-Cost Surrogacy Agencies Can Cost You More

Some agencies advertise “no upfront costs” or super low fees. Sounds great, right? Until you realize what you’re not getting.

Low-cost agencies often skip important steps like thorough surrogate screening. You might match with someone who isn’t actually ready—medically, mentally, or legally.

When that match fails, you start over. You pay for marketing, screening, and legal work all over again.

Many low cost surrogacy agency options also give you minimal support, so you’re mostly on your own coordinating appointments, legal stuff, and communication.

Then there are the surprise fees. Some agencies don’t tell you about certain costs upfront.

Suddenly you’re hit with legal bills, insurance gaps, or surrogate expenses that weren’t in your original contract. What looked cheap at the start ends up costing more—plus you’ve lost months of time.

Surrogacy Without an Agency: How the Costs Add Up

Going independent—doing it yourself—can seem like a money-saver. If you already know someone who’ll carry your baby, why pay an agency?

Here’s why: DIY surrogacy removes all the safety nets. Without professional screening, you don’t really know if your surrogate is ready.

Without legal help from day one, you’re wide open to custody fights or money disputes. And without case management, you’re juggling every appointment, legal step, and insurance detail yourself.

Independent surrogacy usually takes way longer because you don’t have an agency’s marketing and matching help. A lot of intended parents spend months—even years—trying to find and vet someone on their own.

If you do have a surrogate already, we can help. Our independent surrogacy program lets you bring her in and we’ll handle screening, legal support, and case management. We even do a free initial screening to make sure your match is set up right.

What You Actually Get When You Invest in a Full-Service Agency

When you work with a full-service agency, you’re not just paying for a service, you’re paying for a whole system that makes your journey safer, faster, and way more likely to succeed.

Here’s what you’re really getting:

  • Surrogate Screening: Good agencies screen thoroughly—medical history, psychological readiness, finances, legal stuff—before a surrogate even gets to you. This cuts down on failed matches, medical problems, and legal drama.
  • Finding Your Match: Finding a qualified surrogate takes time and know-how. Agencies recruit, vet, and present matches based on what you want and need—something you’d have to do totally alone otherwise.
  • Legal Protection: Professional legal teams write contracts, establish your parental rights, and handle your state’s laws. This isn’t just paperwork. It’s what keeps you safe from custody battles and financial fights.
  • Case Management: Someone coordinates medical appointments, manages surrogate expenses, and fixes problems when they come up. They’re your advocates and guides through every step.

These aren’t “extras.” They’re what makes the difference between a smooth journey and one full of expensive delays and heartbreak.

How Full-Service Agencies Protect Your Finances

The right agency doesn’t just spend your money—they protect it.

At American Surrogacy, we screen every surrogate hard before we ever introduce her to you.

That means you’re only matching with people who’ve already passed medical, psychological, and legal checks. Fewer failed matches mean fewer do-overs.

Fewer do-overs mean you’re not paying twice.

Our Limited Risk Program gives you financial protection. If a match falls through for covered reasons, we’ll match you again at no extra cost. That eliminates one of the scariest parts: starting over and losing everything you already paid.

Think about it this way—you’re not just paying for a surrogate. You’re paying for confidence that your journey won’t blow up halfway through.

Surrogacy Financing Options that Support Your Budget

Surrogacy is expensive, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible. There are several surrogacy financing options that can help:

  • Fertility Loans: We partner with Sunfish, a company that does loans specifically for surrogacy and IVF. They offer payment plans based on your situation.
  • Grants: Some organizations give grants to intended parents pursuing surrogacy. You don’t have to pay these back.
  • Employer Benefits: More companies are covering fertility stuff, including surrogacy. Check with HR.
  • Personal Loans: Some families use personal loans or credit lines for upfront costs, then pay them back over time.
  • 401(k) Money: If you have retirement savings, you might be able to borrow from your 401(k) or take a hardship withdrawal.

Make Surrogacy Secure and Successful with American Surrogacy’s Full-Service Approach

There are always cheaper ways to do surrogacy—but the real value comes from doing it safely and confidently. With American Surrogacy, your investment goes toward protection, not risk.

Ready to stop worrying and start moving forward? Get started with American Surrogacy today.

We’ve helped thousands of families do this successfully—and we’re ready to help you too.


Let’s Talk Surrogacy: A Surrogate & the Swiss Parents Who Became Family

Two families, two journeys—how one perfect surrogacy match grew into a lasting international bond built on trust, gratitude, and love.

In this heartfelt episode of Let’s Talk Surrogacy, we sit down with Brittany—a two-time surrogate from Missouri—and Anja and Christian, the intended parents from Switzerland she carried for.

What began as one match turned into two beautiful journeys, ultimately completing Anja and Christian’s family.

If you’re considering surrogacy, this conversation shows how purpose, communication and the right team can make dreams a reality.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel or listen on the go:

New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of each month!

Episode Highlights

  • “What we hoped to find in a match.”Anja & Christian share the one non-negotiable they looked for: a spark—passion for something that lights a person up.
  • The questions that matter: How early conversations about medical decisions, birth preferences, and “what-ifs” made everything smoother later.
  • International surrogacy, demystified: Why they chose the U.S., what felt different about the American system, and how a Swiss legal strategy + U.S. documents made going home possible.
  • Trust through consistent connection: Weekly check-ins, group chats, and appointment video calls kept IPs involved—and deepened the bond from pregnancy to delivery .
  • The sibling journey: saying “yes” over a Christmas Skype, navigating COVID travel and timelines, and the new logistics of welcoming baby #2 with a toddler in tow.

Join the Conversation!

Have questions about your own surrogacy journey? Fill out our quick form to connect directly with our surrogacy specialists.

Want more heartwarming stories and real-life moments? Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes clips, family updates, and surrogacy insights.

How Many Embryo Transfers Does It Take for a Surrogate to Get Pregnant?

Learn why surrogates typically get pregnant within 1-3 transfers and how American Surrogacy’s screening process maximizes success rates.

Most surrogates get pregnant within 1-3 embryo transfers. Many achieve success on the first attempt.

If you’ve been through multiple IVF failures, this news probably feels too good to be true. But here’s what’s different: surrogacy bypasses many of the issues that made your IVF attempts unsuccessful.

At American Surrogacy, our thoroughly screened surrogates and comprehensive support give your embryos the best possible environment to succeed. You can finally move forward knowing each transfer has genuine potential to work.

Contact us today to learn how our screening process maximizes your chances and gets you matched with a surrogate in 1 - 4 months.null

How Many Embryo Transfers Does It Take for a Surrogate to Get Pregnant?

Most surrogates become pregnant within 1–3 embryo transfers, and many succeed on the very first attempt.

That’s because surrogates are thoroughly screened for proven fertility and optimal uterine health, giving your embryos the best possible environment to succeed.

Surrogate Embryo Transfer Success Rates: What You Can Actually Expect

First-time embryo transfers with surrogates succeed 55-65% of the time with quality embryos. This is significantly higher than continued IVF attempts after multiple failures.

If you’ve struggled with repeated IVF disappointments, surrogacy offers a different path with better odds from day one.

Your Chances Improve With Each Attempt

Here’s the encouraging news: your odds get better with each transfer. Families with three genetically tested embryos have about a 95% chance of achieving pregnancy.

Most intended parents don’t need three transfers. Because our surrogates are so thoroughly screened, many families succeed on their first or second attempt.

Why Surrogacy Success Rates Stay High

You’re working with someone whose body has already proven it can achieve and maintain pregnancy, traditional IVF often requires multiple attempts, while surrogacy typically succeeds faster.

How Many Embryos Do You Actually Need?

You don’t need a huge stockpile of embryos to succeed with surrogacy.

Three Embryos Give You Excellent Odds

While there’s no strict requirement, having three quality embryos gives you strong assurance of success. This accounts for the reality that not every embryo will result in pregnancy, even under optimal conditions.

With three embryos and surrogacy’s higher success rates, your chances of achieving pregnancy are excellent.

Options When You Have Fewer Embryos

If you have fewer than three embryos, you still have several paths forward:

  • Create additional embryos through another IVF cycle before starting surrogacy
  • Use donor embryos for your surrogacy journey
  • Consider double donor IVF to create fresh embryos

Our team helps you evaluate which approach makes the most sense for your situation and timeline. Our embryo planning guide walks you through these options.

Only One Embryo Left? How American Surrogacy Supports You

Most agencies won’t work with families who have just one embryo. We do.

We understand the emotional weight of feeling like this might be your “last chance.” Your single embryo deserves the absolute best opportunity for success.

Enhanced Support for Single-Embryo Families

When you have one embryo, every detail matters more. We provide additional surrogate screening, optimized medical protocols, and intensified emotional support throughout your journey.

Our experience with single-embryo transfers helps us maximize success even when you have limited resources.

We understand the emotional and financial pressure that comes with having one embryo left, which is why we offer unique safeguards through our Limited Risk Program.

If any of the following happens, we apply your fees to your next match:

  • If the surrogate is no longer eligible for medical reasons
  • Surrogate is not approved by your fertility clinic
  • Unforeseen personal circumstances that cause the surrogate to back out

If you’re facing this situation, contact us today to speak with someone who understands exactly what you’re going through.

What Actually Determines If a Surrogate Gets Pregnant?

The success of your embryo transfer depends on factors you can finally control through surrogacy.

Your Surrogate’s Proven Track Record

Every surrogate we work with has successfully carried pregnancies before. Their bodies have already proven they can get pregnant, stay pregnant, and deliver healthy babies.

This is completely different from using your own body after multiple IVF failures. You’re working with someone whose reproductive system works exactly as it should.

A Uterine Environment That Works

Your surrogate’s uterus is optimally prepared for pregnancy. Her hormone levels, uterine lining, and overall reproductive health create the ideal conditions for your embryo to implant and thrive.

No more wondering if your uterine lining is thick enough or if your hormone levels are preventing implantation.

The Same Quality Embryos, Better Environment

Your embryos aren’t the problem. Leading fertility clinics use advanced techniques to assess and prepare embryos for transfer, giving each one the best chance of success.

The difference is where they’re being transferred. Your healthy embryos finally get the healthy environment they need.

What Happens When the First Transfer Doesn’t Work?

First transfers don’t always succeed, and that’s completely normal. Here’s what happens next.

An unsuccessful first transfer doesn’t mean failure. It’s part of the natural process, and successful pregnancy often happens on the second attempt.

Your surrogate remains ready for pregnancy, unlike situations where you might need months of recovery between IVF cycles.

Getting the Emotional Support You Need

An unsuccessful transfer can bring disappointment, but the difference with surrogacy is having a support system designed specifically for your journey.

Unlike going through IVF alone, surrogacy connects you with professionals who understand fertility challenges and can help you process each step.

What makes surrogacy support different:

  • Professional counselors who specialize in fertility treatments understand that each transfer carries emotional investment and provide practical coping strategies
  • Support groups connect you with other intended parents who’ve walked this path, sharing stories of success after multiple transfers
  • Experienced agencies acknowledge the emotional aspects while helping you stay focused on your goal, treating you as a whole person rather than just a medical case
  • Ongoing guidance throughout the process so you’re never navigating this experience in isolation

Having this comprehensive support network helps you maintain perspective and makes the entire experience more manageable, regardless of how many transfers your journey requires.

Quick Turnaround for Your Next Attempt

If you have additional frozen embryos, your next transfer can usually be scheduled quickly. You don’t need extended recovery time, and you can move forward when you’re emotionally and physically ready.

Fertility specialists may make small adjustments to protocols, but often the second transfer succeeds simply because the process has been optimized.

Why Surrogacy Works When IVF Doesn’t

Surrogacy solves the specific problems that made your IVF attempts unsuccessful.

Bypassing Your Body’s Challenges

Many IVF failures happen because of uterine factors, implantation issues, or reproductive health problems that persist despite medical intervention.

Surrogacy completely solves these challenges. You’re working with a surrogate who has a track record of successful pregnancies.

Better Medical Oversight

Surrogacy involves enhanced medical monitoring specifically designed for surrogate transfers. Every aspect of the process is optimized for success.

The screening process ensures you work with someone whose body provides the ideal environment for implantation and development. This goes far beyond what’s possible when using your own body after multiple IVF failures.

Proven Results

Research consistently shows that embryo transfers with surrogates have higher success rates than traditional IVF, especially for intended parents who’ve experienced multiple failures.

This isn’t just hope. It’s medical reality backed by data and experience.

How American Surrogacy Supports You Through Each Transfer

Your success is our primary focus. We’ve developed support systems that maximize your chances with each attempt.

Before Your Transfer

We coordinate closely with your fertility clinic to ensure perfect timing and preparation. Every detail gets reviewed: your surrogate’s readiness, medication protocols, and legal protections.

All surrogacy laws and contracts are finalized before any medical procedures begin.

During Your Transfer

You have direct access to our support team throughout the entire process. We manage communication between you, your surrogate, and the medical team so everyone stays informed and supported.

Getting to know your surrogate creates trust and comfort that benefits everyone involved.

The Two-Week Wait and Beyond

We maintain close contact during those crucial two weeks after transfer. We coordinate follow-up appointments, manage communication about results, and provide emotional support regardless of the outcome.

Financial Protection That Actually Protects You

We offer financial protection that reduces your risk if transfers don’t succeed as planned. Our programs include guarantees like unlimited matching with new surrogates and refunds if pregnancy isn’t achieved within certain timeframes.

Our different program structures offer varying levels of support and financial security. Some include multiple transfer attempts in the base cost, while others offer insurance-style protection against unsuccessful outcomes.

We also work with families to explore payment options like installment plans and fertility-specific loans to spread costs over time. Understanding the full picture upfront helps you choose the protection level that makes sense for your situation.

We’re With You Until You Bring Your Baby Home

Whether you succeed on your first transfer or need multiple attempts, we’re committed to supporting you throughout the entire journey. We offer both full-service and independent program options to meet your specific needs.

For families concerned about costs, we partner with Sunfish to provide financing solutions and help you understand total costs upfront.

Contact our team today to speak with a surrogacy specialist who can provide personalized guidance for your situation.

You’ve already proven your dedication to becoming parents. Now let us help you find the path that finally leads to your baby.

Why Does IVF Fail with Good Embryos?

Even strong embryos may fail in IVF. Discover hidden reasons why and how surrogacy can provide renewed hope for your path to parenthood.

After multiple IVF cycles, you’ve heard all the hopeful phrases. “These embryos look promising.” “Your numbers are good this time.” “We’re optimistic about this transfer.”

You might be wondering: if the embryos are supposedly fine, why isn’t this working?

You’re not alone in asking this question. Even with high-quality embryos, IVF can fail for reasons that have nothing to do with the embryos themselves. Understanding why can help you make informed decisions about your next steps, including whether surrogacy might offer the path to parenthood you’ve been searching for.

We’re here to help you understand what might be happening and explore how surrogacy after failed IVF can offer renewed hope. Contact us today to speak with a specialist about your options.

Why Does IVF Fail Even With Good Embryos?

When fertility specialists talk about “good” embryos, they’re typically referring to embryos that look healthy under a microscope and may have passed genetic testing. But how an embryo looks represents only one piece of a complex puzzle.

The frustration you’re feeling is completely understandable. When you’ve invested so much hope, time, and resources into creating these embryos, it can be heartbreaking to learn that other factors may be preventing success.

IVF success depends on many different things working together perfectly:

  • How healthy the embryo is
  • Whether your uterus is ready to accept it
  • Your hormone levels
  • Countless other factors that happen inside your body

Even if an embryo appears perfect in the lab, it still needs the right environment to attach, get a blood supply, and continue growing.

Many intended parents don’t realize that repeated implantation failure affects up to 10% of couples undergoing IVF. You may feel isolated in your experience, but medical professionals regularly see cases where excellent embryos fail to implant despite multiple attempts.

“Good Embryos” in IVF: What That Really Means And Why It’s Not the Whole Story

When lab specialists evaluate embryos, they assess various factors to determine quality grades. These evaluations help determine which embryos are most likely to result in successful pregnancy.

Genetic testing (called PGT-A) adds another layer by screening for chromosome problems. An embryo with the correct number of chromosomes can improve the chances of successful pregnancy and reduce miscarriage risk.

However, even embryos that appear perfect under the microscope and pass genetic screening may not result in pregnancy. Current assessment methods examine only what’s visible or testable with today’s technology.

Many factors that affect embryo success remain invisible to current testing methods. Even the most sophisticated genetic screening examines only a small sample of cells, which may not represent the entire embryo.

This is why even embryos that receive excellent grades and pass all available testing may not result in pregnancy. The assessment tools we have today, while helpful, don’t capture every aspect of what makes an embryo successful.

Uterine Factors That Can Undermine IVF Success

When high-quality embryos repeatedly fail to implant, the focus often shifts to your uterine environment. Your uterine lining must be perfectly timed and ready for the embryo to attach.

Endometrial Receptivity Issues

There’s a narrow window when your uterine lining is ready to accept an embryo. If this timing is off by even a day or two, implantation may fail. Some women have different timing that doesn’t match standard IVF protocols.

Structural abnormalities include:

  • Uterine fibroids
  • Polyps
  • A condition called adenomyosis
  • Uterine shape differences you were born with

These conditions can interfere with implantation or early pregnancy development. Even small fibroids or polyps that don’t cause symptoms in daily life can significantly impact IVF success rates.

Chronic Endometritis

Low-grade inflammation of the uterine lining often goes unnoticed because it doesn’t cause obvious symptoms. However, it can create an environment that’s hostile to implantation. Studies suggest this affects 15-25% of women with repeated implantation failure.

Blood Flow and Vascular Issues

Good blood flow to the uterine lining is essential for supporting an implanting embryo. Conditions affecting blood flow to the uterus, including certain autoimmune conditions or clotting disorders, can prevent successful implantation even with perfect embryos.

Hormonal Imbalances

Subtle hormone issues that don’t prevent embryo development in the lab can still interfere with the complex hormone coordination required for implantation and early pregnancy.

Beyond the Lab: The Immune and Genetic Reasons IVF Fails Again and Again

Reproductive immunology is an emerging field that explores how your immune system might be preventing pregnancy. Think of your immune system as your body’s security team. During pregnancy, it faces a unique challenge.

Your immune system needs to:

  • Welcome and protect the embryo (which is genetically half from your partner)
  • Continue fighting off infections and other threats

When this delicate balance goes wrong, it can prevent embryos from implanting or cause early pregnancy loss.

Natural Killer Cell Activity

Certain immune cells in your uterus may become overactive, treating implanting embryos as threats to eliminate rather than pregnancies to protect.

Autoimmune Conditions

Some people have antibodies that can interfere with pregnancy, even though these conditions don’t make you feel sick in daily life. These invisible issues can significantly impact your ability to get or stay pregnant.

  • HLA Compatibility: Sometimes partners can be too genetically similar in certain ways, which can prevent successful pregnancy. This is rare but may require special treatment approaches.
  • Thrombophilia: Mild blood clotting problems that don’t affect your daily life can prevent proper blood flow during early pregnancy, causing implantation to fail.
  • Complement System Dysfunction: Your immune system might be working too hard during pregnancy attempts, inadvertently attacking the developing pregnancy.

Many doctors don’t routinely test for these immune-related issues during fertility evaluations. They may explain why some couples experience repeated failures despite having good embryos and no obvious fertility problems.

Issues that are often missed include:

  • Overactive immune cells in the uterus
  • Hidden autoimmune problems
  • Mild blood clotting tendencies
  • Immune system imbalances

When To Stop Trying IVF and Start Considering Surrogacy

Deciding when to transition from IVF to surrogacy is deeply personal, but certain medical and emotional signs can help guide this difficult decision. Remember, considering surrogacy isn’t giving up. It’s opening a door to new possibilities.

Medical Indicators

Most fertility specialists suggest considering other approaches after 3-4 failed transfers with good-quality embryos, particularly if you’ve experienced repeated implantation failure. If comprehensive testing has revealed uterine problems that can’t be successfully treated, or if multiple interventions haven’t improved outcomes, surrogacy may offer better chances of success.

When Embryo Quality Isn’t the Issue

If you’re consistently producing good embryos but experiencing implantation failure, this often indicates that your embryos are healthy but your uterine environment may not be optimal for pregnancy.

Take heart in knowing that this is actually an ideal situation for surrogacy, where your genetic material can be carried by someone with a proven ability to achieve and maintain pregnancy.

Emotional Readiness

The emotional toll of repeated IVF attempts can’t be underestimated. When the physical and emotional stress of continued attempts begins outweighing the potential benefits, it may be time to explore surrogacy as a path that offers renewed hope and energy for your family-building journey.

What Surrogacy Is

Surrogacy uses your own eggs and your partner’s sperm (or donor sperm) to create embryos through IVF, then transfers those embryos to a woman who will carry the pregnancy for you. The baby is 100% genetically yours. The surrogate provides only the uterine environment.

Can I Use Embryos from Previous IVF Cycles in Surrogacy?

Yes, in most cases, frozen embryos from previous IVF cycles can be used in surrogacy. This means your IVF investment hasn’t been lost. It becomes the foundation for your surrogacy journey. Your previous efforts weren’t in vain.

Benefits of using existing embryos:

  • No additional egg retrieval cycles needed
  • Faster timeline to transfer
  • Lower overall treatment costs
  • Familiar genetic material

Your existing embryos can be thawed and transferred to your surrogate, potentially saving you from additional egg retrieval cycles and allowing you to move forward more quickly.

The process of using frozen embryos in surrogacy is typically straightforward. Your fertility clinic will coordinate with your surrogacy agency to ensure proper handling and transfer of your embryos to the clinic where your surrogate will receive care.

How Surrogacy Bypasses Uterine Challenges and Restores Hope

Surrogacy can get around virtually all uterine-related causes of IVF failure. When your embryos are transferred to a surrogate who has been thoroughly screened for optimal uterine health, you eliminate concerns about:

  • Timing issues with your uterine lining
  • Physical problems in your uterus
  • Hidden inflammation or infection
  • Blood flow problems
  • Immune dysfunction specific to your uterine environment

Surrogate screening advantages:

  • Proven track record of successful pregnancies
  • Optimal reproductive health confirmed
  • More extensive evaluation than typical fertility patients
  • Best possible environment for embryo development

For many intended parents, surrogacy represents a fresh start with renewed optimism. In fact, surrogacy embryo transfer success rates often exceed traditional IVF because of this careful surrogate selection process.

Reddit Discussion: Why Pre-Screening is so Vital

Surrogate Screening + Matching: When Should a Match Be Made?
byu/AmericanSurrogacy inAmericanSurrogacy

What Happens When You Pursue Surrogacy: A Step-By-Step Look

Understanding the surrogacy process can help demystify this path and show you how achievable parenthood through surrogacy can be.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where you’ll discuss your fertility history, previous IVF attempts, and goals for surrogacy. This is your opportunity to ask questions, understand timelines, and learn about different program options that might fit your needs.

Step 2: Matching Process

Once you’re ready to move forward, you’ll be presented with profiles of potential surrogates who match your preferences and medical requirements. Our surrogate screening process ensures you’ll only see candidates who have been thoroughly vetted medically, psychologically, and legally.

Step 3: Legal Process

After you’ve connected with a surrogate and decided to move forward together, legal contracts are created to protect everyone involved. These contracts cover medical decisions, financial arrangements, communication expectations, and all other aspects of your journey together.

Step 4: Medical Coordination

Your fertility clinic will coordinate with your surrogate’s medical care to prepare for embryo transfer. This includes timing cycles, preparing the surrogate’s uterus, and scheduling the transfer procedure.

Step 5: Transfer and Pregnancy

Embryo transfer to your surrogate follows the same basic process as IVF transfer, but with the advantage of a uterine environment that’s been proven capable of achieving and maintaining pregnancy. Throughout the pregnancy, you’ll have the opportunity to be as involved as you want to be while your surrogate carries your genetic child.

Step 6: Birth and Beyond

When your baby is born, legal processes ensure you’re recognized as the legal parents from the moment of birth. Most intended parents find the experience of meeting their child for the first time incredibly emotional and rewarding after their journey to parenthood.

Why Intended Parents Trust American Surrogacy After IVF Failure

When you’ve experienced the heartbreak of failed IVF cycles, choosing the right surrogacy agency becomes essential for rebuilding confidence in your path to parenthood.

Short Wait Times

We understand that time feels critical after IVF setbacks. Our process for becoming parents faster typically allows intended parents to be matched with a pre-screened surrogate in an average of months rather than years. We maintain relationships with surrogates across the country, giving you options and reducing wait times.

Thoroughly Screened Surrogates

Our comprehensive surrogate screening goes far beyond basic health checks. We evaluate medical history, psychological readiness, social support, lifestyle factors, and motivation. You’ll only be presented with candidates who have demonstrated the commitment and capability to help you succeed.

Financial Protection Through Our Limited Risk Program

After investing significantly in IVF attempts, financial protection becomes a priority. Our Limited Risk Program includes provisions for unlimited matching opportunities if your first match doesn’t work out, and refund options if your journey doesn’t result in a baby and you have no embryos remaining.

This protection allows you to move forward with confidence rather than fear about additional financial loss.

Experience With Complex Cases

We regularly work with intended parents who have navigated multiple fertility challenges. Our team understands the unique emotional and medical considerations involved in transitioning from IVF to surrogacy, and we’re equipped to support you through this process.

Transparent Communication

After experiencing the uncertainty of failed IVF cycles, clear communication becomes essential. We provide regular updates throughout your journey and ensure you understand each step of the process. You’ll have dedicated support staff who understand your history and are committed to your success.

Ready to Explore Surrogacy? Here’s How to Take the Next Step

Your journey through IVF hasn’t been a failure. It’s been preparation. The embryos you’ve created, the medical knowledge you’ve gained, and the resilience you’ve developed through this process all become valuable assets in a surrogacy journey.

The decision to pursue surrogacy after IVF can actually feel empowering. You’re taking control of your journey and choosing a path that addresses the specific challenges you’ve faced.

Fill out our form today to schedule a consultation with our team.

We’ll review your unique situation, answer your questions, and help you understand how surrogacy might provide the solution you’ve been searching for.