Author: Louisa H

Navigating IVF and Gender Dysphoria: A Guide for Trans Masculine Parents

Surrogacy for trans men navigating IVF and gender dysphoria—affirming paths to parenthood with expert, identity-conscious support.

For many trans men, IVF and gender dysphoria often intersect when hormone therapy must be paused, or when fertility procedures trigger physical changes and clinical experiences that feel misaligned with one’s identity.

Whether you’re early in your transition or already on testosterone, you deserve options that support your well-being, not just your biological goals.

The path is yours to define—we’re here to walk it with you. Contact us today to learn more about how surrogacy can be a self-affirming option to grow your family.

This guide is here to help you understand what to expect from IVF as a trans masculine parent and how surrogacy and egg donation can help lessen the burden of gender dysphoria.

Can IVF Cause Gender Dysphoria?

Yes, IVF and gender dysphoria often intersect for trans men.

Stopping testosterone for egg retrieval can trigger the return of unwanted physical changes, while procedures like ultrasounds and hormone injections may intensify dysphoria, especially in gendered medical settings.

For many, the experience can feel emotionally disorienting—but with affirming providers and support, IVF is still possible.

Learn more about the egg retrieval process for IVF and surrogacy.

Options Beyond Traditional IVF: How Surrogacy Can Support Trans Masculine Parents

For many trans men, IVF and gender dysphoria are deeply intertwined. Creating embryos—whether for personal IVF or surrogacy—still requires egg retrieval and a temporary pause in testosterone, which can trigger significant physical and emotional discomfort.

The process may involve invasive procedures and time spent in clinical settings that feel misaligned with one’s identity.

Depending on your needs and comfort level, there are affirming paths forward:

  • Donor egg IVF: You might consider using donor eggs, which allows you to avoid the dysphoria associated with hormone stimulation and retrieval while still building a family through IVF.
  • Surrogacy: If you’re comfortable with egg retrieval but not with pregnancy, surrogacy may be an ideal fit, allowing you to create embryos with your own eggs while a surrogate carries the pregnancy.
  • Donor egg surrogacy: If you want to avoid both the IVF process and pregnancy, donor egg surrogacy removes both the physical and psychological stressors while still allowing you to become a parent.

At American Surrogacy, we understand that every path to parenthood is personal. We’re here to help you explore your options with care, clarity, and compassion—so you can make the decision that’s right for you.

Need help deciding what feels right? Reach out today to explore paths that align with your emotional well-being, family goals and identity.

Should You Pause Testosterone for IVF? What to Know

If you intend to use your own eggs for IVF or surrogacy, most fertility clinics require trans men to pause testosterone to support a successful egg retrieval process.

Pausing HRT, often for several weeks, can lead to the return of physical traits tied to one’s assigned sex at birth, which may intensify IVF and gender dysphoria symptoms.

Knowing what to expect can make a major difference. Emotional shifts, body changes and discomfort with medical procedures are common—but they’re not unmanageable.

Working with affirming providers and preparing mentally and physically ahead of time can help ease this process.

Talking to Your Clinic: How to Advocate for Gender-Affirming Fertility Care

Navigating IVF and gender dysphoria starts with choosing a clinic that respects your identity. Not all fertility providers are experienced in working with trans men, and many environments can unintentionally trigger dysphoria through misgendering, invasive procedures or lack of inclusive language.

Before starting treatment, ask about the clinic’s experience with LGBTQ+ patients, their approach to trauma-informed care, and whether staff are trained in gender-affirming practices. Your emotional well-being matters as much as your medical outcome.

At American Surrogacy, we help intended parents connect with supportive clinics that prioritize comfort, respect and affirming care—because every step of your journey should feel like it belongs to you.

Need help finding a gender-affirming fertility provider? Reach out to start your journey with support you can trust.

When IVF Isn’t Right: Why Some Trans Men Choose Surrogacy First

For some trans men, IVF and gender dysphoria are too closely linked to pursue comfortably. The idea of stopping HRT, undergoing invasive procedures, or facing a pregnancy that feels misaligned with their identity can be overwhelming.

In these cases, surrogacy isn’t a last resort, it’s a deliberate, affirming choice.

Surrogacy offers a path to biological parenthood without compromising emotional safety. At American Surrogacy, we support trans intended parents in choosing what feels right for them whether that means IVF or surrogacy.

Fertility Planning for Trans Men Considering Surrogacy: Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re exploring surrogacy as a path to parenthood, here’s what you need to know, especially when navigating IVF and gender dysphoria along the way:

Step 1: Decide If You Want a Genetic Connection

Surrogacy can allow you to have a biological child using your own eggs. If you haven’t started testosterone, egg retrieval may be easier to schedule without interruption.

Step 2: Consider Your HRT Timeline

If you haven’t started testosterone yet, freezing your eggs now may reduce the risk of unsuccessful egg retrieval, and may allow you to avoid the need to pause HRT later.

If you’re already on HRT, plan for a pause—often 1–3 months—to allow your body to resume egg production.

Step 3: Coordinate With a Fertility Clinic

Schedule an initial consult with a clinic to evaluate your fertility and discuss egg retrieval logistics.

Step 4: Prepare for IVF and Gender Dysphoria

The IVF process includes hormone injections and an invasive procedure. If pausing HRT, undergoing ovarian stimulation or completing the egg retrieval process feels too dysphoric, or is unsuccessful, egg donation remains a viable and affirming alternative.

Step 5: Choose a Surrogacy Agency That Affirms You

Partner with an agency (like American Surrogacy) that understands the needs of trans intended parents. Once you have embryos ready, we can match you with a surrogate who is excited to work with you and your partner.

Your Next Step: Compassionate, Personalized Support

Whether you’re early in your transition, already managing IVF and gender dysphoria, or considering surrogacy as a more affirming option, your path to parenthood deserves care and support.

At American Surrogacy, we guide LGBTQ+ intended parents through every step—with trusted clinics, inclusive professionals and surrogates who honor your identity and goals.

You’re not alone in this journey and you don’t have to navigate it without a team that understands.

Connect with a surrogacy specialist today to explore the options that align with your identity, timeline and dreams of building a family.

Check out our surrogacy programs for LGBT parents.

Can I Be a Surrogate After Three C-Sections and One Vaginal Birth?

Had 3 C-sections and a vaginal birth? Surrogacy may still be an option. Discover how your story could help others start theirs.

Yes, you can still become a surrogate after three C-sections and one vaginal birth with the right support and medical clearance.

With the right medical history and a supportive agency like American Surrogacy, your journey could continue, helping someone else begin theirs.

Every woman’s path to surrogacy is unique. That’s why our team takes a personalized approach, reviewing your delivery history, current health, and overall readiness not just checking boxes.

Take the first step toward helping someone grow their family — your story may be the one they’ve been waiting for. Apply today to find out if you meet the surrogate qualifications.

Can You Be a Surrogate After 3 C-Sections and One Vaginal Birth?

Yes, if all of your deliveries were safe and without major complications, you may still be eligible to become a surrogate. Having a history of safe outcomes, especially paired with a successful vaginal birth, can strengthen your candidacy.

The key factors here are:

  • Uterine health and healing
  • Absence of serious complications
  • Medical clearance based on current condition

Each surrogacy journey is unique, and American Surrogacy approaches every potential surrogate with a personalized review of her medical history.

Curious about how C-sections affect surrogacy eligibility? Learn more about surrogacy after C-sections.

Who Qualifies for Surrogacy After Multiple C-Sections?

Medical guidelines like those from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) typically recommend:

  • No more than three C-sections
  • No more than five total deliveries

But these are just starting points. What really matters is:

  • Uterine health and recovery after each delivery
  • Absence of major complications, such as uterine rupture or placenta accreta
  • Clearance from a fertility specialist after a medical evaluation

Tip: A successful vaginal birth after C-sections (VBAC) can enhance your surrogate eligibility by demonstrating that your uterus recovered well and withstood labor.

Learn more about how to qualify to be a surrogate.

What Do Medical Guidelines Say About Surrogacy After C-Sections?

Medical professionals, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), provide the following guidance:

A woman may not be considered an ideal surrogate candidate if she’s had more than three C-sections or more than five vaginal deliveries.

However, these are not rigid rules. These guidelines serve as a starting point. What matters most is:

  • Your overall reproductive health
  • Successful recovery from past surgeries
  • Absence of chronic complications, like uterine rupture or placenta previa

How We Evaluate Your Eligibility at American Surrogacy

We go beyond the checklist. Here’s how we ensure it’s safe for you and for the intended parents:

Step 1: Review of Your OB/GYN Records

We’ll request your medical records, with a focus on:

  • Total number of births and delivery types
  • Recovery outcomes from each delivery
  • Any complications that may impact future pregnancies

Step 2: Surrogacy Pre-Screening

You’ll speak with a surrogate specialist about your goals, lifestyle, and any concerns. We’ll look at your:

  • Overall physical and emotional readiness
  • Support system
  • Motivation for becoming a surrogate

Step 3: Post-Match Clinical Evaluation

Once you’re matched, you’ll undergo:

  • Hormonal screening
  • Uterine lining assessments
  • Additional tests as required by the fertility clinic

Wondering what these requirements look like? Review the full list of surrogate qualifications here.

Does Having a Vaginal Birth Improve Your Chances?

Yes. A vaginal birth, especially after C-sections, can be a strong indicator that:

  • You successfully gave birth vaginally after previous C-sections
  • Your uterine wall withstood the pressure of labor
  • You may have a lower risk of uterine rupture than someone without a VBAC

However, VBAC doesn’t erase your C-section history. Our team still reviews all your past deliveries holistically. Every pregnancy adds valuable information to your story and we want to understand it in full.

I’ve Had 3 C-Sections—Can I Still Help Someone Become a Parent?

Absolutely. If your past C-sections and vaginal birth were complication-free, and your uterus has healed well, you may still be the perfect candidate to help someone build their family.

Each story is different and many surrogates come from medical backgrounds that don’t fit a one-size-fits-all mold.

Imagine the impact you could make. Your strength and experience could be exactly what someone needs to start their parenthood journey.

Ready to See If You Qualify?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Apply today to get a personalized review and find out if you’re eligible to become a surrogate with American Surrogacy. Reach out today to find out if you qualify.

Can I Dye My Hair During IVF? What to Know When Creating Embryos

Navigate IVF with confidence. Know when hair dye is safe, what to avoid and how to match with a surrogate when your embryos are ready.

For many, haircare is part of our identity, self-expression or self-care routine. But when you’re creating embryos for IVF or surrogacy, even something as routine as coloring your hair can feel uncertain.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about hair dye during IVF including what fertility doctors say, which ingredients to avoid, safer alternatives and how to balance physical safety with emotional self-care.

When your embryos are ready, you don’t want to wait. Let us help you move forward on your terms, and on your timeline. Reach out today to begin the surrogacy process.

Can I Dye My Hair During IVF?

Short Answer: Most fertility specialists advise avoiding hair dye during the early stages of IVF, especially during ovarian stimulation.

But there’s nuance. The safety of using hair dye during IVF depends on factors like:

  • Whether the dye touches your scalp
  • Ventilation in your salon
  • Ingredients in the product
  • How far along you are in the IVF process

If coloring your hair is important for emotional well-being, consult your doctor before using hair dye during IVF, especially if you plan to dye your roots or use darker, more chemical-heavy formulas.

Learn more about what to expect from your IVF medication schedule.

What Fertility Doctors Say about Hair Dye and IVF      

Fertility experts often recommend avoiding hair dye during IVF, particularly between the start of ovarian stimulation and the end of the first trimester. This guidance is based on minimizing exposure to potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals and reducing inflammatory reactions.

According to Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh, some hair salons in general may need to be avoided between embryo transfer and the end of the first trimester. Her rule of thumb is “When you walk into the salon, do you get a headache?” If you do, there are likely chemicals in the air that could negatively impact your fertility.

If you still want to use hair dye during IVF, choose a well-ventilated salon, avoid scalp contact and opt for cleaner, non-toxic products. Some clinics will greenlight these steps, especially when balanced against the emotional benefits of self-care.

Hair Dye Ingredients to Avoid During Fertility Treatment     

Using hair dye during IVF can expose you to certain chemicals that may impact fertility outcomes or hormone balance. However, as we learn more about these chemicals, new, safer products are being developed.

Ammonia

Ammonia can cause severe allergic reactions, which can affect pregnancy and fertility. Greater exposure to ammonia, even though hair dye, is linked to greater rates of urinary track infections, which can affect implantation and fetal development.

Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is common in both hair dyes and some sun screens. It’s been found to have disruptive effects on the endocrine system, which regulates many vital fertility hormones.

Para-phenylenediamine (PPD)

PPD is a compound found in many hair dyes which can cause skin irritations, eczema, dermatitis, and even severe allergic reaction.

It also has the notable property of having increasing risk of reaction with each contact. In other words, even if you didn’t have a reaction to it last time you used it, you could have a severe reaction next time.

Parabens

Parabens are preservatives used in hair dye linked to premature and underweight births, and can have detrimental effects on fertility hormones.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), parabens rank among the most concerning toxic chemicals for pregnant women.

Phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals used to soften mixtures, but are known to travel throughout the body, notably in urine, blood and breast milk.

These chemicals disrupt hormones, and have disastrous affects specifically for male fetuses. They are also on the EWG’s list, and have been banned in many countries across Europe.

Can a Surrogate Dye Her Hair During Pregnancy?        

Surrogates are often advised to follow the same caution as IVF patients: avoid hair dye during the first trimester.

Because surrogacy adds a layer of shared responsibility, intended parents and surrogates should agree on self-care guidelines early in the process.

Doctors recommend minimizing exposure to chemicals and ensuring salon visits are in well-ventilated areas. If scalp contact is avoided and the dye is clean and natural, some experts say it can be safe, even affirming, for surrogates.

Emotional Self-Care: Why Hair Dye During IVF May Still Matter

For many, IVF is not just a medical journey but an emotional one. Small acts like coloring your hair can be powerful self-care tools that provide emotional relief.

Self-care can help you navigate this journey in many ways:

  • Emotional Well-Being: Self-care can help you connect with your emotions and experience them in a safe, controllable way.
  • Rituals of Self-Maintenance: Focusing on yourself is an important part of your fertility journey. Consistent activates that help you focus on treating yourself with love and care can be a valuable tool.
  • Managing Control: In IVF, it can be easy to begin to feel that the things happening to you are out of your control. The need for control is something we all feel, and self-care can help you clarify and address these complex feelings.
  • Marking a significant change: For some, hair dying and other self-care rituals can be used to mark a significant change in their life.

For some, using hair dye during IVF helps reinforce identity, signal transformation, or reduce stress. If emotional well-being is a key concern, consult your fertility team about safer dye methods or alternatives.

Choosing Safer Hair Dye During IVF: What to Look For

The things that make hair dye damaging for IVF patients are the harmful ingredients. However, there are types of hair dyes that present less of a fertility disruption:

  • Labels that say “free of parabens, phthalates, ammonia”
  • Clean beauty certifications (e.g., EWG Verified)
  • Natural dyes like henna or cassia-based colors
  • Brands offering pregnancy-safe or sensitive skin formulations

Being selective with your products can help balance aesthetic goals with fertility safety when using hair dye during IVF.

When in doubt, take the ingredient list to your fertility specialist. Avoid heavy fragrances and always patch test before full application.

Fertility-Safe Hair Dye Brands for IVF Patients

Choosing the right brand is one of the safest ways to continue using hair dye during IVF.

These brands are known for avoiding common reproductive toxins like ammonia, PPD, parabens, phthalates and resorcinol, making them a safer choice for IVF patients:

  • Herbatint: Plant-based permanent color free from ammonia, parabens, and alcohol. Gentle on sensitive scalps and ideal for home use.
  • Naturtint: Uses plant-enriched ingredients and avoids ammonia, resorcinol, and heavy metals. A go-to brand for those seeking permanent results with fewer risks.
  • Surya Brasil Henna Cream: A semi-permanent henna-based formula free from harmful additives. Ideal for deep conditioning and gentle color toning.
  • Oway (Organic Way): Used in high-end salons, this biodynamic professional dye line is made with fair-trade botanicals and free from synthetic toxins.

When selecting hair dye during IVF, choose products that support your health, not just your color.

Your Next Steps   

Navigating decisions like whether to use hair dye during IVF is just one piece of a larger journey, one that’s uniquely yours.

As you move through your IVF cycle, another exciting milestone may be just around the corner: your embryos may soon be ready. If your next step is finding a surrogate to carry your pregnancy, we’re here to help you match quickly and confidently.

Here’s what to do next:

  • Talk to your fertility doctor about safe cosmetic products
  • Choose hair dye options that align with IVF safety guidelines
  • Begin planning for the next stage: embryo transfer and surrogacy
  • Reach out to us, we help intended parents match with screened surrogates in as little as 1-4 months.

Whether you’re creating embryos or already have frozen embryos ready to go, we’re here to ensure your transition into surrogacy is smooth and successful.Begin the next stage of your journey to parenthood by contacting us today with this online form.

Can Trans Men Get Pregnant on Testosterone? A Guide to Fertility Options

Getting pregnant as a trans man on testosterone is complex. Learn about IVF, HRT and why surrogacy may offer a more affirming path.

Parenthood may be part of your vision for the future. But if you’re currently on testosterone, you may not be sure what’s possible when it comes to fertility.

You deserve information that affirms your identity and gives you real choices. In this guide, we’ll cover how testosterone affects fertility and provide options for next steps. We can help you find the right path that aligns with your identity, comfort and goals.

If you’d like more information, fill out our form to connect with one of our surrogacy specialists.

Can a Trans Man Get Pregnant While on Testosterone? What to Know

Technically, yes, a trans man getting pregnant while on testosterone is possible, but unlikely. Testosterone generally suppresses ovulation and may affect an embryo’s ability to implant in your uterus.

Because of this, the chances of a trans man on hormones getting pregnant are very low. However, with fertility preservation and temporarily stopping hormones, pregnancy may be possible.

Does Fertility Change in Trans People With Hormone Treatment?

Yes, testosterone impacts both the consistency and quality of egg production. Over time, it suppresses ovulation and usually stops periods altogether.

The effect depends on how long you’ve been on testosterone, your age and your reproductive health.

Because egg quality naturally declines with age, and testosterone can add complexity, early planning matters.

In addition to impacting egg production, testosterone may also affect the uterine lining, which can make it more difficult for an embryo to implant successfully.

Can a Trans Man Do IVF? How it Works At Different Stages of HRT

Yes, IVF is a viable option for many trans men, but it involves important considerations depending on where you are in your hormone journey.

If You Are Pre-HRT

If you have not yet started hormone therapy, it is typically recommended to freeze your eggs before beginning testosterone. This helps preserve your fertility at its current baseline.

 If you decide to pursue pregnancy later, you will still need to pause testosterone during the embryo transfer phase of IVF.

If You Have Already Started HRT

If you are already on HRT and haven’t preserved your eggs, you’ll need to stop testosterone prior to starting ovarian stimulation and remain off it through the egg retrieval process, and possibly through the embryo transfer as well.

Additionally, the effects of testosterone on the ovaries and reproductive system may make egg retrieval more complex for those who have been on HRT long term.

Research from Boston IVF found that trans men who paused testosterone for around four months had similar egg retrieval outcomes to cisgender women undergoing IVF.

This pause can be physically and emotionally difficult, particularly for a trans man on hormones getting pregnant.

Why Do Trans Men Need to Stop Testosterone to Get Pregnant with IVF?

In addition to suppressing ovulation, testosterone may also thin or destabilize the uterine lining, which can make it more difficult for an embryo to implant successfully.

For a trans man on hormones getting pregnant, stopping testosterone may improve the chances of a healthy implantation, which is critical for pregnancy.

What to Expect from IVF as a Trans Man

  1. If currently undergoing HRT, you’ll pause testosterone under medical supervision
  2. Begin ovarian stimulation with hormone injections
  3. Monitor egg development via ultrasounds and bloodwork
  4. Undergo egg retrieval with light sedation.

Given the emotional and physical demands of IVF, it’s important to work with providers who affirm your identity. Some fertility clinics offer mental health support and gender-affirming care as part of the treatment process.

Fertility Preservation Before or After Starting HRT

If you’re thinking about starting testosterone or are considering pausing HRT to grow your family, fertility preservation can help you keep biological options open.

Here are two common methods:

  • Egg Freezing: Involves harvesting eggs and freezing them unfertilized. This is often done before starting testosterone, but in some cases, it’s possible after stopping.
  • Embryo Freezing: Embryos are created by combining your eggs with a partner’s or donor’s sperm. The resulting embryos are frozen for later use. This may be ideal if you know you want to pursue surrogacy later.

While outcomes are usually better before starting HRT, some trans men have preserved fertility even after hormone use.

Learn more about how embryos are frozen for surrogacy.

IVF Limitations After Long-Term Hormone Use

It’s important to acknowledge that long-term testosterone use can affect the success of IVF.

While many trans men have successfully completed IVF after pausing HRT, the effects of prolonged testosterone therapy on egg quality and uterine receptivity may lower the chances of implantation and overall IVF success.

For trans men who have been on hormones for several years, the reproductive system may respond less robustly to stimulation medications and the endometrial lining may not easily return to a state conducive for implantation.

Even with egg retrieval and fertilization, embryo transfer may not result in a pregnancy.

This is one reason why surrogacy may be a more effective and emotionally supportive path to parenthood, especially for a trans man on hormones getting pregnant or preserving fertility.

Why Surrogacy for Trans Men May Be a Better Option

If IVF is not successful after HRT or it doesn’t feel right for your body or identity, surrogacy is an option..

Higher Chances of Successful Implantation

From a medical perspective, surrogacy may offer a higher chance of success for trans men who have been on HRT long term. Testosterone can affect both egg quality and uterine receptivity, which can make pregnancy or embryo transfer more complex.

With surrogacy, these barriers are removed, and the embryo is transferred to a gestational surrogate whose body is fully prepared to carry a pregnancy.

You Won’t Have to Pause HRT for the Embryo Transfer

If you froze your eggs in advance or use donor eggs, surrogacy allows you to maintain your HRT regimen without interruption, avoiding the physical changes and emotional challenges that may come with pausing treatment for the embryo transfer or pregnancy.

Even if you pause testosterone for egg retrieval, that’s still less time that you have to pause treatment than if you carried the pregnancy yourself.

Avoiding Potential Gender Dysphoria Caused by Pregnancy

Surrogacy can help you avoid dysphoria that may arise from the hormonal shifts, body changes, sensations and psychological stress of pregnancy or childbirth.

This makes it an emotionally safer choice for a trans man on hormones getting pregnant or planning a family.

Surrogacy comes with emotional, financial and legal considerations, but for many, it provides a path that honors their identity and offers greater comfort.

Learn more about our LGBTQ+ surrogacy programs designed specifically for trans and queer families.

Can a Trans Man Use His Eggs in a Surrogacy Journey?

Yes, a trans man can use his own eggs to create embryos.

If you have frozen eggs or are willing to pause testosterone for egg retrieval, IVF allows your eggs to be fertilized with your partner’s sperm or a donor’s sperm. The resulting embryos can then be transferred to a surrogate.

Pausing HRT for the egg retrieval process can bring up dysphoria for some trans men, as it may involve temporary physical changes and emotional stress. Having a supportive and affirming care team can make a significant difference.

To support your well-being:

  • Work with gender-affirming fertility providers.
  • Request mental health support throughout treatment.
  • Be prepared for side effects like bloating or hormonal shifts.
  • Lean on your support system—friends, partners, therapists, and LGBTQ+ healthcare providers.

Using Donor Eggs: When Your Own Eggs Aren’t an Option

If using your own eggs doesn’t feel right for you, or if it isn’t possible, egg donor surrogacy is a valid and empowering alternative.

Many trans men choose this path for comfort, medical reasons or simply personal preference. Working with a surrogacy agency can help you explore egg donor options that align with your values and goals.

Your Family-Building Plan Starts Here

Family-building is a personal journey. Every trans man deserves options that honor and affirm who they are. We’re here to help. Reach out to connect with a surrogacy specialist and begin planning your future on your terms.

Do Intended Parents Need a Night Doula After Surrogacy?

Overnight care and emotional support for intended parents: how postpartum night doulas ease your transition into parenthood after surrogacy.

Becoming a parent through surrogacy is a beautiful, transformative experience but the shift into parenthood can also be intense and overwhelming.

That’s where a postpartum night doula can make a lasting difference.

Want a smoother start to parenthood? We can help you find a postpartum night doula and share exactly how they support you after your baby is born. Contact us today.

A night doula offers support during your most vulnerable hours so you can rest, reconnect and embrace your new role with confidence.

What Is a Postpartum Night Doula – and How Can They Help Intended Parents?

A postpartum night doula is a trained caregiver who provides overnight support to families in the first weeks and months after birth.

Their focus goes beyond feeding and diapering they create a nurturing nighttime environment for both baby and parents.

Unlike a night nanny, who is often task-oriented, or a birth doula, who supports labor, a night doula is trained to help families emotionally and practically during the delicate postpartum period.

What a Postpartum Night Doula Can Offer:

  • Overnight infant care and soothing
  • Breastfeeding, pumping, and bottle-feeding support (including induced lactation for non-birthing parents)
  • Emotional guidance and postpartum education
  • Encouragement and strategies for bonding
  • Calm presence during transitions and nighttime anxieties

For families who became parents through surrogacy, a night doula is often the first consistent support presence at home bridging emotional and physical gaps in the earliest hours of parenting.

Why Intended Parents May Need Support After Surrogacy

For many intended parents, the moment their baby arrives is surreal. Joy is often mixed with fear, uncertainty and exhaustion especially when postpartum recovery wasn’t part of their own physical experience.

A postpartum night doula provides a grounding force during this time, helping you navigate:

  • Fatigue from travel, time zones, or unexpected delivery timing
  • The absence of hormonal and physical preparation for parenthood
  • Early moments of bonding and caretaking with your newborn
  • Emotional processing of the surrogacy journey and transition into “full-time parent”

Whether you’re solo parenting, part of an LGBTQ+ couple or welcoming twins, a night doula ensures that you are supported holistically, not just as a caregiver, but as a human becoming a parent.

How a Postpartum Doula Supports the Parent-Child Bond

Bonding isn’t always instant, especially for non-birthing parents. And that’s okay. A postpartum night doula gently supports this process without pressure or judgment.

They guide parents in nurturing early connections with their baby, using evidence-based practices and emotional support tailored to the surrogacy experience.

Bonding Support May Include:

  • Skin-to-skin guidance during wake windows
  • Involvement in feeding and soothing
  • Coaching on reading baby cues
  • Reassurance that bonding is a journey, not a benchmark

By reinforcing your role as a confident, present parent, a night doula can help deepen the emotional connection you’re forming, even during a 3 a.m. diaper change.

Night Doula vs. Night Nanny

Choosing the right type of overnight support depends on the kind of help you need—emotional, physical, practical or all of the above. Here’s how a postpartum night doula compares to other options:

Postpartum Night Doula

  • Focus: Emotional support and practical overnight newborn care
  • Training: Often certified through organizations like DONA or CAPPA
  • Ideal For: Families seeking holistic care especially intended parents navigating bonding and role transition after surrogacy

Night Nanny

  • Focus: Basic newborn care tasks like feeding, diapering, and soothing
  • Training: May not have formal training or certification
  • Ideal For: Parents looking for routine infant care but not emotional or parental guidance

How Much Does a Night Doula Cost: Is the Support Worth It?

The cost of hiring a postpartum night doula typically ranges from $35 to $60+ per hour, depending on:

  • Your location
  • The doula’s experience level and certifications
  • Shift duration (usually 8–12 hours per night)

Is It Worth It?

For most families, the answer is yes. A night doula supports sleep, emotional regulation and bonding, elements that shape your first months as a parent.

Benefits include:

  • Improved rest and mental health
  • Stronger infant-parent attachment
  • Greater confidence and calmness during nighttime challenges

Some employers or FSA/HSA plans may offer reimbursement ask your agency or doula provider about options.

If you’re concerned about affording a night doula in addition to your overall surrogacy costs, learn more about affording surrogacy today.

How to Find a Night Doula Who Understands Surrogacy

Choosing a postpartum night doula who understands the emotional dynamics of surrogacy is key.

Look for doulas with:

  • Experience supporting intended parents and non-gestational families
  • Familiarity with assisted reproduction and donor/lactation complexities
  • Cultural competence and inclusive care (LGBTQIA+, single parent, etc.)
  • Strong communication, empathy, and active listening skills
  • Certification from programs like DONA International or CAPPA

Ask for references and trust your gut. The right doula will feel like a steady hand and a soft landing.

Find a Postpartum Night Doula Near Me

Here are some directories where you can search for certified professionals:

You can also find discussions and reviews on Reddit, surrogacy forums and local parenting groups where intended parents share real-world recommendations.

When the Birth Is Over, the Journey Continues

The birth may be over, but the parenting journey is just beginning. We understand what it means to become a parent through surrogacy and how essential postpartum night doula support can be in helping you settle into your new role with grace and confidence.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you find the right night doula and build a support plan that honors your surrogacy journey.

Red Light Therapy During IVF: Can It Help? And What If It Doesn’t?

Explore how red light therapy during IVF may help and what to do next, including surrogacy, if IVF still doesn’t succeed.

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) can be life-changing, but also emotionally and financially draining when it doesn’t work right away.

Emerging therapies like red light therapy during IVF offer new hope, but what happens if they don’t lead to the success you’ve been longing for?

If IVF and red light therapy isn’t working, you deserve to understand your next options, like surrogacy. Contact us today to learn more about how surrogacy can be your quickest path to parenthood.

In this guide, we’ll explore the research, mechanisms, and next steps—up to and including whether surrogacy might be the best path forward for your family-building journey.

Is There Evidence That Red Light Therapy  During IVF Increases Success?

Recent clinical exploration of red light therapy (RLT) during IVF shows promising results. A November 2024 study published by the National Library of Medicine examined three women with unexplained, age-related infertility.

Each had a history of failed IVF cycles, miscarriages or poor embryo viability. After undergoing routine PBM treatments in the weeks leading up to ovulation and embryo transfer, each woman successfully conceived and gave birth to a healthy baby.

Here’s how the study was conducted:

  1. Case series of three female subjects with unexplained age-related infertility issues (i.e. failure to conceive naturally beyond two years, multiple miscarriages, molar pregnancy, non-viable embryos from IVF cycles, failure to complete successful implantation of viable pre-implantation genetic tested (PGT-A) embryos)
  2. Previous conditions were recorded and then compared with outcomes after the patient received a course of PBM treatments
  3. PBM treatments were given at weekly and/or at two-week intervals using IR and NIR wavelengths between 600 nm and 1000 nm in the lead up to natural conception, IVF oocyte retrieval, blastocyst/embryo implantation, and/or the production of viable embryos.

However, researchers emphasize that while these case studies are hopeful, large-scale randomized trials are still needed to fully confirm the therapy’s effectiveness across broader populations.

Can Red Light Therapy During IVF Stims Improve Egg Quality or Ovarian Response?

When applied strategically during the stimulation phase of IVF, red light therapy during IVF stims may improve egg quality through several mechanisms:

  • Enhanced mitochondrial function: Supporting cellular energy (ATP) production, vital for egg maturation
  • Increased blood circulation: Improving nutrient and oxygen delivery to the ovaries
  • Hormonal balance: Assisting in regulating reproductive hormone levels
  • Anti-inflammatory effects: Reducing stress on the ovaries during follicle development

Some fertility clinics globally have incorporated red light therapy into their IVF protocols. Treatments typically use wavelengths between 600–1000 nm, applied weekly or biweekly leading up to oocyte retrieval or embryo implantation.

While red light therapy and IVF integration is still relatively new, growing anecdotal and clinical interest suggests that this non-invasive therapy may offer meaningful support for women seeking to optimize each IVF cycle.

If you’re struggling with egg quality or ovarian reserve, learn more about how to choose donor eggs.

Why IVF May Fail—Even with Promising Add-Ons

IVF is one of the most advanced fertility treatments available, but it still comes with no guarantees. Success depends on a complex set of biological, medical and even environmental factors.

Understanding these can help intended parents make informed decisions, especially if they’re considering treatments like red light therapy during IVF stims as part of their journey.

Here are some of the most common reasons IVF may not result in a pregnancy:

  • Embryo quality: Even when fertilization occurs, not all embryos develop properly. Genetic abnormalities are a major cause of failed implantation or early miscarriage, especially in women over 35.
  • Egg quality: Eggs with poor mitochondrial function or chromosomal instability may not respond well to stimulation. While therapies like red light therapy during IVF stimulation aim to enhance egg quality, outcomes still vary by individual.
  • Uterine or endometrial issues: An embryo needs a receptive environment to implant. Fibroids, thin uterine lining, or scarring (Asherman’s syndrome) can prevent successful implantation even if the embryo is viable.
  • Hormonal imbalance: Precise hormonal timing is essential for ovulation, egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Disruptions, whether from stress, medical conditions or poor ovarian response, can undermine the cycle.
  • Unexplained infertility: For some couples, all standard tests return normal but IVF still fails. This can be the most emotionally challenging scenario, as there’s no clear answer to “why.”

Even with support therapies like red light therapy and IVF, it’s important to know that no treatment can overcome every barrier.

What to Do When Red Light Therapy During IVF Doesn’t Work: Next Steps

If you’ve tried multiple IVF cycles, perhaps with supplements like red light therapy during IVF, and you’re still not pregnant, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed.

Grief, frustration and even a sense of failure can cloud the next steps. But these feelings don’t mean the journey is over. They mean it’s time to reassess.

Here are signs it might be time to consider other paths to parenthood:

  • Repeated IVF failures with or without add-ons like red light therapy
  • Medical advice indicating further attempts may be unlikely to succeed
  • Emotional burnout, where the process is taking a toll on your mental health
  • Financial strain from paying for multiple cycles without results
  • A desire to move forward with more predictable outcomes

Whether you’re facing uterine complications, recurrent miscarriages or simply ready for a change in direction, surrogacy may offer the clarity and renewed momentum you need.

Turning the Page: Could Surrogacy Be Your Next Step Toward Parenthood?

If red light therapy during IVF and other fertility interventions haven’t worked, and you’re not ready to continue IVF, surrogacy may offer a new path forward.

With surrogacy, your embryo, created using your sperm and/or eggs or with donor assistance is transferred into a surrogate’s uterus. This allows you to maintain a genetic connection while avoiding the medical complications that may make carrying a pregnancy impossible for you.

You might consider surrogacy if:

  • You’ve had multiple failed IVF cycles
  • You’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss
  • You have a medical condition that makes pregnancy unsafe
  • You’ve had a hysterectomy
  • You’re a same-sex male couple or single intended father

Choosing surrogacy doesn’t mean giving up, it means choosing a new, empowered way forward in your parenthood journey.

Learn more about surrogacy after failed IVF.

Why More Families Are Choosing Surrogacy—and Trusting Us to Help

If you’re exploring surrogacy after unsuccessful IVF or red light therapy during IVF, American Surrogacy offers the trusted guidance and care you deserve.

We are:

  • Family-focused: Founded by people who’ve lived this journey firsthand
  • Efficient: Short wait times and expert-matched surrogates
  • Secure: Prescreened surrogates and a risk protection program
  • Compassionate: Real support from real people who care deeply

With decades of experience and thousands of families created, we’re here to help you navigate this next step with confidence.

Your Journey Isn’t Over: Explore What Comes Next With Confidence

Exploring red light therapy and IVF may offer hope, but if the road doesn’t lead where you’d hoped, there is still a path forward. Surrogacy isn’t a fallback, it’s a forward motion toward the family you’ve always dreamed of.

Let American Surrogacy be your next step in making that dream a reality.

Ready to talk? Contact us today to explore how surrogacy can help you grow your family.

Surrogacy Doula: Why This Support Role Matters for Surrogates

A surrogacy doula offers hands-on birth support and emotional care tailored to the surrogate experience. Learn how they help and how to include one in your plan.

Surrogates give deeply of themselves physically, emotionally and spiritually to make someone else’s dream of parenthood come true.

One of the most meaningful additions to that support team is a surrogacy doula.

Whether you’re currently carrying a baby for another family or preparing to begin your journey, a surrogacy doula can offer emotional stability, physical comfort and advocacy tailored to your unique experience.

Curious how a surrogacy doula fits into your birth plan? Talk to a surrogacy specialist to learn how to thoughtfully include this care in your journey.

What Is a Surrogacy Doula?

A surrogacy doula is a trained, non-medical birth professional who provides continuous support to a surrogate throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum recovery. Unlike midwives, who provide medical care, surrogacy doulas focus on:

  • Emotional reassurance
  • Hands-on comfort techniques
  • Personalized guidance during birth
  • Advocacy for the surrogate’s preferences

The presence of a surrogacy doula adds another layer of safety and compassion to the birth space,  especially in third-party reproduction, where clarity and consent are paramount.

How a Surrogacy Doula Supports Surrogates

Being a surrogate involves unique emotional and logistical experiences. A surrogacy doula understands these nuances and is trained to support the surrogate holistically, before, during, and after delivery.

Before Birth

  • Helps the surrogate develop a birth plan and prepare emotionally for delivery
  • Offers space to process the upcoming transition and expectations

During Labor

  • Provides physical support through massage, position assistance, water therapy and breath work
  • Helps maintain a calm, respectful and empowering birthing environment

After Delivery

  • Assists with emotional closure and physical recovery
  • Supports the surrogate in feeling honored and grounded after birth

Having a surrogacy doula with trauma-informed training can be especially helpful in ensuring the surrogate feels emotionally safe, heard, and respected throughout the process.

Does a Surrogacy Doula Help Intended Parents Too?

Yes, a surrogacy doula doesn’t only benefit the surrogate. Their supportive role also enhances the experience for intended parents, particularly in the emotionally charged birth space.

A surrogacy doula can:

  • Facilitate communication between the surrogate and intended parents
  • Help all parties feel informed and included
  • Offer reassurance and context about what’s happening during labor
  • Support the development of trust and emotional connection in a vulnerable moment

This kind of balance can transform a clinical delivery into a collaborative, compassionate experience for everyone involved.

Doula vs. Midwife in Surrogacy Births

The distinction between a doula vs. midwife is important:

  • Doulas offer emotional and physical comfort, but do not have medical training and cannot administer medicine.
  • Midwives are licensed medical providers who can provide care and monitoring and deliver babies.

Both play vital, but different, roles. Most surrogate deliveries will involve an OB-GYN or midwife and can be enriched by the presence of a doula.

Is a Doula Included in Agency Services?

While American Surrogacy does not automatically include a surrogacy doula as part of the standard services or surrogate compensation, we’re happy to help facilitate this support.

  • Surrogates can request a surrogacy doula as part of their birth plan or contract
  • Intended parents can choose to fund this service as an investment in their surrogate’s well-being
  • Our team can connect you with vetted surrogacy doulas in your area

We understand how meaningful this support can be and are committed to helping you integrate it into your journey.

Contact us today to learn more about how the surrogate compensation and benefits available to you throughout your surrogacy journey.

How Much Does a Surrogacy Doula Cost?

The cost of hiring a surrogacy doula typically ranges from $800 to $2,500, depending on location, experience, and additional services.

What to Know About Costs:

  • Surrogates can request doula coverage as part of their compensation agreement
  • Intended parents often include a surrogacy doula in the budget to ensure the surrogate feels well-supported
  • American Surrogacy can match you with families willing to cover this cost

This kind of proactive support strengthens trust and communication throughout the journey.

How to Choose a Doula for a Surrogacy Birth

When selecting a surrogacy doula, it’s important to prioritize alignment emotionally, culturally and professionally.

Look for:

  • Experience supporting surrogates or in third-party reproduction
  • Trauma-informed or culturally competent care
  • Comfort navigating hospital protocols and interacting with medical staff
  • Values that resonate with your own

A good surrogacy doula will feel like a calming, affirming presence someone who respects your role, your boundaries and your emotional journey.

Find a Surrogacy Doula Near Me

Use these trusted sites to search for a local doula:

You can also reach out to your American Surrogacy Specialist for help identifying surrogacy doulas familiar with surrogate birth dynamics.

We’re Here to Help You Feel Fully Supported

At American Surrogacy, we believe that every surrogate deserves comprehensive support, not just legal and medical, but emotional and physical as well. A surrogacy doula can be a powerful part of that support system.

If you’re interested in learning more or exploring how to include a surrogacy doula in your contract or journey plan, our team is here to help.Talk to a surrogacy specialist today and take the next step toward a deeply supported surrogacy experience.

Getting Pregnant with Mosaic Turner Syndrome: Understanding Your Options

With mosaic Turner syndrome, surrogacy offers a safe, empowering path to parenthood especially when pregnancy isn’t medically advised.

A mosaic Turner syndrome diagnosis can raise more questions than answers, especially when your dream is to become a parent.

The truth is, getting pregnant with mosaic Turner syndrome is sometimes possible, but it’s not always straightforward. Fortunately, you’re not alone and you do have options.

In this guide, we’ll break down what to know about mosaic syndrome and pregnancy, explore your fertility options and share how surrogacy can support your journey toward parenthood.

Not sure where to start? Our surrogacy specialists can walk you through your options if getting pregnant with Turner Mosaic Syndrome has been unsuccessful. Talk to us today.  

Is Getting Pregnant With Mosaic Turner Syndrome Possible?

The short answer is: it’s possible, but rare.

Women with mosaic Turner syndrome have a mix of normal (46,XX) and altered (45,X) chromosomes. This mosaicism can result in partially preserved ovarian function, which is essential for natural conception.

While most women with Turner syndrome experience premature ovarian failure, those with mosaicism may retain some viable eggs, particularly during adolescence or early adulthood.

That said, getting pregnant with mosaic Turner syndrome remains uncommon without medical intervention.

Early fertility evaluation is essential if you’re considering this route. If you have menstrual cycles and signs of ovarian function, your reproductive endocrinologist may explore natural or minimally assisted conception.

The Link Between Mosaic Turner Syndrome and Miscarriages

One of the most emotionally difficult aspects of mosaic syndrome and pregnancy is the increased risk of miscarriage. In one study of 130 women with the diagnosis, only 1 in 7 were able to get pregnant naturally and approximately 30% of those pregnancies ended in miscarriage.

Another study documented a woman with nine spontaneous pregnancies. Six of those ended in first-trimester miscarriage, stillbirth or infant death.

Women with Turner mosaicism who conceive, either naturally or through IVF, face a significantly higher chance of:

  • First-trimester miscarriage
  • Recurrent pregnancy loss
  • Stillbirth due to fetal chromosomal abnormalities

This is largely due to the compromised egg quality and chromosomal irregularities that mosaicism can introduce.

Can You Do IVF With Mosaic Turner Syndrome?

Yes. IVF is possible, but success rates are low. In one study on mosaic Turner syndrome and IVF, 35 IVF cycles among 22 patients resulted in:

  • Implantation rate: 3.7%
  • Clinical pregnancy rate: 8.6%
  • Live birth (take-home baby) rate: 5.7%

Many intended mothers exploring mosaic syndrome and pregnancy consider in vitro fertilization (IVF) to achieve parenthood. The viability of IVF depends on:

  • Ovarian reserve: Is there still enough follicular activity?
  • Egg quality: Are the eggs chromosomally normal?
  • Medical readiness: Can your body sustain pregnancy?

Some women with mosaic Turner syndrome can use their own eggs for IVF. Others may need an egg donor to achieve higher chances of success.

You may consider preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) to reduce your chances of transferring embryos that share any chromosomal abnormalities.

How Does Turner Syndrome Affect Egg Quality and Ovarian Function?

One of the biggest factors in mosaic syndrome and pregnancy outcomes is egg health. Turner syndrome, particularly in its mosaic form, can cause early ovarian depletion, affecting both the number and quality of eggs available.

  • Low AMH levels may indicate diminished ovarian reserve.
  • Chromosomal abnormalities in eggs may result in failed fertilization or miscarriage.
  • Hormone therapy may not always be enough to stimulate viable egg production.

If you’re considering fertility treatment, ask your doctor about ovarian reserve testing and whether IVF with your own eggs is realistic. If not, egg donation and surrogacy remain powerful options.

Learn more about how to find an egg donor.

Is It Safe to Get Pregnant if I Have Mosaic Turner Syndrome?

Even when conception is possible, pregnancy with mosaic Turner syndrome may carry serious health risks. Common complications include:

  • Cardiovascular strain (e.g., aortic dissection, hypertension)
  • Preeclampsia
  • Increased miscarriage risk
  • Stillbirth or preterm birth

Because of these risks, reproductive endocrinologists and high-risk obstetricians often recommend a full cardiovascular workup before attempting pregnancy.

If you have congenital heart or kidney conditions, pregnancy may not be medically safe and surrogacy may be the safest alternative.

What to Expect Emotionally When Navigating Fertility with Turner Syndrome

Facing infertility or repeated pregnancy loss can be emotionally exhausting. Feelings of grief, frustration and isolation are common for those managing mosaic Turner syndrome.

Coping resources that may help include:

  • Support groups: The Turner Syndrome Foundation offers online support and education.
  • Online communities: Communities such as r/TurnerSyndrome and What to Expect Health provide peer connection and shared experiences.
  • Professional counseling: Fertility counselors can offer tools to help manage the emotional impact of infertility and clarify next steps.

When Should Someone With Mosaic Turner Syndrome Consider Surrogacy?

If you’re struggling with getting pregnant with mosaic Turner syndrome, know that you’re not alone and you’re not out of options.

You may want to consider surrogacy when:

  • You’ve been advised not to carry a pregnancy for medical reasons
  • IVF has failed or egg quality is too low
  • You’ve experienced multiple miscarriages
  • You want to avoid the medical risks of a high-risk pregnancy

With surrogacy, you can still have a biological child (with your own or a donor’s eggs), while ensuring the safest path for both baby and mother.

If you’re struggling with IVF as a result of Mosaic Turner Syndrome, learn more about what you can expect when transitioning to surrogacy after failed IVF.

How Surrogacy Circumvents the Challenges of Mosaic Turner Syndrome

For many intended mothers with mosaic Turner syndrome, the dream of having a biological child remains deeply personal even when pregnancy poses serious medical risks.

Surrogacy offers a way forward: a path to parenthood that protects your health, preserves your hope and supports your journey on your terms.

Here’s how surrogacy helps navigate the unique challenges of mosaic Turner syndrome:

  • Bypasses Medical Risk: With a surrogate carrying the pregnancy, you avoid the cardiovascular, renal and miscarriage complications that often make pregnancy unsafe with Turner syndrome.
  • Works With or Without Viable Eggs: Whether you’re using your own embryos or considering an egg donor, surrogacy makes biological parenthood possible even when ovarian function is limited or absent.
  • Streamline by Pre-Screening: If you already have embryos from IVF, a qualified surrogate can often be matched quickly, helping you move from waiting to growing your family faster and with greater confidence.

Surrogacy doesn’t just remove the risks it opens the door to a safer, more supported version of the future you imagined.

When you’re ready to explore that path, American Surrogacy is here with expert guidance, thoroughly screened surrogates and the support you need to take the next step on your timeline.

Learn more about how our surrogates are screened to bring your dreams of parenthood within reach.

Mosaic Syndrome and Pregnancy Is Complex—But You Have Options

So, can you get pregnant with mosaic Turner syndrome? Sometimes. But even if natural conception or carrying a pregnancy isn’t possible or safe, your dream of parenthood is still within reach.

Through IVF, egg donation or surrogacy, many individuals with mosaic Turner syndrome go on to build the families they’ve always wanted.

With expert medical advice and a trusted agency like American Surrogacy by your side, you can write your own story on your own terms. Connect with us today to fast track your path to parenthood.

Natural Cycle Surrogacy Explained: What the Research Really Says

Natural cycle surrogacy offers a lower-hormone option, but results vary. Learn what to expect from each path.

As more families seek low-intervention options, natural cycle surrogacy has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional, hormone-heavy protocols.

These protocols promise fewer hormones and a more “in sync” experience, but are they as reliable as they sound?

Contact us today to speak with a surrogacy specialist about your embryo transfer options. We’re ready to support you whichever path you choose.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about natural cycle surrogacy, including how it works, how it compares to medicated cycles and what success rates really look like.

What Is Natural Cycle Surrogacy?

Natural cycle surrogacy refers to a type of frozen embryo transfer (FET) in which the surrogate’s own natural menstrual cycle is used to guide the timing of the embryo transfer, rather than manipulating her cycle entirely with synthetic hormones.

This approach can feel more intuitive and less invasive for many surrogates, though it still involves some medical support, such as:

  • A trigger shot (typically hCG) to precisely time ovulation
  • Progesterone supplementation post-ovulation to support the endometrial lining

At American Surrogacy, we work closely with fertility clinics to determine if this low-intervention method is right for your surrogate and your goals.

Learn more about the embryo transfer process during your surrogacy.

Do Surrogates Have to Take Hormones? Here’s the Truth

It’s easy to assume that natural cycle surrogacy means no medications—but that’s not the full story. While often promoted as a “low-intervention” alternative, a natural frozen embryo transfer still involves hormonal support.

Even in a natural cycle, most surrogates will need:

  • A trigger shot to force ovulation at the right time
  • Progesterone supplementation to maintain a uterine lining suitable for implantation

Bottom line: Even in natural protocols, surrogates still take some hormones, but much less than in medicated protocols.

Reddit users share their experiences with medication protocols in natural surrogacy throughout this thread.

Natural vs. Medicated Embryo Transfer: What’s the Difference?

While natural cycle surrogacy offers lower hormone exposure, it also introduces more complexity, unpredictability and potential for disruption. Here’s how the two approaches compare:

Natural Cycle Surrogacy:

  • Relies on the surrogate’s body, introducing unpredictability and a higher chance of rescheduling
  • Minimal hormone use; requires ovulation trigger and progesterone
  • Requires intensive tracking with bloodwork and ultrasounds; small deviations can derail the cycle
  • Low flexibility; timing can be thrown off by natural variability

Medicated FET

  • Fully controlled by the clinic, offering precise timing and fewer surprises
  • High hormone use with consistent dosing of estrogen and progesterone for controlled results
  • Predictable protocol with fewer monitoring demands once the schedule is set
  • High flexibility for coordinating schedules across all parties

Natural cycle surrogacy often demands more time, vigilance and patience without guaranteeing better outcomes. Always consult with your clinic to determine which protocol offers the most reliability for your unique case.

Why Natural Cycle Surrogacy Isn’t Always the Simpler Option

For some intended parents and surrogates, the appeal of a natural frozen embryo transfer lies in its lighter medication load and alignment with the body’s natural rhythm.

But despite the name, natural cycle surrogacy is far from hands-off and its benefits can come with tradeoffs that aren’t always obvious at first.

Pros:

  • Fewer synthetic hormones than a medicated protocol
  • Potentially lower medication costs
  • May feel more “natural” or emotionally intuitive for some surrogates
  • Some surrogates report fewer side effects and a smoother physical experience

Cons:

  • Requires frequent, precise monitoring (blood draws, ultrasounds)
  • Offers limited flexibility—timing depends on the surrogate’s body, not the calendar
  • Higher risk of cancellation or delay if ovulation is missed or mistimed
  • Not suitable for surrogates with irregular cycles, hormonal imbalances, or inconsistent responses to triggers

Natural cycle surrogacy can seem like a simpler or more holistic route, but in practice, it often demands more vigilance, tighter coordination and an openness to uncertainty.

Still unsure? American Surrogacy helps you evaluate your surrogate’s eligibility to make the right choice for your family-building plan. Fill out our easy form today.

Natural Frozen Embryo Transfer Success Rates: How Effective Is It Really?

Success rates for a natural frozen embryo transfer are often described as comparable to medicated protocols but that comparison comes with caveats.

While some studies do show similar pregnancy outcomes, those results typically apply to a narrow set of ideal conditions.

Natural cycle surrogacy may deliver strong results when:

  • The surrogate has highly predictable ovulation
  • Endometrial thickness reaches the clinical threshold
  • The embryo quality is excellent

However, these factors are harder to control in a natural cycle. Slight variations in timing or hormone levels, things a medicated cycle is designed to regulate, can have an outsized impact on outcomes.

At American Surrogacy, we help you weigh the real-world success rates alongside your personal priorities so you can make the choice that aligns with both your values and your outcome goals.

This guide explains embryo transfer success rates in greater detail.

Why Some Intended Parents Choose Natural Cycle Surrogacy

Intended parents may be drawn to natural cycle surrogacy for a variety of reasons:

  • Minimizing hormone exposure for the surrogate
  • Positive past experiences with natural frozen embryo transfer
  • A desire for a more holistic process aligned with the body’s rhythm
  • A sense of greater emotional balance throughout the cycle

Surrogates often report feeling more in tune with their body and experiencing fewer side effects, which can lead to a smoother emotional journey overall.

Making the Decision: Which Protocol Is Right for You?

The decision to pursue natural cycle surrogacy should be made collaboratively with your agency, fertility clinic and surrogate. This approach can offer a more natural experience but requires:

  • A surrogate with regular menstrual cycles
  • Willingness for intensive monitoring
  • Comfort with the possibility of schedule shifts or delays

At American Surrogacy, we support both natural and medicated embryo transfer protocols, ensuring that your journey is medically sound and emotionally supported every step of the way.

If Natural Cycle Surrogacy Is the Path, Our Surrogates Meet the Standard

While natural cycle surrogacy isn’t right for every journey, there are cases where fertility clinics will recommend it, especially if the surrogate has a consistent history of ovulation and previous success with frozen embryo transfers.

If your clinic supports this path, you can feel confident knowing American Surrogacy is fully prepared to match you with a highly-qualified surrogate.

Every surrogate in our program undergoes:

  • Pre-screening and a review of her medical history
  • A physical assessment conducted by a fertility clinic
  • Confirmation of at least one previous successful pregnancy

We work closely with your clinic to ensure that any surrogate recommended for a natural cycle protocol is medically qualified, emotionally prepared and logistically reliable. That means no guesswork, just a clear, coordinated plan built around your family’s goals.

That means no guesswork, just a clear, coordinated plan built around your family’s goals.

Your Next Step: Talk to American Surrogacy

Whether you’re curious about natural frozen embryo transfer or need guidance on hormone protocols for your surrogate, American Surrogacy is here to help.

Contact us today to explore the best embryo transfer option for your family.

Can Hostile Cervical Mucus Prevent Pregnancy? You Still Have Options

Hostile cervical mucus may prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Discover causes, diagnosis, and fertility solutions like IVF or surrogacy.

If you’ve been trying to conceive—tracking ovulation, following every protocol, even going through the physical and emotional toll of IVF, only to face another negative result, you’re not alone.

One possible, yet often overlooked, factor is hostile cervical mucus, a condition where the very fluid meant to help sperm reach the egg ends up preventing pregnancy altogether.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what hostile cervical mucus is, how it can impact fertility, and what options are available, including how surrogacy may help when other methods haven’t worked.

If you’ve been through one or more failed IVF cycles, we invite you to fill out our simple form to learn more about whether surrogacy could be your next best step, or explore our in-depth resource on what to do when IVF fails. You don’t have to face these decisions alone.

Can Hostile Cervical Mucus Prevent Pregnancy?

Yes—hostile cervical mucus can prevent pregnancy by creating a barrier that makes it difficult or impossible for sperm to survive or reach the egg.

During ovulation, cervical mucus becomes thin, slippery and stretchy, designed to help sperm survive and reach the egg. Hostile cervical mucus is a term used when this fluid is too thick, too acidic or contains antibodies that attack or block sperm.

Think of it as an invisible wall. Everything else may be working, but sperm are stopped before fertilization occurs.

Can a Hostile Uterus Cause a Miscarriage?

While hostile cervical mucus stops sperm before conception, a hostile uterus affects what happens after an embryo is formed. A uterus that’s inflamed, hormonally out of balance or affected by autoimmune conditions can:

  • Block embryo implantation
  • Lead to early pregnancy loss
  • Cause repeated IVF failure

If you’ve experienced unexplained miscarriages or failed transfers, your fertility team may explore uterine receptivity through hormone testing, imaging or biopsy.

How to Know If You Have Hostile Cervical Mucus

Wondering whether hostile cervical mucus could be playing a role in your fertility challenges? Here are some potential signs:

  • Regular ovulation with no pregnancy after many months
  • Failed IUI cycles despite good sperm health
  • Clear timing but no conception

Doctors may use several tests to evaluate mucus quality, including:

  • Post-coital test (PCT): Assesses how sperm behave in your mucus after sex
  • Hormone panels: Detects whether estrogen or progesterone is affecting mucus consistency
  • Cervical cultures: Screens for infections or chronic inflammation
  • Ultrasounds or sonohysterograms: Examines the uterine lining and overall anatomy

If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, speak with your doctor or fertility clinic about whether cervical mucus is playing a role.

Causes of Hostile Cervical Mucus

Hostile cervical mucus isn’t always permanent, and its causes may vary. Some common contributors include:

  • Hormonal imbalances (especially low estrogen)
  • Stress and elevated cortisol
  • Autoimmune conditions or sperm antibodies
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other cervical infections
  • Age-related changes in cervical fluid
  • Overuse of certain fertility medications

In some cases, lifestyle changes or medication may help improve mucus quality. But when multiple treatments fail, you may start wondering whether it’s time to explore other options.

Can IVF Bypass Hostile Cervical Mucus?

Yes. IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) is a common solution when hostile cervical mucus prevents sperm from reaching the egg. Since IVF involves fertilizing the egg in a lab, it bypasses the cervix entirely, eliminating mucus as a barrier.

If IVF is successful, the embryo is then transferred directly into the uterus. However, if uterine issues are also present, implantation may still fail leading some individuals to consider surrogacy as the next step.

Is Surrogacy an Option if You Have Hostile Cervical Mucus?

If you’ve tried IUI, timed intercourse, or even IVF without success and your doctor suspects hostile cervical mucus or uterine conditions are to blame, surrogacy may be a powerful option to consider.

With surrogacy:

  • Your eggs (or donor eggs) are fertilized via IVF
  • A healthy embryo is placed in the uterus of a fully screened surrogate
  • The pregnancy bypasses your cervix and uterine environment altogether

Ask yourself:

  • Have you had multiple failed fertility treatments?
  • Has your doctor mentioned cervical factor infertility?
  • Are you emotionally and physically ready for another option?

If any of these apply, surrogacy may not just be an option, it may be your best path forward.

Choosing surrogacy doesn’t mean giving up, it means stepping into a process that’s designed to remove the biological barriers you’ve been battling and give you the chance to build your family on your terms.

How Surrogacy Supports People Facing Cervical Mucus Infertility

At American Surrogacy, we’ve worked with countless individuals and couples facing challenging, unexplained infertility or implantation failure. Our experienced team offers:

We help you:

  • Match with a fully screened gestational surrogate
  • Understand your legal rights and options
  • Coordinate with your fertility clinic for embryo transfer
  • Feel supported emotionally and logistically throughout the process

We also understand how important it is to act quickly and carefully. That’s why we offer fast matching timelines and work with families who are emotionally ready to take that next step.

Ready to Explore Surrogacy?

If hostile cervical mucus or a complex uterine environment is preventing pregnancy, know that you’re not alone—and you’re not out of options.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or facing tough decisions after years of trying, surrogacy could be the step that finally moves you from heartbreak to hope.

Let American Surrogacy walk with you on that next chapter with expertise and real solutions. Reach out today.