Helpful Information About Surrogacy

Provided by American Surrogacy

There has been a surge of interest in surrogacy due to recent remarks made by Pope Francis. As a surrogacy agency, we hope to provide helpful information to anyone who is now interested in this family-building method.  

This process can be complex, and many are unfamiliar with how it works. Here are helpful links to learn more about surrogacy: 

Common Questions and Topics: 

How do surrogates get pregnant? 

A history of surrogacy in the U.S. 

Do surrogates share DNA with the baby? 

A guide to surrogate compensation 

What are the requirements to become a surrogate? 

Surrogacy laws by state 

Surrogacy definitions and term to know 

Trustworthy Websites: 

Surrogate.com 

American Surrogacy 

Yale Medicine  

American Society for Reproductive Medicine 

Our Statement on Surrogacy as a Family-Building Method 

American Surrogacy believes that family is a human right. Everyone who dreams of starting or growing a family deserves the opportunity to see that dream fulfilled. For many couples and individuals, this is not possible on their own. While other alternative family-building methods, such as adoption or medical interventions, may be right for some, surrogacy is the best path for others. 

In response to this, many brave women decide to become surrogates. They do this out of a deep desire to help create families, because surrogates know that there are people who could never have a family without them. They act on this belief, and the service they provide is life-changing. 

As a surrogacy agency, our role is to provide support, services and education to those who wish to complete this process. In the U.S., surrogacy is governed by state laws, and such laws are present in nearly all 50 states. We are deeply committed to completing safe, legal and ethical surrogacy journeys. Our clients experience a process overseen by qualified professionals, ranging from social workers to medical professionals to licensed counselors. From start to finish, all parties’ best interests are our first priority. 

“One of the most rewarding parts of my role for the past decade has been seeing the way surrogacy empowers women who choose to become gestational carriers,” said Angie Newkirk, Program Director of American Surrogacy. “These women are doing something truly amazing. It not only changes the life of the family they work with, but it also changes their own lives for the better.” 

Surrogacy is a celebration of family, made possible through the courageous and loving action of women who choose to become gestational carriers. For the past decade, it has been our joy and privilege to help create many families, and we look forward to creating many more. 

How Do Surrogates Get Paid?

Are you wondering how do surrogates get paid? Discover how much surrogate compensation you can receive when you work with American Surrogacy.

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most remarkable experiences that you’ll ever have. You get to play a part in helping intended parents fulfill their dreams of having a child. On top of the emotional rewards, you’ll also be paid to be a surrogate for your dedication, time and commitment throughout the surrogacy journey.

To see how much you can get paid to be a surrogate, contact us online now to speak with a specialist.

At American Surrogacy, we offer competitive surrogate compensation you won’t find at any other agency. But how do we do it? Here’s how you can get paid to be a surrogate.

How Do Surrogates Get Paid?

Surrogate pay structures typically consist of two main components: base pay and additional compensation. We take pride in offering complete clarity and transparency to help you get paid to be a surrogate. Surrogate compensation is structured to cover different aspects of your journey including:

Base Surrogate Pay

Base pay shapes the foundation of how you get paid to be a surrogate. This surrogate payment schedule is divided into 10 equal payments, beginning once the pregnancy is confirmed. These consistent payments provide financial stability throughout the pregnancy.

Once the surrogacy contracts are signed, and the medical process begins, you can also be paid to be a surrogate with a monthly stipend to cover out-of-pocket expenses. This stipend can help you manage day-to-day costs associated with the surrogacy journey.

Additional Surrogate Compensation

Along with base pay, you can also be paid to be a surrogate through additional compensation that covers various expenses incurred throughout the surrogacy process. This includes surrogate pay that covers:

  • Fertility medications
  • Embryo transfers
  • Travel expenses
  • Lost wages (if applicable)
  • Maternity clothes
  • Counseling
  • And more

This extra compensation acknowledges your efforts and commitments beyond the standard pay structure to help you as you navigate your surrogate journey.

Factors Influencing Surrogate Compensation

If you’re wondering “how do surrogates get paid?” there are several factors that influence how you get paid to be a surrogate:

  • Experience: Experienced surrogates often earn higher compensation due to their familiarity with the process and reduced associated risks.
  • Income: The income level of the surrogate can influence the compensation range.
  • Agency: Agencies like American Surrogacy offer competitive compensation ranging from $50,000 to $110,000, based on various factors.

7 FAQs about Surrogate Pay

Still wondering “how do surrogates get paid?” below are some of the most common questions women have about surrogate compensation to help you understand the process better.

How much do surrogates make per baby?
If you’re carrying multiples, you may have the opportunity to earn an additional $10,000 in compensation due to the increased complexity and demands of a multiples pregnancy.

Do surrogates get paid before or after?

Surrogates receive compensation according to the agreed-upon surrogate payment schedule, with payments typically starting after confirmation of pregnancy.

How do payments work for surrogacy?

Payments are often structured, including base pay divided into installments and additional compensation. You’ll also receive a monthly stipend divided into 10 payments.

Do surrogates get paid if they don’t carry to term?

In the unfortunate event of a miscarriage, you will still get paid to be a surrogate by receiving partial pay. Although this can be devastating, it doesn’t mean the end of your journey. You can still try again if you and the intended parents agree on it.

How much do surrogates get paid monthly?

The monthly stipend varies but typically covers reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred during the surrogacy process. For example, if your base pay is $75,000, you’ll receive 10 monthly payments of $7,500.

When do surrogates get paid?

Payments are usually made according to the agreed-upon surrogate payment schedule outlined in the contract, with the payments beginning once the pregnancy is confirmed.

How do surrogate mothers get paid?

Payments are often facilitated by an escrow company we partner with, ensuring timely and secure transactions for the surrogate.

If you have any additional questions about how much you can get paid to be a surrogate, contact us today to speak with a surrogate specialist.

Your Guide to Pre-Birth Orders in Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a life-changing journey toward achieving your dreams of parenthood. Having an understanding of how to establish your parentage to your little one is an important component of the surrogacy process.

Surrogacy currently isn’t regulated on a federal level, so each state has their own set of surrogacy laws. Because of this, the legal steps needed to establish parentage can vary.

While state’s laws vary, it’s important to familiarize yourself on how to establish your parental rights. Your surrogacy specialist and lawyer will play an important role in this process. While this guide shouldn’t be taken as legal advice, we’re here to explain everything you need to know about pre-birth orders to help you embark on the legal journey of surrogacy with confidence. 

If you have any questions about the legal process of surrogacy, then contact us online now to connect with a trusted surrogate specialist.

What is a Pre-Birth Order and How Does it Work?

Pre-birth orders in surrogacy are legal documents that establish you as the legal parents of your child born through surrogacy before the birth takes place. These orders are crucial in ensuring a smooth and legal transition of parental rights from the surrogate mother to the intended parents.

The process involves a court petition where you request to be recognized as the legal parents of your unborn child. This process varies depending on the jurisdiction, and in some places, it may involve strict requirements such as a genetic connection between one or both intended parents.

What Happens After a Pre-Birth Parentage Order is Granted?

Once a pre-birth parentage order is granted, it provides legal protection for the intended parents, helping to avoid potential custody disputes or legal challenges after the child is born. These orders are an important part in the surrogacy process as they help create a clear legal framework for all parties involved.

It ensures your child’s best interests are protected and that you can assume full responsibility of your child once they’re born.

How to Get a Pre-Birth Order

In order to file a pre-birth order in surrogacy, you’ll work with your surrogacy lawyer to gather certain documents. You and the surrogate will sign statements of parentage for the unborn baby, and your will have to complete an affidavit stating he or she completed the embryo transfer for the surrogates pregnancy.

Your lawyer may also file additional social documents and evaluations that were prepared during the surrogacy process. If you live in a state where pre-birth orders are legal, the order is filed around the seventh month of pregnancy, although the process can start as early as the fourth month.

Filing a pre-birth parentage court order protects your legal rights and helps the hospital process move more smoothly by:

  • Requiring you to be listed on your child’s birth certificate
  • Allowing you to make medical decisions for your child
  • Helping resolve any insurance issues (if any)
  • Allowing your baby to be discharged from the hospital with you

At American surrogacy, we work closely with you and your lawyer to obtain a pre-birth order based on your state’s laws. Starting the process as early as possible can ensure all the legal guidelines are taken care of.

What Are Pre-Birth Order States?

These surrogacy-friendly states permit surrogacies for all parents, grant pre-birth orders and name the intended parents on the birth certificate.

  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • District of Columbia
  • Delaware
  • Maine
  • New Hampshire
  • Nevada
  • Oregon
  • Rhode Island
  • Washington

Non-Surrogacy-Friendly States

 On the other hand, these states are generally considered non-surrogacy-friendly states:

  • Michigan
  • New York

All Other States

While some states are entirely surrogacy-friendly and some are mostly unfriendly, most states fall somewhere in between. Surrogacy is able to be practiced in these states, but the laws will differ in regards to the levels of protection for both surrogates and intended parents.

Some of these states are more surrogacy friendly than others. In surrogacy-friendly states, gestational surrogacy is usually permitted by statute or there are no laws prohibiting surrogacy or pre-birth orders. Here are some of the states that are considered more surrogacy-friendly:

  • Alabama
  • Arkansas
  • Colorado
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Illinois
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Massachusetts
  • Maryland
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • New Jersey
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • New Mexico
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Wisconsin
  • West Virginia

In less surrogacy-friendly states, surrogacy may be practiced but there may be legal obstacles or additional legal processes that are required to complete the surrogacy. For example, pre-birth orders may not be granted, or surrogacy contracts may be legally unenforceable. These states often have unclear surrogacy laws:

  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Iowa
  • Idaho
  • Indiana
  • Louisiana
  • Mississippi
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Oklahoma
  • Tennessee
  • Virginia
  • Wyoming

How to Get a Pre-Birth Order

Before you explore the process of obtaining a pre-birth parentage order, it’s important to work with a reputable surrogacy attorney who is well versed in the laws in your state. When you chose to work with American Surrogacy, we’ll help connect you with a lawyer who’s familiar with pre-birth order laws to help you navigate the legal landscape in your state. 

To begin the legal process of surrogacy, contact us online now to connect with a trusted surrogacy specialist who will guide you through your journey with confidence.

Is Surrogate Money Taxed?

You may have questions about how taxes come into play with your surrogate income. In this article, we break down whether or not your surrogate compensation will be taxed.

While surrogacy can create a worthwhile income for many surrogates, you might be wondering how this income relates to an income from a 9 to 5 when tax season approaches.

To get personalized support with being a surrogate and taxes, fill out our online form today.

So, do surrogates get taxed? The answer depends on your situation.

Does Surrogate Pay Get Taxed?

Some agencies or escrow services may send you a 1099 form, which would mean you’d be required to file your surrogacy income. You won’t have any taxes taken out of the income you receive from being a surrogate mother. Which means, you will have to set aside some money or find other resources to pay the taxes on it. Your surrogacy specialist and surrogacy attorney will help you find any resources to ensure you are filing your taxes correctly.

However, you may not receive a 1099 form, which is also somewhat common. A good surrogacy lawyer should include a clause about the taxes of surrogate income in your surrogacy contract. It should include who is responsible for paying the taxes that a surrogate may or may not incur on their surrogate compensation. You should have a conversation about how your income will be taxed and how to handle it come tax season with your attorney so you can be well prepared.

How Does Surrogate Income Get Exempt?

  • Gift – You may be able to avoid taxes by claiming the income as a gift from the intended parents. This is the most common way to make your surrogate income tax-exempt.
  • Pain and Suffering – Surrogacy doesn’t exactly meet the list of excludable injuries listed in Sec 104 of the Internal Revenue Code that describes qualified non-taxable incomes due to pain and suffering. However, some tax professionals may recommend this route. This isn’t the most common way to make your surrogate income tax-exempt., and is not recommended.
  • Pre-Birth Child Support – Since child support is tax-exempt, filing your surrogacy income as pre-birth child support can help you avoid tax liability. Again, this is not common, and professionals are not sure how this would hold up in court.

Talk With a Tax Specialist

You should always talk with a professional in the industry when it comes to sorting out your taxes. While your surrogate income is yours to spend how you wish, it’s important to be aware of how the IRS will view your income. Talking with your accountant, a tax specialist or your surrogacy attorney is a good idea before making any major purchases with the income.

In most cases, your surrogacy attorney will be able to assist you through this process. They will also generally be able to find a reason to prevent you from needing to pay taxes on the compensation.

If you have more questions about your gestational surrogate compensation and taxes, fill out our online form or contact us today at 1-800-875-2229 (BABY).

Disclaimer: The information in this article should not be taken as financial or legal advice. Please contact a tax lawyer for information on tax laws in your state.

When IVF Isn’t Working, Becoming a Parent is Still Possible Through Surrogacy

Are you having a difficult time with IVF? If it isn’t working, then you can still become a parent through surrogacy. We’ll explain how.

You Can Realize Your Dreams of Parenthood

Parenthood is a beautiful journey. You get to watch your child blossom from a baby into a full-grown, wonderful adult, and it’s a fierce kind of love that only you will ever know. Maybe you want to become a parent yourself, but there are complications getting in the way.

You’ve tried in vitro fertilization (IVF), but it just isn’t working. We understand if you’re feeling defeated and upset. This is a lot to go through. Fortunately, though, IVF is not your only option. There is another one that we’re here to tell you about: surrogacy. Parenthood is still possible for you. To learn more, you can contact us online at any time.

What Are the Success Rates of IVF Treatments? [Surrogacy Is Possible]

Today, IVF is a well-known procedure that helps people with infertility issues become parents. It’s becoming more common, but it is also common for people to face challenges with their success rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) national statistics from 2018, 50% of IVF attempts are successful for people 35 and under. For people who are 42 or older, the IVF success rate is 3.9%.

In fact, the success rate actually decreases with each successive round. If you have tried IVF several times and it hasn’t worked, then this could be the reason why. But, you don’t have to lose hope. That’s because you can still become a parent through surrogacy.

What Is Surrogacy? [What You Need to Know]

It’s a term you’ve heard every now and then, and you might understand the basics. But, there’s no doubt that surrogacy can be technical and difficult to grasp. So, what is surrogacy? In simple terms, gestational surrogacy is when the surrogate (also known as a gestational carrier) is not biologically related to the baby that they are carrying.

On the other hand, traditional surrogacy is when the surrogate is the biological parent of the baby that they’re carrying. Gestational surrogacy uses IVF, whereas traditional surrogacy does not. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s eggs are fertilized through IUI using sperm from the intended father or a donor. This means that parenthood is still an option through surrogacy.

What Are the Benefits of Surrogacy? [The Advantages of Choosing Our Agency]

Now that you understand what surrogacy is, you may be curious about the benefits of it. As someone considering becoming a parent through surrogacy, you should think about working with American Surrogacy, the best surrogacy agency around. We offer the most comprehensive benefits and services for intended parents like you.

To give you a better idea of why you should work with our agency, here are some of the benefits of surrogacy that we can provide for you:

  • You’ll know that the surrogate can successfully carry the pregnancy: Here at American Surrogacy, we have an extensive screening process that all of our surrogates must undergo.  This ensures that they didn’t have any issues in their previous pregnancies and that their medical history allows them to have another successful one. In other words, you’ll have the best chance possible of becoming a parent through surrogacy with our agency.
  • You can raise a child from birth: Working with American Surrogacy means that you have the opportunity to raise a child from birth to adulthood. You can also be actively involved in the pregnancy and develop a meaningful bond with the surrogate if you want.
  • You can overcome an inability to have children: At our agency, parenthood is always possible. The biggest benefit of choosing surrogacy is that, if you have been struggling with infertility or other complications, you can fulfill your dreams of becoming a parent.
  • You can feel reassured every step of the way: By choosing American Surrogacy, you can rest easy knowing that your trusted professional will be there to walk you through each step of the process. Surrogacy can be difficult to wrap your head around, so that’s why our reputable team will always be there for you.
  • You can develop a relationship with the surrogate: One of our professionals can mediate contact between you and the surrogate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t become close with the surrogate and get to know them better. In fact, you may discover that you’ve made some new extended family through surrogacy.

If you want to get started on this beautiful journey today, then we would be more than happy to help you out. You can fill out our online contact form whenever you’re ready to get in touch with us. With American Surrogacy, you’ll have everything that you need to become a parent.

What Happens if the Intended Parents Change Their Mind?

You are ready to become a surrogate mother and go through the various steps of the surrogacy process. It is not exactly an easy journey, but it is one that you’re willing to embark on. Because it can be so complicated, you may be concerned that the intended parents will change their minds. We’re here to tell you that there is no need to worry.

If you would like to get free surrogacy information now, then you can fill out our online contact form at any time. But, we have also spent some time putting together this comprehensive article to explain to you why the intended parents likely will not change their minds about surrogacy.

What Happens if the Intended Parents Change Their Minds?

No matter what, you can never legally keep the baby. In other words, the intended parents cannot change their minds and force you to raise the baby yourself. If the family for one reason or another changes their mind, then the child would be put up for adoption.

Ultimately, it is pretty rare that this is something that you would have to worry about anyway. But, in the case that you would, you can rest assured knowing that your newborn would be placed for adoption with a loving, nurturing family. You wouldn’t have to fret over unexpectedly raising them.

So, this means that you will never have to become a parent if you are not ready to. Whether that is through surrogacy or adoption, there is always an option available to you.

Screening for Intended Parents [And How It Protects You]

Because you are a prospective surrogate mother, you are making a significant commitment. It takes up quite a bit of your time, and it’s a big emotional investment, as well. That could be why you were so worried about the intended parents changing their minds.

The good news is that there is a thorough screening process for intended parents. Just as prospective surrogate mothers like you undergo certain screening requirements, the intended parents also go through their own version of that system. This is designed to protect your interests and make sure that the intended parents can’t force you to keep the baby. They will also sign some legal documents that prevent them from doing so.

We would like to reiterate, though, that if for some reason they change their minds, your baby will likely be put up for adoption through a reputable private agency. Becoming a prospective surrogate mother should never have to come with the added risk of raising a child yourself. That’s not fair to you, and this screening process for intended parents protects you from that. Still, it is incredibly rare for intended parents to change their minds at the last minute.

You Can Still Change Your Mind about a Match

On the other hand, you can always change your mind about a particular match. If you have suddenly realized that a family is not right for your needs or preferences, then finding new intended parents is always a click away. There is no shame in going with your gut decision.

If this scenario applies to you, then you can get in touch with your trusted surrogacy professional and search for new intended parents whenever you want. You can sit down with your professional, and you can browse intended parents together until you find a match that you feel 100% confident in. Take all the time that you need to find the right family for you. This choice will always rest in your hands.

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So, what happens if the intended parents change their minds? First of all, you can rest easy knowing that this almost never happens. The intended parents go through plenty of steps to ensure that they are committed to this path. It involves a lot of work, and it ensures that they are as ready to move forward as ever. Even in the case that the intended parents do change their minds, the baby will be placed for adoption with a caring, compassionate family.

This can be a lot of information to soak in at once, so we understand if you have some more questions. That’s why you can get more surrogacy information now when you contact us online. We would be more than happy to help you out in any way possible.

Can I Become a Gestational Carrier if I’m Single?

After you have spent some time researching surrogacy and learning more about it, you might realize that becoming a surrogate mother is something that you’d like to do. But, you might have one big question. Can you still become a gestational carrier if you’re single? Yes, you absolutely can.

If you would like to get more surrogacy information now, then you can fill out our online contact form whenever you’re ready to reach out to us. In the meantime, though, we have put together this informative guide that spells out how you can become a surrogate mother when you’re single.

Can I Become a Gestational Carrier if I’m Single?

You can become a gestational carrier if you’re single. Although it is possible, there are a few things that you need to be aware of. For instance, you will likely want to build a support system. Also, if you have kids, you will have to spend some time away from them if the fertility clinic is in another city.

Becoming a surrogate mother when you’re single is doable, but it requires a lot more planning. To help you understand what exactly this would entail, we have detailed a few things below that you’ll need to keep in mind.

Building a Support System

One of the most important parts of becoming a surrogate mother when you’re single is building a surrogacy support system. Maybe you already have a close network of family members, friends and other loved ones to lean on during this time. But, if you haven’t built one yet, then it can make a big difference in your overall surrogacy process.

Becoming a gestational carrier isn’t easy. This rings true from both an emotional and physical standpoint. That’s why it’s so critical for prospective surrogate mothers like you to build this support system so that you are not alone in this journey.

Spending Time Away from Your Children

Another aspect of being a single surrogate is that, if you have children, you would have to spend some time away from them if the fertility clinic is far away. In fact, the clinic could be located in another city, which means that you would have to find someone to take care of your kids while you’re gone. Maybe that person who can watch them will be in your surrogacy support system.

Having Someone with You for Appointments

For anyone who decides to become a surrogate mother, whether you’re single or not, doctor’s appointments and regular health check-ups are always a part of it. Going to these appointments by yourself can seem intimidating, and it can be nice to have someone else there with you to support you. The medical process of surrogacy can be taxing on your own, so having a close friend or family member with you can be helpful.

This point also plays into building your surrogacy support system. At the end of the day, no one should have to go through the surrogacy journey alone. That’s why having loved ones around you right now is paramount to having a smooth experience as a prospective surrogate. It can help you in many ways that you may have not even realized at first.

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From a general outlook, your journey as a prospective surrogate who’s single is not all that different from someone who is married and choosing surrogacy. The main difference is that you’ll have to do a bit more planning and build a strong support system. This support system of loved ones can help you watch your children and be there with you at your doctor’s appointments.

Remember, you can contact us online at any time to get free surrogacy information now. We would be more than happy to help you out whenever you may need us.

A Guide to Surrogacy Medications [What to Know]

When a woman conceives a pregnancy naturally, her body will produce specific pregnancy hormones to prepare the uterus for pregnancy and create a safe and stable environment for the embryo to grow and develop. When it comes to surrogacy, the gestational carrier will need to recreate these hormones through supplemental and regimented medications.

As a surrogate, you will be prescribed a variety of medications and hormones to maintain and control your cycle to ensure a safe embryo transfer. These medications will increase your chances of achieving and sustaining a successful pregnancy at every stage.

The exact amount of medication and when you take it will depend on a variety of factors such as your own unique needs and circumstances throughout your surrogacy process. It’s important to take all the medications you are prescribed at the appropriate times, as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your medical professional or surrogacy specialist.

Birth Control Pills

The first types of medication you will be asked to take are birth control pills. The fertility clinic will use these to sync up your cycle to coordinate with the date of the embryo transfer. Your fertility specialist will make sure you start and stop taking these pills at the right times so that everything lines up with the transfer.

Lupron

After taking birth control pills, you will begin taking Lupron. You will administer Lupron via injection for just a little under a month. Lupron will prevent your cycle from interfering with the surrogacy process by limiting the release of hormones that affect your cycle. It does this by preventing your ovaries from ovulating prematurely, regulating your cycle.

Side effects: Headache, fatigue and hot flashes

Estrogen

Next up, you’ll add estrogen to your surrogacy medication regimen about two weeks after you begin Lupron. You will be able to take estrogen in the form of pills, twice a day. Sometimes this can be done via path or injection. The estrogen will help coordinate with the intended mother or donor’s cycle, as well as help maintain early pregnancy.

Side effects: Nausea, breast tenderness, headache, weight changes, upset stomach, cramps.

Progesterone

You will start taking progesterone five days before the embryo transfer.  This will be done through an intramuscular injection, rather than subcutaneous. You’ll want to massage the injection site to make sure the hormone is dispersed evenly. After a successful embryo transfer, you’ll continue taking progesterone until your 12th week of pregnancy to maintain a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Side effects: Bloating, irritability, dizziness, breast tenderness.

Additional Medications

Antibiotics

You (and sometimes your partner) will be prescribed antibiotics before the embryo transfer to ensure that your body is clear of any bacteria and prevent infections. This will increase the chances of a successful embryo transfer. There are two main antibiotics you may receive:

  • Doxycycline. This antibiotic may be prescribed to you and your partner early on to treat any potential pelvic infections and act as an anti-rejection measure to increase the likelihood of your body accepting the embryo. This is taken in the form of a tablet.
  • Tetracycline. This antibiotic will be taken a few days ahead of the embryo transfer to prevent infection and rejection of the embryo. This will be taken via a tablet.

Medrol

Medrol is a low-dose oral steroid that may increase the chances of a successful embryo transfer. This medication may not work for everyone, so make sure you listen to your doctor’s directives.

Aspirin

You may be advised to take aspirin in the first 12 weeks to increase your chances of successful embryo implantation. This should only be taken if your doctor approves of it.

Prenatal Vitamins

Your doctor will likely recommend that you take prenatal vitamins before the transfer and during your pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins ensure that you and the baby are getting the necessary nutrients to ensure that the baby is developing healthily.

Every pregnancy is different. You may not take the same dosage of the same medications at the same time as other surrogates. This will all depend on your unique body chemistry. Always be sure to follow your medical professional’s advice and ask questions as you have them. If you have questions about the medications and hormones you will be taking, reach out to your adoption specialist.

What Should Our Relationship with Our Gestational Surrogate Look Like? [3 Helpful Tips]

Finding out you’ve been matched with a gestational carrier is one of the most exciting parts of the surrogacy process because you get to move onto the medical portion of the process. This brings you closer to having the family you’ve been waiting so long to have.

The relationship you will have with your surrogate will be one of the most important bonds you’ll have throughout the surrogacy process. It’s important to have a healthy and supportive relationship with your surrogate. After all, she’s committing a significant amount of her time and physical and emotional energy to this process. It’s important to establish a positive connection from the very beginning.

It’s normal to be unsure about what your relationship with your surrogate is supposed to look like, especially if you’ve never gone through the surrogacy process before. If you even feel unsure or need some guidance, you can reach out to your surrogacy specialist to get advice on how to navigate your relationship with your surrogate. We’ve helped intended parents and surrogates on their surrogacy journey and we can do the same for you too.

You can reach out to a surrogacy specialist at any time for advice and guidance on how to build a healthy and positive relationship with your surrogate. Or you can continue reading our helpful tips below.

1. Show Her That You Care, but Respect Her Boundaries

As an intended parent, you’re likely experiencing a lot of different emotions: Excitement, anxiety, anticipation, etc. But don’t forget that you’re not the only one experiencing a complex mix of emotions. Carrying someone else’s child for nine months can be emotionally complicated, especially when you factor in pregnancy hormones.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to her and see how she’s doing. Make sure that she knows she can talk to you about what she’s feeling or thinking if she needs or wants to. With this in mind, it’s important that you don’t cross personal boundaries. You can be there for her without disregarding her space and privacy.

Checking in too much might make your gestational carrier feel like you don’t trust her. This may make her withdraw, which may then make you want to check in again, feeding into an unfortunate cycle. We understand that as intended parents you wish you could carry your child yourself and want to be as involved as you can. But at the end of the day, your carrier is providing you with a valuable service and it’s important that you respect her boundaries.

When drawing up your surrogacy contract, these boundaries can be outlined. Make sure you adhere to any agreed-upon modes and frequency of communication, and try not to hover too much. This will foster a positive relationship between you and your surrogate.

2. Help However You Can

While respecting your surrogate’s boundaries is integral to a positive bond, also keep in mind that she’s taking on a big physical and emotional commitment by choosing to carry for you. Even if she’s excited to be your gestational carrier and enjoys being pregnant, being a surrogate in addition to family responsibilities, job obligations and other time commitments can be overwhelming.

As the intended parent, you should always offer to help in any way you can. If she needs financial help, be sure to reach out to your surrogacy specialist to make sure that she is compensated in the way she needs. You can also provide valuable emotional support through taking her out to lunch, creating some pregnancy care packages, or take her and her family out for a fun activity.

As important as it is to financially support your surrogate, providing emotional support will strengthen your relationship and makes sure she feels appreciated.

3. Stay in Touch

Even though the surrogacy process will end once your baby has been born, that doesn’t mean your relationship with your surrogate has to end. Many intended parents stay in contact following the delivery, and even maintain a friendship. Some even come to see each other as extended family.

Let your surrogate know that you want to remain in her life even after the delivery, and demonstrate this through your actions. It can be incredibly hurtful for a surrogate to provide you with such an amazing miracle and then be shut out by the intended parents after the process is complete. Of course, it’s important to make sure she is comfortable with contact after the pregnancy.

Your surrogacy specialist can help you figure out the best way to navigate interactions with your gestational carrier during the birth of your child and the hospital stay, as well as how to maintain a positive relationship after the birth of your child.

Having a healthy and mutually respectful relationship with your surrogate before, during and after the delivery will ensure a positive relationship for many years to come. If you have more questions about how to navigate the relationship between you and your gestational carrier, reach out to a surrogacy specialist today to get the answers you need.

What to Expect During a Surrogate Pregnancy

If you are a woman considering becoming a surrogate, you likely have many different questions, thoughts, and concerns. One of the most common questions we are asked is what is different about a surrogate pregnancy?

While the main differences lie in the medical procedure to become pregnant and there being no biological relationship to the child, there are many similarities and differences to consider. Throughout this blog, you will find helpful information about the surrogacy process for women who choose to become a surrogate, the differences you will experience during this type of pregnancy, and what to expect along the way. 

Anytime you have questions about the surrogacy process, you can always call 1-800-875-BABY or fill out this online form to speak with a surrogacy professional. Surrogacy specialists will be more than happy to discuss any questions or concerns you may have and provide the information and resources you may need to help you make a decision. 

In the meantime, continue reading this blog to learn more about pregnancy as a surrogate. 

Becoming a Surrogate: The Screening Process

The number one priority for any woman considering becoming a surrogate is the overall safety for her and the potential child. Because of this, there are specific requirements in place to help protect everyone involved. American Surrogacy requirements include: 

  • Age range 21–38
  • BMI of 19–32 (learn your BMI)
  • No smoking or illicit drug use 
  • At least one successful pregnancy, but no more than five vaginal births and no more than four Cesarean births
  • Six months need to pass since the last vaginal or cesarean birth
  • Currently raising a child
  • No major complications from previous pregnancies
  • Pap smear completed within one year
  • Not receiving state assistance
  • Ability to travel as needed for surrogacy appointments
  • No felony convictions
  • No tattoos or piercings in the last six months
  • Cannot be on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication for 12 months
  • No untreated addiction, abuse (child, sexual or physical), depression, eating disorders or traumatic pregnancy, labor and/or delivery

*Some exceptions may be considered; contact us for more information

Once you have been determined to meet these requirements, you will begin the surrogate screening process. The screening process will vary per each surrogacy agency. At American Surrogacy, screening includes a social and medical history, an in-home assessment where you will discuss your motivations to become a surrogate, any fears or concerns you may have about surrogacy, and more. You will undergo background checks, both general and criminal, mental health evaluations, and one of the most essential steps, the medical evaluation. 

Keep in mind, the purpose of this screening is not to intrude on your personal life but to ensure your overall health and safety, as well as the baby you may carry. During the medical evaluation, a fertility clinic will confirm you are physically able to have a successful embryo transfer and pregnancy. Essentially, it will be up to a fertility clinic to determine if you meet all of the health requirements to become a surrogate. 

Once you have passed all of the screening and medical requirements, you will be ready to find intended parents, complete the legal portion of becoming a surrogate, and prepare for the embryo transfer. This is where the most significant difference between a natural pregnancy and a surrogate pregnancy will occur.

To learn more about the screening process and requirements to become a surrogate, fill out this online form to speak with a surrogacy specialist. They will go more in-depth to make sure you fully understand this process and do not have any questions or concerns. Continue ready to learn more about surrogate pregnancy and what you can expect.

What is Different During a Surrogate Pregnancy?

When you become pregnant through surrogacy, the most considerable difference between natural pregnancy and surrogate pregnancy is the medical procedure to become pregnant and that the baby is not biologically related to you. 

The Medical Process

During gestational surrogacy, pregnancy occurs through in vitro fertilization (IVF). 

IVF combines the intended mother’s (or donor’s) eggs with the intended father’s (or donor’s) sperm to create an embryo, which will be transferred to you, the surrogate. Many different medications may be used to help ensure the hormonal levels are ideal for gestational surrogacy.  To mimic the process of a natural pregnancy, during gestational surrogacy, the embryos are incubated for five days following IVF and transferred to the surrogate’s uterus five days after her mid-cycle. A long, flexible catheter will be inserted through your cervix to place the embryo in your uterus. Depending upon the agreement made with the intended parents, one or two embryos may be transferred with hopes of a successful pregnancy. 

The embryo transfer is a fairly non-invasive procedure that does not require the use of anesthesia. To ensure your safety, you will be required to be on bed rest for 48 hours. Rest and no strenuous activity are suggested for a few days after the procedure. Approximately two weeks after the embryo transfer has occurred, you will return to the fertility clinic for a pregnancy test. Through hormone levels, doctors will be able to determine if the transfer was successful. 

If your hormone levels are positive, you will begin to schedule additional blood tests, ultrasounds, and regularly scheduled OBGYB visits for prenatal care. In many cases, several embryo transfers may take place before a successful pregnancy, so do not become discouraged if it takes more than one try. 

Other than potentially having more frequent doctors visits to ensure the pregnancy remains stable and that you and the baby are healthy, once a healthy pregnancy has been confirmed with your six-week ultrasound, your pregnancy will not be much different than any other pregnancy. Throughout the remainder of your pregnancy, like with any pregnancy, the goal is to remain healthy, eat well, stay active, and enjoy your pregnancy. 

Giving Birth to a Baby Not Biologically Related to You

When the time comes to deliver, the process will be the same as any other delivery. The biggest difference is that you are providing the gift of parenthood to intended parents who are unable to carry a baby to term themselves. Understanding that the baby you have carried is not yours can be difficult for some to imagine, but for others, it is the exact reason why they want to pursue surrogacy. This is why it is crucial during the screening process that you fully understand the concept and legal requirements of surrogacy. 

While many women considering becoming a surrogate have concerns about becoming emotionally attached, the majority of women’s emotions are consumed by the joy of providing intended parents with a child. Nonetheless, this is something to consider as you weigh your options to become a surrogate. 

Contact American Surrogacy

If you are considering becoming a surrogate, we understand there is a lot of information to process. Do not let the medical procedure or the differences in a surrogate pregnancy create unnecessary fear. We are here to help!  

Anytime you have questions, concerns, or want to discuss if surrogacy is the right path for you, call 1-800-875-2229 or fill out this online form. Surrogacy professionals will be more than happy to answer your questions and provide the information you need to help you make this life-changing decision.