Surrogacy for Trans Couples [Yes, You Can Be a Parent]

Building a family through trans surrogacy is an exciting possibility.

You might be wondering how this all works. Can you still use your own eggs or sperm? What about hormone therapy? How much does it cost? These are valid questions, and you deserve clear, honest answers as you navigate this important decision.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about trans surrogacy. Just keep in mind that your journey may look different depending on your body and your goals. If you're ready to take the next step, you can contact a surrogacy specialist today.

Can Trans Couples Use Surrogacy to Have a Baby?

Yes. Surrogacy is an option for trans couples to start a family. Trans surrogacy is a recommended path when one or both partners are unable to carry a pregnancy due to infertility, medical conditions or the absence of a uterus.

Today, more clinics and agencies are offering services that affirm and respect LGBTQ+ families. That means you can find inclusive fertility professionals, attorneys and surrogacy agencies who understand your journey and know how to support you.

How Trans Surrogacy Works

Here’s what the trans surrogacy process typically looks like:

Step 1: Find an egg and/or sperm donor.

Depending on your circumstances you may need an egg donor, sperm donor or both. Donor selection typically involves reviewing detailed profiles that include medical history, education, physical characteristics and personal information.

Step 2: Create embryos.

A fertility clinic will combine the egg and sperm through in vitro fertilization (IVF) to create embryos. Once embryos are created, they're typically frozen until you're ready to proceed with the transfer.

Step 3: Contact a surrogacy agency.

A reputable surrogacy agency coordinates all the medical, legal and emotional logistics of your journey. Your agency will help you find and screen potential gestational surrogates.

Step 4: Transfer the embryo.

Once legal contracts are signed and medical clearances are complete, the embryo is transferred to your gestational surrogate at the fertility clinic.

Step 5: Prepare to welcome your baby.

Throughout the pregnancy, you'll receive regular updates. Your agency will support you through delivery and the transition to parenthood.

Will Hormone Therapy Affect Fertility for Surrogacy?

Does testosterone and estrogen affect fertility? Yes, but that doesn't automatically rule out using your own genetic material for surrogacy.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can reduce or stop sperm and egg production. That’s why fertility preservation (such as freezing sperm or eggs) is often recommended before starting HRT. However, if you're already on hormone therapy, it may be possible to pause treatment. A fertility specialist can help you understand your options based on your specific situation.

It's important to note that stopping HRT temporarily can be emotionally challenging. You may want to work with a supportive medical team and consider counseling during this time.

Medical Pathways for Trans Surrogacy

Your family-building options will depend on your unique identity, anatomy and transition history. Below is a breakdown of typical pathways.

For Trans Women

Trans women can be biological parents through surrogacy. You can use preserved sperm that was collected before starting HRT or during a pause in hormone therapy.

If HRT has significantly affected sperm production, or if your partner cannot provide sperm, utilizing a sperm donor becomes an option.

For Trans Men

You may be able to use your own eggs if preserved before or after pausing HRT. If egg retrieval isn't possible, or if your partner can't provide eggs, you can use an egg donor.

For Nonbinary Individuals

Options for nonbinary individuals vary significantly depending on anatomy, fertility status and their partner's contribution to the process. Nonbinary people can use any combination of egg donation and sperm donation based on their specific needs and preferences.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost for Trans Couples?

Understanding the financial investment involved in surrogacy for trans couples is crucial for planning your family-building journey. At American Surrogacy, costs range from $100,000 - $200,000+. Here's what this cost typically includes:

Surrogate compensation and benefits

Agency fees for matching, coordination and support services

Legal representation for you and your surrogate

Insurance premiums and deductibles

Medical expenses not covered by insurance

And more

Affording Surrogacy for Trans Couples

Finances can feel like a major barrier, but there are ways to make this dream a reality.

We've partnered with Sunfish to make surrogacy more affordable for families like yours. Sunfish is a trusted fertility financing platform that understands the unique needs of hopeful parents. Through this partnership, you can

Explore loan options with no impact on your credit
Apply once and access multiple lenders
Get expert guidance from people who understand surrogacy and financial planning

Other financing options include

Family-building grants (some are LGBTQ-specific)
Personal loans
HSA and FSA funds
401(k) loans or withdrawals

Emotional Considerations and Support for Trans Parents

The surrogacy journey involves unique emotional challenges for transgender and nonbinary individuals. You might face misgendering at medical appointments, concerns about legal recognition of your parental rights or feelings of isolation if you don't know anyone who has walked this path.

These challenges are real, but they're not insurmountable. Building a strong support network is essential for navigating both the practical and emotional aspects of your surrogacy journey. Consider connecting with others who understand your experience and can offer encouragement along the way.

Spaces for visibility and community support include:

Support groups like the Queer and Trans Parent Support Group through Postpartum Support International
Online communities like r/queerception, r/ftm and r/MtF subreddits where you can connect with others sharing similar experiences
Hotlines such as the surrogacy hotline at 1-800-875-BABY and Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860

Working with LGBTQ+-affirming fertility clinics and surrogacy agencies also makes a significant difference in your emotional well-being throughout the process. These professionals understand the specific challenges you might face and can provide appropriate support and advocacy.

Ready to Build Your Family?

Your gender identity doesn't limit your ability to be a loving parent. You deserve to grow your family with support that fully sees and affirms who you are.

Whether you're using your own genetic material, working with donors or navigating the complexities of hormone therapy and fertility preservation, supportive professionals are here to guide you through each step. Get free information about your surrogacy options today and discover how we can support your path to parenthood.