Surrogacy Paths: Independent, Most Agencies, and American Surrogacy
Navigating the surrogacy journey can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding the different paths available. This article breaks down the key differences between independent surrogacy, most surrogacy agencies, and American Surrogacy to help you make an informed decision.
Independent Surrogacy Journey
Independent surrogacy is often chosen by families who already know a surrogate, such as a friend or family member, which can save them from paying agency matching fees. However, while this path may seem cost-effective initially, it carries significant risks:
Independent surrogacy comes with a high failure rate of surrogates who may be unable to pass the necessary qualifications. Without the structured prescreening offered by agencies, families often find themselves repeatedly going through screening cycles. Each failed screening comes with costs, including medical, psychological, and legal fees. The lack of a robust prescreening process puts families at greater risk of incurring repeated expenses. Finding a qualified surrogate independently can be time-consuming, and each failure extends the wait, delaying the journey to parenthood.
While independent surrogacy can save on matching fees, the lack of thorough prescreening and potential for repeated failures make it a financially and emotionally risky choice for many families.
Most Surrogacy Agencies
Many surrogacy agencies may offer enticing options such as little to no upfront fees, but there are hidden drawbacks that can ultimately put families at financial risk:
- Low Marketing Investment: Agencies that advertise low fees often do not invest enough in marketing to reach a larger pool of surrogates. This results in a limited pool of candidates, reducing the chances of finding a qualified surrogate.
- Under-Screened Surrogates: Without rigorous prescreening, surrogates are more likely to fail the screening process later, leading families to go through the matching process multiple times.
- Repaying Fees and Long Wait Times: When a surrogate fails to qualify, families may find themselves repaying matching and screening fees repeatedly. Additionally, a limited pool of surrogates means longer wait times, delaying the journey to parenthood and increasing emotional strain.
Although these agencies may seem appealing due to lower upfront costs, the hidden financial and emotional costs related to surrogate screening failures and prolonged waits can add up significantly.
Here is an example of the emotionally and financially draining loop families get caught in when working with other agencies that fail to market and thoroughly screen surrogates while luring families with little to no upfront fees.
American Surrogacy
American Surrogacy stands apart by prioritizing the protection and success of families through comprehensive services:
We ensure that every surrogate undergoes a rigorous social, medical, and psychological evaluation before being matched. This thorough prescreening reduces the risk of disqualifications later in the process, saving families from repeated costs and emotional setbacks. Our commitment to extensive marketing allows us to reach a larger pool of qualified surrogates. By having a broad selection of candidates, we increase the likelihood of a successful match while reducing wait times. We maintain a near 1:1 ratio of families to surrogates, keeping our average wait times between 1 to 6 months. This balanced approach ensures that families do not face long delays or competition for surrogates, providing a smoother path to parenthood. At American Surrogacy, we are committed to full transparency in our fees. We protect families from hidden costs that can arise from surrogate screening failures or disqualifications, ensuring that your financial investment is secure.
By offering thorough screening, proactive marketing, and a balanced family-to-surrogate ratio, American Surrogacy provides a safer, more reliable path for families. Our focus is on helping you achieve your dream of becoming a parent with fewer risks, less uncertainty, and without the burden of unexpected costs.
The Best Path for Your Family
Choosing the right surrogacy path is a significant decision that impacts both your financial investment and emotional well-being. Independent surrogacy may offer initial cost savings, but the high failure rates and risks of long waits make it a challenging path. Most agencies might seem appealing with lower upfront costs, but hidden risks related to inadequate marketing and screening can lead to repeated expenses and delays.
American Surrogacy offers a comprehensive approach designed to protect families from hidden costs, reduce wait times, and provide a higher chance of success. By thoroughly prescreening surrogates, investing in marketing, and maintaining a balanced ratio of families to surrogates, we make your journey to parenthood smoother, faster, and more secure.