The surrogacy journey is a complex and emotional one for all who are involved. A benefit of working with a fertility agency is having a partner who will help you navigate the process with ease.
One of the smartest things intended parents (IPs) can do before the surrogacy journey begins is research. By educating yourselves on the surrogacy process, you can better understand what to expect and avoid any unwelcome surprises. Once you’ve done some research, you can arm yourself for utmost success by following these steps:
Partner with a Fertility Agency
Before beginning the surrogacy process, we highly recommend working with an experienced and compassionate fertility agency. If you’re considering a gestational surrogate (GS) through an agency, the difficult parts of finding a surrogate — and making sure she’s a quality candidate — are done for you. The agency makes sure all of the proper boxes are checked so you don’t have to worry about it.
The first step in partnering with an agency is the initial consultation. Your initial complimentary meeting covers:
- What you are looking for in a surrogate
- How the agency works
- How the agency screens surrogates
- Who will be the members of your team
- What help you will need to realize your dreams
You will also discuss the legalities of where your GS lives, potential costs, insurance for your GS and your newborn, and get answers to any other questions you might have.
Get Matched with a Surrogate
Matching is a delicate process that requires a skilled hand. The right or wrong match can make or break an entire journey. Thanks to our True Match™ program, we have a 98% success rate with matching IPs and surrogates. It’s rare for IPs to turn down their first match.
We are experts at helping IPs find the right surrogate. We take all of your desires into consideration – including how much communication you want (before, during and after the pregnancy), how many embryos are transferred and where the surrogate lives.
Understand the Legal Aspects of Surrogacy
Each state and country has its own laws and regulations surrounding surrogacy, so you’ll want to work with a knowledgeable attorney to ensure all legal requirements are met. There are a few milestones during the surrogacy (and egg donation) journey that require the representation and services of a lawyer who is highly skilled and experienced in surrogacy and Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) law.
Only surrogacy laws in the state where your surrogate will give birth matter. Your fertility agency can provide guidance and referrals to attorneys who specialize in surrogacy. Once you have an attorney, you’ll sign the gestational surrogate agreement, which lays out both the intended parents and surrogate’s responsibilities.
Get Your Financials in Order
When all parties agree and sign their contracts, the surrogate will begin receiving a monthly stipend that will last the duration of their pregnancy. We try to give you, the intended parents, the best estimate of all of the anticipated fees, but each journey and situation is unique, and costs can vary.
Based on our years of experience, we anticipate the total, all-inclusive cost of surrogacy to range from $130,000 to $200,000+. The money goes towards:
- Gestational surrogate fees and expenses (37.6%)
- Insurance, IVF and medical bills (35.6%)
- Professional fees (14.9%)
- Legal screening and support (11.9%)
We offer special discount programs and financing for those who qualify. See more details and a breakdown of surrogacy costs, or reach out to us if you have questions.
Support Your Surrogate
Once your surrogate becomes pregnant, you’ll want to support her in ways beyond financials. You’ll want to be a part of the pregnancy since she is carrying YOUR baby! While respecting the surrogate’s boundaries, you can be involved in some of the important decisions related to pregnancy and birth. Throughout the pregnancy, we’ll be there to provide support and guidance on how to navigate this unique relationship.
With the right preparation and support, you can have a positive and successful surrogacy experience. By working with a fertility agency, understanding the legal and financial aspects, and being respectful and involved during the pregnancy, you can experience a smooth and fulfilling surrogacy journey.
Surrogacy and Egg Donor Services
Since 2004, The Fertility Agency has helped bring over 1100+ babies into the world. We work with all intended parents, surrogates, and egg donors no matter their sexual preference, relationship status, ethnicity, location, etc. Our personal experiences and years of expertise provide us with the perfect balance of business and passion. Contact us for more information.
