For some people, the path to parenthood isn’t easy. It’s like an uphill battle filled with uncertainty, disappointment, and heartache. If this sounds like what you’re going through, know that there is hope. There are other avenues that can help you reach your end goal of growing your family.
Gestational surrogacy offers that new way forward — one filled with hope and possibility. It’s a beacon of light for intended parents longing to hold their child in their arms
Changing Course Toward Your Goal
At this point, the decision to pursue surrogacy probably feels bittersweet — like both a daunting leap and a glimmer of hope. Surrogacy represents a different approach — a new chapter in the quest for parenthood where the dreams of having a child can still be realized despite previous setbacks.
This path is multifaceted and filled with both challenges and opportunities. Shake off the defeat you feel and put on a brave face because you’re about to jump into an exciting and memorable phase that includes the following steps:
Step 1: Acknowledge that all emotions are valid
You’ve been through a lot, so we encourage you to acknowledge and honor the emotions that come with failed IVF attempts. Allow yourself to grieve the losses, the dashed hopes, and the uncertainty about the future. Seek support from loved ones, therapists, or support groups who can provide a compassionate ear and a safe space to process your feelings.
Step 2: Explore the potential of surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy might not be your first choice or what you had envisioned when you thought of having a baby. But it provides an alternative pathway to parenthood where the challenges of conception are shifted from your shoulders to those of a compassionate surrogate.
If you’re reading this, it means you’re already taking the time to explore the potential of surrogacy to fulfill your dream. Keep going. Read personal stories from other intended parents who’ve walked this path and consider consulting with fertility specialists to discuss your options.
For further reading, browse our blog post: Should You Use a Surrogacy Agency? 8 Reasons to Say Yes
Step 3: Learn the role of a surrogate
Also referred to as a gestational carrier, a surrogate plays a pivotal role in the surrogacy process. Unlike traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s own egg is used, gestational surrogacy involves the use of the intended mother’s or a donor’s egg, fertilized with the intended father’s sperm or a donor’s sperm, creating an embryo transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Understanding the responsibilities, rights, and expectations of both the intended parents and the surrogate is crucial for establishing a positive and respectful surrogacy journey.
Step 4: Understand the financial considerations
While the cost of surrogacy can be a significant investment, remember that it’s an investment in your family’s future. Research the financial aspects of surrogacy, including agency fees, legal fees, medical expenses, and compensation for the surrogate. Explore financing options, payment plans, and potential insurance coverage to help alleviate the financial burden.
Step 5: Wrap your head around the legal protections and agreements
Surrogacy involves complex legal considerations to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved. Work with experienced surrogacy attorneys to draft comprehensive legal agreements that outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of the intended parents and the surrogate. Addressing potential scenarios, such as parental rights, medical decisions, and financial obligations, can help prevent conflicts and ensure a smooth surrogacy journey.
Step 6: Make a list of your favorite surrogacy agencies
There are hundreds of surrogacy agencies in the United States, so it’s crucial to research and narrow down your options before reaching out. Start by compiling a list of reputable agencies based on online reviews, recommendations from fertility specialists or support groups, and referrals from other intended parents who have undergone surrogacy.
Consider factors such as the agency’s:
- Experience
- Success rates
- Range of services
- Overall reputation
Look for agencies that prioritize personalized care, transparent communication, and a supportive approach to surrogacy.
For further reading, check out our blog post on Choosing the Right Surrogacy Agency: 10+ Factors to Consider.
Step 6: Build a support network
Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, and professionals who understand and empathize with your journey. Seek out support groups or online communities for intended parents pursuing surrogacy after failed IVF attempts. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide invaluable guidance, encouragement, and solidarity along the way.
Step 7: Initiate the surrogacy process
After you’ve prepared with research, it’s time to contact a reputable surrogacy agency to take the next step in your journey. First up is the initial consultation when you’ll likely discuss your goals and concerns, learn about the agency’s services, and understand the screening and matching process. Expect to complete paperwork, undergo medical evaluations, and potentially meet with counselors or social workers as part of the intake process. The surrogacy agency will guide you through each step with compassion and support, helping you navigate the path to surrogacy with confidence and hope.
As you navigate the path to surrogacy after multiple failed IVF attempts, remember that you are not alone in this journey. Each step you take, from acknowledging your emotions to reaching out to a surrogacy agency, is a testament to your strength, resilience, and unwavering determination to build your family. We applaud you and we’re here if you need us.
To see if we’re the right surrogacy agency for you, learn more about us.
For more information, explore our additional resources:
- Intended Parents: How to Prepare for the Surrogacy Journey
- Gestational Surrogacy Success Rates
- Can Anyone Get a Surrogate?
- What is the Surrogacy Process? A Step-By-Step Guide
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.
