Category: Intended Parents

Whether you are thinking about adding to your family through surrogacy or have already started this amazing family-building journey, these articles are for you.

The Egg Retrieval Experience: What to Expect

Egg retrieval is a key step in the IVF process and can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. This article explores the entire egg retrieval experience, from preparation to recovery, giving you a detailed understanding of what to expect.

If you’re considering IVF or surrogacy as part of your family-building journey, egg retrieval is an important first step in the process.

While it is a common part of fertility treatments, understanding the preparation, procedure, and recovery will help you navigate the experience with confidence.

This guide will walk you through what to expect during egg retrieval, from medication to recovery and emotional well-being.

If you need help connecting with a fertility clinic, you can contact us online now to speak with a specialist.

Preparing for Egg Retrieval

Preparation starts weeks before the procedure. You’ll take fertility medications to stimulate your ovaries to produce multiple eggs.

Egg Retrieval Medications You’ll Take

  • Follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH) and luteinizing hormones (LH): Encourage egg development.
  • GnRH antagonists or agonists: Prevent premature ovulation.
  • HCG (trigger shot): Triggers ovulation 36 hours before retrieval.

You’ll administer these medications through injections, typically in the abdomen or thigh.

Your fertility clinic will guide you on how to properly inject the medications and when to take them, ensuring that everything is timed correctly.

Learn more about egg retrieval medications and when you’ll take them during your IVF cycle.

Possible Side Effects of Egg Retrieval Medications

  • Bloating or abdominal discomfort.
  • Bloating or abdominal discomfort
  • Hot flashes
  • Mood swings
  • Fatigue
  • Mild headaches
  • Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS), which can cause swelling and fluid retention (though rare)

Your fertility team will monitor you closely throughout the stimulation process to manage any side effects and adjust medications as needed.

Egg Retrieval Day: What to Expect

The IVF egg retrieval procedure is quick and minimally invasive. Here’s what to expect:

  • Duration: The procedure typically lasts 20–30 minutes.
  • Sedation: You’ll be under conscious sedation or anesthesia for comfort.

Steps in The Egg Retrieval Process

  1. A needle guided by ultrasound is inserted into the ovaries.
  2. The needle is used to aspirate (suction) eggs from the follicles
  3. Eggs are immediately sent to the lab for evaluation.

Since sedation is used, you won’t feel the actual procedure taking place, though some women report feeling pressure.

Recovery and Post-Egg Retrieval Experience

After the procedure, you’ll be moved to a recovery room for observation as the sedation wears off. Most individuals can go home the same day.

Here’s a look at the recovery timeline:

  • After Sedation Wears Off: You may feel groggy, and lightheadedness is common after sedation. It’s best to have someone accompany you to and from the clinic.
  • Physical Sensations: Some mild cramping, bloating, or spotting is typical in the hours following the procedure. You may also experience a full feeling in your abdomen due to the number of follicles that were stimulated.
  • Rest: Most people can resume normal activities after a day or two.
  • Follow-up Appointment: You will have a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery and discuss next steps for your IVF or surrogacy process.

What to Avoid After Egg REtrieval

  • Strenuous exercise for a week.
  • Sexual activity or tampon use for several days
  • Alcohol and tobacco use

Emotional Experience and What to Do If Not Many Eggs Are Retrieved

One of the most common concerns during the IVF process is the possibility of retrieving fewer eggs than expected—or in some rare cases, no eggs at all.

While it’s completely natural to feel disappointment or concern, there are steps you can take to manage both the emotional and practical aspects of this experience.

  • Take Time to Process: Give yourself time to process and feel whatever emotions may surface.
  • Lean on Support: Whether it’s your partner, a close friend or a support group, surrounding yourself with people who understand and support you can help provide comfort and perspective during a difficult time.
  • Seek Professional Counseling: Many clinics offer counseling services or can refer you to a therapist specializing in fertility issues.
  • Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care during this time. It may involve activities that help you unwind—like a walk in nature, meditation, yoga or simply spending time doing something that brings you joy.

What to Do Next: Practical Steps After Few or No Eggs Are Retrieved

While the emotional aspect of a few or no eggs being retrieved can be difficult, there are practical next steps that you and your fertility team can take to move forward:

  • Stimulation Protocol Adjustment: Your fertility doctor may suggest using a different combination of medications or adjusting the doses.
  • Donor Eggs: If repeated egg retrievals continue to result in a low egg yield, you may consider using donor eggs.

Many people who experience low egg retrieval or even no eggs at all go on to have successful IVF cycles with adjustments to their treatment plans or by exploring other fertility options like egg donation and surrogacy.

If you’re feeling uncertain about your next steps, it’s important to have an open and honest conversation with your fertility doctor.

Read About Other’s Egg Retrieval Experience

  • Reddit Communities: There are many subreddits dedicated to infertility, IVF and surrogacy where people can share their experiences, vent and ask questions about the IVF process. Check out r/IVF and r/InfertilitySucks.
  • Fertility Clinic Testimonials: Many fertility clinics have testimonials from previous clients who have agreed to share their story and experiences. Check out this patient’s egg retrieval experience with Shady Grove.

What Happens After Egg Retrieval? [Next Steps]

Once the eggs are retrieved, they will be fertilized in the lab using sperm from your partner or a donor.

The resulting embryos will be carefully monitored, and once they are ready, they may be transferred to your uterus or preserved for future use.

If you’re pursuing surrogacy, once your embryos are ready, we can help match you with a surrogate who is ready and able to carry your child.

With our wait times averaging 1-6 months, you can count on us to help you take the quickest path to parenthood.

If you’re ready to explore surrogacy or have questions about the egg retrieval process, contact us online today or view our highly qualified surrogates.

Epigenetics, Surrogacy and the Importance of Surrogate Screening

Epigenetics highlights how a surrogate’s health and lifestyle can influence a baby’s development, even without a genetic link. This underscores the importance of selecting a surrogate who is physically, emotionally and medically prepared for the journey.

Epigenetics plays a unique role in surrogacy, as the surrogate’s health and environment may impact the baby’s in-utero development.

For this reason, thorough surrogate screening is essential.

Our screening process reduces the likelihood of unexpected complications or delays, meaning you can fulfill your parenthood dreams sooner.

Take your first steps toward parenthood by filling out our quick form or view qualified surrogates now.

In this article, we’ll explore epigenetics, the role your surrogate plays and how proper screening can help ensure a healthy pregnancy for both your surrogate and your baby.

Epigenetics and Surrogacy

Your baby will not share DNA with the surrogate, but through epigenetics, the surrogate’s diet, health, stress levels, lifestyle and environment can affect your baby’s development and how certain genes are turned on or off.

For instance, a high level of maternal stress could impact the baby’s immune system development or stress response mechanisms.

The embryo’s DNA remains the same — it’s the environment in which your baby develops that can play a role in shaping which genes are expressed.

While more research is needed to fully understand all the nuances of epigenetics, it’s clear that the surrogate plays an essential role in providing the best possible environment for your developing baby.

Learn more about our surrogate screening process.

Genes vs. Gene Expression

To understand epigenetics, it’s important to distinguish between genes and gene expression:

  • Genes are like a blueprint or a set of instructions that define biological traits such as eye color or potential for certain health conditions.
  • Gene expression, on the other hand, is how those instructions are carried out. Think of it like the materials used to build a house according to the blueprint — the quality and availability of those materials affect the final product.

Epigenetics and Donor Eggs for Surrogacy: Your Role as a Parent

While you may not have the genetic or gestational connection you initially envisioned, you influence your child’s development as a parent. Epigenetics shows us that a child’s development isn’t just about the genes they inherit, but also how they are nurtured, cared for and supported in their early years.

Here’s how you can promote your child’s healthy development:

  • Fostering a Stable and Loving Environment: Research shows that children who experience secure attachments with their parents are more likely to have better emotional regulation, cognitive abilities, and overall resilience.
  • Prioritizing Nutrition and Health: A nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and adequate sleep are crucial for brain development and overall health, especially during the early years when a child’s epigenetic development is most sensitive.
  • Managing Stress: By managing your stress and creating a calm, supportive environment, you can help buffer your child from the negative impacts of stress.
  • Creating a Stimulating Environment: Talking, playing, reading and engaging in nurturing activities stimulate cognitive development and promote the creation of neural pathways.

How Surrogacy Agencies Protect Your Future Family

Given the growing understanding of epigenetics, surrogacy agencies take extensive steps to ensure the health and well-being of the surrogate and by extension, your baby.

Agency Requirements and Prescreening

All of ours surrogates must meet preliminary requirements such as:

  • Age 21-40
  • BMI of 19-32
  • Have had at least one successful pregnancy
  • No major complications in previous pregnancies or deliveries
  • No smoking or illicit drug use
  • No anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications in the last 12 months

Once they’ve met these preliminary requirements, they then must undergo a preliminary screening process before they can be matched with intended parents. This screening consists of:

  1. Completing social and medical history forms
  2. Review medical records:
  3. An in-home visit:
  4. Psychological evaluation:

Fertility Clinic Approval and Physical Screening

Once you find a surrogate you’re interested in, we will send her medical records to your clinic for approval and she will be required to undergo a final medical screening at that clinic before the match is finalized.

Connection Beyond Genetics

Parenting is far more than genetics; it’s about the love, care and effort put into raising a child.

The bond between parent and child is built through shared experiences, such as comforting a child when they’re upset, celebrating milestones and offering guidance as they navigate life. This emotional bond often becomes the foundation of a child’s identity, far outweighing any genetic link.

Take the quickest path to parenthood and contact us today. You’ve waited long enough to become a parent. Don’t wait any longer.

Using Embryo Glue for Your Surrogate Embryo Transfer

Embryo glue is a fertility treatment used during embryo transfers to enhance the chances of successful implantation, particularly in surrogacy. While it can be beneficial for some, highly qualified surrogates with optimal health may not need it due to their strong chances of success.

Embryo glue is an advanced fertility treatment used to enhance the chances of successful implantation during an embryo transfer, particularly in IVF and surrogacy.

While surrogates are carefully selected for their health and fertility, embryo glue can provide an extra layer of support for couples seeking to grow their family through surrogacy.

If you’re considering surrogacy to grow your family, contact us today to learn more about the surrogacy medical process and how we thoroughly screen our surrogates.

In this article, we’ll explore how embryo glue works, the success rates and when it might be recommended.

Embryo Glue in IVF and Surrogacy

Despite its name, embryo glue is not an adhesive, but a solution enriched with hyaluronan, a naturally occurring substance in the uterine lining that aids in implantation.

By addressing one potential barrier to implantation, embryo glue offers an additional layer of support for those seeking to improve their IVF outcomes.

For surrogacy, embryo glue may be part of the treatment protocol to increase the likelihood of a successful pregnancy for both intended parents and the surrogate.

When it comes to embryo glue and surrogacy, it could be right for your situation if:

  • You have a history of failed IVF transfers
  • You have experienced failed surrogacy transfers
  • You don’t have many embryos left
  • Your budget may be strained if additional transfers are needed

Embryo glue may not be necessary in all surrogacy cases because surrogates are carefully prescreened and selected based on their medical history and overall health. After you match with a surrogate, she will undergo additional screening at a fertility clinic.

View our qualified surrogates today.

Highly qualified surrogates typically have a strong reproductive track record, which means they have already demonstrated the ability to carry a pregnancy successfully.

Embryo Glue Success Rates

The results of a study recorded in a 2024 paper from the National Library of Medicine looked at the effect of embryo glue on the live birth rate for frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles.

The study measured the efficacy of standard treatment vs. treatment with embryo glue for patients 35 years and under and 35 years and older.

  • Under 35: The clinical pregnancy rate was 71.7% in the embryo glue treatment group and 62.3% in the standard treatment group.
  •  Under 35: The live birth rate was 63.4% in the embryo glue treatment group. And 51.9% in the standard treatment group.
  • Over 35: The clinical pregnancy rate was 63.6% in the embryo glue treatment group and 44.6% in the standard treatment group.
  • Over 35: The live birth rate 52.8% in the embryo glue treatment group and was 35.6% in the standard treatment group.

According to this 2015 paper from the National Library of Medicine, the clinical pregnancy rate in the study group was 7% higher than the control group.

It also found a significant difference in the clinical pregnancy rate for those that used embryo glue with previous IVF failure.

Vitrolife, the producer of EmbryoGlue, cited the Cochrane Library, “a collection of databases that contain high-quality, independent evidence to inform healthcare decision-making,” when it came to its products effectiveness

Their review in 2020 stated: “”Moderate‐quality evidence shows improved clinical pregnancy and live birth rates with the addition of hyaluronic acid as an adherence compound in embryo transfer media in ART.”

Embry Glue: Pros and Cons

With conflicting thoughts out there when it comes to the use of embryo glue, consider the pros and cons.

Pros

Cons

  • Success is not guaranteed
  • Additional cost, which can range from $150 to $300 per cycle
  • Limited evidence of effectiveness for all IVF patients

Does Embryo Glue Help Prevent Ectopic Pregnancy?

Although it can’t directly prevent an ectopic pregnancy, embryo glue can help stop it from happening by influencing implantation that occurs properly.

An ectopic pregnancy typically happens when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus in the fallopian tubes. Embryo glue can potentially help this by increasing the chances of implantation in the uterus.

How Much Does Embryo Glue Cost?

The cost of embryo glue can vary depending on the fertility clinic and the location, but it typically ranges from $200 to $500 per embryo transfer cycle.

Some fertility clinics may include it as part of the overall IVF or surrogacy treatment package, while others may charge it as an additional service.

Does Embryo Glue Really Work?

For some patients, embryo glue may increase implantation rates.

However, its effectiveness can vary depending on individual factors. Consulting with your fertility specialist is essential to determine whether it’s a suitable option for your treatment plan.

Get the Support You Deserve

Ultimately, embryo glue is just one of many factors that contribute to a successful outcome.

As you look at various solutions to helping you become a parent, like embryo glue in IVF, make sure you talk to your medical professionals to get the most up-to-date insight and information about products like these.

Fill out our online contact form to find a fertility clinic near you that can walk you through the medical processes and whether or not embryo glue could be right for your situation.

Can Slow Growing Embryos Catch Up?

While success rates for slow-growing embryos may be lower, many still have the potential to catch up and result in healthy pregnancies.

When undergoing an IVF cycle, not all embryos develop at the same pace.

While slower development can sometimes be a cause for concern, it’s important to understand that not all slow-growing embryos are destined to fail.

Once your embryos are developed, we can help you find a surrogate. Contact us today to start your journey.

In this article, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to slower embryo growth, whether these embryos can catch up, and what it means for the success of your IVF journey.

If none or few embryos become viable for transfer, read more about your next steps.

Can Slow Growing Embryos Catch Up?

Yes, a slow growing embryo can catch up. Embryo growth is typically assessed at day 3 and day 5 (blastocyst) of development during an IVF cycle.

Embryos developing slowly at day 3 have the potential to grow and reach full blastocyst development, especially with additional time to culture in the lab.

A slow growing embryo can be associated with less than ideal treatment outcomes, but most clinics will still freeze them for later use.

Read more about success rates of day 3 embryos.

How Many Cells Should a Day 3 Embryo Have?

On day 3, embryos typically should have divided into at least 6-8 cells. If the embryo has the appropriate number of cells and is dividing normally, it is considered to have a higher chance of progressing to the next stage—the blastocyst stage.

If it has fewer cells, it may be categorized as a slow-growing embryo.  

However, embryos with fewer than 6 cells, such as those with 3, 4 or 5 cells, can still have the potential to develop into a healthy pregnancy.

Can a 3 Cell Day 3 Embryo Catch Up?

Yes, a 3 cell day 3 embryo can catch up. Although 6-8 cells are the average number by day three, embryos with as few as 3-6 cells can still develop into a healthy fetus.

Can a 4 Cell Day 3 Embryo Catch Up?

Yes, a 4 cell, day 3 slow growing embryo can catch up. Although the chances of success are lower than a faster growing embryo, additional time to culture can allow it to catch up developmentally.

Can a 5 Cell Day 3 Embryo Catch Up?

The number of cells is a good indicator of its chance to develop into a healthy pregnancy. An embryo with five cells can catch up.

Can a 6 Cell Day 3 Embryo Catch Up?

Yes, a six cell day three embryo can catch up development wise. With 6-8 cells being the average number of cells by day three, it’s well within the range to “catch up.”

How Many Day 3 Embryos Make It to Day 5?

On average, 30-50% of day 3 embryos make it to the blastocyst stage on Day 5. This number can vary depending on various factors like embryo quality, age, and laboratory conditions.

What Are the Reasons for Slow Growing Embryos?

Slow growing embryos can occur for a number of different reasons such as:

  • Egg Quality: Age directly impacts the quality and quantity of eggs. Issues with ovarian stimulation or mitochondrial dysfunction can also impact the energy that fuels normal embryo development.
  • Underlying Health Conditions: This could range from the intended mother having polycystic ovary syndrome, leading to egg that don’t develop normally, or lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, stress and more that can affect the quality of gametes and therefore development.
  • Sperm Quality: Poor sperm motility contributes to impaired fertilization and early development. Damage to the DNA in the sperm can result in slower growth for embryos too. 
  • Embryo Culture Environment: Your choice of professional directly impacts your journey. A laboratory with variations in different aspects like temperature, oxygen concentration and more can impact embryo growth negatively.
  • Genetic Abnormalities: An incorrect number of chromosomes after dividing abnormally or genetic mutations that impact the cellular processes around normal development, genetic abnormalities can result in slow-growing embryos.

Are Slow Growing Embryos Female?

According to this paper from the National Library of Medicine, there was no difference in day 3 embryos in embryo transfers that resulted in male vs. female infants.

Slow Growing Embryo Success Stories

If you are concerned about whether slow growing embryo can catch up or not, there are plenty of success stories out there.

One intended mother posting on r/IVF on Reddit had 15 egg retrieved, 12 matured and 10 fertilized  On the fifth day, she was told all 10 were developing slower than normal and hadn’t yet reached the blastocyst stage.

Another user in the top responses had a similar situation resulting in success.

“All of my embryos were slow growing. I only made day 6 and 7 embryos,” replied the user. “My clinic told me day 6 are their most common. I am not sure if the embryos I transferred were day 6 or 7 but both of my transfers worked and I have a 19 month old and am 16 weeks with our second.”

When your embryos make it to the next stage, you’re one step closer to bringing your family dreams to life through surrogacy.

Contact us today to start your journey and get matched with surrogate who aligns with your needs.

What is the Cost of Surrogacy With Donor Eggs?

If the cost of surrogacy with a donor egg is a concern for you, you’re not alone. Here’s how you can budget for and afford surrogacy with donor eggs.

While surrogacy with donor eggs can be a significant investment, this path offers the chance to grow your family.

By exploring the costs involved, you’ll be better prepared to create a budget that supports your journey.

Considering surrogacy with donor eggs? Fill out our simple form to get an estimate of how much you can expect to pay and a breakdown of what is included in those costs.

In this article, we’ll break down the key expenses and guide you through options to make surrogacy with a donor egg achievable.

How Much Does Surrogacy With Donor Eggs Cost?

Because the cost of donor eggs and IVF are typically not included in your surrogacy cost, you’ll want to know how much IVF with donor eggs costs and the costs of surrogacy with your surrogacy agency.

Egg Donor Surrogacy Cost Breakdown

Egg Donor IVF Cost

The average cost of an IVF package with donor eggs is typically around $10,000-$45,000. This typically includes:

  • Around 6-8 eggs
  • Embryo transfer

Some clinics and egg banks may include these services in the package fee or as add-ons:

  • Storage
  • Shipping
  • Fertilization and thaw
  • Genetic testing

If you need help finding a clinic with a donor egg program or a donor egg bank, contact us today. We can provide you with reputable professionals near you to consider on your journey.

Read our article about how to find an egg donor.

Surrogacy Costs

Surrogacy costs around $150,000-$200,000 depending on the professional you work with.

We offer a transparent fee structure that outlines exactly what you’re paying for.

Through American Surrogacy, you can expect to pay $169,000-179,000+ with our Limited Risk Program. This fee includes:

  • Agency and case management
  • Surrogate compensation (depends on experience and location)
  • Surrogate expenses (travel/lodging to IVF clinic, lost wages, maternity clothes, etc.)
  • Legal fees
  • Medical and insurance expenses

What You Get for Your Surrogacy Cost

One of the ways you can ensure you get the support you deserve is by the professional you choose to work with for your journey.

Working with us means:

  • Financial Protection and Security: We not only offer multiple programs to fit your budget, we offer financial security to protect your investment.
  • The Quickest Path to Parenthood: With wait times of just 1-6 months to be matched with a surrogate, you can start life with your new family sooner. Why wait any longer if you don’t have to?
  • Experience and Expertise: We have decades of experience with creating families. Our staff is comprised of surrogates and hopeful parents who have been in your shoes.

What Affects the Cost of Surrogacy with Donor Eggs?

  • Surrogate location: Surrogates in states with higher living costs often have higher compensation rates.
  • Surrogate experience: Surrogates with prior experience are typically paid more for their proven track record of success.
  • Clinic rates for IVF and donor egg services: IVF clinics’ rates for egg retrieval, genetic testing and embryo creation can vary significantly. Some clinics offer package deals for IVF and donor egg services, which may reduce costs.
  • Quantity of eggs: Most donor egg package costs are based on the cost per egg. The more eggs included, the more you can expect to pay.

Is Surrogacy Covered By Insurance?

Surrogacy is rarely covered comprehensively by insurance, but certain aspects may be eligible for coverage depending on the insurance plan and specific circumstances.  

If you have infertility coverage in your plan, it might cover portions of IVF, such as medication or embryo transfer.

Intended parents often purchase additional insurance policies to cover gaps. This is something our specialists can assist you with and is an expense included in our cost.

If you need help determining whether your policy covers surrogacy or finding gap insurance, we have you covered. Contact us today.

Are Donor Eggs Covered by Insurance?

Insurance coverage for donor egg costs is limited, but some policies may cover portions of IVF procedures, such as monitoring or medications. It’s important to:

  • Check your insurance plan’s specific infertility coverage.
  • Ask your agency or clinic about any billing codes for fertility services that might be covered.
  • Consider supplemental insurance policies designed for fertility treatments.

Affording Surrogacy With Donor Eggs

There are several resources you can utilize to help you pay for donor egg surrogacy.

This can include, but is not limited to:

  • Loans: Traditional businesses like banks that offer loans for fertility treatments and surrogacy.
  • Work Benefits: If you are looking into growing your family, talk to your employer. Some employers provide fertility benefits that help with your cost of surrogacy
  • Grants: Surrogacy can be costly but there are family-building professionals that offer grants for those looking to grow their family but are dealing with infertility issues.
  • Personal Savings: Some families save for years before growing their family. You can use some of your personal savings for this life-changing opportunity or unexpected costs that arise along the way.
  • Fundraising: With technology becoming more and more prevalent there are a number of ways to fundraise to help grow your family. There are traditional avenues like benefits or community events that can help raise money as well as newer avenues online like GoFundMe or Kickstarter.
  • Equity: A HELOC is a common source of funding for surrogacy. You only pay it back when you start using it and the limits for a HELOC are typically much higher than credit cards.

Contact us online to learn more about financially preparing for surrogacy with donor eggs.  

Intended Parents Fee Estimate

Infertility During the Holidays: Finding Support

The holiday season can amplify the emotional challenges of infertility, making it a difficult time for many. Whether you’re seeking emotional support or exploring family-building options, you’re not alone on this journey.

For those struggling with infertility during the holidays, the pressure to celebrate and be joyful can feel overwhelming.

Infertility during the holidays is hard, but there are options available to help you find hope and healing.

We’re here to provide the support and resources you need to explore your options and take the next steps toward building your family. Reach out today to learn more about how we can support you on your path to parenthood.

In this blog post, we’ll explore ways to cope with infertility during the holidays and how surrogacy can offer a new opportunity for your family-building journey.

Infertility During the Holidays: Finding Hope

The holiday season is traditionally centered on family gatherings, festive traditions and connecting with loved ones.

If you’re struggling with infertility during holidays, these occasions can often feel emotionally overwhelming.

Conversations about children, pregnancy announcements and even well-meaning questions about when you’ll have a baby can trigger painful feelings.

How to Deal With Infertility During the Holidays

Every individual’s experience with infertility during the holidays is unique. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are several strategies that can help you navigate this challenging time. Here are some suggestions for coping with infertility during the holidays:

  • Set Boundaries: It’s okay to say no to certain events if they are too painful. Be selective about the gatherings you attend and take time to prioritize your emotional well-being.
  • Practice Self-Care: Use the holiday season to engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether it’s taking a quiet walk, visiting a favorite spot, or enjoying a peaceful evening at home.
  • Seek Professional Support: Talking to a counselor or infertility support group can provide much-needed guidance and understanding during this emotional time.

RESOLVE, the national infertility association, gives these eight tips for coping with infertility:

  1. Connect with your support system.
  2. Give yourself permission to grieve and be angry.
  3. Give your partner permission to cope in their way.
  4. Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings.
  5. Seek out information and education about infertility.
  6. Find a community of people who understand what you’re going through.

Getting Through the Holidays with Infertility: How to Prepare

The holiday season often comes with high expectations—both internal and external—about celebrating and spending quality time together. These pressures, combined with infertility during the holidays, can feel especially taxing.

While you may not be able to avoid certain situations, there are strategies to help you prepare emotionally:

  • Holiday Invitations: Say yes to what you are comfortable with. You may choose to skip events with a lot of children or pregnant women if that triggers pain. It’s OK to prioritize your mental health during this time.
  • Family and Friend Visits: If you must visit family with young children, plan your time wisely. Consider arriving early and leaving early, or spending time with family who may not have kids around.
  • Personal Time: Give yourself a break from holiday stress. Spend time doing something that makes you feel grounded, like visiting a favorite childhood place or taking a long walk with your dog.
  • Share Your Feelings: If you’re comfortable, talk to friends or family members in advance about your fertility journey. Let them know how to best support you and practice responses to difficult or insensitive questions.

Surrogacy: A New Path for the New Year

The emotional journey you’re on is deeply personal, and it’s okay if you’re not ready to take the next step right now.

However, for those who do consider surrogacy as an option, it can offer the hope of spending more future holidays with your child.

Surrogacy offers hope for:

  • Those dealing with infertility
  • LGBT+ couples
  • Couples with health issues that make pregnancy impossible or dangerous

Surrogacy allows you to take control of your family-building journey by matching with a surrogate in an average of 1-6 months, bringing you closer to the possibility of welcoming your little one into your life.

Starting the surrogacy process now means more opportunities to create lasting memories with your child in the future. Fill out our simple form.

If you’re not ready, that’s okay. We’ll be here when you are.

Infertility Support During the Holidays

When it comes to surviving the holidays with infertility, you don’t have to do it alone.

  • RESOLVE: RESOLVE is the national infertility association, a nonprofit that can connect you with the help you deserve, from finding a specific type of support group to other helpful resources and advice from those that have walked in your shoes.
  • R/Infertility: R/infertility is a forum on Reddit that deals with “primary or secondary infertility, social infertility, pregnancy loss after infertility, and/or recurrent loss,” connecting you with others that are dealing with infertility.
  • American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM): ASRM manages a website that has resources to help with coping with infertility grief from patient stories and frequently asked questions to podcasts and videos on various topics surrounding infertility.
  • Infertility Support Group: This is a 10 thousand member strong Facebook group where men and women support each other in their situations with infertility. 

No matter where you are when it comes to growing your family through surrogacy, we’re here for you too. In fact, you may want to check in on our Instagram page. Our community is full of surrogates and intended parents like you.

If you need to create embryos, we can connect you with reputable fertility clinics that are located close to where you are.

If cost is a concern for you, we have different tiered programs to address the different costs that come with surrogacy.

What’s Next?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by infertility during the holidays, know that you’re not alone. Reach out today.

We’re here to connect you with the support you deserve, whether it’s counseling, support groups or starting the surrogacy process. Let us help you take the first steps toward turning your dreams of parenthood into reality.

How You Can Avoid Going into Debt for IVF

Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood that may save you from the financial strain of failed IVF attempts. If you’re worried about going into debt for IVF on your surrogacy journey, there are options to explore.

For many, in vitro fertilization (IVF) feels like the only hope to grow their family, even if it means taking on significant debt.

Whether you’re worried about affording IVF and surrogacy or traditional IVF has already led to financial strain without success, know that IVF debt doesn’t have to be part of your journey.

Learn more about how we can help you have the family you’ve always dreamed of while protecting your budget in the process. Contact us today.

In this article we will explore the potential risks of going into debt for IVF, the cost efficiency of surrogacy and the financial options available to you.

Financial Realities of Going into Debt for IVF

When natural conception isn’t an option, IVF offers hope. However, this hope often comes at a price. The average cost of one IVF cycle ranges from $12,000 to $15,000, and most people require multiple cycles to achieve success.

While debt can feel like a necessary step to achieving parenthood, it’s important to understand the risks involved:

  • High-Interest Debt: Credit cards and personal loans often carry high interest rates, compounding the amount owed over time.
  • Emotional Stress: Financial strain can add to the emotional toll of IVF, especially if the treatment isn’t successful.
  • Long-Term Financial Instability: Accumulating debt for IVF can affect future financial goals, such as buying a home, saving for retirement, or providing for your child’s needs if the process is successful.

For many intended parents, the financial strain doesn’t stop at IVF. If surrogacy becomes necessary after unsuccessful attempts, it adds to the overall costs. As a result, families are often left wondering if they should continue down the ART path, especially if it means acquiring IVF debt.

Do people go into debt for IVF?

Yes, according to survey data, about 70% of people who pursue IVF go into debt to complete their IVF journey.

Surrogacy: A Cost-Efficient Alternative

For those who’ve faced multiple failed IVF cycles, surrogacy can feel like a daunting financial commitment—but it may be more cost-efficient in the long run.

Unlike IVF, where success is uncertain, surrogacy often has higher success rates for couples with no viable embryos or who struggle with uterine issues or health conditions that make pregnancy difficult, impossible or even dangerous.

By working with a reputable surrogacy agency like ours, you gain access to financial protections, clearly defined cost tiers and support systems that make the process more predictable.

To learn more about what services and resources are covered by our surrogacy costs and how we’ll protect your finances, reach out today.

Avoiding IVF Debt and Affording Surrogacy

If you’re worried about going into debt for IVF on your surrogacy journey, there are options to explore:

Option 1. Grants and Scholarships

Many organizations offer financial assistance for fertility treatments. Look into grants like the Baby Quest Foundation or the Cade Foundation.

Option 2. Crowdfunding

Platforms like GoFundMe allow intended parents to share their story and raise funds from friends, family, and their community.

Option 3. Specialized IVF Loans

Companies like Sunfish or CapexMD offer financing tailored to fertility treatments, often with lower interest rates and flexible payment plans.

Option 4. Clinic Payment Plans

Some fertility clinics offer payment plans to help spread the cost of IVF over time.

Option 5. Using Donor Embryos

Couples or individuals who have leftover embryos from IVF will often donate them to other IVF patients. Using donor embryos for surrogacy can help you avoid the costs of embryo creation, while guaranteeing you embryos.

IVF Debt Management

If going into debt for IVF feels unavoidable or you have no more money for IVF, here are some tips to help you move forward:

  • Set a Budget: Calculate how much debt you can realistically afford to take on without jeopardizing your long-term financial stability.
  • Consolidate Loans: If you have existing debt, consolidating it into a lower-interest loan can make payments more manageable.
  • Seek Financial Counseling: A financial advisor or counselor can help create a debt management plan tailored to your situation.

Is It Time to Pivot to Surrogacy?

If you’re wondering whether to pursue another IVF cycle or to shift your focus to surrogacy, it’s important to weigh both the emotional and financial factors.

Continuing IVF cycles while carrying significant debt can leave you feeling drained, both financially and emotionally.

Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood that, while more expensive upfront, may save you from further financial strain of IVF debt caused by repeated failed attempts.

How We Can Help

We’re here to support you at every step of your journey. Contact us today to learn how surrogacy could be the next step toward achieving your dream of becoming a parent.

From offering financial guidance to connecting you with high-quality surrogates, we ensure your investment in parenthood is supported by the best possible resources.

Want to share your surrogacy story, or hear from others like you? connect to our Instagram page.


Can I Get IVF Financing with Bad Credit?

With the right resources and a proactive approach to managing your credit, you can find a way to make your dream of parenthood a reality.

Affording Surrogacy

Starting your surrogacy journey is an exciting step toward parenthood, but financial hurdles—like bad credit—can feel overwhelming.

The joys of parenthood are priceless. Many intended parents face financial challenges and successfully find solutions.

Contact us today to get an estimate of surrogacy costs and popular financing methods used by intended parents we’ve helped have the family they’ve always dreamed of.

You can also follow our Instagram to learn more about affording surrogacy from intended parents who have utilized surrogacy to help make their dreams of parenthood come true.

We can walk you through your IVF financing options, how to improve your credit and other payment options to decrease your borrowing amount.

Can I Get IVF Financing with Bad Credit?

Yes, IVF financing with bad credit is possible. When seeking a loan for IVF or surrogacy, your credit score can affect the approval process, loan terms and interest rates.

Generally, lenders view low credit scores as a higher risk, which can lead to:

  • Higher APRs: Lower credit scores often result in higher annual percentage rates (APRs), making loan payments more expensive over time.
  • Lower Loan Amounts: Bad credit may limit the total amount you’re approved for, which could fall short of covering the full cost of treatment.

Thankfully, there are ways to finance your journey even with these challenges.

Protect your budget from hidden costs with our Limited-Risk program or pay as you go with our Foundation Program. Contact us today to learn more about our different fee programs.

IVF Financing Options with Bad Credit

If you have a low credit score or limited credit history, here are some options for financing IVF with bad credit:

1. Surrogacy and IVF Loans for Bad Credit

Some lenders specialize in offering loans to individuals with low credit scores.
When surrogacy is part of your journey, the costs extend beyond IVF. Specialized surrogacy loans can help bridge the gap, even if your credit is less than stellar.

While interest rates may be higher, these loans are often flexible and designed to make IVF or surrogacy accessible.

  • Where to look: Consider fertility-focused loan companies or personal loan lenders who cater to bad credit borrowers. Look for lenders familiar with the unique financial needs of surrogacy.
  • What to expect: You may need to provide proof of income or a co-signer to improve your loan terms.

2. Payment Plans Through Clinics

Many fertility clinics offer in-house financing options, which can be a great alternative if you’ve been denied IVF for bad credit elsewhere.

  • Features: Flexible monthly payment plans tailored to your budget.
  • Advantages: IVF financing, no credit check required. Some clinics work with third-party financing partners.

3. IVF Grants and Scholarships

Several organizations offer grants to help offset IVF costs. While grants can be competitive, they’re worth pursuing if you meet the eligibility criteria. Here are a few to consider:

4. Credit Unions and Community Banks

Credit unions are a great starting point for those with lower credit scores. As member-focused institutions, they often have more flexibility with interest rates and terms, and many offer personal loans that can be used for IVF costs.

Community banks, which prioritize local customers, may also be more willing to work with borrowers who have less-than-perfect credit.

5. Adding a Co-Signer

Adding a co-signer with a good credit history can make a significant difference.

With a co-signer, you’re more likely to qualify for a loan and secure a better interest rate. Just make sure that the co-signer understands their financial responsibility, as they will be legally obligated to repay the loan if you cannot.

What If I’ve Been Denied IVF Financing with Bad Credit?

If you have some time before starting your IVF journey, improving your credit score can open up more options and secure better interest rates. Here are a few strategies to boost your credit score over time:

  • Pay Down Small Debts: Paying off smaller balances first can help you improve your credit score and free up funds for monthly payments.
  • Keep Credit Utilization Low: Try to keep your credit card balances under 30% of your credit limit, which can positively impact your score.
  • Make Timely Payments: Even small payments made on time can demonstrate responsibility and improve your credit profile over time.

Seeking guidance from a financial counselor or credit repair service can also be beneficial.

These services can provide advice tailored to your specific financial situation, helping you improve your credit score and gain access to more financing options.

Costs shouldn’t stand in the way of achieving your dreams of parenthood. We can connect you with resources for financing your surrogacy journey. Contact us today.

How to Pay for IVF with Bad Credit

Even if financing feels like an obstacle, combining several strategies can make IVF and surrogacy attainable:

  • Use savings alongside loans to reduce borrowing amounts.
  • Apply for fertility discounts or clinic-specific payment plans.
  • Seek support from family or community-driven fundraising efforts.

Get Started

If your finances have you feeling stuck on your path to parenthood, don’t lose hope. Reach out today to learn more about the resources available in your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What credit score do you need for IVF?

The exact credit score needed for specific loans varies, but many loans require a minimum credit score in the upper 500s.

Is it hard to get an IVF loan?

Getting an IVF loan may be easy or difficult depending on your financial situation. However, most couples who pursue IVF take out some loans.

Who is not eligible for IVF?

Women who have uterine fibroids, uterine abnormalities, or hormone dysfunction may be unable to conceive through IVF, as well as some women who have preexisting health conditions.

What happens if you can’t afford IVF?

If you can’t afford IVF, you can seek out options like fertility loans, grants, and crowdfunding campaigns.

One Frozen Embryo Left: Your Options After Failed IVF

Having one frozen embryo left after failed IVF doesn’t mean the end of your family-building journey. Surrogacy can be your path to parenthood.

For many intended parents, the journey to parenthood through IVF can be challenging, especially when faced with having only one frozen embryo left after a failed IVF cycle. There are options available and your dreams of becoming parents are still within reach.

If you have one frozen embryo left and want to explore surrogacy, contact us online now or get help coping with having one embryo left.

Each option carries its own advantages and considerations, but surrogacy, in particular, can offer unique benefits for families in this situation.

Learn more about surrogacy from other intended parents who have been able to grow their families. Follow us on Instagram to hear about their experience.

Only One Embryo Left to Transfer [Your Options]

When faced with only one frozen embryo after a failed IVF cycle, you may be wondering what to do next. It’s normal to feel a range of emotions when you have just one frozen embryo left.

After the emotional rollercoaster of IVF, you may feel anxiety, grief, or even hope about what’s next. Know that you’re not alone, and there are options available.

1. Surrogacy

For intended parents who have experienced multiple IVF failures or have concerns about carrying a pregnancy themselves, surrogacy can be an ideal solution, especially when you have one frozen embryo left.

Surrogacy generally offers higher success rates than traditional IVF, largely because the gestational carrier’s body is carefully screened and prepared for the embryo transfer. This gives your remaining embryo the best chance of becoming a successful pregnancy.

At American Surrogacy, we specialize in helping intended parents complete their family with a highly qualified gestational carrier. Our surrogates undergo comprehensive pre-screening to ensure they are medically and emotionally ready to carry your embryo to term.

To learn how many embryos you need for surrogacy, check out this article.

2. Proceeding with Another Transfer

For some intended parents, trying another embryo transfer might seem like the natural next step.

However, it’s important to carefully consider your overall health and past IVF experiences before moving forward. If you’re still feeling optimistic about carrying the pregnancy yourself, you’ll need to work closely with your fertility specialist to learn more about your chances of success with only one embryo left.

3. Embryo Donation

Donor embryos provide an opportunity to increase your chances of success without starting a new IVF cycle from scratch. This option can be especially beneficial if you’re emotionally and financially drained from multiple attempts.

With donated embryos, you gain access to additional embryos that can be implanted, giving you renewed hope for pregnancy and a growing family.

Surrogacy with One Embryo Left

Surrogacy can be an alternative path to parenthood and offers a lifeline to those struggling with infertility. With American Surrogacy, you’ll be on the right track toward experiencing the best version of the surrogacy process.

If you have one embryo left, then surrogacy can be an option for you.

Candidates for surrogacy often experience:

  • Uterine Health Concerns: If you’ve faced difficulties with your uterus or have been advised against further pregnancies, surrogacy allows your embryo to develop in the healthy uterus of a surrogate.
  • Past IVF Failures: Repeated failed IVF cycles can be emotionally exhausting. With surrogacy, you get a fresh start with the same embryo.

Surrogacy provides a reliable path forward, giving your embryo the best possible chance in a carrier who meets the highest health standard guidelines set by the Assisted Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

At American Surrogacy, we match you with a highly qualified surrogate in just 1-6 months, so you can move forward without delay.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward surrogacy, contact us online now to create a personalized plan with a specialist or check out our list of available surrogate situations to get a head start on your journey to parenthood.

Preparing for Surrogacy With One Frozen Embryo Left

If you choose surrogacy as the next step, here are some important things to keep in mind as you prepare for the process:

1. Legal Aspects

Surrogacy involves specific legal processes to ensure parental rights and responsibilities are properly established. It’s crucial to work with an experienced surrogacy attorney to draft a clear and enforceable contract. We can help you navigate the legal aspects, ensuring your rights are fully protected.

2. Financial Planning

Surrogacy can be a financial investment, but American Surrogacy offers financial protection and transparency to safeguard your budget. Be sure to review all costs upfront, including surrogate compensation, agency fees and any medical expenses.

With our two inclusive fee structures, you’ll always be certain what you’re paying for.

3. Emotional Readiness

Surrogacy is a life-changing journey, and it’s essential to prepare emotionally for the experience. Connect with other intended parents, read personal surrogacy stories and ensure you have a strong support system in place.

When faced with the reality of a one frozen embryo left after a failed IVF cycle, it can feel overwhelming. Surrogacy offers a promising path forward, especially for intended parents who have experienced IVF challenges.

By working with a reputable agency like American Surrogacy, you gain access to highly qualified surrogates, financial protection and a fast matching process to help you achieve your goal of becoming a parent sooner than you ever thought was possible.

If you’re ready to explore surrogacy with your remaining frozen embryo, contact us online now. Let us help you take the next step toward the family you’ve always dreamed of.

PCOS and IVF Failure: What’s Next?

Learn how PCOS can impact IVF success rates and explore alternative paths like surrogacy or adoption if IVF fails. Understand your options with PCOS and IVF failure.

If you’re an intended parent with PCOS, you may have already faced the unique challenges it brings to your fertility journey.

While IVF is a common fertility treatment for women with PCOS, it may not always lead to success.

Understanding how PCOS affects your IVF outcomes and knowing when to explore other options can help you find the right path to parenthood.

If you’re ready to explore surrogacy as a path to parenthood, contact us online now to get started.

In this article, we’ll explore PCOS and IVF failure, the challenges it brings and when it may be time to consider alternative family-building options such as surrogacy or adoption.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects up to 10% of women of reproductive age. It is often diagnosed by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen (male hormone) levels and polycystic ovaries.

Common symptoms include:

  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Excess facial or body hair
  • Acne or oily skin
  • Thinning hair
  • Difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation

These symptoms often lead women to pursue fertility treatments, with IVF being one of the most common solutions. But, PCOS can also complicate the IVF process, making success less likely for some patients.

PCOS and IVF Failure: How PCOS Impacts IVF Success Rates

One of the key reasons behind PCOS IVF failure in women is hormonal imbalance, particularly an excess of androgens and insulin resistance.

These issues can often lead to irregular or absent ovulation, making it harder for healthy eggs to be retrieved during an IVF cycle.

Women with PCOS generally have lower IVF success rates compared to those without the condition. Studies show that while IVF can work for women with PCOS, the chances of success are reduced.

According to The National Library of Medicine, women with PCOS have an IVF success rate of about 20% to 35% per cycle, while women without PCOS have rates between 40% and 50%.

I have PCOS and can’t get pregnant with IVF: Is it time to move on?

If you have PCOS and are struggling to get pregnant with IVF, you might be wondering if it’s time to consider other options. IVF can be challenging for women with PCOS, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other paths forward. Understanding your options can help you decide what’s best for your family-building journey.

Moving on from IVF can mean exploring options like surrogacy. Before making any decisions, it’s essential to consult your doctor and discuss the reasons IVF may not be working for you.

If you’re ready to move on, we’re here to guide you through other family-building options. Our agency specializes in supporting couples exploring options beyond IVF, and we can provide personalized advice to help you choose the best path forward.

Challenges of Failed IVF With PCOS

1. Egg Quality and Quantity

While PCOS can result in a higher number of eggs during IVF stimulation, the quality of those eggs may be at risk. Poor egg quality can lead to lower fertilization rates and result in poor embryo development, ultimately reducing the cances of a successful pregnancy.

2. Insulin Resistance

Many women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, which can affect their body’s response to IVF medications. Insulin resistance is associated with higher levels of inflammation and can further impact egg quality, leading to PCOS IVF failure.

3. Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Women with PCOS are more high risk for developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) during IVF. OHSS occurs when the ovaries respond too strongly to fertility medications, causing swelling and fluid buildup in the body.

This can lead to complications such as severe pain, nausea, and hospitalization, which can impact the outcome of an IVF cycle.

If you’re experiencing repeated PCOS IVF failure, it may be time to speak with your fertility specialist about other family-building options like surrogacy. Explore surrogacy after failed IVF today.

Surrogacy for Couples with PCOS

While IVF can be effective for many women with PCOS, repeated failures can often take an emotional and financial toll. If you’ve experienced multiple unsuccessful IVF cycles, it might be time to consider alternatives such as adoption or surrogacy.

Both options can provide you with the opportunity to grow your family, even if PCOS continues to impact your fertility.

Surrogacy can offer a new path to parenthood when other treatments haven’t succeeded. While PCOS can affect your ability to carry a pregnancy, surrogacy allows another person to carry your biological child.

American Surrogacy prioritizes finding highly qualified surrogates, who are thoroughly pre-screened to ensure the best possible outcomes.  We ask that are surrogates:

  • Be 21-40 years old
  • Have a BMI of 19-32
  • Have had at least one successful pregnancy
  • No major complications with pregnancy or delivery

In addition to these preliminary requirements, all of our surrogates are medically screened by a fertility clinic and psychologically screened by a mental health professional.

Learn more about our surrogate screening process or view our available surrogates now.

Tips for Preparing for Surrogacy

If you’ve decided to pursue surrogacy after IVF failure, here are a few tips to help you prepare:

  • Work with a Reputable Agency: We can guide you through every step, from finding a surrogate to managing the legal aspects.
  • Understand Your State’s Laws: Surrogacy laws vary by state, so it’s important to work with a professional, like American Surrogacy, who can help you get a better understanding of the legal steps involved in the process.
  • Plan Financially: Surrogacy can be expensive, but with our clear fee structure, you’ll be able to be able to plan accordingly knowing what to expect every step of the way.

While PCOS and IVF failure can feel like a setback, it doesn’t have to mark the end of your family-building journey. Connecting with other surrogates could provide valuable insights. Whether through surrogacy or other options like adoption, there are alternative paths that can still make parenthood possible.

Ready to explore surrogacy as a family-building option? Contact our surrogacy specialists today to learn more about how we can support you through this life-changing journey.