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.

What Does Alabama’s IVF Ruling Mean for Surrogacy?

The Alabama Supreme Court’s recent IVF ruling has raised questions among intended parents in the state about whether their surrogacy journey will be affected.


On February 16, the Alabama Supreme Court ruled that embryos created through IVF can be considered children under the state’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act.

“…to all unborn children without limitation. And that includes unborn children who are not located in utero at the time they are killed.” Read more about the ruling.

Following the ruling, many fertility clinics in Alabama suspended IVF services until it is clear how the ruling would affect IVF patients, clinics and providers. Because IVF is a significant part of the surrogacy process, there have been concerns about how this ruling may affect those pursuing surrogacy in Alabama.

Below we’ll break down what you should know about IVF in Alabama following the ruling and how your journey may be affected.

This is an ongoing story that will be updated upon new developments.

The IVF Process for Surrogacy

IVF and surrogacy are both popular family building methods utilized by couples struggling with infertility, same-sex couples or single individuals who are ready to have a family.

In gestational surrogacy, a gestational carrier or surrogate carries and gives birth to a baby for the intended parents. Because of the role IVF plays in the surrogacy medical process, one or both parents can be biologically related to their child.

Embryo Creation

Intended parents create their embryos using their eggs and sperm or a donor’s. This process involves retrieving multiple eggs from the intended mother, or acquiring donor eggs, which are then fertilized with sperm from the intended father or a donor.

The egg retrieval portion of IVF makes up the bulk of the cost, which makes it more economical to create multiple embryos at once. If you tried conceiving through IVF before surrogacy, you may already have frozen embryos.

Embryo Transfer

One or more embryos are selected and then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Since her eggs are not used, the baby does not share DNA with the surrogate.

The first transfer doesn’t always take. Being able to freeze multiple embryos increases your chances of success.

How Does the Ruling Affect IVF and Surrogacy in Alabama?

The ruling did not ban IVF in Alabama nor mention surrogacy explicitly. However, it does set a precedent that IVF providers and patients could face criminal and civil penalties if unused embryos are destroyed.

Many times after an embryo transfer is successful and the parents do not intend to have another child, the unused embryos are discarded.

In the days following the ruling, the many fertility clinics in Alabama paused IVF services out of concern that staff and patients may face criminal or civil liabilities. In an attempt to resume IVF services, Alabama legislature approved bills that would legally protect IVF providers and fertility clinics.

What Can I Do With Leftover Embryos After IVF in Alabama?

When it’s confirmed that your surrogate is pregnant with your child, there’s a chance you will have unused frozen embryos. If you feel your family is complete but you are worried about the legal implications of frozen embryo disposal, you have two options:

You have two alternative options:

  • Indefinite storage: You have the option of keeping your embryos frozen indefinitely. If this is the route you take, you should be aware that it can become expensive over time. Fertility clinics might have a storage fee of $500-$1,000 a year.
  • Donation: You can donate your unused embryos to an infertile or gay couple, or an individual who intends to use surrogacy and/or IVF to grow their family. This can be done through an agency or your fertility clinic.

How We Can Help

If you want to grow your family through surrogacy in Alabama, we can provide you with the necessary support and resources for your journey.

All of our intended parents partner with an ART attorney when creating their surrogacy contract. Your attorney will be able to advise you on matters pertaining to how to handle your unused embryos.

If you are prepared to travel for your surrogacy journey, we can connect you with a fertility clinic in a nearby state such as Florida, Georgia or Tennessee.

If you have questions about IVF in Alabama and your journey to parenthood, we’re here for you. To get the support you need, fill out our easy form or call 1-800-875-2229.

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified attorney or legal professional regarding specific legal matters related to in vitro fertilization (IVF).

What is Gestational Surrogacy?

Understanding the gestational surrogacy process can be impactful whether you are interested yourself or you know someone who might be.

Gestational surrogacy is a remarkable family-building method that allows individuals or couples struggling with infertility to achieve their dreams of parenthood by partnering with a surrogate who carries and delivers the baby on their behalf.

Unlike traditional surrogacy, gestational surrogacy ensures that the surrogate is not genetically related to the child she carries. In this article, we will delve into the step-by-step gestational surrogacy process and shed light on how a surrogate remains biologically unrelated to the baby.

To get more information about gestational surrogacy, fill out our easy form or text 913-204-0224.

What is Gestational Surrogacy?

One of the distinguishing features of gestational surrogacy is that the surrogate is not genetically related to the baby she carries. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s own eggs are used, making her genetically related to the child.

However, in gestational surrogacy, the embryo implanted in the surrogate’s uterus is created using the eggs of the intended mother or an egg donor, eliminating any genetic connection between the surrogate and the baby.

How Does Gestational Surrogacy Work? [5 Steps]

Step 1: Initial Consultation

The gestational surrogacy process begins with an initial consultation, where you will reach out to us to discuss your interest in surrogacy. During this phase, you will go over your application with your surrogacy specialist and discuss your surrogacy preferences and goals. If you meet our requirements for surrogacy, you’ll be able to move forward with the process.

Step 2: The Screening Process

You will undergo an extensive screening process that includes medical and social history, background checks, a home visit for surrogates and psychological evaluations.  Our screening process ensures that everyone is fully prepared for the journey ahead.

Step 3: Finding a Perfect Match

Following the initial screening process, we will carefully assess the compatibility between you and your surrogacy match. This step involves considering factors such as lifestyle preferences, communication styles and shared expectations for the surrogacy journey. Open and transparent communication between you and your surrogate or the intended parents is encouraged to ensure that both parties feel comfortable and supported throughout the process.

Step 4: Creating a Contract

Once a compatible match is found, you will draft a surrogacy contract with an attorney who specializes in surrogacy laws in your state. These legal agreements are drafted to outline the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. Your contract will cover issues such as compensation, medical decisions and parental rights. Legal professionals ensure that all parties fully understand and agree to the terms before moving forward.

Step 5: Becoming Pregnant

With legalities in place, the medical process begins. The surrogate will undergo a medical evaluation to ensure she is physically capable of sustaining a healthy pregnancy. Eggs are retrieved from the intended mother or an egg donor, and sperm is collected from the intended father or a sperm donor.

The resulting embryos are created through in vitro fertilization (IVF). One or more healthy embryos are then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus after she has completed a regimen of fertility medications.

Step 6: Pregnancy Monitoring and Support

Once pregnancy is confirmed, the surrogate receives regular medical check-ups and support from a team of healthcare professionals. The intended parents may also be involved in the process, attending doctor’s appointments and forming a supportive relationship with the surrogate.

Why Do People Choose the Gestational Surrogacy Process?

People choose surrogacy for a variety of reasons. In some cases, individuals haven’t found the right partner and surrogacy allows the opportunity to have a child as an individual. In other cases, couples may have infertility or may be in a same-sex relationship where neither partner can carry a pregnancy.

As examples, people in the following scenarios may benefit from surrogacy:

A woman who had cancer in her 20s and had to have her uterus removed, but froze her eggs before undergoing cancer treatment may be able to have biological children with a partner or on her own later in life.

A couple who has unexplained fertility and has tried IVF with no success may be able to have a successful pregnancy with the help of a surrogate.

A couple who has one child already, but who had complications during labor or delivery that make a second pregnancy dangerous.

You can see a surrogacy story here.

Get Started Today

The gestational surrogacy process brings the joy of parenthood to individuals and couples facing fertility challenges. By carefully following the outlined steps, intended parents and surrogates can navigate this journey with confidence.

To get more information or begin your surrogacy journey today, contact us.

How Does a Surrogate Get Pregnant?

Have questions about how a surrogate gets pregnant? We explain how the surrogacy process enables you to be genetically linked to your child.

Many people have questions about how a surrogate gets pregnant and the biology associated between the surrogate mother and the child. We are here to dispute any concerns you may have about the process and explain how you will share DNA with your child.

If you have specific questions, contact us today. We know the process of having a baby is an important and heartfelt journey. Your own path to becoming a parent is deeply personal and our surrogacy specialists are ready to help.

Common Myths About Surrogacy And DNA

Myth #1: The child will share DNA with the surrogate.

No, your child will not share DNA with the surrogate mother. The surrogate mother is solely carrying the embryo to term. The embryo will be created through IVF at a fertility clinic before being implanted in the surrogate.

Myth #2: Surrogacy involves intercourse.

No. Surrogacy will never involve intercourse. The father of the child and the surrogate will not have intercourse to become pregnant. The whole process of pregnancy is achieved through IVF, which will be conducted at a trusted fertility clinic.

Myth #3: The gestational surrogate will grow attached and want to keep the baby.

Your surrogate will fully understand the scope of surrogacy. While surrogacy is an emotional process, the legal process helps protect everyone’s rights throughout the surrogacy. You will not have to worry about your legal right to your child.

Surrogacy and the IVF Process

The IVF process involves taking an egg from the intended mother or egg donor, and fertilizing it with the sperm from the intended father or sperm donor. You will decide whether you are using our own egg and sperm, or whether it will be more beneficial to use a donor’s. This will be something you determine in your surrogacy plan with your surrogacy specialist.

The whole IVF process is done in three steps.

Step 1: Egg Donation – A few eggs are extracted from the intended mother or an egg donor.

Step 2: Fertilization – The eggs are then fertilized with the intended father’s sperm or a donor’s in a lab to create the embryos.

Step 3: Embryo Transfer – Leading up to the step, the surrogate will take fertility drugs to prepare her body for the embryo transfer. Once an embryo has been created, it is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus through a simple procedure at a fertility clinic.

Whether you are using your own egg and sperm or a donor’s will determine whether you are biologically related to your child. No matter which route you choose, your gestational surrogate will never share DNA with your child. Many people choose to go through surrogacy over other options like adoption because it means they will have a biological connection to their child. This is another topic to discuss with you surrogacy specialist as you are creating your plan.

Begin Your Journey to Parenthood

The journey to parenthood can be hard, and if you have come to surrogacy, we know you have likely been down a long road. We are ready to help you begin the surrogacy process today.

Contact a surrogacy specialist today.

Surrogacy for LGBT Couples

Surrogacy has become a popular family-building option for those who can’t conceive a child on their own. One of the biggest demographics of couples pursuing surrogacy are LGBT couples wanting to have a family of their own.

Our goal is to help you understand gay surrogacy and address any concerns or confusion that you may have on the process. You don’t deserve to wait any longer to become a parent and with our help you can experience the best version of the surrogacy process in the shortest amount of time.

If you’re ready to achieve your dreams of starting your family, then contact us online now or text us at 913-204-0224 to connect with us today.

If you want to become a surrogate for a gay couple, reach out to us today.

Is it Possible to Pursue Surrogacy for Gay Couples?

Contrary to popular belief, surrogacy is not exclusive to heterosexual couples. Gay surrogacy is one of the few ways that LGBT couples are able to start their families. It’s also one of the only ways to establish a biological connection with their child. Through gestational surrogacy, you can experience the joys of parenthood knowing that you share a genetic connection with your child.

“Surrogacy gave us an opportunity to complete our family. We looked at adoption and at the time there was a two-year waiting process. So, we thought why don’t we go through surrogacy and have someone that is part of me and our family, which was something we also really wanted.” – said Viet, one of our intended parents. More on Michael and Viet’s story here.

Can I Become a Surrogate for a Gay Couple?

Becoming a surrogate for gay couples is a compassionate and rewarding journey that involves helping individuals achieve their dream of parenthood.

If you want to become a surrogate for an LGBT couple, you can discuss this with your surrogacy specialist and they will help you find a same-sex couple who matches your preferences.

Choosing to become a surrogate for a gay couple allows you to play a vital role in expanding diverse families, fostering love and creating lasting connections.

How Does Gay Surrogacy Work?

Surrogacy for LGBT couples involves using in vitro fertilization to create an embryo outside the womb with IVF technology. This embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. At American Surrogacy, we only complete gestational surrogacies meaning that your surrogate will not be related to the baby she carries.

For many LGBT couples, gay surrogacy can be the ideal opportunity to not only start your family, but also have a child that shares your genetics. We know that you’ve always dreamed of having a child that looks like you. Through surrogacy, this dream can become a reality.

“The birth of our son was amazing. I just couldn’t believe after all the years and everything we went through that he was finally here. I was holding my little boy in my arms and he was perfect.” – said Viet, one of our intended parents.

Our Commitment to You

We know that there are many professionals out there that can help you begin your gay surrogacy journey. Finding the right professional is one of the most important parts of your surrogacy journey. You want to find someone who will not only be you advocate throughout the process, but who will also make sure you’re protected every step of the way. American Surrogacy can be that agency.

When you work with us, we will be there every step of the way, helping you develop a surrogacy plan that works for you. We’ll also make sure you understand every aspect of the process, providing transparency throughout every step. With over 40 years of experience building families through surrogacy and adoption, we know what it takes to make sure you feel safe and secure throughout the gay surrogacy process.

You’ve waited long enough on your path to parenthood. Let us help you experience the joy of holding your baby in your arms as soon as possible.

To start building your family through LGBT surrogacy, contact us online now or text us at 913-204-0224 to fulfill your dreams today.

How Long Does It Take to Find a Surrogate?

Wondering how long it takes to find a surrogate? We can help you find the perfect surrogate.

When you’re on your way to finally becoming parents, you want to get started immediately. One of the most important parts of this process is finding the right surrogate. But how long does this actually take? We have taken our time over the years to perfect our system of matching parents with their perfect surrogate.

We’re breaking down the timeline of surrogacy and how long it takes to find a surrogate. Ready to get started? Contact us today.

Timeline of Surrogacy Process

The surrogacy process is roughly a 12-18 month commitment. From connecting with a surrogacy agency to matching to holding your baby in your arms, it takes time. However, surrogacy can oftentimes move quicker than other options such as adoption. Different aspects of the surrogacy process can take different amounts of time, but we’ve worked on creating an efficient process so you don’t have to wait.

The Matching Process

We pride ourselves on our ability to match parents to the perfect surrogate in an average of 3-6 months. Once you get to this point of the process, everything begins to feel real. When you begin your surrogacy process, you’ll work with your surrogacy specialist to create your goals for the process. This can include how much your budget it, the type of person you want as a surrogate and more. This will all be included in a profile that is shared with prospective surrogates.

We know it’s important to find your perfect surrogate. That’s why we’ve created a trusted system to find that person for you. After this, you’re able to start the legal process and ultimately begin the medical process that will result in your future child.

Steps to Finding a Surrogate

  1. Work with American Surrogacy
    We have been working in the family building business for decades. We have built a team of outstanding surrogacy specialists who can ensure you are receiving the best care through the process.
  2. Create a Family Profile
    You will work with your surrogacy specialist to create an Intended Parent Profile. This will help you find a surrogate who shares your surrogacy goals. Your profile will include pictures, video and other information about your family and home to present to surrogates.
  3. Connect with a Surrogate
    Once you match with a surrogate, your surrogacy specialist will coordinate a meeting through phone, video or in person to meet the person who will potentially carry your child. From here you will all decide if this is the right match for you and begin the next steps of the surrogacy process. You’ll be one step closer to bringing your baby home!

Find Your Perfect Surrogate

We have made it our mission to create a quality and efficient matching process between parents and surrogates. Your surrogacy specialist will work with you to create a profile that stands out and details the information that is important to you. We want you to feel strong about your decision to pursue surrogacy, and the best way to do that is to find the best surrogate partner for you.

Find your perfect surrogate today!

Is Surrogacy Exploitative?

Concerns about exploitation in surrogacy are often prompted by lack of information. Learn about the systems that protect and empower surrogates in the United States.

In the U.S., surrogacy is designed to protect the well-being of the surrogate, intended parents and the new life they bring into the world together.

As the popularity of this family-building method has risen, so have questions about the prevalence of exploitation in surrogacy throughout the world.

Our agency takes every precaution to protect, empower and advocate for the surrogates that want to help others experience the joy of parenthood. To learn more about surrogacy and how our process works, reach out to us today.

Is Surrogacy Exploitative for Surrogates?

While there are documented cases of exploitation in surrogacy, they are primarily in countries that don’t have the systems in place to protect their surrogates that United States does. Surrogacy in the U.S. is regulated at the state, medical and professional level.

Each state has their own laws pertaining to surrogacy contracts and establishing parentage. Surrogacy professionals in the U.S. regulate their surrogacy processes through carefully curated practices that are designed to protect the surrogate and the child she carries.

What Does the Exploitation of Surrogate Mothers Look Like in Other Countries?

In countries where surrogates aren’t protected, surrogacy exploitation can look like:

  • Being forced or coerced into the process of surrogacy
  • Not being given legal representation during the surrogacy process
  • Being unsure of the surrogacy process or who have not been properly informed about surrogacy
  • Not being compensated for surrogacy or paying for expenses out-of-pocket
  • Feeling surrogacy is their only hope for income if they are in dire financial circumstances
  • Taking advantage of individuals in dire financial circumstances
  • Being asked to be a surrogate by or for an authority figure abusing their power

How We Protect the Surrogates We Work With

We take steps to prepare, screen and support surrogates during each portion of their surrogacy journey. You can read more below about how surrogacy is empowering with our agency or click here to hear from surrogates who have partner with our agency.

Preparing and Educating Prospective Surrogates

By providing prospective surrogates with information and educational resources, we empower them to make informed decisions and pursue what they want with confidence.

  • Any woman who is interested in surrogacy can request free information from us with no obligation to begin the process
  • We have staff available to answer any questions about surrogacy
  • We continuously strive to provide free articles about surrogacy to the public

Screening and Requirements

We have requirements and thorough screening processes in place that are designed to protect the safety of the surrogate and the child they will carry.

  • All surrogates must meet surrogacy requirements based on standards set by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
  • Once she meets all surrogate requirements, she must successfully complete a screening process that consists of a social and medical history form, an in-home assessment and background check, psychological evaluation.
  • All surrogates undergo a medical screening to ensure she is physically healthy enough to safely carry a pregnancy to term.

Learn more about our surrogate screening process.

Protecting a Surrogate’s Autonomy

Surrogates control their surrogacy journey. In addition to having a surrogacy specialist who will advocate for them every step of the way, the surrogacy process is designed to promote autonomy throughout the process by ensuring surrogates:

  • Go at their own pace throughout their surrogacy journey
  • Are represented by a legal professional who will help them draft a surrogacy contract in accordance with their state’s surrogacy laws
  • Are matched with families that align with their surrogacy goals
  • Never have to do anything they’re uncomfortable with

Comprehensive Surrogate Compensation

Surrogates are compensated for the time and effort they contribute to the amazing service they’re providing. In addition to receiving base pay, our surrogate compensation package covers:

  • Medical expenses
  • Legal fees
  • Travel and lodging
  • Lost wages
  • Maternity clothes
  • Prenatal vitamins
  • And more

Learn more about surrogate compensation.

Becoming a surrogate is a choice and one that is made out of generosity and kindness. You can learn more about our surrogacy practices and how we protect our surrogates by speaking with our surrogacy specialists. Contact us today.

Why Are Surrogates Paid?

Learn about paid surrogacy and why we offer the highest compensation possible for our surrogates.

Surrogacy is often surrounded by misconceptions, especially when it comes to paid surrogacy. We’re dedicated to demystifying these misconceptions to provide you with a clear understanding on what it means to receive surrogate compensation.   

Our goal is to address the common points of confusion, explaining why surrogate compensation exists and how we protect you throughout the entire process.  

To see how much you can be getting paid for surrogacy, contact us online now or text us at 913-204-0224 

Why Should Surrogate Mothers Be Paid? 

Paid surrogacy acknowledges the commitment surrogates make when they agree to carry a child for intended parents. Carrying a child for intended parents is a big responsibility and paid surrogacy ensures that you earn meaningful income for your family for the commitment you invest in the process.   

Throughout the surrogacy process, surrogates incur various expenses, including medical bills, childcare, travel costs and more. Paid surrogacy helps alleviate the financial burden associated with the process. This ensures that you can focus on the well-being of the child you’re carrying without having to worry about financial stressors. 

“The compensation I received from being a surrogate helped me to alleviate day-to-day stressors. If I needed to take off time from work I wasn’t as stressed about it.” – said Jade, one of our surrogate mothers.  

How Do Surrogates Get Paid? 

When you choose paid surrogacy, you’ll receive your surrogate compensation through a combination of base payments, expense reimbursements and potential additional payments. Your surrogate compensation can be anywhere from $50,000-$110,000 depending on factors such as you experience with surrogacy, income, and location.  

Your base payment compensates you for carrying the pregnancy and typically covers a portion of the overall compensation. Expense reimbursements cover costs associated with pregnancy, such as medical bills, maternity clothing, travel fees, legal fees and more.  

Our Commitment to Fair Practices 

Our program follows the standards set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). This commitment ensures that our practices meet the highest ethics for paid surrogacy, safeguarding the well-being of everyone involved. Our dedication to fair compensation and adherence to ASRM guidelines protects surrogates from exploitation often observed in other parts of the world.  

By prioritizing ethical practices, we create a safe and empowering environment where surrogates can earn meaningful income without having to worry.  

“Not only was I able to do some renovations in my home but I was able to set up my sons college and that’s something that we set aside. This journey was for the experience and the financial compensation was definitely a plus for the future.” – said Allisandra, one of our surrogate mothers.  

Surrogate compensation opens doors to life-changing opportunities, like buying your dream home, paying off debts and starting a college fund for your kids. Through our ASRM standards and commitment to advocating for paid surrogacy, we ensure a supportive environment that prioritizes the safety and well-being of everyone involved.  

To start receiving meaningful income for your family, contact us online now or text us at 913-204-0224 to see how much you qualify for.  

Is Surrogacy Ethical?

Modern surrogacy prioritizes, safeguards and advocates for surrogates. Explore the ethics of surrogacy with our agency.

Recent conversations around surrogacy have raised questions about the ethicality of this family-building option. We recognize the gravity of these concerns and prioritize the well-being of our surrogates through a comprehensive framework of safeguards.

We’ll delve into the ethical landscape of surrogacy today, shedding light on the measures in place at the state, agency and medical levels to protect surrogates. To learn more about how surrogates are protected, reach out to us today to speak with a specialist.

The Evolving Ethics of Surrogacy

Surrogacy in the U.S. has come a long way, and contemporary practices prioritize ethical considerations more than ever. We believe that transparency, empathy and advocacy are fundamental components of surrogacy ethics. Our commitment is not just to facilitate the surrogacy journey but to empower surrogates with information, support and a reinforced sense of self.

How Surrogacy and Ethics Go Hand-in-Hand

1. Requirements and A Screening Process

We have a set of requirements that all of our surrogates must meet to ensure they are physically and mentally capable of safely carrying a pregnancy to term:

  • Age 21-40
  • BMI 19-32
  • At least one successful prior pregnancy
  • No more than five vaginal births and three C-sections
  • Must be currently raising a child
  • No smoking or illicit drug use

These requirements are based off of standards set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and exist to protect the well-being of the surrogate and the child she may carry.

Our surrogacy program ensures that each surrogate undergoes a thorough screening process to guarantee physical and emotional well-being of all parties involved. This step is crucial not only for the surrogate’s health but also for the overall success of the surrogacy journey. This will consist of:

  1. Completing social and medical history forms and obtaining a surrogacy recommendation from their OB/GYN
  2. Collect medical records of previous pregnancies and deliveries to confirm that surrogacy is safe for the prospective surrogate.
  3. An in-home visit to ensure that you have a safe and stable home-life where you can safely carry out a healthy pregnancy. During this visit they will also be asked about their motivation for becoming a surrogate, any concerns they have, their partner’s involvement in their surrogacy, etc.
  4. A psychological evaluation for the surrogate and their partner to ensure they’re both mentally and emotionally prepared for the surrogacy journey. They’ll be asked about why they want to be a surrogate, their emotions regarding the journey ahead and their family’s support of your decision.
  5. An insurance review to determine whether or not their policy covers surrogate pregnancy or if we need to find a family that has a surrogacy-friendly policy.

2.cOMPEnsation for their time and effort

We provide all of our surrogates with fair surrogate compensation for the time, physical and emotional commitment involved. This compensation consists of:

  • Base pay: This is money that is paid directly to the surrogate that they can use to enhance their life and their family’s lives in any way they choose.
  • Additional expenses: Our surrogacy compensation package covers all pregnancy and surrogacy-related expenses so that surrogates don’t have to worry about finances or using their own surrogate pay.

You can’t put a price on the miracle of bringing new life into the world, nor would we want to. Providing surrogate compensation is our way of acknowledging the generosity and dedication of surrogates to helping others experience the joy and love of parenthood.

3. Legal Protections and Contracts

In the U.S., every state has its own set of surrogacy laws. These laws ensure the ethical conduct of surrogacy arrangements. We prioritize connecting our surrogates with surrogacy attorneys who specialize in their state’s surrogacy laws.

These legal professionals help our surrogates create agreements that address potential challenges, protect their rights, establish expectations and responsibilities and more, offering surrogates a sense of security throughout the process.

How We Advocate for Surrogates

We go beyond being experts in the field – we are advocates. Our goal is to make every surrogate feel confident, valued and in control of their journey, ensuring a positive and fulfilling experience.

We understand that the surrogacy journey is not just a transaction but a life-altering experience. Our specialists have the surrogate’s best interests at heart, serving as compassionate guides throughout the process. Advocacy, in our context, means unwavering support, a commitment to surrogates’ well-being and a dedication to ensuring a positive and empowering journey.

With the right professionals and advocacy, surrogacy can be an ethical, empowering and deeply meaningful journey. We are not just a surrogacy agency; we are partners in the surrogacy journey. You can learn more about our surrogacy practices by reaching out to a specialist now.

What Did the Pope Say About Surrogacy?

Pope Francis’s recent comments about surrogacy have resulted in increased interest in the modern application of this family-building method.

On Monday January 8th, Pope Francis called for a global ban on surrogacy in an annual speech to diplomats outlining what the Catholic Church considers threats to global peace and humanity.

“I deem deplorable the practice of so-called surrogate motherhood, which represents a grave violation of the dignity of the woman and the child, based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs,” Pope Francis said.

The Pontiff went on to condemn the commercialization of surrogacy, saying that “a child is a gift and never the basis of a commercial contract.”

Pope Francis’ recent statements keep with the Vatican’s oppositional stance on in vitro fertilization. Pope Francis as well as other critics of surrogacy say that compensated surrogacy exploits impoverished women.

These statements have caused a recent surge of interest in surrogacy. Because surrogacy is a family-building method that many people are unfamiliar with, there is also a lot of confusion.

Below, we’ll go into more detail about what surrogacy really is.

What Surrogacy is, and What Surrogacy is Not [Explained]

As a surrogacy agency with our surrogates’ best interests at heart, we empathize with the Pope’s concern for the well-being of gestational carriers. That is why we want to break down some of the Pope’s statements and show how U.S. surrogacy laws protect the surrogate, the intended parents and the baby.

1. “A child is a gift and never the basis of a commercial contract.”

First and foremost, we are in agreement with this sentiment. It’s for this reason that we provide this amazing service. There are so many deserving couples and individuals who want to grow their family, but for one reason or another, are not able to on their own.

Surrogacy allows these hopeful parents to have the family they’ve longed for.

The surrogates we work with have had children of their own and have made the choice to help these couples be able to experience the joy of parenthood.

The compensated surrogacy contract used in the U.S. ensures that the surrogate is able to financially support herself and her family, as well as to maintain her autonomy throughout the surrogacy process. Every surrogate has her own attorney who specializes in the surrogacy laws of her state to ensure that her rights are protected every step of the way.

2. “…based on the exploitation of situations of the mother’s material needs.”

Here, Pope Francis is most likely thinking of the well-documented stories of surrogacy being practiced in other nations in ways that are exploitative, dangerous and unethical. These stories shock the conscious. However, U.S. surrogacy practices are worlds apart from these reports.

In the U.S., surrogacy practices are designed to protect and empower surrogates, and never with the intent to exploit.  Through a combination of state laws and medical standards from the ASRM, women considering becoming surrogates in the U.S. can feel confident that their rights and best interests are considered.

Every surrogate we work with starts her surrogacy journey on her own terms. All aspects of the surrogacy journey are done only once she has consented — and no surrogate is ever exploited.

We have surrogacy requirements in place that all of our surrogates must meet before she can begin the surrogacy process, which are based on ASRM standards. Many of these qualifications require her to her already have a strong support system, financial stability, a safe home environment and a healthy lifestyle. These requirements exist to protect the health and safety of her and the child she carries.

3. “… the life of the unborn child in the mother’s womb, which cannot be suppressed or turned into an object of trafficking.”

The safeguards and practices we implement as an agency are designed around the well-being of the child just as much they are the surrogate. Many of the requirements these women must meet before they can become surrogates through our agency pertain to the health and safety of the baby they carry, from conception through delivery.

The compensation provided to the surrogate is not payment for the child. It is for the service she’s providing and so that she can prioritize herself, the hopeful parents’ baby and her own family throughout the surrogacy journey without worrying about covering additional expenses.

Through IVF and gestational surrogacy practices, surrogates are not genetically linked to the child they carry. Before the surrogate begins the medical process of their journey, they work with their attorney to draft a contract that includes acknowledgement of the parentage of the hopeful parents they partner with.  They understand that the child they’re carrying is not theirs, nor do they wish for it to be. This is also why we require that our surrogates must be currently raising a child of their own.

Surrogacy is an evolving family-building method, and not every country or organization practices or regulates it the same way. That’s why we as an agency take every measure that we can to protect and empower our surrogates on their journey of helping hopeful parents know the love and joy of building a family.

If you are considering surrogacy as a way to start or grow your family, or if you are thinking about becoming a surrogate, contact us today.

How to Find a Surrogate Mother

Are you looking for a surrogate? Here’s how to find a surrogate mother in three steps.

Successfully navigating surrogacy involves various steps, and the most important is finding a surrogate mother who aligns with your goals. This person will be your partner throughout the surrogacy journey, significantly impacting both your lives.

However, finding a gestational carrier on your own can be challenging and risky. At American Surrogacy, we offer guidance on finding a surrogate who aligns with your surrogacy plan, while allowing you to choose the surrogate that’s right for you.

Our team is always available to dive deeper into the process and discuss how to find a surrogate mother based on your specific surrogacy goals. We understand how important it is to find a compatible gestational carrier and are committed to supporting you at every step, ensuring a stress-free experience for intended parents.

To begin the process of finding a surrogate mother, please call us at 1-800-875-2229 (BABY). You can also reach out to us online to connect with a specialist who can walk you through how to find a surrogate.

In the meantime, here are three steps that you’ll need to take to find a surrogate.

Step 1: Partner with a Reputable Surrogacy Agency

Working with the right surrogacy agency, like American Surrogacy, can help you find a surrogate who’s been thoroughly screened. With over 20 years of matching experience through our sister agency, American Adoptions, we know what it takes to consistently bring in high-quality surrogates to our agency.

Our outreach means that even if you can’t find a surrogate from our “available surrogates” page, we can help you find the perfect surrogate through our extensive database. We also network with various attorneys, fertility clinics and social workers across the country to give you the highest chance at finding a surrogate that fits your needs.

Step 2: Get to Know Your Surrogate Through a Conference Call

Once you find a surrogate that’s the perfect fit, your surrogacy specialist will set up a conference call. This is your chance to solidify your match by asking the surrogate any questions you may have. This can help you decide if you’re comfortable working with her for the next year or so.

You’ll be able to decide how frequently you want to communicate with the surrogate and we will always be there to help you mediate communication if you need. Your specialist will also help you prepare for this conversation by giving you additional information about the surrogate’s preferences and by suggesting additional topics of conversation.

Step 3: Confirm the Match with a Surrogacy Contract 

The final step in how to find a surrogate is drafting a surrogacy contract that outlines all agreements and responsibilities of everyone involved. This contract not only lays out expectations but also addresses any risks and liabilities in case an unexpected event occurs.

You and your surrogate will both need lawyers and your surrogacy specialist will help coordinate this legal process. Once the surrogacy contract is signed, your search to find a surrogate will be complete and you’ll be ready to move forward with the rest of the surrogacy process.

We take great pride in helping both intended parents and surrogates find highly qualified surrogate partners. To learn more about how to find a surrogate with American Surrogacy, contact us at any time. We’re always ready to help make your dreams of becoming parents a reality.