Surrogacy Medical Process | American Surrogacy Blog

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

Could improve implantation rates
Better live birth rates
Minimal risk

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.

How Long Does Medical Clearance Take for Surrogacy?

Thorough medical screening and clearance means that you are well-prepared and more likely to complete your surrogacy journey successfully.

Medical clearance for surrogacy helps assure that you are fully prepared for your surrogacy journey. The process can take weeks to months, but ultimately, medical screening can help you avoid health risks and wasted time down the road.

This article will help you understand medical clearances and the timeline to completing medical clearance.

There’s no need to be nervous – plenty of surrogates have gone through this process. You can hear more of their stories through our Instagram.

Read more about medical clearance here or fill out this form and find out if you are qualified to be a surrogate.

How Long Does Medical Clearance Take for Surrogacy?

The timeline for surrogacy medical clearance can vary depending on several factors:

Collecting Your Medical Records: 1-3 Weeks

This step often takes 1–3 weeks, as it depends on how quickly your healthcare providers can send your medical history to the clinic.

To speed up this part, follow up with your provider to ensure the records are sent promptly.

Fertility Clinic Review: 1-2 Weeks

Once the clinic has your records, the review process typically takes 1–2 weeks.

Clinics carefully examine your medical history to confirm that you meet their surrogacy guidelines.

In-Person Evaluation: 1-3 Weeks

After the initial review, you’ll be scheduled for an in-person medical screening. This is usually completed in 1 day, but scheduling the appointment might take 1–2 weeks but can take up to a month, depending on the clinic’s availability and your location.

Read more about the surrogate screening process or contact us today to get answers to your questions as soon as possible.

What is Surrogacy Medical Clearance?

In addition to meeting your surrogacy agency’s requirements, you will also need to be approved by the intended parents’ fertility clinic, who often have their own standards.

The process usually involves:

A review of your complete medical records, particularly from previous pregnancies.
An in-person evaluation at the intended parents’ clinic, which may include a physical exam and uterine health assessment. Your travel and lodging will be covered and arranged on your behalf.

Since agencies and clinics often follow the guidelines provided by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, clinics may have more specific medical standards tailored to ensure the success of the surrogacy process.

This evaluation is thorough because it’s designed to prioritize your health and the success of the surrogacy journey.

What Can Affect the Timeline?

Several factors may impact how quickly you receive medical clearance for surrogacy, including:

Clinic workload: Some clinics process clearances faster than others based on their caseload.
Missing or incomplete records: If your medical history is incomplete, it may delay the process.
Travel for the in-person exam: If you live far from the fertility clinic, coordinating travel plans might take extra time.

How Can You Prepare for Medical Clearance for Surrogacy?

To keep the process moving smoothly:

Organize Your Records Early: Start gathering your medical records as soon as possible.
Be Responsive: Stay in touch with your surrogacy agency and the clinic to promptly address any requests or questions.
Be Patient: While waiting for clearance can feel long, it’s an essential step to ensure everyone’s safety and success.

If you have any questions about how long your medical clearance for surrogacy is taking, reach out to your surrogacy specialist and we can follow up with the intended parents’ clinic for an estimated timeline.

What Happens After Medical Clearance?

Once you’re medically cleared, you’re ready for the next steps in your surrogacy journey, including getting to know the intended parents over a mediated Zoom call and finalizing the match if you’re both comfortable moving forward to the legal process.

Next Steps

While it requires patience, medical clearance for surrogacy is essential to protect your and the baby’s health and ensure a smooth surrogacy experience.

If you have questions or need help navigating this process, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to learn more? Contact us today to start your journey.

Understanding Symptoms After Embryo Transfer

Knowing the symptoms surrogates may experience after an embryo transfer, including the typical timeline for the first week, signs of implantation, and early pregnancy symptoms can help you prepare for the journey ahead.

The embryo transfer is one of the most crucial steps in the surrogacy journey, marking the beginning of a potential pregnancy.

Understanding the symptoms you might experience after the embryo transfer can help you feel more at ease during the process.

If you’re curious about the first steps of becoming a surrogate, contact us online now or check out this article to learn more.

We’ll cover common early pregnancy symptoms, post embryo transfer symptoms and tips to help manage any discomfort.

What Happens During an Embryo Transfer?

For surrogates, the embryo transfer involves placing a fertilized embryo (or embryos) into the uterus, where it will hopefully implant and lead to pregnancy. This is a short procedure and is the key moment that turns hope into reality for the intended parents.

At American Surrogacy, we make sure that you’re supported throughout every step of the process, from the initial consultation to post-pregnancy care. If you have questions about preparing for the procedure or need guidance, our team is always available.

7 Days After Embryo Transfer Symptoms: What to Expect

The first week after an embryo transfer is important, as it is during this time that implantation may occur. Here’s a brief timeline of what surrogates might experience:

Day 1-3: The embryo travels within the uterus and may begin attaching to the uterine lining.
Day 4-6: Implantation may begin, potentially causing some mild symptoms like cramping or spotting.
Day 7: By this time, the embryo may be fully implanted, and the body starts producing pregnancy hormones, such as hCG, which can lead to early pregnancy symptoms.

However, know that these symptoms can also be caused by the medication you’re taking and not all women experience them. The best way to know for sure is to confirm with a pregnancy test.

Post-Embryo Transfer Symptoms

As a surrogate, you may notice some symptoms during the implantation phase. These symptoms can be exciting as they might indicate that the embryo is successfully implanting into the uterine lining:

Light Cramping: Some women report mild cramping, similar to period cramps, during implantation.
Spotting: Light spotting or “implantation bleeding” may occur around 6-12 days after the transfer. This is usually pink or brown and typically lighter than a period.
Fatigue: Early pregnancy hormones can make you feel more tired than usual.

Early Pregnancy Symptoms After Embryo Transfer

Once implantation occurs, early pregnancy symptoms may begin. These can vary from person to person, but some of the most common symptoms include:

Nausea: Morning sickness can start early, though it is usually mild in the beginning.
Breast Tenderness: Swollen or tender breasts are often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy due to rising hormone levels.
Frequent Urination: As your body starts producing more hCG, you may notice an increased urination.

No Symptoms After Embryo Transfer Is That Normal?

It’s important to distinguish between normal and potentially concerning symptoms. While some cramping and spotting can be normal after an embryo transfer, there are other symptoms to look out for:

Normal Symptoms: Mild cramping, light spotting, breast tenderness, fatigue, and nausea.
Concerning Symptoms: Heavy bleeding, severe pain, high fever, or sudden dizziness.

If you experience any concerning symptoms after the embryo transfer, contact your fertility clinic immediately.

Tips for Managing Post-Embryo Transfer Symptoms

To help manage any discomfort or early pregnancy symptoms, here are some things you can do:

Give your body the time it needs to heal and adjust. Light activity is fine but avoid strenuous exercise.
Drinking plenty of water can help alleviate some symptoms like fatigue and headaches.
If you’re feeling overly tired or experiencing discomfort, it’s okay to take it easy.

The period after an embryo transfer can be filled with anticipation and excitement. While it’s natural to focus on every post embryo transfer symptom, remember that each surrogate’s body is different.

Whether you experience common signs of pregnancy or none at all, staying in close contact with your fertility clinic and surrogacy team can help you navigate the process with confidence.

If you’re interested in becoming a surrogate, then contact us online now to begin the pre-screening process.

Find out more about what being a surrogate is like by following us on Instagram. You can hear from surrogates who have been through the process themselves.

French Fries After Embryo Transfer: Surrogacy Superstitions

You’ve probably heard it somewhere—the odd superstition that eating McDonald’s French fries after an embryo transfer boosts your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Whether you’ve seen it shared in surrogacy communities or talked about in forums, this tradition has been gaining some popularity in the IVF community. But what’s the deal? Could a serving of fries really help? Or is it just a fun way to ease nerves?

Here’s what you need to know.

Why French Fries After the Embryo Transfer?

The origins of this French fry superstition are fuzzy, but many believe it started within IVF and surrogacy support groups as a way to find comfort during the often-nerve-wracking process of embryo transfer.

Some suggest it’s because fries contain salt, and salt is thought to help with implantation—though there’s no actual science behind that.

Despite the lack of scientific proof, eating McDonald’s fries after the embryo transfer has become a good-luck ritual for many intended parents and surrogates. If grabbing fries after the embryo transfer helps you feel more optimistic, there’s no harm in indulging.

At the end of the day, this journey is full of emotions, and sometimes, a little superstition can help you feel control in an uncontrollable situation.

To learn how you can improve your chances of success, fill out this form to speak with a specialist or read tips on what to do after an embryo transfer.

You can also follow us on Instagram to hear directly from intended parents and surrogates alike about their experiences.

Does Eating Fries After the Embryo Transfer Really Work?

There isn’t any scientific evidence to support the idea that French fries after embryo transfer, or any specific food, can increase your chances of embryo implantation.

Focusing on medically backed methods for supporting embryo implantation can help contribute to the overall success of IVF. If you’re looking to give yourself the best chance at success, here are some things you can do before and after your embryo transfer:

1. Pre-Transfer Care

Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can contribute to general reproductive health as you’re gearing up for the embryo transfer.

Stress management techniques before the procedure like meditation, yoga and deep breathing exercises can help create a calm environment for embryo implantation.

Leading up to the embryo transfer, make sure to work closely with your fertility specialist to follow any prescribed medications or recommendations.

2. Post-Transfer Care

After the transfer, light activity is fine, but some doctors recommend avoiding strenuous activities for a day or two to give the embryo the best chance of implanting.

Eating foods rich in folate, iron and omega-3 fatty acids may support a healthy pregnancy. Proper hydration also helps support all of your body’s systems, including those needed for embryo implantation.

Learn more about what to expect after the embryo transfer.

Should You Eat Fries After Your Transfer?

At the end of the day, the choice is yours. If enjoying a salty snack like McDonald’s fries after the embryo transfer helps you feel calm and brings you comfort, go for it!

There’s no scientific harm in it, and if it’s become part of your IVF or surrogacy ritual, it can be a fun way to mark an important moment in your journey.

Whether you’re indulging in French fries for luck or sticking strictly to your fertility doctor’s recommendations, the most important thing is that you feel supported and empowered throughout your journey.

Fertility treatments like IVF and surrogacy can be filled with uncertainty, but with the right mindset, preparation and a little comfort food, you’ll be setting yourself up for success.

Ready to start your surrogacy journey? Contact us online now to learn how you can prepare for your embryo transfer.

Surrogate Pregnancy Vs. Personal Pregnancy

If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, then here’s everything you need to know about how a surrogate pregnancy compares to a personal pregnancy.

It’s common to wonder how a surrogate pregnancy compares to a personal pregnancy. Many potential surrogates ask if the experience is any different from when they carried their own children, especially when it comes to the emotional aspects of the process. Will I miss the baby? How can I go through the process without becoming attached?

These concerns are normal, but know that a surrogate pregnancy significantly differs from a personal pregnancy. Although there are some similarities in the process, here’s what you can expect from a surrogate pregnancy.

To learn more about the journey toward becoming a surrogate, check out this article.

Check us out on Instagram to hear directly from surrogates who have helped intended parents realize their dreams of parenthood.

Surrogate Pregnancy vs. Personal Pregnancy [3 Key Differences]

There are many differences between a surrogate pregnancy and a personal pregnancy. From emotional aspects to financial differences, we’ll help you understand everything you need to know to help you embark on a surrogate journey with confidence.

Physical Aspects

When you become a surrogate, there are certain surrogate requirements you must meet to qualify. Unlike a personal pregnancy, surrogate pregnancies often involve a screening process that ensures you’re prepared to complete a successful surrogacy journey. These surrogate requirements are meant to protect everyone involved, providing peace of mind as you navigate this journey.

Also, a gestational surrogate pregnancy often involves in-vitro fertilization to create embryos using the intended parents’ own genetic material or an egg donor’s. This means that as the surrogate, you won’t share any DNA with the baby like you would with a personal pregnancy.

Because the process uses IVF to achieve a pregnancy, there are also certain fertility medications you’ll need to take to prepare for the embryo transfer process. After becoming pregnant, the physical symptoms are similar to those that occur during a personal pregnancy.

Financial Aspects

Unlike personal pregnancies where you’re responsible for medical and pregnancy expenses, surrogate pregnancies include surrogate compensation that covers every step of your journey. You’ll also receive additional compensation that recognizes your commitment to helping a couple build their family.

First-time surrogates have the chance to earn $50,000-$90,000 while second-time surrogates can earn $60,000-$110,000. Although your cost of living and current income can affect how much you earn, our goal is to help you get the highest surrogate pay possible.

Mental and Emotional Aspects

Personal pregnancies come with a lot of preparation, from picking out names to getting the nursery ready. With a surrogate pregnancy, the emotional experience is completely different than if you were preparing to give birth to your own child. For some gestational carriers, the main focus becomes sharing all the important milestones with the intended parents.

Whether that’s facetiming during appointments or sending sonogram pictures, you’ll have a front row seat watching a family grow right before your eyes. If you happen to experience difficult emotions post-partum, your specialist will be there to help you every step of the way.

If you’re ready to become a surrogate or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. With over 30 years of experience building families, we know what it takes to help you feel confident as you embark on this life-changing journey.

What to Know About Egg Donor Surrogacy

If you’re interested in growing your family, working with an agency that has an egg donor and surrogacy program can help prepare you for a successful surrogacy journey.

As surrogacy gains popularity as a family-planning option, many egg donor and surrogacy programs are starting to move to the forefront of the conversation. If you’re intended parents struggling with female infertility, a same-sex couple or a hopeful single parent, utilizing an egg donor and surrogacy can help you achieve your dreams of parenthood.

If you’re trying to grow your family and have questions about egg donor surrogacy, you can get connected with our surrogacy specialists today.

Finding the right egg donor and surrogacy program is a big component of the surrogacy journey, so it’s important that everyone involved feels confident and informed. This article will break down the key points of using an egg donor and surrogacy to grow your family.

Egg Donor Surrogacy [What to Know]

Many intended parents utilize an egg donor and surrogacy to start their families. There are typically three parties involved in egg donor surrogacy:

The intended parents
The gestational carrier
An egg donor

To get started, intended parents will need to identify an egg donor for surrogacy. This can be done through a separate fertility clinic or an agency that has an egg donor and surrogacy program. Intended parents want to be as involved as they can in bringing their baby into the world, which is why they’ll be able to choose a donor who has qualities that align with their surrogacy goals.

Viable eggs are taken from the donor through the egg retrieval process and then fertilized through the IVF process with the sperm of the intended father or a donor. The embryo will then be transferred to the gestational carrier for her to carry to term.

Benefits of Using an Egg Donor and Surrogacy

Using an egg donor and surrogacy to grow your family is a great option if you:

A couple experiencing female infertility
A same-sex couple
A single hopeful father

When you work with an agency that has an egg donor and surrogacy program, you’ll have both the comfort and convenience of having almost all the necessary services and resources for your surrogacy journey in one place. Your surrogacy specialist will be able to help you find an egg donor that matches your preferences so that you can feel in control of your surrogacy journey.

Choosing Your Egg Donor and Surrogacy Program [Questions to Ask]

When it comes to finding the right egg donor and surrogacy program, you’ll want to make sure you’re adequately prepared for the egg donor and surrogacy process. Below are a few of the questions you should be asking yourself about any egg donor and surrogacy program you’re considering.

What are you Looking for in an Egg Surrogacy Donor?

You’ll want to make sure you have a clear vision of what you’re looking for in an egg donor. Think about medical history, genetics, blood type, background, etc. You’ll also need to think about whether you want an anonymous or identified egg donor.

Are You Prepared for Egg Donor Surrogacy and Cost?

You can’t put a price on family, but because egg donation is such an intricate process, egg donor surrogacy can be an expensive process. In addition to surrogacy costs, you’ll want to have enough money set aside for all necessary costs. When you work with an agency that has an egg donor and surrogacy program, you may pay a lower cost than if you went through a separate agency.

Are you Prepared to Raise a Child Conceived from an Egg Donor and Surrogacy?

We know that you’ll love your child, regardless of their genetic makeup. But it’s important that you’re prepared for the unique challenges that come with raising a donor-conceived child. At some point, your child may ask about their surrogacy story and how they came to be. They may even have questions about who their donor was. You’ll want to be prepared to have these conversations.

Next Steps

If you have questions about the intricacies of egg donor and surrogacy programs, our specialists would be happy to answer them. Get connected with our surrogacy specialist today.

Can I Choose Surrogacy for Non-Medical Reasons?

We believe everyone deserves the chance to experience parenthood, but there are reasons why we only work with intended parents who are unable to conceive.

For infertile couples, LGBT couples and single individuals, surrogacy bridges the gap to parenthood. While medical reasons and physical limitations often drive intended parents toward this path, some hopeful parents may consider surrogacy for alternative reasons.

With over 40 years of experience in creating families, we prioritize helping those who can’t reach their dreams of parenthood on their own and safeguarding our surrogates’ wellbeing.

One way we do this is by requiring a medical diagnosis, not as a barrier, but as a way to preserve the integrity of the surrogacy process. To learn more about whether surrogacy is a family-building option for you, contact us today.

Why Do People Choose Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an opportunity to grow your family if doing so on your own is out of the realm of possibility. Everyone deserves the chance to have a family and you may decide to use a surrogate for reasons such as:

Infertility
Being a same-sex couple
Age
Being unable to carry a baby to term
Not wanting to pass on health conditions or genetic defects
You’re a single parent
Trauma during pregnancy or childbirth

What Is Elective Surrogacy?

Typically surrogacy is a family-building method for those who cannot physically conceive on their own for medical reasons or because they’re a same-sex couple.

Elective surrogacy is term used to refer to surrogacy chosen by intended parents who are able to become pregnant on t their own, but do not want to experience pregnancy or child birth, don’t want to take time off work, or they have a career or hobbies that don’t align with a safe pregnancy.

Can You Have A Surrogate Just Because You Don’t Want to Be Pregnant?

No. While we understand that pregnancy and childbirth are physically intensive processes that are not ideal or convenient for everyone, you cannot choose surrogacy for the purpose of avoiding pregnancy. The couples and individuals that we work with come to us because pregnancy is unlikely, impossible or dangerous for them.

Why is a Medical Diagnosis Needed?

Surrogacy with us requires a medical diagnosis because we want to commit our time and resources to helping couples who can’t become parents on their own finally have the family they’ve always wanted.

As a family-building agency, we have worked with infertile couples who, after painstakingly trying to become pregnant on their own, have had to accept that it would be improbable or even impossible and with LGBT couples who have yearned to become parents but have always known they’d only have a family through adoption or surrogacy.

Valuing Our Surrogates

The surrogates we work with share our goal of wanting to help others create families that cant on their own. We want to ensure that when they match with you, you know they’re making a brave decision to offer you the gift of experiencing what it’s like to be a parent.

We also want to protect our surrogates’ time and wellbeing by working with intended parents who truly value and appreciate the service our surrogates provide.

Possible Alternatives

If you want to grow your family, but don’t want to be pregnant, adoption may be an option for you. While you won’t be genetically related to your child, you will have the opportunity to be chosen as adoptive parents by mother who wants to give their child the best possible future with an amazing family. You can reach out to our adoption specialists today to learn more.

While we only accept intended parents with a medical diagnosis, LGBT couples and single individuals, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience parenthood if they want to. To connect with intended parents who have been through your current circumstances before, explore our social media. To learn more about the options available to you, contact us today.

The Best Surrogate Apps in 2025

Learn how you can keep track of your surrogate journey with some of the best surrogate apps of 2024.

Becoming a surrogate involves a lot of moving parts, from managing your fertility medications to keeping track of your doctor’s appointments. Staying organized during your journey creates a smoother experience and can help you confidently move through the process.

If you have any questions about how you can become a surrogate, fill out our form to connect with us today.

You can also follow us on Instagram for additional insight from experienced surrogates about their life-changing journey.

With the advancement of technology, several surrogate apps can help you manage all aspects of your journey with the touch of a button. From calendar apps to fertility apps for surrogates, this guide has you covered.

Here are some of the top-rated surrogate apps of 2024 that can make your path to surrogacy that much easier:

1. Fertility Friend

Fertility Friend is a comprehensive surrogate mother app designed to help you track their menstrual cycles, ovulation and fertility windows. By inputting daily information, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus observations, surrogates can enhance their understanding of their reproductive health.

Download Fertility Friend on the App Store

Get Fertility Friend on Google Play

2. My Calendar

My Calendar is not just a period app but an overall tool that can be customized to suit your specific needs. It’s an easy-to-use tracker that helps you take control of different aspects of your menstrual cycle like ovulation, fertility, moods and other symptoms associated with your surrogate pregnancy.

Download My Calendar on the App Store

Get My Calendar on Google Play

3. Embie

Managing fertility treatments are a crucial aspect of the surrogacy process. Embie is a surrogate app that simplifies this by sending reminders for medication doses, tracking your medication protocol by cycle and providing educational resources to ensure you stay on top of your medication schedule.

Download the Embie on the App Store

Get Embie on Google Play

4. BabyCenter Pregnancy Tracker

BabyCenter is a widely used app that offers a supportive community and a wealth of information about fertility, pregnancy and parenting. It provides an ovulation calculator and a kick counter to help you track the baby. You can connect with other surrogates and intended parents, sharing experiences, pregnancy tips and stories to gain insights into your unique journey.

Download BabyCenter on the App Store

Get BabyCenter on Google Play

5. Calm

Managing stress and maintaining mental well-being is crucial during the surrogacy process. Calm is the #1 app for meditation and sleep helping you discover a happy, healthier you during your surrogate journey. Calm is for everyone, whether you’re brand new to meditation or are a seasoned expert. It’ll help give you a mental break during your journey to help keep stress at a minimum.

Download Calm on the App Store

Get Calm on Google Play

Remember, the surrogacy journey is a unique experience, and these surrogate apps are here to support you every step of the way. Tailor these apps based on your preferences and needs, and feel empowered as you become the hero in your own story.

If you want to learn more about how to become a surrogate, check out this article or fill out our form to connect with a specialist today.

What Is Embryo Donation?

If you’re an infertile couple, LGBT couple or a single individual, embryo donation can reduce IVF costs on your surrogacy journey.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) plays a significant role in the surrogacy medical process. You may have already attempted IVF and have no embryos left or you may be new to the process and are intimidated by the associated costs.

Through embryo donation, you can receive multiple frozen embryos for your surrogacy journey without paying for the most expensive parts of the IVF process.

Embryo donation is the process in which couples or individuals who have had success with IVF and have completed their family can choose to donate their remaining frozen embryos to other hopeful intended parents like you.

We can help you determine how embryo donation can fit into your surrogacy journey. If you want to learn more about the surrogacy medical process, contact us today.

What is Embryo Donation?

IVF and gestational surrogacy are increasingly popular family-building methods for infertile couples, LGBT couples and single individuals.

For those that do not want to cover costs of the IVF process such as egg retrieval, embryo creation, cryopreservation or an egg or sperm donor (if applicable), embryo donation allows them to receive frozen embryos donated by patients who have completed their families.

What is the Difference between Embryo Donation and Embryo Adoption?

Both embryo donation and embryo adoption are used interchangeably to refer to the same process of the donation and reception of frozen embryos. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, embryo donation is the medically and legally accurate term.

However, there may be differences in the processes used by embryo donation programs that use one term over the other.

Embryo Donation

Embryo donation is the widely accepted term for the practice of a person’s or couple’s unused frozen embryos are donated to another person or couple.

There are many fertility clinics that have an embryo donation programs, as well as embryo donation agencies. While these programs may provide matching services, embryo donation is treated as a medical process, similar to egg or sperm donation.

Embryo Adoption

Embryo adoption, sometimes referred to as “snowflake adoption” is a term coined by a Christian adoption agency to refer to the donation of frozen embryos. This term may be used by those who see the embryo as a child, or by professionals that employ similar practices used in traditional adoption in their embryo donation process, such as home studies and judicial measures.

Embryo adoption is a misnomer because state adoption laws currently apply to the post-birth placement of a living child, not an embryo. Instead, donated embryos are typically protected under property law and Food and Drug Administration regulations.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) cautions against treating embryo donation the same as adoption, as unnecessary measures like home studies and judicial intervention can lengthen the process or create restrictions.

How Much Does Embryo Donation Cost?

Receiving a frozen donor embryo costs significantly less than both the average cost of an IVF cycle.

The average cost of an IVF cycle in the U.S., according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, is $12,400-$30,000.

While the cost will depend on the program you choose, receiving a donor embryo can be as low as $2,500-$4,000.

Using Embryo Donation for Surrogacy

The embryo donation process may vary depending on the clinic or agency you work with, but must follow the guidelines set in place by the Food and Drug Administration. All donors must complete FDA screening.

Many embryo donation programs facilitate anonymous donations where you will not know the identity of the donor. Some may have the option of a known or direct donation, where you receive the embryo of someone you know.

For anonymous donation, you will not have access to identifying information about the donor, but their profile will include medical history, physical characteristics, family history and background and often a photo of the donor(s).

Once you’ve found a donor match and complete any necessary paperwork, the surrogacy medical process will proceed as normal. Once your surrogate has completed a prescribe regimen of fertility medications, the donor embryo will be transferred to her uterus through a simple and minimally invasive procedure.

If you have questions about creating or receiving donor embryos for your surrogacy journey, connect with us today. You can always find support and first-hand experiences through our Instagram page as well.

Surrogacy With Frozen Embryos [What to Know]

Frozen embryo transfers play a pivotal role in the IVF process for surrogacy, and can increase your chances of becoming a parent.

In 2021, more than 97,000 infants were born in the U.S. from more than 400,000 cycles of assisted reproductive technology. Of these cycles, 167,689 used eggs or embryos that were frozen for future use.

In-vitro fertilization (IVF) and frozen embryo transfers make gestational surrogacy possible, going beyond the traditional aspects of assisted reproductive technologies.

Using frozen embryos on your IVF journey not only enhances the chances of success in the surrogacy process but also brings about several advantages for intended parents who want to grow their family.

To learn more about what freezing your embryos might look like during the surrogacy process, fill out our form.

You can also follow our Instagram and hear from other intended parents who have used frozen embryos for their surrogacy journey.

How Does Surrogacy With Frozen Embryos Work?

In-vitro fertilization plays a pivotal role in the surrogacy medical process. There are two main phases: Embryo creation and the embryo transfer.

Embryo creation

Your fertility specialist will perform a procedure to retrieve mature eggs. These eggs will be fertilized using the intended father’s sperm to create embryos. If you do not have viable eggs or sperm, you can use donor gametes.

By creating multiple embryos at once, you increase your surrogate’s chances of becoming pregnant. Not every egg that’s retrieved will become an embryo and not every embryo is viable. With your consent, additional embryos can be frozen for future use.

If you’ve attempted IVF prior to surrogacy, you may already have frozen embryos.

Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET)

Once an embryo has formed, it will be transferred to your surrogate’s uterus for implantation.

If the first transfer doesn’t take, you can use one of your additional embryos without having to repeat the egg retrieval and embryo creation process, saving you time and money.

Frozen embryos are typically stored and monitored at hospital facilities, like labs or commercial reproductive medicine centers. They can be safely preserved for 10 years and even longer.

How are Embryos Frozen?

Embryos are frozen through a process known as vitrification. This is done in two stages:

The embryo is exposed to cryoprotectant agent to the embryos, which acts like antifreeze and prevents ice crystals from forming.
The embryos are quickly placed into liquid nitrogen at -321 Fahrenheit and stored in straw-like containers.

Benefits of Frozen Embryo Transfers In Surrogacy

1. Controlled Implantation and Reduced Risks

One of the key benefits is the ability to implant embryos one at a time, reducing the risks associated with multiple pregnancies. This approach not only safeguards the health of the surrogate but also minimizes potential complications during the pregnancy.

The risk of Ovarian Hyper Stimulation Syndrome (OHSS) is also significantly reduced, ensuring the surrogate’s well-being throughout the surrogacy journey. OHSS is a potentially life-threatening response to fertility medication resulting in fluid in a women’s abdomen and comes with the risk of blood clots getting into the lungs.

2. Increased Chances of Success:

Surrogacy with frozen embryos offers a strategic advantage by increasing the overall chances of success. In cases where the initial transfer doesn’t result in pregnancy, having additional frozen embryos allows for subsequent attempts without the need for repeated egg retrieval.

The higher success rates associated with frozen embryo transfers in surrogacy underscore the effectiveness of this method, providing you with increased confidence and optimism on your journey to parenthood.

3. Cost-Efficiency and Convenience

Storing and using frozen embryos eliminates the need for repeated egg retrieval or acquiring them from a donor. This not only reduces the financial burden but also streamlines the surrogacy process, making it more convenient.

What Happens to Unused Frozen Embryos?

Once your surrogate is pregnant with your baby, you may have leftover embryos. You have 3 options for how to handle your unused frozen embryos:

Store them for future use: If you plan on having more children, you can store your embryos for your next IVF or surrogacy journey.
Disposal: If you feel your family is complete, you can request that your remaining embryos be destroyed.
Donation: You can donate unused embryos to a hopeful couple or individual like you who is growing their family through IVF or surrogacy.

How Are Frozen Embryos Destroyed?

Typically conducted under the guidance of fertility clinics or medical professionals, the common method involves thawing the embryos to room-temperature, rendering them non-viable. The cellular material is then disposed of according to lab policy, or handed over to you for burial if your state’s laws allow.

Using Frozen Embryo Donation

If couples have leftover embryos after IVF, they can donate them to others who want to grow their family.

If you have not yet created embryos or are unable to due to medical reasons, you can choose to receive a donor embryo through a fertility clinic or agency. The process will likely vary depending on the professional you work with, but here’s what you should know:

You will have access to donor info such as medical and family history, ethnic background and physical traits.
You get to choose the donor or approve the match if a donor chooses you.
Some clinics or agencies may allow degrees of openness in the donation where you can have a contact arrangement with the donor. Others only perform closed or anonymous donations where you will have no identifying information about the donor.
An attorney can help you negotiate an agreement where the donor relinquishes their parental rights, allowing you to become the legal parents.

Whether you’ve already tried IVF or have your heart set on surrogacy, if you have frozen embryos contact us online now to begin your journey to parenthood.