Choosing Between IVF and Surrogacy

The process of in vitro fertilization or IVF and surrogacy often come up together. We explain the difference and how you can achieve your dreams of parenthood.

The process of in vitro fertilization or IVF and surrogacy often come up together. And for anyone new to the process, you might have a lot of questions. We have the answers you need

To get more information about IVF and surrogacy, fill out our online form and one of our specialists will help you evaluate your infertility options.

Struggling With Infertility

For anyone struggling with infertility, you may be looking for alternative routes to parenthood. Many people turn to IVF in the beginning of their journey. The IVF process includes:

  • Take fertility drugs
  • Pre-retrieval
  • Sperm sample analysis
  • Insemination
  • Embryo transfer
  • Pregnancy results

This process is a generally effective fertility treatment for those going through infertility. IVF is often times a good option if you have certain health conditions, fallopian tube damage/blockage, ovulation disorders, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or are experiencing unexplained infertility. The downside to IVF is that it can be a lengthy, expensive and emotional process. The success rate of IVF attempts for people under 35 is 50%, while attempts at ages 42 and over are only at 3.9%

The Difference Between Surrogacy and IVF

One of the main differences between surrogacy and IVF is the carrier of the baby. When people are using IVF, the intended mother is the one carrying the child. The IVF treatments allow her body to prepare to carry a child in ways it otherwise would not be able to. In surrogacy, a surrogate will carry the child. However, the egg of the intended mother may still be used.

If you’ve been working through IVF and are beginning to feel defeated, don’t give up. Your goal to have a family can still be achieved. This is the part of the journey many people may choose to start looking into surrogacy. There are a number of reasons people may choose surrogacy over IVF, including:

  1. They’re ready to move on from IVF treatments.
  2. They’re more interested in becoming a parent than they are in being pregnant.
  3. They’re concerned about the continued cost of IVF.
  4. They only have a few embryos left.
  5. They’ve done their research.

How Surrogacy and IVF Can Work Together

IVF is used in the surrogacy process. Throughout the process you will use IVF to assist in having a healthy surrogacy. They will go through the same IVF process as mentioned above, but through gestational surrogacy, you will help to create the embryo. This will include:

  • The surrogate will undergo IVF to carry and deliver your child
  • You and your partner’s gametes will be used to create the embryo
  • A sperm donor, an egg donor, or both will help create the embryo
  • A fertility clinic will help create the embryo to be transferred to the surrogate
  • The baby will not be related to the surrogate.

How American Surrogacy Can Help

For couples and individuals who dream of becoming parents but face significant challenges in conceiving, surrogacy offers a pathway to realize their dreams. By partnering with American Surrogacy, these intended parents gain access to a network of compassionate and qualified surrogates who selflessly offer to carry and nurture a child on their behalf.

This process not only offers a chance at biological parenthood but also fosters a deep sense of emotional connection and shared purpose between the intended parents and surrogates. American Surrogacy’s comprehensive support, including legal guidance, medical expertise and emotional assistance, helps alleviate the burdens that infertility often brings, allowing intended parents to focus on the joyous journey of parenthood that IVF and surrogacy can make possible.

Start you parenthood journey today. Contact us to get more information about IVF and surrogacy.

Do Surrogate Mothers Share DNA With The Baby?

Do surrogates share DNA with the baby? We answer our most asked questions about genetics and surrogacy.

As you go through the surrogacy process you, and maybe even family members and friends, may have questions about the DNA of your child. Many people may choose surrogacy due to the genetic factor. But people still have questions about DNA and the genetic process. Common questions we get asked include:

  • Does the surrogate mother share DNA with the child?
  • Will the baby look like the surrogate mother?
  • Do surrogates share blood with the baby?
  • Does a gestational surrogate have a right to the baby?

To get answers to these questions and more, you can contact a surrogacy specialist today by filling out our online form or call 1-800-875-BABY.

Use this easy guide to understand the difference between traditional surrogacy vs. gestational surrogacy, and help those with questions understand your surrogacy process as well.

Traditional Surrogacy

In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate contributes her own egg to the in-vitro process. Once her egg is artificially inseminated by the intended father’s or donor’s sperm, an embryo is created which she will then carry to term in her uterus. In this form of surrogacy, the surrogate mother is the biological mother of the child. This genetic relationship can come with unique challenges. Due to the higher level of legal risk with traditional surrogacy, it is rarely done today.

Gestational Surrogacy

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate and baby do not share any genetics. An embryo is created from the intended parents’ and/or donor’s egg and sperm. Once the embryo is created, it is transferred to the surrogate’s womb and she then carries the baby to term. This process is the most common form of surrogacy today, and the only form of surrogacy American Surrogacy completes.

Now, let’s answer those questions from above. We understand that many of the questions may be from well-meaning family members and friends who have a ton of thoughts on the process. However, we are here to offer you the information to make it clear that your child will not be genetically related to the surrogate.

Does the surrogate mother share DNA with the child?

Many people may think of traditional surrogacy when it comes to the surrogate process. They assume it’s her egg being used. This, of course, is not the case. You will use your egg or a donor’s egg to create the embryo that will be carried by the surrogate. The DNA will come from the egg that was used in the embryo. It will have nothing to do with the surrogate.

Will the baby look like the surrogate mother?

Again, the appearance of the baby comes down to who provided the sperm and the egg to create the embryo that results in a child.

Do surrogates share blood with the baby?

When people talk about “blood relation” they may be thinking of literal blood. While yes, a surrogate’s blood is used to help grow your child, they are not of “blood relation.”

Does a gestational surrogate have a right to the baby?

No. With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother does not have any rights to the child. There will be a legal process that will allow you the legal rights of parenthood while the baby is in the womb.

When people ask if the baby is related to the surrogate mother, the answer is simply no. You will share the genetics with your child through your egg or sperm, or you can choose to use a donor if using your own is not an option for you.

If you want more information on surrogacy, contact us today at 1-800-825-2229 (BABY) or fill out our online form.

Choosing an Egg Donor or Sperm Donor [5 Things to Consider]

If you’re looking for a sperm or egg donor (or maybe even both) to help you complete your surrogacy process, you’re choosing more than a photo out of a pile – you’re choosing the person who will be 50% of your child’s biological origin.

Once you’ve found a donor, you’ll be able to talk to your fertility clinic about creating your embryos via IVF. The sooner you begin the embryo creation process, the sooner we can help you find a surrogate. You can reach out to us when you’re ready.

Whether you’re considering asking someone you know to be your donor, or you’re thinking about working with a professional donor clinic, there are 5 important things you always need to look for when choosing a gamete donor:

1. Someone Willing to Sign a Donor Contract

Even if your donor is your most trusted friend, legal protection through a donor contract is necessary for everyone involved. Having this important document will ensure that you, your donor, and your child are all protected from potential legal complications that could cost you no small amount of money, time, or tears.  

Many family law attorneys; in particular, attorneys who have experience with surrogacy and A.R.T. law will be able to create a donor contract for you. If you have any questions about donor contracts or if you need an attorney referral, your American Surrogacy specialist can help.

2. Someone Willing to Be Identified

If our roots in open adoption have taught us anything, it’s that children should know their history. While you will always be your child’s parent, your child’s donor still represents a very important part of their identity and history. Losing or even hiding that biological link would be detrimental to your child.

Instead of choosing an anonymous donor, we strongly encourage intended parents to consider working with a known donor or to choose an identified donor through a donor bank or clinic. Many donor clinics have exclusively moved toward working with donors who are willing to be identified, because in today’s world of at-home DNA tests and ancestry websites, there is no such thing as true anonymity.

Having a donor who is willing to answer your child’s questions someday can be invaluable.

3. Someone with an In-Depth Profile

Again, because donors today aren’t truly anonymous, it’s standard practice to provide a complete profile. When looking at a potential donor’s profile, it should include:

  • Their social and medical history.
  • Family medical history.
  • Details about their education and occupation.
  • Their interests and hobbies.
  • Their marital status.
  • Information about any children they’re raising, or any children conceived through their contributions as a donor.
  • Photos of themselves as an adult and a child.
  • Details about whether or not they’d be open to contact from donor-conceived children.
  • Details about whether or not they’d be open to helping families have biologically connected siblings.
  • And more.

Intended parents commonly focus on the physical appearance of the donor first. But remember that a child can inherit much more than looks from a donor. Personality, quirks and traits can also be genetically inherited, to a degree.

Nobody can precisely predict how their child will look or what their child will be like — regardless of whether that child is conceived “the old fashioned way” or via donor gametes. However, a donor’s profile can give some insight into 50% of your child’s genetic heritage.

4. Someone Who Understands the Responsibilities of Being a Donor

If a donor is willing to sign a legal contract, willing to be identified and is also willing to provide an in-depth profile full of information, they probably understand the responsibility of being a donor! Whether you’re looking for a donor through a clinic or you’re considering taking a friend up on their offer to be your donor, the right donor will understand that this is a big responsibility. Whenever you’re considering a potential donor, look for someone who understands:

  • Your child may one day have questions about their biological roots.
  • Their willingness to receive contact from you and/or your child if medical or personal questions ever arise can be incredibly beneficial.
  • They have no parental responsibilities ­­– legal, financial, emotional or otherwise, but they will still be an important aspect of this child’s history.
  • The importance of updating you and/or your child if they learn of any new medical concerns that could affect a donor-conceived child.

5. Consider If You Might Like Biologically Related Siblings Someday

Maybe you’re thinking about having more than one child with the assistance of a donor and/or gestational carrier, this is something you’ll want to specify in your search. Some intended parents like the idea of their children being either full- or half-biological siblings. This is an entirely personal decision, but some intended parents opt for this route because:

  • They don’t want to have to search for a donor more than once.
  • It may make medical updates or potential communication with the donor a bit easier.
  • They want their children to have a biological connection within the family.

Some donors only contribute to a clinic once, while others will donate many times. If genetically related siblings are something that you might want, you can specify this preference with a gamete bank. If you’re accepting a donated gamete from a personal acquaintance, you may first want to ask if they’d be willing to donate more than once.

Already found a donor? Ready to begin the surrogacy process? Then it’s time to find a gestational carrier. We can help. Contact us now to get more information.

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.

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.

Surrogacy for Gay Parents: Celebrating Pride and Parenthood

Through the stories of surrogacy for gay parents that we’ve worked with, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy and the essence of family.

Family is more than just a biological connection. In today’s diverse and evolving society, stories of gay surrogacy demonstrate the power of love and determination in creating families. These heartfelt journeys of gay intended parents we’ve helped have the family of their dreams highlight the path through the surrogacy process to the joy of parenthood.

Each narrative is a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment and resilience, demonstrating how surrogacy turns dreams of parenthood into reality. Through these stories, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy, fostering acceptance, equality and the true essence of family.

To learn more about the process of surrogacy for gay parents, fill out our simple form.

Gay Surrogacy Stories from American Surrogacy

Michael and Viet’s Story

For Michael and Viet, becoming parents was the next step in their journey together as a couple. As they considered their family-building options, surrogacy stood out as a way to share a biological connection to their child.

“Surrogacy just gave us an opportunity to complete our family and it completely changed our lives,” says Viet. “We looked at adoption and at the time there was a two year waiting process and the fees were just about the same so we though why don’t we just go through surrogacy and have someone that is part of me in our family which was something we also really wanted.”

After meeting their surrogate, Alissandra, Michael knew she was the person who they wanted to help grow their family.

“The first meeting with our surrogacy Alissandra I definitely felt like it was an instant connection and it was an amazing match because the reasons why she wanted to this were very heartfelt,” says Michael.

It was as if their family grew by two through surrogacy. “After we started the whole process we just got really close and we were a family I felt,” Viet says.

The birth of Michael and Viet’s son through surrogacy fulfilled them in ways they never could have imagined. Viet recalls the first time he held his son.

“The birth of our son was amazing. Alissandra had just given birth and the nurses handed him to me and 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.”

“My son has filled a part of my existence and should and heart with a love that I just never knew existed,” Michael adds.

Watch more of their story here.

Nicholas’s Story

Surrogacy for gay parents isn’t limited to couples. Nicholas, a single gay man, wanted to have a family. Having a genetic connection to his child was important to him, but he worried that surrogacy wouldn’t be an option on his own.

“You first say, ‘Forget it; it’s too complicated, it’s too risky,” Nicholas says. “And then you start to talking to some people and understanding that it is possible to do so if you really want to, so then you have to sleep on it — and then one day realize this is not just an option, but you can do it.”

After finding American Surrogacy, Nicholas’s surrogacy specialist presented him with Nichole’s surrogate profile. Within moments of getting to know her, he knew she was the perfect fit. “We talked to each other, and it seemed really natural,” he remembers. “But what made me sure that Nichole was perfect was because she came across really genuine, and she wasn’t doing it for the money but truly to help.”

The day Julian, Nicholas’s son was born, was the day his life changed forever.

“I had been waiting for so long that… when I saw Julian, I was just completely overwhelmed,” Nicholas remembers. “It was such a wonderful experience to see Julian coming into our world.”

Read more of his story here.

How American Surrogacy Facilitates Surrogacy for Gay Parents

 For all of our intended parents, we work tirelessly to help them find the perfect surrogate match as soon as possible.

“Within a few weeks of making first contact, American Surrogacy told us we have a very, very strong match for you,” Michael remembers. “It was a really wonderful match. I wish all intended parents to have such a wonderful match like that.”

We help you find the right surrogate for you by showing you profiles of surrogates who possess the qualities you want in the person who will carry your child. We put the best interests of you and your future child at the forefront.

 “You need someone that you’re going to trust to choose a surrogate for you, and American Surrogacy was the only agency I felt comfortable with and was genuine enough for me to choose over the other agencies,” Nicholas remembers. “I spoke to many surrogacy agencies — small and big — and none of them made me feel the way American Surrogacy made me feel.”

We’re here for you every step of the way throughout your surrogacy journey.

“The staff at American Surrogacy made our experience really good. We spoke to [our surrogacy specialist] and she was just comfortable to talk to,” says Viet. “She reassured us when we needed it. Every time we called her, she always answered the phone. They’re very supportive and invested in our process.”

“The whole thing is to truly find people like [my surrogacy specialist], who have experience, patience and care for what you go through,” says Nicholas. “This is such a wonderful journey because you realize you’re not alone, and it gets easier than you think.”

Whether you’re an LGBT couple or individual, parenthood is just in reach through our agency. If you’re ready to begin your journey or have questions about surrogacy for gay parents, contact us today.

Honoring Infertility Awareness Month [2024]

World Infertility Awareness Month sheds light on couples experiencing infertility, and the paths available to them that can make parenthood possible.

If you are currently coping with infertility, you are not alone. June is World Infertility Awareness Month; a month to acknowledge infertility issues while educating and raising awareness for something that affects roughly 1 in 6 people worldwide.

As a family-planning agency with over 40 years of experience, we’ve worked with many amazing couples and individuals who are coping with infertility and have helped them have the family they’ve waited so long for.  To get infertility support, connect with us today.

What is Infertility Awareness Month?

World Infertility Awareness Month is celebrated every June to increase awareness regarding numerous infertility issues faced by couples across the globe. This includes problems related to female as well as male fertility. During this month, several myths regarding infertility are debunked, and a lot of options are brought forward to those who may want to conceive.

The purpose of the month is to instill a sense of unity and hope among those who may be experiencing infertility.  If you’ve been trying to conceive, parenthood can still be possible for you through treatment, procedures or family-building options such as adoption and surrogacy. 

Understanding Infertility

Before diving into coping with infertility grief, you should know what the different types of infertility are:

  • Primary infertility: You haven’t ever been pregnant before and can’t conceive after one year, or six months if you’re older than 35, of unprotected sexual intercourse. 1 in 5 women between the ages of 15-49 deal with primary infertility.
  • Secondary infertility: You can’t get pregnant again after having at least one successful pregnancy. About 1 in 20 women deal with secondary infertility.
  • Unexplained infertility: Medical appointments haven’t been able to determine why you can’t get pregnant.

There are many causes of infertility and your treatment may look different from someone else’s. Only a medical professional can determine the cause and help determine the best way to deal with infertility for your situation.

Coping With Infertility

Infertility impacts people differently, no matter if you’re experiencing primary infertility or trying to figure out how to cope with unexplained fertility.

But there are ways to help you deal with infertility to overcome this difficult process as you look to grow your family.

1.      Share Your Feelings

For couples experiencing primary infertility, sharing your feelings, in a positive manner, with your partner and others can give you an open ear to talk to.

Your partner is learning how to cope with infertility too and it can be just as helpful for them as it is for you to realize you and your close circle of family and friends are there for them.

Whether you are utilizing an infertility counselor to talk through what you’re feeling or an infertility support group of others that are going through similar emotions, sharing your struggles can help you move forward.

2.      Allow Yourself to Grieve, Feel Anger and Cry

You may have been dreaming about the family you envision for years. Coping with a secondary infertility can be painful, emotionally and physically.

Bottling up those emotions or hiding them to put on a brave face can lead to more emotional hurt down the road when the top eventually comes off.

Coping with infertility grief by expressing your emotions can be a healthy, cathartic way to help you move forward.

3.      Stay in Touch With Your Partner 

No matter if you’re a couple experiencing primary infertility, secondary infertility or unexplained fertility, its important to stay in touch with your partner.

The emotions you may be feeling and navigating are something your partner could be figuring out how to cope with too.

Being open, honest, strong and loving with each other can help you both deal with infertility together. Whether its talking to an infertility counselor or just planning a special night with each other, coping with infertility with each other can help you both navigate the emotions you feel.

If You’re Infertile Can You Use a Surrogate?

Depending on how long you have been dealing with infertility, you may wonder what other options you have. Surrogacy is an option for infertile couples or individuals particularly if you’ve exhausted medical options like in-vitro fertilization to try and become pregnant.  

Only you can know if surrogacy is right for your situation but surrogacy for infertile couples is another option for you to grow your family. These questions can help determine if surrogacy could be right for you:

  • Are you ready to move on from your current infertility treatments?
  • Are you OK with not experiencing pregnancy?
  • Do you want someone else to carry your baby to term?
  • Do you have embryos left over from infertility treatments?
  • Are you and your partner on the same page about surrogacy?

These are all questions that require introspection and communication. If you don’t have the answers to these questions, that’s OK.

We have infertility counseling with someone trained in assisted reproductive technology that knows about the emotions you could be feeling and the different options you have moving forward. Infertility counseling can consist of:

  • Patient-centered care
  • Support counseling
  • Psychotherapy

If you’re interested in learning more about surrogacy as an option for infertile couples, our surrogacy specialists that can give you all the information needed to help you make the best decision for your situation. Contact us today.

How Do Surrogacy Agencies Find Surrogates?

You can become the parent you’ve been dreaming of being through surrogacy. Find out how a surrogacy agency connects you with a great surrogate.

Becoming a parent through surrogacy can be a beautiful shared journey with a great surrogate, but the process of finding a surrogate can be difficult. That’s why American Surrogacy has a system in place to find great surrogates and connect you with the best surrogate for your family.

You can get help finding a surrogate here or call 1-800-875-2229. Read on to learn more about how we find our surrogates.

Surrogate Advertising

The first step in finding surrogates is to find women who may want to become surrogates.  Our advertising team works hard to connect with these women. Women may see an advertisement for our surrogacy agency, hear about us from a friend or family member, or find us through web search results.

Often, women find us through searches because they have been considering surrogacy and are excited about helping out a family who is dreaming of having a child.

These women may send us a message, connect with us through our online contact form, or call our surrogacy specialists directly at 1-800-875-2229.

Surrogate Intake

Once a woman connects with us as a potential surrogate, our surrogacy specialists begin sharing information with her and gathering information about her.

Our surrogacy specialists know the importance of having surrogates who are well-informed and committed to the process, so our surrogacy specialists share all the information a surrogate might need to begin the process of surrogacy, and each woman has the opportunity to ask any questions she might have about the process.

When she feels ready, a potential surrogate will also answer basic questions about herself that help our surrogate specialists determine if she might be a good candidate to be a surrogate.

These initial questions can include:

  • Age
  • General health information
  • Previous pregnancy information
  • Whether or not she is currently raising a child
  • Social history
  • Reasons for  wanting to become a surrogate

Surrogate Screening

Once a potential surrogate is well-informed of the surrogacy process, and the surrogate specialist has determined she meets the basic qualifications to become a surrogate, she will begin the screening process.

The screening process goes more in-depth to determine whether a potential surrogate is qualified and ready to become a surrogate.

The screening process involves help from professionals and can include:

  • A psychological screening
  • An in-home visit
  • Medical records review
  • Background check
  • And more

Surrogate Matching

Once a surrogate has been fully screened and is ready to get matched with a family, your surrogacy specialist will prepare her for the matching process by helping her create a surrogate profile. The surrogate profile will include important information about the surrogate as well as personal information that can help you find the perfect match for your family.

When you are ready to be matched with a surrogate, you can view profiles of surrogates who are fully screened and ready to help you on your surrogacy journey. At American Surrogacy, you can get matched with a surrogate in as little as 30-90 days, the shortest wait time in the industry.

Identified Surrogacy

Sometimes, we don’t need to do the work of finding a surrogate because some intended parents come to surrogacy with a surrogate already in mind. There have been friends, siblings, in-laws, aunts, cousins, daughters, and even mothers who were surrogates for someone in their life.

When intended parents come to us with a woman in mind who is ready to become a surrogate, we screen the potential surrogate, and if the woman meets the requirements to become a surrogate, we can help them along the rest of the journey.

If you have a friend, family member, or another person in your life who is interested in becoming a surrogate for you, we can help you complete your surrogacy journey through our identified surrogacy program.

Get Help Now

Whether you need help finding a surrogate or have a surrogate in mind, you can call 1-800-875-2229 or get help here from one of our surrogacy specialists.

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.

Celebrating Mother’s Day On Your Surrogacy Journey

As an intended mother, celebrating Mother’s Day is a way to honor the love and determination you’ve dedicated to growing your family. But if you’re struggling with infertility or in the middle of your journey, there can be complicated emotions that surface. We’re here to help.

Mother’s Day is a day of celebration, but it can also be emotionally challenging for those who have not yet achieved their motherhood goals. Whether you’re experiencing infertility, in the middle of a surrogacy process or have had a child through surrogacy, your experience will be unique.

We celebrate mothers in all stages of their parenting journey. If you’re coping with infertility or in the middle of your journey and struggling with difficult emotions, you can contact us today for support.

 Here’s how to make Mother’s Day positive, no matter where you are:

If You’re Struggling with Infertility

Women who are not yet mothers can find Mother’s Day particularly difficult. The images of happy mothers and children can be emotionally devastating when you desperately want to be a mom. Remember that your emotional well-being is essential. Here are some approaches:

  • Take a Break: If celebrating Mother’s Day feels too painful, it’s okay to sit it out. Do an activity unrelated to the holiday that brings you joy. Use your coping mechanisms to address your emotions.
  • Focus on Loved Ones: Shift the attention away from yourself by celebrating with your own mother and other family members. Sometimes, being around loved ones can help you forget your sadness and enjoy the day.

If You’re in the Surrogacy Process

Being in the middle of a surrogacy journey on Mother’s Day can bring conflicting feelings. Here’s how to navigate them:

  • Include Your Surrogate: If your surrogate is pregnant, you’re likely excited about the little bundle of joy arriving soon. Consider including your surrogate in your Mother’s Day celebrations. A token of appreciation like flowers or a small gift can go a long way.
  • Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that this Mother’s Day might be bittersweet. Allow yourself to feel both excitement and longing. It’s okay to have mixed emotions.
  • Look Ahead: Imagine next year’s Mother’s Day when you’ll finally hold your baby. Let that anticipation fill your heart with hope and joy.
  • Talk to your surrogacy specialist: Your surrogacy specialist can provide a shoulder for you to lean on, help talk you through your emotions or provide helpful resources and coping skills.

If You’ve Had a Child Through Surrogacy

Congratulations! You’ve experienced the miracle of surrogacy. Now, Mother’s Day is about celebrating your journey. Here’s how:

  • Reflect on Your Journey: Take a moment to appreciate the path that led you to motherhood. Remember the courage, patience and love it took to get here.
  • Create Keepsakes: Consider framed ultrasound images, recordings of the baby’s heartbeat, pictures of you with your surrogate. These sentimental items will remind you of this special time.
  • Call or text your surrogate: Call your surrogate and catch up. Update her on how the baby is doing and express your gratitude for her role in helping you have the family of your dreams.
  • Send a card: Send your surrogate a card thanking her for helping you be able to celebrate your first Mother’s Day with your baby.
  • Have Lunch Together: Share a meal with your surrogate, if possible. Celebrate the bond you’ve formed and the beautiful life you’re bringing into the world.

Remember, every stage of the surrogacy journey is significant. Whether you’re waiting, anticipating, or celebrating, Mother’s Day is a day to honor the love and commitment that make motherhood possible.  And if you’re considering growing your family through surrogacy, contact us today to get started.

When IVF Isn’t Working, Becoming a Parent is Still Possible Through Surrogacy

Are you having a difficult time with IVF? If it isn’t working, then you can still become a parent through surrogacy. We’ll explain how.

You Can Realize Your Dreams of Parenthood

Parenthood is a beautiful journey. You get to watch your child blossom from a baby into a full-grown, wonderful adult, and it’s a fierce kind of love that only you will ever know. Maybe you want to become a parent yourself, but there are complications getting in the way.

You’ve tried in vitro fertilization (IVF), but it just isn’t working. We understand if you’re feeling defeated and upset. This is a lot to go through. Fortunately, though, IVF is not your only option. There is another one that we’re here to tell you about: surrogacy. Parenthood is still possible for you. To learn more, you can contact us online at any time.

What Are the Success Rates of IVF Treatments? [Surrogacy Is Possible]

Today, IVF is a well-known procedure that helps people with infertility issues become parents. It’s becoming more common, but it is also common for people to face challenges with their success rates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) national statistics from 2018, 50% of IVF attempts are successful for people 35 and under. For people who are 42 or older, the IVF success rate is 3.9%.

In fact, the success rate actually decreases with each successive round. If you have tried IVF several times and it hasn’t worked, then this could be the reason why. But, you don’t have to lose hope. That’s because you can still become a parent through surrogacy.

What Is Surrogacy? [What You Need to Know]

It’s a term you’ve heard every now and then, and you might understand the basics. But, there’s no doubt that surrogacy can be technical and difficult to grasp. So, what is surrogacy? In simple terms, gestational surrogacy is when the surrogate (also known as a gestational carrier) is not biologically related to the baby that they are carrying.

On the other hand, traditional surrogacy is when the surrogate is the biological parent of the baby that they’re carrying. Gestational surrogacy uses IVF, whereas traditional surrogacy does not. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s eggs are fertilized through IUI using sperm from the intended father or a donor. This means that parenthood is still an option through surrogacy.

What Are the Benefits of Surrogacy? [The Advantages of Choosing Our Agency]

Now that you understand what surrogacy is, you may be curious about the benefits of it. As someone considering becoming a parent through surrogacy, you should think about working with American Surrogacy, the best surrogacy agency around. We offer the most comprehensive benefits and services for intended parents like you.

To give you a better idea of why you should work with our agency, here are some of the benefits of surrogacy that we can provide for you:

  • You’ll know that the surrogate can successfully carry the pregnancy: Here at American Surrogacy, we have an extensive screening process that all of our surrogates must undergo.  This ensures that they didn’t have any issues in their previous pregnancies and that their medical history allows them to have another successful one. In other words, you’ll have the best chance possible of becoming a parent through surrogacy with our agency.
  • You can raise a child from birth: Working with American Surrogacy means that you have the opportunity to raise a child from birth to adulthood. You can also be actively involved in the pregnancy and develop a meaningful bond with the surrogate if you want.
  • You can overcome an inability to have children: At our agency, parenthood is always possible. The biggest benefit of choosing surrogacy is that, if you have been struggling with infertility or other complications, you can fulfill your dreams of becoming a parent.
  • You can feel reassured every step of the way: By choosing American Surrogacy, you can rest easy knowing that your trusted professional will be there to walk you through each step of the process. Surrogacy can be difficult to wrap your head around, so that’s why our reputable team will always be there for you.
  • You can develop a relationship with the surrogate: One of our professionals can mediate contact between you and the surrogate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t become close with the surrogate and get to know them better. In fact, you may discover that you’ve made some new extended family through surrogacy.

If you want to get started on this beautiful journey today, then we would be more than happy to help you out. You can fill out our online contact form whenever you’re ready to get in touch with us. With American Surrogacy, you’ll have everything that you need to become a parent.