Requirements for Surrogacy With Your Own Embryos

How to Prepare for the Process in 5 Steps

To match with a surrogate, you need to have embryos already created.

If you already have embryos created, you’re one step closer to realizing your dream of becoming a parent through surrogacy. Having embryos ready allows you to start the process of finding a surrogate who aligns with your preferences.

This is an exciting stage, but it’s also one that requires careful preparation to ensure everything goes smoothly. With proper planning, you can set yourself up for a successful surrogacy experience. In the end, you’ll experience the joy of welcoming your child into your family.

In this article, you’ll learn how to meet the requirements for surrogacy with your own embryos. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to a surrogacy specialist today to discuss your options and start outlining your surrogacy plan.

Can I Use My Embryos From IVF for Surrogacy?

Yes, you can absolutely use your own embryos for surrogacy. However, the quality of your embryos will be a critical factor in the success of the process. To give your surrogate the best chance of a successful pregnancy, it’s essential that your embryos are properly evaluated and selected.

Embryo quality is often determined through preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) and embryo grading. This helps ensure that only the healthiest embryos are chosen for transfer. Some surrogates may only agree to work with couples or individuals who have high-grade embryos, as this increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Can I Use My Own Eggs for Surrogacy?

Yes, you can use your own eggs for surrogacy. Many couples and individuals want a biological connection to their baby. However, you may want to consider using an egg donor if you have diminished ovarian reserve, are over 40 years old or if you are a carrier of a genetic condition or disorder.

How to Prepare for Surrogacy With Your Own Embryos [5 Steps]

Surrogacy is a complex process that requires careful preparation; being well-prepared is the key to a smooth and successful experience. Here’s how you can start preparing:

Step 1: Make Sure You Have the Financial Resources for the Process

Surrogacy is a significant investment. Many professionals are involved to ensure you can successfully grow your family, and the surrogate you work with deserves compensation for her time and commitment. If you choose to grow your family through this route, you’ll need to ensure you have the financial resources to cover each expense.

If you’re evaluating your budget, you might wonder, “How much is it for a surrogate with my own eggs?” Because creating your own embryos and transferring them to a surrogate requires a full in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle, it can be more expensive than other options like embryo donation. IVF typically costs between $15,000 and $30,000, while embryo donation tends to be more cost-effective, ranging from $2,500 to $4,000.

Step 2: Decide Whether You’re Emotionally Ready

Emotional readiness is just as important as financial preparation, especially if you’ve experienced the challenges of failed IVF or infertility. It’s natural to feel a sense of loss, grief or even failure if you hoped to carry your own baby. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step toward healing and moving forward with surrogacy.

When your surrogate becomes pregnant, you’ll need to be prepared for the emotional highs and lows that can come with the news. To help manage your emotions, consider speaking with a counselor who specializes in fertility and surrogacy issues. Journaling, joining a support group or practicing mindfulness can also be beneficial as you navigate this journey.

Are you ready to start the surrogacy process?

Step 3: Contact a Surrogacy Agency

If you choose to work with a surrogacy agency, you’ll benefit from thorough screening services for surrogates and intended parents, matching services based on your specific needs and continuous support throughout the entire process. An agency can also provide access to experienced professionals who can guide you through each stage, ensuring that you are well-informed and prepared for the journey ahead.

Working with a reputable surrogacy agency can make the entire process smoother and more manageable, allowing you to focus on the excitement of building your family.

Step 4: Choose a Surrogate Who Matches Your Preferences

Finding the right surrogate is a deeply personal decision. It’s important to work with someone who shares your values and preferences, whether it’s their location, experience level or communication style. A surrogate who aligns with your needs can make the entire process more comfortable and rewarding for everyone involved.

In addition to considering practical factors, take the time to build a strong connection with your surrogate. Open and honest communication is the key to a successful surrogacy experience.

Step 5: Work With a Surrogacy Lawyer

Navigating the legal aspects of surrogacy is essential to protecting everyone involved in the process. You’ll need to work with a lawyer who specializes in surrogacy to ensure all contracts, state-specific laws and parental rights are clearly outlined and understood. This legal expertise safeguards both you and your surrogate, providing peace of mind.

You can search for a surrogacy attorney on your own, or American Surrogacy can connect you with a reputable attorney. Having the right legal support will help you focus on the more personal aspects of your surrogacy experience, knowing that the legalities are well taken care of.

Get Started With Surrogacy

If you already have embryos created, you’re in a great position to move forward with surrogacy. This can significantly speed up the matching process, which typically takes between one and six months. By having this crucial step completed, you’re that much closer to finding the right surrogate and beginning your journey to parenthood.

To get started, fill out our contact form for more information or call 1-800-875-BABY to speak with one of our surrogacy specialists. We’ll help you meet the requirements for surrogacy with your own embryos and provide support as you fulfill your dream of becoming a parent.