Surrogacy
Surrogacy serves as an assisted reproduction method where intended parents entrust the gestation and birth process to another woman, referred to as the surrogate mother. The driving factors behind the choice of surrogacy encompass a wide range of circumstances, from medical conditions to social considerations, reflecting its versatility and acceptance as a viable option for various individuals and couples.Surrogacy is frequently pursued by individuals and couples facing infertility issues, particularly in cases of uterine factor infertility. Women with conditions such as severe Müllerian anomalies, congenital absence of the uterus and/or vagina, Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser Syndrome, Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS), or those who have undergone hysterectomy may opt for surrogacy as a solution to their unique medical challenges. Same-sex couples may turn to surrogacy to fulfill their desire for a genetically linked family. In cases where gestation is not possible for one or both partners, surrogacy provides an avenue for parenthood. For some, social reasons may prompt the choice of surrogacy. This could include highly driven career women who may experience stress related to the physical changes and discomfort associated with pregnancy.Who is Involved?
A person who agrees to carry and give birth to a baby for someone else is known as the surrogate or birth parent. The person or couple who will receive the baby once it’s born are known as the intended or commissioning parent(s).Many other people need to be considered before taking this life-changing step, including the partner and children of a surrogate, any other children of the intended parent(s) and egg or sperm donors (if any) and their families.Surrogacy Process & Where to Start
Before you embark on the gestational surrogacy process, you will have a consultation with the physician. This initial consultation is usually done in the office, phone, or video conference. We will review all of our pertinent medical records and schedule all necessary testings needed (including FDA testing) for your treatment.Following your consultation, our Financial Director will arrange a call with you to discuss our financial programs.Finding your surrogateIf you have not found a surrogacy agency to work with, we can refer you to a highly respected agency that meets your expectations and will assist in the process. Your assigned coordinator will work collaboratively with you and the agency to ensure all details and communication are appropriately managed.Once your surrogate is identified, Dr.Invitro will proceed with her medical testings and psychological screening (if not conducted by the agency).Medical Evaluation of the Carrier and PartnerThe evaluation consists of a diagnostic uterine test on the carrier, physical exam, and infectious disease blood work on the carrier and her partner.Drug testing is also required on both the carrier and partner (if applicable) as well.Finalizing of plans for Cycle StartThe physician and Dr.Invitro team will meet to review all test results, documents, signed consents, and legal clearance from the surrogacy agency.Once all requirements have been met, your surrogacy journey will commence.Preparation for Intended ParentsAs part of the gestational surrogacy process, Dr.Invitro works closely with the intended parents.Our medical liaisons & coordinators are skilled in screening surrogates in our office and will hold your hand through every step of the way.