Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gestational Surrogacy?
The process of implanting the surrogate with an embryo that is created via in vitro fertilization. The resulting child/ children is genetically un-related to the surrogate.
What are our requirements for gestational carriers?
- Between the ages of 21-40 years of age
- Have had at least one, healthy, full-term pregnancy
- Have no more than 5 previous deliveries or 3 deliveries via C-section
- Have had healthy births since any miscarriage or abortion
- Does not receive government financial assistance and is financially stable
- Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of no higher than 34
- Live in a surrogate-friendly state in the United States (we are very sorry but we cannot accept gestational carriers who reside in Nebraska, Michigan, and Louisiana, or anywhere outside of the United States).
- Have the support of family and friends and stable family environment
- Does not use illegal drugs, smoke cigarettes, or abuse alcohol
- Physically and emotionally healthy. Truly wants to help someone and enjoys being pregnant
How can I become a gestational carrier?
The first step is contacting us and completing our application. There are 7 steps in the surrogacy process:
1) The application process
2) The screening process
3) The matching process
4) Contracts
5) The medical process
6) Pregnancy
7) Labor/ Delivery and Post birth
What is the compensation for a gestational carrier?
Our carriers are compensated $45,000 – $50,000. Please note all related expenses are paid in addition to the base compensation and some circumstances require a higher compensation such as carrying multiples or having a cesarean section.
My significant other doesn’t seem on board with my being a gestational carrier. Can I still move forward?
We are sorry but we require that all surrogates and egg donors in our program have the full support of their husband or partner. If you are not married, you must have a support person in place that can help you out in the event of an emergency. A pregnancy requires love and support.
I do not believe in selective reduction or abortion for any reason. Should I still apply?
Yes. We do have couples who share these beliefs; however, they are less common and you should understand that it may take a little longer to match you. Additionally, you can request that fewer embryos be transferred to decrease the chances of a multiple pregnancy.
Why should I choose working with an agency versus going independent?
We believe working with an agency is to your advantage as we provide full service support and guidance throughout the entire process. All aspects of the surrogacy journey are handled by our team, from matching, to screening, to legal work, to social work support, and we handle any issues that may arise. Working with an agency ensures you are protected and cared for.
Can I choose whom I help?
Yes. We have all kinds of families who are looking for gestational carriers: married couples, single parents, same-sex couples, domestic and foreign couples and single individuals, and people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. We have parents who are hoping to add to their families and others who are having a first child.
I would like to match as quickly as possible. Where is the need for gestational carriers greatest?
We generally have more same-sex couples and gay individuals looking for gestational carriers than heterosexual couples. As such, you may be able to match faster if you are open to working with a same-sex couple or a gay individual. It is also a faster matching process the more open and flexible you are regarding embryo transfer, termination etc. Keep in mind that where you live may determine whom we can match you with; based on state laws.
Am I able to meet the family I might be matched with?
Yes. We encourage both parties to meet and make sure that each of you “click”. It is nice to be able to introduce your intended parents to your family and to make sure that everyone is comfortable moving forward. Occasionally, some of our international families cannot fly out for an initial meeting, but they will come to the transfer and meet you then.
What kind of contact should I expect during my surrogacy?
You should expect whatever level of contact makes you comfortable. We do ask all of our intended parents to be in touch at least once a week from the time they meet you until two months after the babies are born. Some people choose to have more frequent contact than this, especially around the time of the birth, however it is not required. Before you cycle and during the pregnancy, you can expect phone calls, emails, and maybe an occasional visit, particularly for OB appointments and ultrasounds. After you deliver, we encourage our surrogate mothers and families to remain in contact through emails, phone calls, pictures and letters or maybe an occasional visit, but everyone should do what makes them most comfortable.