An Overview of the Surrogacy Process from the Intended Parent Perspective

From the perspective of intended parents, the surrogacy process is often a deeply personal and complex journey towards achieving parenthood. It typically begins with a decision to pursue surrogacy due to medical reasons such as infertility, health risks to the mother, or same-sex couples wanting to have a child. Intended parents begin by researching surrogacy options and understanding the legal and medical aspects involved. They may consult with fertility specialists, surrogacy agencies, or legal professionals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.

Here's an overview of the typical steps and considerations involved:

1.     Initial Decision and Research: Intended parents begin by researching surrogacy options and understanding the legal and medical aspects involved. They may consult with fertility specialists, surrogacy agencies, or legal professionals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the process.

2.     Selecting a Surrogacy Agency or Independent Surrogate: Intended parents may choose to work with a surrogacy agency or find an independent surrogate. Agencies can provide assistance with matching, legal guidance, and logistical support, while independent arrangements require more direct involvement from both the parent and surrogate in managing the process.

3.     Matching Process: This involves finding a gestational carrier (surrogate) who meets the intended parents' criteria and shares their values and expectations. Compatibility in terms of medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences is crucial.

4.     Surrogate Medical Clearance: The gestational carrier will go a through a physical medical evaluation through the intended parents IVF clinic to clear her medically to be their gestational carrier.

5.     Legal Agreements: Once a match is made and medical clearance is granted, legal contracts are drafted to outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved. These contracts cover issues such as medical procedures, compensation, parental rights, and potential contingencies.

6.     Medical Procedures and Fertility Treatments: Intended parents typically undergo fertility treatments to create embryos using their own gametes or donor gametes. The embryos are then transferred to the surrogate's uterus through IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) procedures.

7.     Pregnancy and Medical Care: Throughout the pregnancy the surrogate receives medical care and support from healthcare professionals. Intended parents may attend medical appointments and stay updated on the progress of the pregnancy.

8.     Emotional Support and Communication: Maintaining open communication with the surrogate is important for building trust and understanding throughout the journey. Intended parents may also seek emotional support from counselors or support groups to navigate the complexities and emotional aspects of surrogacy.

9.     Birth and Parental Establishment: When the baby is born, legal processes vary by jurisdiction but generally involve establishing parental rights through birth certificates or court orders. Intended parents may need to complete legal procedures to ensure they are recognized as the legal parents of the child.

10.  Post-Birth Support and Adjustment: Adjusting to parenthood and supporting the surrogate in her recovery are important aspects of the post-birth phase. Intended parents may continue to maintain a relationship with the surrogate and may also engage in ongoing medical or legal processes as necessary.

Throughout the entire surrogacy process, intended parents navigate legal, emotional, and logistical challenges while maintaining a focus on their goal of building or expanding their family. Each journey is unique, and support from professionals and loved ones is essential for a successful and fulfilling surrogacy experience.

Do you have questions about how Bright Futures Families can support you on your family building journey? Book a free telephone consultation!