So, you’re curious about IVF surrogacy? Let’s break it down in a simple way. IVF, or in vitro fertilization, is a top-notch fertility treatment that helps people looking to start or grow their families. Surrogacy, specifically gestational surrogacy, is when someone else carries the pregnancy for intended parents. It’s important to know how this whole process works as you consider your options.
At PFCLA, we’ve been helping all sorts of intended parents navigate the journey of IVF and surrogacy. So, what’s the step-by-step of gestational surrogacy?
How Does Gestational Surrogacy Work?
In a nutshell, gestational surrogacy involves fertilizing an egg with sperm in a lab setting and then transferring that embryo into the surrogate’s uterus. The cool part is that the surrogate has no genetic tie to the baby. Most of the time, depending on state laws, intended parents can establish legal parentage even before the baby is born.
On the flip side, traditional surrogacy is different—it doesn’t use IVF. Instead, the surrogate is inseminated with either donor sperm or the intended father’s sperm, making her biologically related to the child. This can complicate things legally and emotionally.
Who Might Consider Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a fantastic option for:
- Intended mothers who can’t carry a baby to term.
- Those born without a uterus or who have had a hysterectomy.
- Women who’ve struggled with traditional IVF.
- Mothers with medical issues that make pregnancy risky.
- Single dads wanting to become fathers.
- Same-sex male couples or trans women looking to start families.
Choosing surrogacy is deeply personal, and it’s crucial to consult with your fertility specialist to find the best path for your situation.
The IVF Timeline with a Surrogate
Here’s a quick rundown of what to expect if you go this route:
- Finding Your Surrogate: Work with a surrogacy agency to select your surrogate. She’ll undergo medical screening with your IVF clinic, and then both parties will sign legal agreements that outline compensation and parental rights.
- Synchronizing Cycles: You, your surrogate, and possibly your egg donor will take fertility medications to align your cycles. Alternatively, you can create and freeze embryos for future transfer.
- Egg Retrieval: Once the intended mother or donor’s eggs are ready, they’ll be retrieved to create embryos in the lab.
- Embryo Transfer: Your fertility clinic will then transfer the created embryo(s) into the surrogate’s uterus.
- Pregnancy Test: Two weeks later, your surrogate will take a blood test to check for pregnancy. If it doesn’t work out, you can try transferring another embryo. If it’s successful, congratulations! The clinic will monitor the pregnancy until about 10-12 weeks before she sees her OB.
- Ongoing Care: The surrogate will continue her prenatal care until she delivers the baby. After the birth, you’ll finally bring your little one home!
Some families choose to maintain contact with their surrogates, but it’s not required unless specified in your contract. Just remember, the gift your surrogate has given you is invaluable, and it’s essential to show her the respect and appreciation she deserves.
If you’re ready to dive deeper into the surrogacy process, check out this blog post for more insights on your journey. You might also want to visit Healthline for more excellent information about pregnancy and home insemination. And if you’re looking to boost your fertility, Make a Mom has some great supplements to consider.
In summary, IVF surrogacy is a structured process that involves many steps, from finding a surrogate to embryo transfer and beyond. It’s a fantastic option for those who may not be able to carry a pregnancy themselves, and it’s essential to work closely with professionals throughout the journey.