Why Choose Surrogacy?

What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is the process by which a surrogate (also known as a gestational carrier or gestational surrogate) becomes pregnant (via IVF and embryo transfer) and gives birth to the intended parents’ child.

• The surrogate is not genetically related to the child (her egg is not used).
• The intended parents may use their own egg and/or sperm or use donor egg, sperm or embryos.
• The intended parents obtain an order declaring them to be the parents of the child before the child is even born.
• The intended parents are listed as the parents on the baby’s original birth certificate.
• The intended parents are responsible for the care and financial expenses of their baby from the moment of birth.

Why Choose Surrogacy?

Surrogacy offers various advantages over other family building options such as adoption:

• Surrogates comes to this process willingly wanting to assist you in building your family, rather than being faced with an unwanted or unplanned pregnancy
• Surrogates are rigorously screened to make sure they are suitable candidates to carry your baby
• Surrogates are required to maintain a healthy lifestyle and receive all necessary and appropriate prenatal care while pregnant
• Surrogacy is more secure because there is no chance of the surrogate changing her mind
• You can obtain a pre-birth order of parentage and be named as the parents on the baby’s original birth certificate
• In many states, there are no legal proceedings needed after the baby is born (everything is finalized before the birth)
• You select the criteria for your surrogate (ex. type of employment, age, location) rather than being selected by a birth parent
• One or both intended parents may be able to be genetically related to the baby
• Matching times are typically much shorter than for adoption