It all begins with an idea. You want to be a surrogate but it seems so complicated. Not to worry! Below are the steps and timing of each to help you prepare!
The Process
Research and Decide
Learn about surrogacy, its requirements, and responsibilities. Decide if surrogacy is the right path for you and your family. This can take some time to get spouse and family onboard. That’s ok! Take your time and make sure you have the support you need!
Apply and Prescreen
Complete a short application to see if you meet basic qualifications. If approved, move on to the full screening process, which includes health assessments, background checks, and an interview. This is our favorite part… we can not wait to get to know you and teach you all about this incredible process!! ❤️
Matching with Intended Parents
Work with us to find intended parents who align with your values and preferences. Once matched, you’ll have a match meeting to get to know them better. This is the fun part! We make matches that are connective and personalized so everyone gets what they are looking for!
Medical Screening and Medications
Complete a thorough medical screening at the intended parents’ fertility clinic. You normally will have to travel for this but all costs are paid for by us! There, they will do a transvaginal ultrasound to check your uterus and do some labs to check your current health!
Legal Contracts
Review and sign a legal agreement with the intended parents to outline everyone’s rights, responsibilities, and expectations. You will have your own lawyer that we can connect you with. They will be able to walk you through all the legalities and make sure you are protected.
Medications and Embryo Transfer
Begin a course of fertility medications to prepare your body for the embryo transfer. Undergo the embryo transfer procedure, where the embryo is gently placed in your uterus. After the transfer, we will wait 10 days and then do a pregnancy test.
Pregnancy
Carry and nurture the baby throughout the pregnancy. You’ll have regular prenatal appointments and maintain open communication with the intended parents. The first trimester will be under the care of the IVF physician and then you will be seen by an OB. If you dont have one, we can help you find one! You will deliver at a hospital near you!
Delivery
Deliver the baby and experience the joy of helping a family grow. The intended parents are typically present for the birth, and the baby is placed with them shortly after delivery. You will be able to spend some time with them and the baby in the hospital. This is usually a surrogate’s favorite day because you see the parents first hold their baby!
Postpartum Recovery
Take time to rest and recover after delivery. You’ll continue to receive support from the agency and stay in touch with the intended parents. We rovide a lot of support through this period, the fourth trimester!
Reflection and Connection
Reflect on your journey and celebrate the life-changing impact you’ve had. Many surrogates maintain a lifelong bond with the families they’ve helped create and friends they have made with Roots! We stay in touch with so many of our surrogates and love to see their lives grow and change through the years!
