In gestational surrogacy, the resulting child is not related to the surrogate mother. A gestational surrogate is often referred to as a Gestational Carrier (GC). Guidance only coordinates gestational surrogacy journies, not “traditional” surrogacy where the surrogate’s egg is used.

In order to achieve a successful surrogacy pregnancy, the natural conception process is recreated in the surrogate’s body utilizing artificial hormones and other medications. The Embryo Transfer (ET) is the process by which embryo(s) are placed inside the uterine cavity. The surrogate is closely monitored and carries the baby to term on behalf of the intended parents. At the time of birth, the parents are named on the birth certificate and have full parental rights to their child. This is an incredibly rewarding and heartfelt experience for the surrogate’s family and the intended parents.

Individuals struggling with infertility, those who are no longer in their conceiving years, single parents (referred to as Single Parent By Choice), same-sex couples, and anyone who is unable to safely carry a pregnancy to term.

• Age: 21-39 years old

• BMI <32

• Non-smoker and non-smoker household

• Given birth to at least one child

• No more that 2 c-sections

• Able to provide a letter of clearance from OBGYN

• Uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries

• No history of chronic medical conditions

• Able to satisfy a physical and psycholgocal evaluation

• No criminal history

• Stable lifestyle and finances

• Agree to psychological and medical testing (including partners)

• Agree to home visits

• Eligibility Requirement: For the duration of the matching process, we kindly ask that applicants are not currently involved in any active legal proceedings, including but not limited to divorce, that may impact their ability to fully sign a gestational carrier contract agreement- as legally married partners must also sign all surrogacy related contracts. If you have any questions or need further clarification, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.

Payments to gestational carriers vary based on many variables including location, a family’s budget, pregnancy care (ie. twins), insurance, and experience. On average the base fee compensation is from $45,000- $85,000 plus additional benefits. With each potential surrogate journey, we will discuss what you can expect and whether the match is a good fit for your journey.

Being a surrogate to me means being able to give someone one of the greatest gifts that you can give in this life. When you meet the intended parents you know that they have not had the easiest time trying to become parents, and it is you that can help them. It makes you feel very special being able to help someone in need. When you see them with their child in their arms after the baby is born and as they fall in love with their child; it is the best feeling to know that after everything they been through they are finally a parent and you had a part in making that possible. It makes you feel so good and warm inside.

MIA (SURROGATE)

Joining the Surrogate Program:

Online Inquiry and Education

Phone Consult

Online Application

Video Meeting

Prescreening:

Psychological Evaluation

OB Clearance Letter

Medical Record Collection and Review

Partner Education and Screening

Background Check

Insurance Review

Matching:

Meeting with Potential Intended Parents

Matching is a process where coordinators carefully pair individuals whose expectations, preferences, and circumstances align.

Legal:

Once a match is made, both parties will work with attorneys to draft a surrogacy agreement. This contract outlines all aspects of the surrogacy arrangement, including parental rights, compensation, and responsibilities of both the surrogate and intended parents. This is a crucial legal step to protect the rights of everyone involved, and it must comply with local surrogacy laws.

Medical Screening:

Both surrogates and intended parents undergo extensive medical, psychological, and background screenings to ensure everyone is physically and emotionally prepared for the process.

Embryo Transfer:

As a surrogate, you'll undergo a carefully monitored medication process to prepare your body for embryo transfer and support the pregnancy. The exact protocol may vary slightly depending on the fertility clinic.

The medical process begins with an IVF (in vitro fertilization)/fertility/reproductive medicine clinic. Intended parents may use their own genetic material, donor eggs, or donor sperm to create embryos. Surrogates undergo a medication regiment to prepare for the transfer. The embryo is transferred to the surrogate's uterus in a procedure called an embryo transfer.

Pregnancy and Deliver:

Once the surrogate is pregnant, she will receive prenatal care, just like any pregnancy. Regular checkups will ensure the health of both the surrogate and the baby. The intended parents and surrogate can maintain communication throughout the pregnancy to stay updated and involved.

After the baby is born, intended parents assume immediate custody of their child, as established in the legal agreement. Depending on local laws, a pre- or post-birth legal process may be required to establish the intended parents' rights, such as a pre-birth order or adoption paperwork.

Surrogacy agencies and professionals provide post-birth support to both the surrogate and intended parents to ensure a smooth transition. This can include counseling, guidance on next steps, and assistance with final legal requirements.