The most fulfilling time in many women’s lives is when they get to experience motherhood. Unfortunately, not all women are able to conceive naturally, but that does not mean they are unable to experience the joy that motherhood brings. Making the decision to seek alternate methods of starting a family can be a difficult first step. One option couples may turn to is a gestational surrogate. At Reproductive Fertility Center, our priority is to help our patients fully understand their options while providing the best possible care.

What Is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is when a woman (surrogate) carries a baby for another person or couple, who will be the child’s legal parent(s). Traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate is inseminated and genetically related to the baby, is no longer used.

At Reproductive Fertility Center, we use gestational surrogacy, which involves transferring an embryo (usually a frozen embryo) into the uterus of the surrogate. The implanted embryo is created from the DNA of the intended parent(s) or an egg and/or sperm donor. Our priority is helping our patients fully understand their surrogacy options while providing the best possible care.

Reasons to Choose a Surrogate Pregnancy

1. Unsuccessful In Vitro Fertilization

If pregnancy has not been achieved after multiple in vitro fertilization treatments, it may be time to consider a gestational surrogate.

2. Previous Hysterectomy

In some cases, an intended mother may be unable to become pregnant because she previously had a hysterectomy. This procedure removes the uterus, and it may be done for a number of reasons.

3. Health Risks to Intended Mother or Baby

Sometimes, a woman’s uterus or body may not be healthy enough for pregnancy. Certain medical conditions may endanger their health, the baby’s health, and even their lives.

4. Same-sex Couples

Same-sex male or female couples who wish to become parents but cannot or prefer not to carry a child themselves can start their family with the help of a gestational surrogate.

How Does Surrogacy Work?

Reproductive Fertility Center is proud to provide surrogacy options for intended parents who are may be looking for fertility options. Below is what you should expect when working with us:

1. Consultation: Meet with one of our fertility doctors for a private consultation so we can properly inform you on the process, address any questions you may have, and get you on the path to parenthood.
2. Selecting your Surrogate: Some couples are lucky enough to have a family member of close friend to be their surrogate. However, quite often the parents are not familiar with the surrogate at the beginning of the process. Many parents develop a close relationship with their surrogate throughout the process. Reproductive Fertility Center partners with specific surrogacy agencies to help you find a healthy, fully screened surrogate.
3. Open Communication: It is important for all couples using a gestational surrogate to communicate with their fertility doctor regarding their desires, family goals, and concerns. This also includes communicating with the surrogate to promote a successful and amicable surrogacy process.
4. Legal Resources: Couples using a gestational surrogate should fully be informed all laws and regulations involving surrogacy for their state of residency. This process is complex, and Dr. Saadat and this team work with legal experts in the field including lawyers and therapists who specialize in third-party reproduction.

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