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Surrogate Process

A step-by-step guide to becoming a surrogate

The gift of a child is one of the most amazing things you can receive, but not everyone is lucky enough to have the ability to create one on their own. That is where a surrogate comes in, helping to bridge the gap so that those who cannot have children themselves can still hold their own bundle of joy.

Agreeing to provide a couple or individual with this gift is extraordinary, truly appreciated and admirable. But what is the surrogate mother process?

While it may seem a little scary at first glance, our staff here at Family Tree Surrogacy Center has been through the process of being a surrogate, so we are able to provide additional support to our surrogates. From the first day until after delivery, we will always be there for you.

How to become a surrogate with Family Tree Surrogacy Center

Start your online Application

The very first step in the surrogate pregnancy process is actually applying to be a surrogate mother. The application process starts with a qualification questionnaire to ensure that you meet all the requirements to become a surrogate. Some of these questions include topics like your citizenship status, lifestyle, past pregnancy experience, medical issues, and employment history. Once you meet all requirements we ask you about your background, health, and motivations for becoming a surrogate.

Interview

After completing your online application, you will have a one-to-one call with our Admissions Manager. This is to help us get a better, more personal understanding of who you are and why you want to go through the surrogate mother process. We will go through your application and discuss your journey in more detail. You will also have an opportunity to ask us any questions, so you can have a clear idea of what is expected of you.

Screening

The screening process entails a background check and a review of your medical records. Getting all this information might take a while, so you may want to consider contacting your doctor and OB/GYN beforehand to request medical records.

Matching

After you make it through the application, interview, and screening process, we get started on finding your perfect match. We will share your profile with intended parents who we believe will be a good match for you, based on shared values and geographical location. If you’re a good fit for each other we will facilitate an introduction, allowing you and the prospective parents an opportunity to get to know each other.

Psychological & Medical Screening

If the match is successful you will be asked to complete a psychological evaluation and medical screening by a licensed mental health professional experienced in fertility counseling. You’ll be evaluated to determine your medication protocol to best prepare your uterus for implantation. This may include a physical, pap smear, vaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, as well as other tests.

Legal Contract

Once you have been psychologically and medically cleared the legal surrogacy contract will begin. We will appoint legal counsel for you. From here, you and your representation will work with the prospective parents and their lawyer to officially outline the terms of the surrogate pregnancy process.

Cycle Preparation

Once the legal issues are out of the way, it is time to start preparing for your cycle. You may be given birth control pills to regulate your cycle and then you will receive your cycle schedule from the fertility clinic, which has information on when you need to take your medication, how much and upcoming doctor appointments. You will also be informed of any lifestyle changes or limitations you will have to make in order to ensure a successful surrogate pregnancy.

Medication

Medications will prepare your uterus for the embryo transfer. Some possible medications you might take include estrogen and progesterone via pill, patch, or injection. You will also have your blood drawn and receive ultrasound checks to make sure the cycle is progressing properly.

Embryo Transfer

The embryos are transferred into your uterus and you will remain on bed rest for approximately 24 to 72 hours and continue medication until you are advised to stop. A catheter is placed in your vagina leading all the way to the uterus. The embryos will be fed through the catheter and into the uterus, hopefully implanting properly and leading to pregnancy.

Pregnancy

After the transfer there is a 2 week wait to confirm a pregnancy by blood work and 4 weeks until a heartbeat confirmation by ultrasound. You will continue getting your blood drawn and ultrasounds, which will happen more often than a standard pregnancy. Throughout your pregnancy we offer monthly support groups, pampering & gifts, and personal case management. These are just ways of helping you get through the process so that you can have the happiest and healthiest pregnancy possible.

Submit your application today!

Complete your application and help others start a family.