Gestational Surrogacy at NCCRM
Seek a Surrogate with NCCRM
Growing your family through gestational surrogacy is a profoundly personal decision. We offer full-service support for intended parents and surrogates, focusing exclusively on gestational surrogacy (not traditional surrogacy). In gestational surrogacy, an embryo created via IVF—using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors—is transferred to a surrogate who carries the pregnancy but has no genetic relationship to the child.
Become a Surrogate
Gestational surrogacy is a remarkable process that brings hope and joy to countless families, made possible through modern medical advancements and the dedication of everyone involved. At NCCRM, we’re here to guide, support, and care for you every step of the way.
- Start by completing our pre-qualification screening form.
- Upon review of the details provided, our coordinator will contact you to help guide you through the next steps of supporting a family.
The Gestational Surrogacy Process
Gestational surrogacy is very similar to egg donation, with one significant difference: the intended parents are the ones who take the baby home. Here’s a brief overview of how the process works:
Egg Provider and Recipient Synchronization
To ensure a seamless process, the cycles of the egg provider and the surrogate (or recipient) are carefully synchronized using a combination of birth control pills and Lupron. Once the pills are discontinued, the egg provider begins gonadotropin injections to stimulate the production of multiple eggs.
Recipient Preparation
While the egg provider undergoes stimulation, the surrogate receives twice-weekly estrogen injections to prepare the uterine lining. Around the time of egg retrieval, progesterone is introduced to replicate a natural cycle, optimizing the uterus for implantation.
Egg Retrieval
Follicle growth is closely monitored through blood tests and ultrasounds. When the eggs are mature, an hCG injection is administered to trigger ovulation. The eggs are then retrieved via a minimally invasive, transvaginal ultrasound-guided procedure performed under conscious sedation for comfort.
Fertilization and Embryo Transfer
The retrieved eggs are fertilized in the laboratory using sperm from the intended father. Typically, a small number of embryos—often two—are transferred to the surrogate’s uterus three days later to reduce the risk of multiple births. Any remaining embryos can be cryopreserved for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gestational surrogacy?
There are two types of surrogacies. Traditional and gestational. Traditional surrogacy uses the surrogate’s egg (biological link). NCCRM does not offer traditional surrogacy. Gestational surrogacy uses embryos from the intended parents/donors; the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.
How are surrogates selected?
Selection factors include health, prior pregnancy history, lifestyle, and psychosocial readiness. Intended parents can review profiles and meet candidates for compatibility.
What qualifications are required to become a surrogate?
Typically, surrogates should be between 21-40, in good health, with a history of at least one healthy pregnancy. Many agencies also consider mental health, lifestyle, and non-smoker status.
What is required to become a gestational surrogate?
Surrogates should be in good health, have raised at least one biological child, and undergo psychological and medical evaluations. NCCRM emphasizes comprehensive screenings to ensure the well-being of both the surrogate and the intended parents.
Do surrogates receive compensation?
Yes, surrogates generally receive compensation for their commitment. Compensation varies by agency, location, and type of surrogacy (traditional or gestational).
Do surrogates receive compensation?
Yes, surrogates generally receive compensation for their commitment. Compensation varies by agency, location, and type of surrogacy (traditional or gestational).
Can we stay in touch after birth?
Many matches choose ongoing contact; it’s discussed and documented in the agreement early in the process.
How are cycles synchronized?
Birth control pills and other medications align the egg provider and surrogate timelines for a timely transfer.
What about insurance and legal parentage?
Your legal team will outline insurance coverage, life/disability policies, and parentage steps based on state law.
What medical processes are involved?
Surrogates undergo medical screenings, fertility treatments, and the embryo transfer procedure. Routine prenatal care is also part of the process.
How are legal aspects handled?
Surrogates work with attorneys to protect their rights and establish clear agreements with intended parents. This process covers responsibilities, compensation, and parental rights after birth.
Will I be able to contact the intended parents after birth?
Each surrogacy arrangement is unique. Some maintain long-term contact, while others do not. This is often discussed before entering the agreement.