By G. David Adamson, M.D., Founder and CEO of ARC Fertility Having a child is one of the most important decisions in your life. It impacts your lifestyle, your body,
Surrogates
I'm Interested in Pursuing Surrogacy. Where Do I Start?
If you’re ready to begin your surrogacy journey, contact us to schedule a complimentary interview with our founder, Melissa Brisman, as well as one of our Intended Parent Coordinators. We will explain the surrogacy process in detail, what sets Reproductive Possibilities apart from other surrogacy agencies, and we’ll explore the options that would work best for you and your family.
How Long Does it Take to Find a Surrogate?
The following four main factors can determine the wait time:
- Fertility clinic
- Location/state laws
- Intended parent preferences
- Surrogate preferences
The length of time to find a surrogate varies for everyone based on the above criteria. Every journey is different and is treated as such. Becoming a parent through surrogacy is a long and intimate process that requires hope, trust, and a bit of sticky dust. Finding the right match is the most important first step and the rest will fall into place for you and your surrogate, with your agency's help. We've successfully matched surrogates with intended parents from states like Georgia, Ohio, Wisconsin, Texas, and Pennsylvania; across the country; and around the world.
What are Pre- and Post-Birth Orders?
Intended parents must obtain a court order determining legal parentage for the child. This order declares who the legal parents are and also confirms for the hospital who can make medical decisions for the child. In addition, this document directs the state department of vital records to place the intended parents’ names on the birth certificate of the child delivered. If you have additional questions on birth orders, please contact our legal team for further details.
What Happens After the Baby is Born?
Once the baby is born, you will begin bonding with your newborn while the doctors take care of the surrogate. Many intended parents spend this time having “skin-to-skin” contact with their new baby, where the baby is placed against the bare skin of the parents. All legal paperwork should be in place at the time of birth, which will ensure that you have all decision-making rights for the care of your child. Some states do require the parentage order be signed after birth. In these cases, additional paperwork is shared with the hospital that will allow you to make all decisions regarding your child. Once the baby is released from the hospital, you and your child can return home and start your life together as a family.
How Much Does Surrogacy Cost?
At Reproductive Possibilities, your surrogacy costs will be determined by your own customized surrogacy journey. Though surrogacy costs vary by each case, we’ve included estimates on our costs page to help you prepare for the expenses of a surrogacy journey to grow your family.
Do You Need to Be Married to Have a Child Through Surrogacy?
At Reproductive Possibilities, we work with intended parents from all around the world; they may be single or couples, same sex or heterosexual. If you're interested in learning more about becoming a parent through surrogacy, call us at (201) 505-0078
Are There Any Requirements for Intended Parents to Qualify for Surrogacy?
Intended Parents must meet certain age guidelines and be able to care for a child. Generally, there are not a lot of requirements for the parents (compared to surrogate requirements), but of course agencies need to know the child will be safe and loved.
Why Would Someone Choose Surrogacy Over Adoption?
Surrogacy gives intended parents a chance to have a biological connection to their baby, and more participation in the pregnancy and process. The intended parents are able to select the genes, and have more control of choices during the pregnancy. It also allows them to be present for the birth of their baby.
Will the Surrogate Try to Keep My Baby?
Short answer: no. In most states in the U.S., a gestational carrier or gestational surrogate has no legal claim to the child(ren) she carries. It would be extremely rare for a gestational carrier to get any custodial rights to a child born this way. In fact, surrogates look forward to the day that they can give the baby they've been carrying back to his/her parents!
What Should I Look for in a Surrogacy Agency?
There are 4 things your selected surrogacy agency should have: 1. Experience 2. A good reputation with area clinics 3. References 4. A process that follows generally accepted guidelines.
Why Do I Need a Lawyer for Surrogacy?
Surrogacy laws are very complex and differ by state and sometimes by county. By choosing to forgo legal advice, intended parents risk having a difficult process. Your surrogacy lawyer should be experienced in reproductive law, and will guide you through the surrogacy process.
Can I Pick the Woman Who Will Carry My Baby?
You most certainly can choose your own surrogate! However, your surrogate must choose you as well. Matching with a gestational carrier is a collaborative process. Everyone should be comfortable with the match.
Are There Age Limits for Becoming a Parent Through Surrogacy?
Yes, we do have limitations on the age of intended parents who are starting the search for a surrogate. We ask that one of the IPs be 58 years or younger (or if the IP is single, we ask that the age be 58 or younger). Our goal is to build a family and we want to make sure that at least one parent is there to raise to the child.
Can I Still Work with an Agency If I Already Know Who I Want My Surrogate to Be?
Yes, with our agency, that is certainly possible. RP tries to be as flexible as we can, working with each intended parent on their personalized journey. We offer various packages/options that can accommodate individual intended parents’ needs. The intended parents' decision may be influenced by cost and/or personal preference. If you have identified your own surrogate, we will assist you with the screening process, arranging her medical/psychological screening with your fertility clinic, and will help guide and support all parties throughout their journey.
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Now is a great time to begin your surrogacy journey!
Reproductive Possibilities fully supports surrogates and intended parents at every step of their journey. We are here to answer any of your questions and aid you in the application process. Fill out an application today and begin the journey of a lifetime.