Stages of Surrogacy

Preparatory Stage for Program Participants

Preparation for the surrogate mother includes:

Psychological preparation: Assessment of mental health, identification of potential psychological difficulties, and the formation of a resilient mindset for upcoming events. This is crucial for the psychological adaptation to pregnancy, the birthing process, and the transfer of the newborn to the biological parents.

Medical examination: A thorough medical examination to confirm health and the ability to safely carry and give birth to a child. Preparation for biological parents covers:

Consultations with experts: Discussion of all aspects of surrogacy (link), including legal, medical, and psychological aspects.

Medical diagnostics: Identifying reasons why the biological mother cannot carry the child and selecting the most suitable reproductive technologies.

Contract Conclusion

A legal contract is established between the surrogate mother and the biological parents. This contract meticulously outlines the responsibilities and rights of each party, incorporating financial agreements and the specific protocol for the child's transfer post-birth. It ensures all legalities are addressed, providing a clear framework for the surrogacy journey.

Financial Terms

•             Advance for the Surrogate Mother: An initial financial compensation is provided to the surrogate after the contract is signed. This advance acts as a commitment fee, acknowledging the surrogate's engagement in the process.

Preparation for Embryo Transfer

•             Hormonal Preparation: The surrogate's endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is prepared for the embryo's implantation through hormonal therapy. This involves administering estrogen and progesterone to optimize the uterine lining, making it conducive for the embryo to attach and grow.

Embryo Transfer

•             Embryotransfer: This critical procedure involves placing embryos, created via in vitro fertilization (IVF) (link) using the eggs and sperm of the biological parents or donors, into the surrogate's uterus. The process is conducted with care and precision, often under ultrasound guidance, to maximize the chances of successful pregnancy.

 Pregnancy Monitoring

•             Medical Support: Throughout the pregnancy, the surrogate undergoes regular medical examinations, ultrasounds, and tests. These measures are essential for monitoring the surrogate's health and the fetus's development, ensuring any potential issues are promptly addressed.

Childbirth

•             Birth of the Child: The surrogate mother carries the pregnancy to term and delivers the baby. Following birth, the child is officially transferred to the biological parents, marking the culmination of the surrogacy process from a medical perspective.

Finalizing the Child Transfer and Legal Procedures

•             Registration Actions: Post-birth, necessary legal documents are signed to formalize the transfer of the child from the surrogate to the biological parents. This step legally recognizes the intended parents as the child's legal guardians.

Compensation Payment to the Surrogate Mother

•             Upon the successful completion of the program and the child's transfer to the biological parents, the surrogate mother receives the agreed-upon compensation. This final payment honors the surrogate's invaluable contribution and fulfills the contractual financial obligations to her.

Medical Examination

Prior to initiating the surrogacy program, an exhaustive medical evaluation is undertaken to ensure the surrogate's health and suitability for pregnancy. This evaluation encompasses:

Gynecological Examination: A thorough assessment to check the health of the reproductive organs, identifying any potential conditions that could affect the pregnancy.

General Clinical Tests: Comprehensive blood and urine tests to detect any underlying health issues that might impact the surrogate's ability to carry a pregnancy or affect the health of the child.

Ultrasound of the Pelvic Organs: An imaging test to examine the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic organs for abnormalities that could interfere with embryo implantation or pregnancy.

Psychological Evaluation: An assessment of the surrogate's mental and emotional readiness for the journey ahead, ensuring she fully comprehends and is prepared for the emotional journey of carrying and then handing over the baby to the intended parents.

Cycle Synchronization

Aligning the menstrual cycle of the surrogate with that of the egg donor (or the intended mother, if her eggs are being used) is critical for the timing of the embryo transfer. This synchronization is achieved through:

Hormonal Medications: The surrogate is administered hormonal drugs to regulate her menstrual cycle to coincide with the donor's cycle, ensuring her uterine lining is receptive at the time of embryo transfer.

Hormonal Preparation

Optimal preparation of the endometrium (uterine lining) is essential for the successful implantation and growth of the embryo. This involves:

Estrogen and Progesterone Therapy: Administration of these hormones to the surrogate to thicken the endometrium, creating a supportive environment for the embryo to implant and grow in the early stages of pregnancy.

Embryo Transfer

The critical process of placing the embryo(s) into the surrogate's uterus is conducted with precision and care:

Procedure: Using a fine catheter, the embryo(s) are transferred into the uterus through the cervix, often guided by ultrasound to ensure optimal placement within the uterine cavity.

Pregnancy Support

Following a successful embryo transfer, ongoing support is provided to maintain the pregnancy:

Continued Hormonal Support: The administration of progesterone, and sometimes estrogen, is typically continued into the early pregnancy to support the endometrial lining and reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Regular Medical Monitoring: This includes routine check-ups, hormone level testing through blood tests, and ultrasound scans to monitor the fetus's development and the surrogate's health throughout the pregnancy.

This meticulous preparation and continuous support are crucial for maximizing the chances of a successful pregnancy and ensuring the health and well-being of both the surrogate and the baby.