Embarking on a surrogacy journey is a profound experience, filled with important milestones that culminate in one of life's greatest joys: welcoming your new baby. Each journey is unique and follows its own timeline, but typically spans 24-27 months. Our dedicated team at Donor Exchanges will support you every step of the way, tailoring the process to your personal circumstances and preferences.
Understanding the surrogacy process can be overwhelming, SO we've broken it down into five key steps. Each stage has its own set of activities and timeframes, though individual experiences may vary.
Initial consultation and agency agreement signing
Introductory video call with our team
Matching with an egg donor if required and embryo creation
After signing up, your primary contact will be a Matching Specialist who helps select the right surrogate. We'll coordinate with your chosen IVF clinic or help you select one from our trusted f partners. If you need to create embryos Or select an egg donor, we'll guide you through these steps, recommending programs like the Donor Exchanges Egg Donation Program for comprehensive donor solutions.
Surrogate matching and approval process
Introduction via video call and initiation of the preghancy journey
This exciting phase involves selecting the woman who will carry your child. Our surrogates undergo a rigorous three-step vetting process. The matching is carefully handled by our specialists who ensure compatibility and a shared understanding of the journey's requirements.
Once matched, youll meet your Journey Coordination team who will oversee the process and support you through to the pregnancy.
Medical screening of the surrogate
Legal agreements and contracts
Embryo transfer and subsequent pregnancy tests
The surrogate undergoes thorough medical screening at your IVF clinic. Post-clearance, she starts her medication regimen, monitored locally to ensure optimal response. During this phase, you'll work on the surrogacy contract with legal assistance, ensuring all parties' rights and responsibilities are clearly defined. The embryo transfer marks a pivotal moment, followed by tests to confirm pregnancy.
Regular medical check-ups and ultrasounds
Developing a birth plan and establishing parental rights
Preparations for hospital stay and delivery
The surrogate's transition to her OBGYN for ongoing pregnancy care includes regular ultrasounds. Intended parents typically participate in these appointments, including the critical 20-week scan. Planning for the birth involves legal work to establish parental rights and logistical preparations for the delivery day.
Embracing the new role of parenthood
Finalizing documents, such as the baby's passport
Returning home with your newborn
The culmination of your journey is the birth of your baby. Once the hospital discharges your newborn, youll prepare to take your baby home, which may include international travel arrangements if applicable. This period involves saying heartfelt goodbyes to your surrogate, with whom you've likely formed a deep bond.
Returning home with your newborn is an emotionally rich experience, blending joy with the complexities of adjusting to new parenthood. Our team at Donor Exchanges remains available to guide you through these early days and beyond, ensuring a smooth transition for you and your baby.
This detailed guide aims to demystify the surrogacy process, highlighting our commitment to providing a supported, clear, and compassionate pathway to parenthood for all intended parents.
