Become a Surrogate

First, Some Surrogacy Definitions

Gestational surrogacy involves an intended mother (or an egg donor), an intended father (or a sperm donor) and a surrogate. Through in vitro fertilization (IVF), eggs provided by the intended mother (or egg donor) are fertilized with the sperm of the intended father (or sperm donor). The resulting 3-5 day old embryos are then transferred to the surrogate who carries and gives birth to the child/children.

Traditional surrogacy involves a surrogate mother who uses her own eggs and is either artificially inseminated with the semen of the intended father or sperm donor. She then carries and gives birth to the child. (A traditional surrogate may also act as the egg donor: after her own donated eggs are harvested and fertilized, the embryos are transferred back into the surrogate’s uterus. She then carries and gives birth to the child.)

Surrogate mother is a woman who bears a child on behalf of another person or a couple, typically via artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization.

Gestational carrier is a woman who has a fertilized egg from another woman implanted in her womb, so as to bear a child on behalf of the other woman.

At ISC, we use gestational surrogacy. If you want to apply to be a surrogate for this process, you can start your pre-qualification screening by completing our online form. by completing our online form.

5 KEY FACTS ABOUT BEING A SURROGATE 

Before you apply to be a surrogate, you should have a good understanding of the process. First, gestational surrogates play a vital role in carrying the baby to term but do not have any genetic ties to the child. This is because their eggs are not used in the creation of the embryo. Instead, the embryos are created using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material, which means the surrogate has no biological connection to the baby. 

Second, surrogates receive financial compensation throughout their entire journey, beginning even before pregnancy occurs. This payment structure provides support from the very start, covering medical procedures, prenatal care, and other associated expenses, which allows surrogates to focus on their health and the well-being of the baby. 

Third, surrogates have the autonomy to choose the families they wish to work with. All matches between surrogates and intended parents are mutually agreed upon, fostering a harmonious and collaborative relationship. This mutual selection process builds a strong foundation of trust and understanding for a more positive surrogacy experience. 

To become a surrogate mom, another key thing to know is that — as part of the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process — surrogates are required to administer hormonal injections. These injections are essential for preparing the body for embryo transfer and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Although the thought of injections may be daunting, most surrogates find the process manageable and receive comprehensive support and guidance from medical professionals. 

Last, surrogates typically do not form an emotional attachment to the babies they carry. They understand their role is to help bring joy to the intended parents and they eagerly look forward to the moment when the parents get to hold their baby for the first time. This emotional preparedness and anticipation are integral aspects of the surrogacy journey. 

I Want to Be a Surrogate Mother — Why Should I Work With ISC?

Our experience and commitment to helping surrogate mothers along their journey makes us the most trusted agency in the country. We provide our surrogates with the finest care from experienced IVF doctors. Working with us means you’ll receive compassion and support every step of the way, with open and honest communication so you’ll always feel comfortable. 

Because so many of our team members have been surrogates themselves, you can rest assured we understand what you’ll be going through and be there for you. If you’re asking, “How do I become a surrogate?” reach out and start the process with us today. We will help you apply to be a surrogate so you can make intended parents’ dreams come true.