To learn more about additional payments and surrogacy journey, please contact us at (949) 690-7121 or email us at info@lemontreebabies.org.
Is the surrogacy process safe?
Yes, surrogacy is generally considered safe. Every potential surrogate undergoes thorough medical and psychological evaluations to ensure you are fit for the process. The medical procedures, including hormone treatments and embryo transfer, are closely monitored by experienced doctors. Like any pregnancy, there are risks involved, but surrogates receive the best care to minimize complications.
Does the embryo transfer procedure cause any discomfort?
Embryo transfer is generally a painless procedure. Most women report little to no discomfort, with the process being similar to a routine pap smear. The doctor will use a thin catheter to place the embryo into your uterus, which typically takes only a few minutes. Some women may experience mild cramping or pressure during or after the procedure, but it is usually brief and manageable.
Will I be required to take hormone medications?
Yes, taking hormones is typically required as part of the surrogacy process. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone help prepare your body for the embryo transfer and support the early stages of pregnancy. These medications ensure your uterus is ready to receive and nurture the embryo. Your medical team will closely guide you through the timing and dosage, ensuring your health and safety throughout the process.
Will I need to provide my own eggs during the surrogacy process?
No, as a surrogate, you will not use your own eggs. The embryos are created using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm. Your role as a surrogate is to carry the pregnancy, not to provide genetic material. This is a key distinction in gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.
Will I need to refrain from sexual activity during the pregnancy?
While you don’t need to abstain from sex for the entire pregnancy, there are certain periods when abstaining is recommended. For example, after the embryo transfer and during the early stages of pregnancy, your fertility specialist may ask you to avoid sexual activity to reduce the risk of complications. Your doctor will provide clear guidance on when it’s safe to resume normal activity.
Will I receive compensation for being a surrogate? When are payments made?
Yes, surrogates are compensated for their time, effort, and commitment. The compensation is structured around various milestones in the surrogacy journey, including starting injectable medication, the embryo transfer, and pregnancy confirmation. You will also receive a base compensation, monthly allowances, and additional bonuses. Payments are typically made throughout the process as you reach these milestones, ensuring fair and timely compensation.
How will I be paid for being a gestational carrier?
Compensation is typically distributed through scheduled payments throughout the surrogacy journey. The specifics of how and when payments are made will be clearly outlined in your legal agreement and are handled through a secure escrow account managed by a third party.
Is there a genetic link between the surrogate and the baby?
No, in gestational surrogacy, the surrogate mother has no genetic connection to the baby. The embryo is created using either the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm. The surrogate’s role is to carry the pregnancy and help bring the baby into the world, but she is not biologically related to the child.
Can I be a surrogate if I currently have an IUD?
Yes, you can be a surrogate if you have an IUD, but some IVF doctor will request to remove it before starting the surrogacy process. The IUD can interfere with embryo implantation, so some IVF doctors will remove it prior to beginning any fertility treatments. After the surrogacy journey, you can choose to have another IUD inserted if desired.
Are there any mandatory vaccines if I want to be a gestational carrier?
Yes, there are some vaccines required for gestational carriers to ensure both your health and the baby’s safety. These include vaccines such as rubella, varicella and hepatitis B.
Can I become a surrogate mother if I had a C-Section before?
Yes, having a previous C-section does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate. Many surrogates have successfully carried pregnancies after C-sections. However, your doctor will review your medical records to ensure you had no complications in your previous pregnancies and that your body has fully healed. Your health and safety are always the top priority.
Who typically uses/needs surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an option for people who are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves. This includes couples facing fertility challenges, women with medical conditions that make pregnancy dangerous, same-sex male couples, and single individuals looking to grow their family. They turn to surrogacy when other methods, like IVF or adoption, may not be viable or suitable for them.
Can I decide which intended parents I want to work with?
Yes, as a surrogate, you have the opportunity to choose the intended parents you would like to work with. The matching process is mutual; both you and the intended parents will review profiles and have the chance to meet or speak online to ensure you are a good fit for each other. It’s important that both parties feel comfortable and aligned with each other’s expectations before moving forward.
How soon will I know if the embryo transfer is successful?
Typically, you’ll know if the embryo transfer is successful about 10-14 days after the procedure. At this point, you will take a blood test to check your hCG levels, which indicate whether the embryo has successfully implanted and pregnancy has begun. Your medical team will closely monitor the early stages to confirm a healthy pregnancy.
Am I required to breastfeed the baby after birth?
No, as a surrogate, you are not required to breastfeed the baby after delivery. However, some surrogates choose to pump breast milk for the baby, which is an option that can be discussed with the intended parents. If you prefer not to, the baby will be fed through formula or other alternatives arranged by the intended parents.
Can I continue working while pregnant as a surrogate?
Yes, many surrogates continue working throughout their pregnancy. As long as your job does not involve physically demanding tasks or pose any risk to your health or the pregnancy, you can usually maintain your regular work routine. Your doctor and we will provide guidelines and recommendations to ensure that both you and the baby remain safe during your surrogacy journey.
At Lemon Tree, we guide you through every step of the surrogacy process with clarity and professionalism, ensuring a supportive and seamless experience. Here’s how it works:
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