The IVF Process for Surrogates

14 Jan The IVF Process for Surrogates

Surrogacy is a remarkable journey built on trust, science, and compassion. For gestational surrogates, the IVF process is a key part of helping intended parents grow their family. 

Let’s jump into the IVF process for surrogates from start to finish!

Why use IVF in Surrogacy?

In gestational surrogacy, IVF is used to create embryos using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. In this type of surrogacy, the surrogate is not genetically related to the baby. Once embryos are created in a fertility clinic, one embryo is transferred into the surrogate’s uterus, where it can implant and grow just like a typical pregnancy.

Step 1: Screening and Medical Clearance

Before IVF begins, surrogates undergo thorough screening to ensure the best chance of a healthy pregnancy. This typically includes:

• Review of medical and pregnancy history
• Physical exam and pelvic ultrasound
• Bloodwork to check hormone levels and overall health
• Infectious disease screening
• Psychological evaluation

Once cleared by the fertility clinic, the surrogate can move forward in the process.

Step 2: Legal Agreements

Before any medications or medical procedures begin, legal contracts are finalized. These agreements outline expectations, responsibilities, and protections for both the surrogate and the intended parents. Having legal clearance in place ensures everyone enters the IVF process with clarity and peace of mind.

Step 3: Cycle Synchronization and Medications

To prepare the surrogate’s body for embryo transfer, her menstrual cycle is carefully synchronized with the IVF timeline. This usually involves medications such as:

• Birth control pills to regulate timing
• Estrogen to build the uterine lining
• Progesterone to support implantation and early pregnancy

These medications are taken for several weeks and are closely monitored through bloodwork and ultrasounds. Many surrogates self-administer injections during this phase, with guidance from the clinic.

Step 4: Embryo Creation

While the surrogate prepares her uterus, embryos are created in the lab. Eggs are retrieved from the intended mother or egg donor and fertilized with sperm from the intended father or donor. The resulting embryos are monitored for several days and may be genetically tested before transfer.

Surrogates are not involved in this step medically, but timing is coordinated with their medication schedule.

Step 5: Yay it’s Embryo Transfer Day!

Embryo transfer is a simple, outpatient procedure and typically does not require anesthesia. During the transfer:

• A thin catheter is used to place one embryo into the surrogate’s uterus
• The procedure is guided by ultrasound
• The process usually takes only a few minutes

Afterward, surrogates are often advised to rest for the day, though normal activities can usually resume shortly after.

Step 6: The Dreaded Two-Week Wait

Following embryo transfer comes the “two-week wait,” when implantation may occur. During this time:

• The surrogate continues progesterone and estrogen support
• Activity restrictions may be recommended
• Emotions can run high as everyone waits for results

About 9–14 days after transfer, a blood test is done to confirm whether pregnancy has been achieved.

Step 7: Pregnancy Confirmation and Early Monitoring

If the pregnancy test is positive, additional blood tests and ultrasounds follow to confirm healthy progression. Fertility clinics usually monitor the surrogate until around 8–10 weeks of pregnancy, after which care is transferred to a regular OB-GYN.

At this point, the IVF portion of the journey is complete, and the surrogate continues with standard prenatal care.

The IVF process for surrogates is a carefully coordinated blend of medical science and human connection. While it involves medications, monitoring, and patience, it ultimately leads to something extraordinary—the opportunity to help create a family. For many surrogates, understanding the IVF process ahead of time brings confidence, empowerment, and excitement for the journey ahead.

We are happy to answer any questions, concerns, or just be a resource for you to talk to about your surrogacy journey!