Question 1

What is surrogacy and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Surrogacy is a process where a woman, known as a surrogate, agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another person or couple, referred to as the intended parents. The goal of surrogacy is to help individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term, fulfill their dream of having a child.
The surrogacy process typically involves several key steps:

1. Matching with a Surrogate: The intended parents are matched with a surrogate who meets their preferences and has passed thorough medical, security and psychological evaluations.
2. Medical Procedures: Depending on the type of surrogacy, this may involve in vitro fertilization (IVF) where an embryo (either created using the intended parents' egg and sperm or with the help of donors) is implanted in the surrogate’s uterus.
3. Legal Agreements: Legal contracts are drawn up and signed by all parties to define the rights, responsibilities, and expectations during and after the pregnancy.
4. Pregnancy and Birth: The surrogate carries the pregnancy and delivers the baby. Throughout the pregnancy, the intended parents may be involved in various capacities, often depending on the terms of the agreement and the relationship established.
5. Post-Birth Legal Process: After the birth, legal steps are taken to establish the intended parents as the legal parents of the child.

Surrogacy arrangements can be of two main types: gestational, where the surrogate is not genetically related to the child (the egg and sperm are either from the intended parents or donors), and traditional, where the surrogate's egg is used, making her the biological mother of the child. However, traditional surrogacy is less common and legally complex.

Surrogacy requires careful consideration and planning, as it involves emotional, medical, legal, and financial aspects. It’s a journey of collaboration and trust, aiming to bring the priceless joy of parenthood to those who choose this path.

Question 2

Who can benefit from surrogacy services?

Accepted Answer

Surrogacy services are a beneficial and life-changing option for a wide range of individuals and couples who face challenges in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy. These include:

1. Couples Struggling with Infertility: Many couples who are unable to conceive naturally or have infertility issues turn to surrogacy as a way to have a biological child.
2. Single Individuals: Single men and women who wish to become parents, including gay men can use surrogacy to fulfill their dream of having a child.
3. Same-Sex Couples: Surrogacy offers a viable path to parenthood for LGBTQ+ couples, particularly for male couples who wish to have a genetic connection to their child or have been unable to become parents through adoption. 
4. Women with Medical Issues: Women who are unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons, such as having had a hysterectomy, having uterine issues, or facing health risks associated with pregnancy, often choose surrogacy.
5. People with Genetic Concerns: Individuals or couples at risk of passing down genetic disorders to their offspring may opt for surrogacy, using an egg or sperm donor to eliminate the risk.
6. Others Desiring Parenthood: Anyone else who, for personal or health reasons, decides that surrogacy is the best route to parenthood.

Surrogacy is not just a medical process; it's a compassionate solution that bridges the gap between the desire for a child and the challenges of fertility. It's about creating families and fulfilling dreams, regardless of the challenges one might face in the traditional path to parenthood.

Question 3

What are the different types of surrogacy available?

Accepted Answer

There are primarily two types of surrogacy available: Gestational Surrogacy and Traditional Surrogacy. At Surrogenics we only do Gestational Surrogacy due to the legal implications of carrying out a Traditional Surrogacy.  
1. Gestational Surrogacy: This is the most common type of surrogacy today. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate (also known as a gestational carrier) has no genetic link to the child she carries. The embryo implanted in her uterus is created using in vitro fertilization (IVF), typically using the egg and sperm of the intended parents, although donor eggs or sperm can also be used. This type of surrogacy is often preferred because it allows at least one of the intended parents to have a biological connection to the child, and it avoids some of the legal and emotional complexities associated with traditional surrogacy.
2. Traditional Surrogacy: In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is also the biological mother of the child. In this arrangement, the surrogate's egg is fertilized using the sperm of the intended father or a sperm donor, usually through artificial insemination. Traditional surrogacy is less common than gestational surrogacy due to the potential emotional and legal complexities arising from the surrogate's biological connection to the child.
Each type of surrogacy has its own set of legal, emotional, and ethical considerations. Intended parents typically choose the type of surrogacy based on their specific circumstances, preferences, and legal advice. The choice of surrogacy type will also influence the legal process and the relationship dynamics between the intended parents and the surrogate.

Question 4

How do I begin the surrogacy process?

Accepted Answer

Beginning the surrogacy process is a journey of collaboration and hope, culminating in the joyous outcome of expanding your family. At Surrogenics, we are committed to guiding and supporting you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to start:

1. Research and Understanding: Start with thorough research to understand the intricacies of surrogacy. This includes the legal, medical, and emotional components, ensuring you're fully informed about what the journey entails.
2. Choose a Surrogacy Agency: Partnering with a reputable agency like Surrogenics is crucial. We provide end-to-end assistance, from the initial consultation to the joyous moment of your child's arrival, ensuring a personalized and supportive journey.
3. Consultation with Professionals: Schedule consultations with our network of surrogacy professionals, including fertility specialists, surrogacy lawyers, and mental health experts. They offer invaluable insights into the process, legal frameworks, and psychological assessments to ensure you're well-prepared.
4. Financial Planning: Understand and plan for the financial aspects of surrogacy. Surrogenics will help you navigate the costs, including surrogate compensation, medical procedures, legal fees, and agency services, ensuring transparency and preparedness.
5. Donor Selection and Surrogate Matching: Integral to the process is choosing the right donor (if needed) and matching with a surrogate who aligns with your values and preferences. Surrogenics facilitates this crucial step, employing a thoughtful and meticulous matching process.
6. Legal Agreements: With the assistance of specialized attorneys, we'll help you draft comprehensive legal contracts. These documents will clearly define the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved, ensuring a secure and mutually respectful arrangement.
7. Medical Procedures: Embark on the medical journey, which includes IVF treatments, donor selection (as required), embryo transfer, and regular health check-ups for the surrogate. Surrogenics coordinates these procedures with top-notch medical professionals to ensure the best care.
8. Support and Communication: Throughout the pregnancy, Surrogenics emphasizes the importance of open communication and support. We facilitate regular updates and ensure both you and the surrogate have the necessary resources and assistance.
9. Preparation for Parenthood: As the birth approaches, we assist in your preparation for parenthood. This includes setting up a nursery, advising on prenatal classes, and planning for the birth, ensuring you're fully prepared for your new arrival.
10. Parental Leave Coordination: Finally, we offer guidance on arranging parental leave, helping you to manage work commitments and ensuring you have quality time to bond with your newborn.

At Surrogenics, we understand that starting the surrogacy process is a significant and life-changing decision. We are here to provide a compassionate, comprehensive, and customized journey, ensuring that from start to finish, you feel supported, informed, and excited about the future of your growing family. Let us embark on this beautiful journey together, turning your dreams of parenthood into reality.

Question 5

What is the success rate of surrogacy?

Accepted Answer

The success rate of surrogacy is influenced by a myriad of factors, making it a highly individualized journey. While it varies based on elements such as the health and age of the egg donor (if used), the surrogate’s health, and the quality of medical care provided, surrogacy often offers higher success rates compared to other fertility treatments. This is attributed to the comprehensive screening process for surrogates and the advanced use of assisted reproductive technologies.

Factors Influencing Success Rates:
 • Quality of Embryos: High-quality embryos, which can be influenced by the health and age of the egg donor or the intended mother, significantly increase success rates.
 • Surrogate’s Health: The health and reproductive history of the surrogate are critical. A surrogate who has successfully carried pregnancies in the past often indicates a higher likelihood of a successful outcome.
 • Medical Facility: The level of expertise and the technological advancements available at the IVF clinic are also crucial components that affect the success rate.

General Statistics:
Though success rates can vary widely, many fertility clinics and surrogacy agencies report high success rates for gestational surrogacy. These rates are often comparable to, or slightly higher than, those seen in traditional IVF treatments. It is essential to consult with your chosen clinic or agency to get a clearer picture of the success rates they experience.

Surrogenics' Success Rates and Guarantees:
At Surrogenics, we pride ourselves on having one of the highest success rates in the surrogacy industry, exceeding global averages. Our success is attributed to our meticulous selection process for surrogates, cutting-edge medical technologies, and personalized care for each intended parent and surrogate.
 • Guaranteed Programs: Understanding the financial and emotional investments involved, Surrogenics offers guaranteed programs designed to provide peace of mind to intended parents. These programs assure the financial cost of multiple attempts, ensuring that your journey toward parenthood is supported and secured, minimizing the uncertainties that often accompany fertility treatments.

Individualized Assessment:
Recognizing that each surrogacy journey is unique, we emphasize the importance of an individualized assessment. Surrogenics encourages intended parents to discuss their specific circumstances with our fertility specialists. This personalized consultation helps in understanding the potential success rates for their unique situation, tailoring the journey to meet their needs and maximize the likelihood of success.

Summary:
While there are no guarantees in any fertility treatment, surrogacy with Surrogenics represents a promising option with relatively high success rates, especially when all factors align positively. Our commitment to excellence, combined with our guaranteed programs, positions Surrogenics as a leading choice for those embarking on their surrogacy journey, offering a path to parenthood that is supported, secure, and successful.

Question 6

How long does the surrogacy process typically take?

Accepted Answer

At Surrogenics, we strive to expedite the surrogacy process, typically spanning 15 to 24 months, thanks to our extensive database of donors and surrogates.  Here's a detailed timeline with estimated durations for each stage:

1. Intended Parents' Preparation (Weeks 1-4):
Medical tests, genetic testing (e.g., Horizon test), consultations, and sperm/egg retrieval, if necessary.
2. Donor Selection and Embryo Creation (Weeks 5-12):
Selecting egg/sperm donor, IVF/ICSI, and PGT-A for embryo genetic testing.
3. Surrogate Matching and Medical Preparation (Weeks 13-18):
Matching with a surrogate, her medical screening, social work, and psychological evaluations.
4. Embryo Transfer Preparation (Weeks 19-26):
Hysteroscopy, endometrial preparation, and synchronization with the surrogate’s menstrual cycle.
5. Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Confirmation (Weeks 27-28):
Embryo transfer and subsequent pregnancy tests to confirm implantation.
6. Pregnancy and Prenatal Care (Weeks 29-68):
Approximately 39 weeks of pregnancy, with regular prenatal appointments and monitoring.
7. Delivery (Around Week 68):
The birth of the baby and post-delivery legal procedures.

Key factors that can affect the timeline:
 • Surrogate Availability: Our large database aids in quicker matching.
 • Medical and Genetic Testing: Ensures the health and viability of embryos and surrogates.
 • Multiple Transfer Attempts: Sometimes necessary for a successful pregnancy.
 • Changing Surrogates: Required in some cases for the best outcome.
 • Menstrual Cycle Timing: Scheduling tied to the surrogate's cycle.
 • Additional Treatments or Testing: For optimal conditions and the health of the baby.

Delays in the surrogacy process are often in the best interest of achieving a healthy pregnancy and baby. At Surrogenics, our focus is on providing a safe, supportive, and successful surrogacy experience.

Question 7

What kind of post-birth support is offered?

Accepted Answer

In the context of Surrogenics' operations in Colombia, the post-birth support provided to surrogates and intended parents includes:

1. Medical Care for the Surrogate: After the birth, surrogates have access to comprehensive medical care to ensure their physical recovery. This includes follow-up appointments and management of any postpartum complications.
2. Counseling and Emotional Support for the Surrogate: Surrogates receive professional counseling services to help them navigate post-birth emotions and adjust to the post-surrogacy period.
3. Legal Assistance: Legal support ensures that all legal aspects are properly handled post-birth, including the transfer of parental rights and ensuring that all parties understand their rights and obligations.
4. Support in Parenting Transition for Intended Parents: Surrogenics assists intended parents with services such as arranging nurse care, renting or purchasing baby furniture, strollers, and other necessary items. Guidance on infant care and parenting resources may also be provided.
5. Financial Aid to the Surrogate: Once the surrogate delivers the baby, she receives financial aid as part of the agreement, which helps support her post-delivery recovery.
6. Breast Milk Arrangements: If desired, Surrogenics can facilitate arrangements for breast milk, whether it's from the surrogate or through a milk bank, depending on the needs and preferences of the intended parents.

This support system is designed to ensure that both surrogates and intended parents receive the necessary care and assistance during the critical post-birth period, with a focus on the health and well-being of all parties involved.

Question 8

What post-birth contact is typical with the surrogate?

Accepted Answer

At Surrogenics, the most common scenario for post-birth contact between the surrogate and the child, especially in the context of international surrogacy in Colombia, is as follows:

1. No Contact: The majority of cases involve no contact between the surrogate and the child after the delivery and a brief period of a couple of days in the hospital. This arrangement is chosen to maintain clear boundaries and simplify the emotional aspects of the surrogacy process.
2. Limited Contact: In some cases, there might be limited contact for a short period following the birth. This could include the surrogate receiving occasional updates or photos. Such arrangements are designed to provide closure and ensure the well-being of the child while respecting the boundaries of all parties involved.
3. Ongoing Relationship: An ongoing relationship between the surrogate and the child is not common, particularly in international surrogacy arrangements. This is due to the complexities and challenges associated with maintaining long-distance relationships and the desire to have clear distinctions in the roles of the surrogate and the intended parents.

Surrogenics ensures that the level of post-birth contact is clearly defined and agreed upon by both the surrogate and the intended parents before the surrogacy agreement is finalized. The primary focus is on the well-being of the child, the surrogate, and the intended parents, with respect for the preferences and comfort levels of all parties.

Question 9

How is the relationship with the surrogate managed?

Accepted Answer

At Surrogenics, the management of the relationship between intended parents and the surrogate in Colombia includes several personalized and thoughtful components:

1. Initial Matching Process: The relationship starts with a thorough matching process, ensuring compatibility and shared expectations between intended parents and surrogates.
2. Clear Communication Guidelines: Surrogenics establishes clear communication channels and guidelines, tailored to the comfort levels of both parties. This can include arranging video calls for direct interaction if desired.
3. Sharing Personal Touches: Intended parents can share the name of the baby with the surrogate, allowing her to start calling the baby by their name. Additionally, audio recordings from the intended parents can be shared with the surrogate, which she can play to the baby as its hearing develops. In our members area you can upload any recording you wish to be played to your baby during pregnancy. 
4. Legal Agreements: A detailed surrogacy agreement is provided to define roles, responsibilities, and expectations, ensuring clarity and reducing the potential for misunderstandings.
5. Support and Mediation: Ongoing support and mediation are offered throughout the journey, addressing any concerns or conflicts that may arise.
6. Respect for Boundaries: Emphasis is placed on respecting personal and emotional boundaries, maintaining professional and respectful interactions.
7. Post-Birth Transition: Guidance is provided for managing the post-birth period, including any agreed-upon contact or relationship continuation.
8. Cultural Sensitivity: Cultural differences, especially in international surrogacy arrangements, are carefully considered and respected.

Surrogenics' approach is to foster a positive, respectful, and supportive relationship between intended parents and the surrogate, enriched with personalized and meaningful interactions, ensuring a successful surrogacy experience.

Question 10

How does surrogacy work for single parents?

Accepted Answer

Surrogacy for single parents is a viable option and follows a process similar to that for couples, with some specific considerations. At Surrogenics, particularly in the context of surrogacy in Colombia, the process for single parents includes:

1. Initial Consultation: Single parents start with an initial consultation to discuss their surrogacy goals, preferences, and any specific concerns they might have.
2. Matching with a Surrogate: Single parents are matched with a surrogate who is comfortable and agrees to work with a single intended parent. This matching process considers the single parent's needs and preferences.
3. Legal Considerations: Legal counsel is provided to navigate the specific legal requirements and implications of surrogacy for a single parent. This includes understanding parental rights and responsibilities.
4. Fertility and Medical Procedures: The single parent will undergo fertility procedures, such as sperm or egg donation if necessary, and IVF to create the embryos for the surrogate to carry.
5. Support Throughout the Process: Surrogenics provides support throughout the surrogacy journey, from the medical and legal processes to emotional and logistical support.
6. Parental Preparation: Single parents receive guidance and resources to prepare for solo parenting, covering aspects such as infant care, balancing work and parenting, and building a support network.
7. Post-Birth Legal Process: After the birth, legal processes are undertaken to ensure the single parent is recognized as the legal parent of the child.
8. Post-Birth Support: Similar to couples, single parents receive post-birth support to ensure a smooth transition to parenthood.

Surrogacy for single parents at Surrogenics is designed to be inclusive and supportive, providing single individuals with the opportunity to fulfill their parenting dreams through a thoughtful and well-structured process.

Question 11

What is the role of surrogacy agencies in the process?

Accepted Answer

Surrogacy agencies, like Surrogenics, play an integral role in orchestrating the surrogacy journey, specifically by representing the interests of the intended parents and providing end-to-end support. In the context of surrogacy in Colombia, the agency's role includes:

1. Advocating for Intended Parents: Surrogenics represents and prioritizes the interests of the intended parents throughout the process, ensuring their needs and preferences are met.
2. Selecting a donor and matching Intended Parents with Surrogates: The agency matches intended parents with compatible surrogates based on mutual preferences and legal requirements.
3. Legal Assistance: Legal guidance is provided to navigate the surrogacy process, including drafting agreements and managing parental rights.
4. Medical Coordination: All medical aspects, such as fertility treatments and prenatal care, are coordinated to ensure the surrogate's health and successful pregnancy.
5. Emotional and Psychological Support: Counseling and emotional support services are offered to help both surrogates and intended parents.
6. Financial Management: Financial aspects, including compensation and expenses, are handled transparently and efficiently.
7. Communication and Mediation: Surrogenics facilitates communication between parties and mediates any conflicts, maintaining a harmonious relationship.
8. Logistical Support: Travel, accommodation, and other logistics are managed for appointments, legal procedures, and the birth.
9. Post-Birth Support: The agency coordinates post-birth legal and medical procedures, supporting the transition to parenthood.
10. Ensuring Compliance: Compliance with local laws and ethical standards is ensured, particularly in international surrogacy arrangements.
11. One-Stop, End-to-End Support: Surrogenics offers comprehensive, one-stop service from the beginning of the surrogacy journey until families achieve their dream of parenthood, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling experience.

Surrogenics, as a surrogacy agency, is dedicated to facilitating a successful, ethical, and smooth surrogacy journey, fully committed to helping intended parents realize their dream of building a family.

Question 12

Can intended parents attend prenatal appointments and the birth?

Accepted Answer

At Surrogenics, the policy for intended parents attending prenatal appointments and the birth is as follows:

1. Prenatal Appointments: While typically not encouraged to attend in person, intended parents are provided with detailed reports and photos of the appointments. However, attendance can be arranged if the intended parents are in the country and the surrogate approves.
2. Birth: Intended parents are usually allowed and even encouraged to be present at the birth, subject to agreement with the surrogate and medical considerations. The initial bonding with the newborn is encouraged to foster a strong emotional connection.

Surrogenics facilitates these arrangements to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for intended parents, respecting the preferences and comfort of the surrogate.

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