Consider gestational surrogacy as a tool for building or expanding your family

For couples and individuals dealing with infertility, the path to parenthood can seem like a long, winding road. The Los Angeles fertility doctors at USC Fertility have the expertise to assist you in identifying any hindrances to pregnancy. After making a diagnosis, the team can then develop a personalized infertility treatment plan. Our fertility clinic offers advanced therapies, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and gestational surrogacy.

An introduction to this type of surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy refers to a treatment where a woman (gestational surrogate) undergoes the embryo transfer for the intended parents. She then carries the pregnancy to term and delivers the baby. Generally, the intended parents are involved with the pregnancy, and they are often present at the birth. Once the baby is born, the intended parents will assume parental responsibilities.

From a medical perspective, this type of surrogacy is like an egg donation cycle. The intended mother or the egg donor will undergo ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval. Embryologists then combine the eggs with sperm from the intended father or a sperm donor. Finally, the gestational surrogate will undergo an embryo transfer, which should result in pregnancy.

Selecting a gestational surrogate

Like choosing an egg donor, you can use either a known surrogate or a surrogate from an agency as part of the gestational surrogacy process. Our Los Angeles fertility doctors work with several reputable agencies and can refer you to any one of them.

Some patients opt to use a known donor, often a close friend or a relative. In this scenario, the nurse coordinators at USC Fertility will arrange for the necessary screenings. All gestational surrogates must undergo bloodwork, medical evaluation, uterine evaluation, genetic testing and psychological screening.

Understanding the legal implications of surrogacy

For all treatments involving surrogacy, you will need to consult with a lawyer specializing in reproductive law. Your attorney can explain the legalities of these arrangements and draw up a formal legal contract. These documents cover the rights and responsibilities of the involved parties, such as specific monetary compensation, medical care requirements and contact with the baby and family after the birth.

Partner with USC Fertility to realize your dream of parenthood

Finding the right fertility treatment can feel overwhelming. If you are struggling to conceive, our Los Angeles fertility doctors can work with you to complete a thorough assessment and determine the best course of action, which may include gestational surrogacy. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.