Surrogate Screening
Surrogate screening is the first step in becoming a gestational surrogate
The goal of the surrogate screening process is to ensure the safety, well-being and compatibility of all parties involved in the surrogacy arrangement. This is the highest priority for a successful surrogacy journey.
The entire screening process, from initial inquiry to final approval and matching, typically spans about three months, depending on various factors such as the availability of medical appointments, the complexity of a surrogate’s medical history, and the desired pace of the surrogate.
Here’s what you can expect along the way
Initial inquiry (one to two days): When someone expresses interest in becoming a surrogate, we start by having an introductory call. This initial part of the surrogate screening process is usually a conversation to get to know each other and understand the basics. We’ll ask about your motivations, any previous experiences, and answer any initial questions you might have.
Detailed profile (one to two weeks): If we decide together that surrogacy and Les Petits Surrogacy are right for you after the initial consult, we will provide access to our online portal and ask you to start creating your profile. This covers everything from medical history to lifestyle choices. It might seem like a lot, but it helps us ensure that we’re matching surrogates with intended parents who share similar values and preferences.
Background checks and medical records collection and review (two to four weeks): As you work on your profile, we dive into collecting and reviewing your medical records, in addition to ordering background checks for everyone 18 years or older in the home. This step ensures surrogates are in good physical and mental health. It’s all about making sure everyone involved feels confident and comfortable moving forward.
Mental health evaluation (one to two weeks): Next up, we arrange for a meeting with a mental health professional. This is a chance for the surrogate and her partner or spouse to talk openly about their motivations and expectations, take a personality test, and identify with a trained professional what areas of the surrogacy process will be easy and where they might need additional support. It helps ensure you are mentally prepared for the journey ahead.
Maternal fetal medicine consultation and record review (one week): This is an opportunity for you to virtually meet with a physician specializing in maternal fetal medicine. This physician will review your medical records and take a complete health history, as well as answer any questions you may have about being pregnant again through surrogacy. He or she will evaluate your suitability and establish if you are clinically a great candidate for surrogacy.
Insurance review and home visit (one to two weeks): If you have an existing health insurance plan, it will be evaluated for surrogacy benefits. Should it not offer coverage for a surrogacy journey, a health insurance plan that does will be purchased for you. We will also ask a licensed social worker to perform a virtual home visit to make sure your home is safe for your upcoming surrogate pregnancy.
Matching process (two to four weeks): Once the initial checks are complete, and everything looks good, it’s time to find the perfect match! We consider factors such as personality, values and preferences to pair a surrogate with the perfect intended parents. It’s like searching for the perfect fit. You need to see what interests the other person has, what values you both share, the activities you have in common, and who is going to compliment your personality in the best possible way. We take great care in how we go about the selection process and place significant attention on known desires and those criteria that make for the most successful match. Our approach is one that honors evolutionary learning along the way. We have proven experience with the fact that the process is as important as the resulting match.
Medical screening (two to four weeks): Before any embryos are transferred, surrogates undergo a thorough medical screening. This involves a series of tests and evaluations conducted by a reproductive endocrinologist or fertility specialist to confirm you are physically ready for the journey ahead. The medical screening typically includes:
- Physical examination: A thorough physical examination to assess overall health and the reproductive system
- Blood tests: Screening for infectious diseases, hormone levels, blood type, and other factors relevant to pregnancy and surrogacy
- Uterine evaluation: Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or hysteroscopy, to assess the condition of the uterus and confirm its suitability for embryo transfer
- Drug and alcohol screening: Screening for drug and alcohol use to ensure the ability to maintain a healthy pregnancy
With surrogate screening behind you, you’re ready to move forward
Once screening is complete, it’s time to get started with the legal process and get ready for your embryo transfer.
Legal agreements (four to five weeks): Immediately after medical screening and clearance, legal agreements are drafted and reviewed by the attorney representing the surrogate and the attorney representing the intended parents. These agreements outline the rights, responsibilities, expectations and financial obligations of all parties involved in the surrogacy arrangement. Once all parties have reviewed and agreed upon the terms, the legal contracts are finalized and signed.
Embryo transfer (four to five weeks): After finalization of the legal agreement, you will undergo the embryo transfer procedure, as per the fertility physician’s protocol. Throughout the process, Les Petits Surrogacy will provide ongoing support and guidance.
Pregnancy, monitoring and support (up to three months after delivery): Throughout the pregnancy, we’re here every step of the way, offering support, coordination, guidance, and a friendly ear whenever it’s needed.
Let’s get started
From regular check-ins to emotional support, we are the backbone of your support system, and our mission is your comfort, health and success until delivery day and beyond. If you’re ready to start your own journey as a gestational surrogate, please contact us to begin the surrogate screening process.
