What medical procedures do the surrogates go through?

[conorexnz]

Hello. I feel very strongly to being a surrogate however we still want one more addition to our family and it's not recommended due to potential risks involved with ivf before your family is complete.

What I want to know is what is involved with ivf etc? I would only use the ip embryo as I couldn't have the baby to be part of me. Would I have to do hormone treatment or anything? I'm assuming the implant would be done via a fertility clinic.

This might not be the right part of the forum but it's a start.

Thanks!

[kady1978]

Hi conorexnz. I'm quite new to surrogacy situation myself, but as a possible surrogate this is what I understand can happen:

First you and your partner get tested for everything under the sun including HIV, Hep, you name it, they'll test you for it (which just recently done this.)

For the IVF treatment yourself, it depends on whether you are going to do a fresh or frozen transfer. Most clinics will only do a frozen transfer which has been quarantined for 6 months. Some clinics (if you are lucky) will do a fresh transfer. If you want to know about what's involved in a frozen transfer I recommend reading the book: Someone Else's child. It's easier than me explaining it all because it seemed to be quite full on to me!

We're probably doing fresh transfer, however what is involved exactly I'm not 100% sure! I know I'll need to take nasal sprays to get my cycle on track with the IM (I'm going to be a GS), but during the transfer and after, I'm not sure yet.

Sorry I can't be of much help just yet. If you need to know in 3 or 4 months, hopefully I'll be able to tell you more :)

[conorexnz]

Thanks kady, I'll see if I can find that book. I look forward to hearing your updates. It sounds like it's a long drawn out process?I thought once you found the ip then it would only be a matter of months. Doesn't sound like it.

So many things to consider.

[kady1978]

Thanks kady, I'll see if I can find that book. I look forward to hearing your updates. It sounds like it's a long drawn out process?I thought once you found the ip then it would only be a matter of months. Doesn't sound like it.

So many things to consider.

Depends what clinic you go with, what state you are in etc etc. For us, I am in WA and they are in NSW - so that's part of the reason it's taken a while to get the ball rolling.

I also forgot to mention that you need approval from the ethics committee to actually go ahead with the surrogacy. This essentially means you have to all see a counsellor - this includes both intended parents, the surrogate, her partner, and any kids they have over the age of 5.

I wouldn't let it put you off though!

[conorexnz]

Yeah I'm in Queensland and there is a very good guide to surrogacy on the births deaths marriages government site. The counselling is very understandable too, will make sure you're ready for it. I know I couldn't do it if it was my egg being involved but me carrying someone elses baby I think I can do.

It's very exciting and a good way to give back.

[wlee9462]

HI kady1978 and conorexnz,

I am VERY impressed with the both of you ... thanks for allowing me to believe in the wonders of the human spirit.
I live in VIC and will be looking for surro-moms in the near future.
(34, had cancer and hence a hysterectomy before we had a chance to have our family)
It's so heart warming to know that you wonderful people exsit.
I wish you both all the best.

-wlee9462-