What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy involves conceiving a baby through a surrogate, with two primary types: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. Traditional surrogacy entails implanting the Intended Father's sperm into the surrogate, who provides the eggs and has a biological connection to the child(ren).
On the other hand, gestational surrogacy involves creating embryos in the laboratory and transferring them into the surrogate's uterus, ensuring the child's genes come from the sperm and egg providers. The child is unrelated to the surrogate's genes and blood. Currently, gestational surrogacy is widely favored and utilized by more people and fertility centers as a key treatment method.
Starting Your Parenthood Journey
For many people who want to start a family, the dream of having a child is not easily realized. The latest data on infertility available to the CDC are from the 2011–2015 National Survey of Family Growth. Almost 7% of women aged 20–44 years were unable to get pregnant after at least 12 consecutive months of trying to conceive.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has been used in the United States since 1981 to help patients become pregnant, most commonly through the transfer of embryos into a woman’s uterus.
Who can become Intended Parents?
Our answer is: almost anyone! Intended parents can include couples facing infertility, same-sex couples, single individuals, and those dealing with medical challenges. They may pursue parenthood through assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, surrogacy, or egg donation.
Can I become an Intended Parent if I do not struggle with infertility?
Yes, you can become an Intended Parent even if you do not struggle with infertility. Intended parents encompass a diverse group of individuals and couples. People who are single, in same-sex relationships, or face other circumstances may also become Intended Parents. Whether for personal choice, medical reasons, or other considerations, the path to parenthood is not limited solely to those experiencing infertility.
What are the differences between choosing an independent journey vs. an agency?
To minimize surrogacy costs, some Intended Parents opt for an independent journey. In this scenario, they take on the responsibility of overseeing the entire process, from finding a surrogate to managing medical and legal aspects, including parental rights documentation with the assistance of attorneys.
Our seasoned team, adhering to ASRM guidelines and stringent standards, identifies suitable surrogates and egg donors. We orchestrate collaboration among medical providers, surrogates, egg donors, surrogacy law attorneys, fund managers, and insurance agents. ACRC oversees the entire pregnancy, ensuring preparation for the baby's arrival and maintaining the financial standing of surrogate and medical accounts. Throughout the process, we provide complete transparency to Intended Parents.
While independent efforts may seem cost-effective initially, potential issues like failed transfers or complications can lead to unexpected expenses. ACRC's expertise shields Intended Parents from unforeseen financial risks, streamlining the surrogacy journey without compromising thoroughness.
Will distance be an issue for international Intended Parents?
No, distance need not be a significant issue for international Intended Parents when partnering with ACRC. ACRC aids communication by serving as a mediator, facilitates travel logistics for key milestones, arranges legal guidance on international surrogacy laws, coordinates with medical professionals, and navigates cultural differences. With this comprehensive support, we streamline the surrogacy journey, ensuring a smooth process for international Intended Parents.
Has COVID-19 affected surrogacies?
The pandemic significantly impacted our daily lives, leading many Intended Parents to hesitate before starting their journeys. To minimize infection risks, ACRC surrogates are advised to receive the vaccine. Additionally, we assist Intended Parents with obtaining the necessary legal documentation for entering the United States to pick up their babies or seek medical treatment. Our experience extends to facilitating international travel for babies, including destinations like China, to support Intended Parents.