Step 1 - Initiating the Process
Contacting our office is the first step toward finding a
surrogate. During this initial consult, we will gather basic information and ask
questions that will allow us to help you reach your dreams.
Regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation, each family
will receive the same exceptional service and assistance.
During this consult, we will set up a user id and password to our
Surrogate/Gestational Carrier Database.
Step 2 - Selecting a Surrogate
Families will be able to search thru our database by the following criterion: Gestational Carrier or Traditional Surrogate, Area of the Country, and Compensation Range.
All of our surrogates have had passed a criminal background check, MMPI test, and psychological interview before being added to our database. If the
surrogate has just applied to our company, we may be in the process of completing the initial screening.
Once a family has picked a surrogate, the family can request a phone conference call with the surrogate. At this time, the family can ask any additional questions they may have. Sometimes completing a conference call with two potential surrogates helps make an easier decision. When the conference call is scheduled, the family will authorize a Letter of Agreement outlining the RAI process. All credit card and wire transfers will have an additional processing fee.
Due to the insurance industry regulations changing daily, pregnancy
related to surrogacy may not be covered under the Surrogate's medical insurance
policy. Families should consult with their attorney.
One option is a Lloyd's of London policy that can be purchased thru New Life Agency at NewLifeAgency.com or 877.952.5433. Another option is a Complications Policy thru Brown and Brown of Texas with cash payment plan for the routine expenses. You can review their info at BBTexas.com. Please click on Fertility Insurance, then click on Types of Coverage, then click on Surrogacy Complication Coverage.
Step 3 - Screening the Surrogate and Legal Process
Reproductive Assistance Inc. is not a medical facility and does not
do any physical screening. Your surrogate will be scheduled for all her screening
appointments through your physician group. If the physician approves the
surrogate, she will begin the necessary medication. The physician group will
coordinate the medication for all parties involved including the surrogate.
Once the surrogate has completed the necessary screening and
testing or 90 days has passed from the family selecting the surrogate,
the second portion of the agency fee is due.
If a family terminates the agreement after the second agency fee payment, $500 of the fee will be returned after a release is authorized.
The Intended Parents will also arrange for their own legal
representation including drafting the appropriate agreements and providing the
necessary legal counsel. Surrogates are also represented by a separate legal
counsel to assure that she fully understands her rights and obligations of her
agreement
Step 4 - Having a Baby
After the embryos are transferred to the surrogate or carrier, the
physician will perform an ultrasound to confirm the heartbeat.
After the surrogate is pregnant, the Recipient couple usually
stays in contact with the surrogate at least once every few weeks throughout the
pregnancy. Our goal is for the couple to be involved as much as they want in their
pregnancy. This is your child and we feel that you have a right to be involved and
have all your questions answered.
Most couples are present for the birth of their child. Typically, a
baby will remain in the hospital for a day or two after the birth. Once the baby is
given a medical clearance to leave, the family will begin their life at home.