FAQ for Surrogates - ANU Fertility Consultants

Q - What happens during the cycle month and embryo transfer?: A - The embryo transfer procedure will be performed two to five days after the donor or intended parents’ eggs have been harvested and fertilized. Embryo transfers usually take approximately twenty minutes. The embryo transfer is performed with a very fine catheter that is inserted vaginally into the uterus through the cervix. Surrogates will be required to stay and rest in the IVF center for approximately twenty minutes to one hour following the transfer procedure. She may also be required to stay in a nearby hotel for a bed rest period of time as specified by the clinic, which is usually between 24-48 hours.

If the surrogate is required to fly for the procedure, she may be required to stay through the period specified for bed rest. This decision will be made by the physician and intended parents. All expenses will be covered by the intended parents as recieptable expenses.

Following the embryo transfer the surrogate's activity may be limited. These limitations will be determined by the clinic and intended parents.
All these medications are extremely important and MUST be taken as instructed by the clinic, or otherwise there is a risk of comprising the IVF cycle, having a miscarriage and being in breach of contract. Please remember each clinic varies slightly in their protocol.
Q - How long does the Gestational Surrogate's transfer cycle take?: A – Each fertility clinic varies in their protocol; on average, six to ten weeks depending on the egg donor's or intended mother's cycle.
Q - How many injections will I be required to take?: A – Each fertility clinic varies in their protocol; generally for twelve weeks
Q - What is the difference between Gestational and Traditional Surrogacy?: A – With the help of hormone medication, Gestational Surrogacy has no genetic link to the baby that she carries. A Traditional Surrogacy uses her own eggs and the Intended Parents sperm to create the baby with no hormone medication.
Q - May I become a surrogate without my spouse or partners support or consent?: A - No, your spouse or partner must know of your intentions and be willing to support your efforts to become a surrogate as they must sign the clinic and contract paperwork.
Q - May I become a surrogate if I am not married: A – Yes, but only with family and friend support.
Q - Will my spouse or partner be asked to take tests?: A - Yes, if you have a spouse or partner, he/she will be asked to submit to blood tests, cultures, and a psychological consultation.
Q - What kind of screening or tests will I need to take?: A - You will be required to have a physical exam, cultures, blood tests, and a psychological screening which may include a written test.
Q - Can I become a surrogate if I have never given birth?: A - Unfortunately not, clinics in Canada require that surrogates have at least one natural born child.