Surrogates

One of the primary issues you face when considering surrogacy is finding the right surrogate (a woman who nurtures your baby in their womb for nine months). Samuel Wood, MD, PhD, MBA, MA, and his team at Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 in San Diego, California, specialize in surrogacy. We match Intended Parents who can’t conceive or carry a child with healthy  women who are happy to undergo fertilized egg or embryo transfer, implantation and pregnancy. Learn more about using or becoming a surrogate by calling Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5  or complete our online form to book a complimentary appointment.

What are surrogates?

Surrogates are people who volunteer to carry a fetus in their uterus for people who can’t have a child themselves.

There are two types of surrogates:

Traditional surrogates

Traditional surrogates are women who use their own eggs to form embryos with the Intended Father’s sperm or with donated sperm. Some Intended Parents choose this option when a woman you know is willing to be your surrogate. 

However, you need to be sure about your legal standing as your baby’s parent before proceeding. Few Intended Parents currently choose this option given the legal complications involved.

Gestational surrogates

Gestational surrogates are women who undergo the transfer and implantation of fertilized eggs or embryos that don’t contain any of their genetic material. The egg and sperm Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 clients use are either from the Intended Parent(s), donors, or both.

Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 recommends this approach since California law recognizes Intended Parents as the child’s legal parents rather than your surrogate.

How are surrogates chosen?

Surrogates are healthy women who volunteer to undertake this life-changing gift so other people can experience the joys of having a family. Surrogates receive financial compensation for their contribution, but their primary motivation is bringing joy to others.

Surrogates undergo a comprehensive screening process to ensure they are healthy and suitable for surrogacy. Candidates apply online and then speak to our Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 Intake Coordinator who makes sure they meet all the general requirements.

Surrogate who meet the guidelines complete an extensive application process, which typically includes:

• Previous birth records from the applicant’s OB/GYN
• A background check
• Current physical exam records
• Pap smear results
• In-depth physical exam
• Immunity/vaccination bloodwork
• Psychological screening
• Blood testing

Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 requests a letter from the applicant’s OB/GYN recommending her for surrogacy.

How do I choose a surrogate?

Some Intended Parents know a friend or family member willing to become a surrogate for you. If not, our Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 team is here to help you find someone who would be a great fit for your family.

Our team provides profiles of prospective surrogates for you to choose from. When you find a woman who sounds like a great match, you meet with them remotely or in person. Your match meeting gives you a chance to see whether this surrogate is right for you and helps the surrogate learn what wonderful, deserving Intended Parents you are.

Learn more about choosing a surrogate or becoming one yourself by calling Great Beginnings Surrogacy @ Gen 5 or booking an appointment online today.