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Q: How do you find Surrogate Mothers?
A: We find that many of the potential Surrogates that contact us, do so, after being referred by a woman who has been a Surrogate in our program or in another program. We are also contacted through Internet sources that channel interested potential Surrogates our way, based upon our excellent reputation for providing quality care to our Surrogates.

Q: Once we sign with your agency, how soon until we are "matched" with a Surrogate?
A: Surrogate Alternatives is one of the few agencies that does not have a waiting list. Finding a Surrogate can be quick, however, it all depends on your preferences. You would review profiles of potential Surrogates and choose a Surrogate that fits your criteria. We have years of experience in determining which Surrogate we feel you would be a good match for, but ultimately, you would notify us of the Surrogate you were interested in.

Q: We do not live in the USA , will you still help us?
A: Yes. We successfully work with many International clients. A slightly higher fee is required since your contact with the Surrogate will be limited, and the support she needs from the Agency throughout the arrangement will be increased.

Q: What do Intended Parents look for in a Surrogate Mother?
A: Intended Parents desire a Surrogate to be mentally and physically healthy, no use of drugs, alcohol (while pregnant) or tobacco, a strong support system, with uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries to help ensure a successful outcome.

Q: Once I decide to become a Surrogate will I have a choice in who I choose to work with?
A: Most definitely! Once you have been approved, we will add you to our list of available Surrogates. Our Surrogates are usually matched within 2 months. When an Intended Parent requests your profile you will be contacted and their profile will be provided for you to review. If you are interested, we will arrange a phone conversation between you and the Intended Parents so you can become acquainted. Then, if the Intended Parents are able, we will arrange for an in-person meeting. Our Surrogates ALWAYS have the final decision on who they choose to help.

Q: Being a Gestational Surrogate, how many embryos are usually implanted?
A: This would depend on many factors, such as, the quality of the embryo, the age of the donor or Intended Mother, number of embryos available to transfer, etc. Usually, this decision is made by the doctor, Intended Parents and Surrogate. The average number of embryos transferred are two or three.

Q: Do you feel pain during the transfer?
A: Not usually, however, some Surrogates may have a tipped uterus or it may be difficult to position the catheter for the procedure. For the most part 95% of our Surrogates feel nothing during the transfer. It is painless and lasts a few minutes.

Q: If I get pregnant with Ttwins or Triplets, do I receive additional compensation?
A:: Most definitely! There is an additional strain on a woman's body carrying more than one baby. You will receive $7,000 per each fetus you carry in excess of one.

Q: What about medical screening. Are all parties required to be tested?
A: Yes, they are. The basic testing is HIV, HTLV, RPR, drug and alcohol screening and a pap smear. The Surrogate also has a hysteroscopy done. This is a test, which enables the doctor to observe the uterus, to ensure there is no scarring from a previous delivery, D & C, Miscarriage or to check for tumors or fibroids. It is relatively painless and lasts only a few minutes.

Q: What type of support can I expect from Surrogate Alternatives throughout our arrangement?
A:: Both parties will be assigned a coordinator or case manager once they have been matched. This person will be in contact with you throughout the entire arrangement from screening to post delivery. We also have monthly support group meetings for our Surrogates that are held at our office. Our goal is to work closely with all parties and to achieve a successful outcome for everyone.