The bond between an Intended Parent and a surrogate is magical. We at GSHC Surrogacy Agency treasure the connections that are made through the surrogacy process and we’re committed to making sure that you and your surrogate can form the type of bond that is right for you. Before we can put you in direct contact with your surrogate one-on-one, there are some things you need to know.
What’s the first thing I’ll learn about my surrogate?
The first thing you’ll learn about your surrogate is not one thing at all but a robust overview of her personal information (most information remains confidential at this time), hobbies and interests, medical history, general health, and photos. This overview comes in the form of a profile supplied by GSHC Surrogacy Agency.
A surrogate profile is approximately 10 pages in length. Because her genetic information does not affect the embryo, this profile is not as robust as egg donor profiles. However, you will see comprehensive information including:
- Age
- City of residence
- Blood type
- Relationship status
- Employment status
- Household
- General health
- Gynecological health
- Pregnancy history
- Health insurance
- Personal living habits
Before you can meet a surrogate you must review and approve her profile. Our agency only presents 1-2 profiles at a time. We take special care in selecting the right profiles to present. Oftentimes, too many options can become overwhelming for Intended Parents. At GSHC we believe in taking the time and consideration the set up the best possible matches.
When can I talk to a surrogate?
After you have reviewed a surrogate profile and you have agreed to meet her, the Client Relations Manager will set up a Match Meeting. A Match Meeting is your first opportunity to meet the surrogate and ask her any questions you may have. Likewise, this is an opportunity for the surrogate to ask you questions. It’s a two-way street. You are both meeting to decide if you would like to work together.
A Match Meeting can occur in-person or, more likely, over a video conference call. The Client Relations Manager will be on the call as well to introduce everyone and make sure that some key questions are answered during the conversation.
What happens after I’m matched?
After you agree to officially match with your surrogate, you will sign the Client Retainer Agreement and pay the initial deposit. The deposit funds will cover a comprehensive screening and clearance for the surrogate while we establish legal representation for all parties and begin drafting the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement.
Upon full clearance of the surrogate (medical, psychological, criminal background check) and signing of the Gestational Surrogacy Agreement, we will invoice for the agency fee. Once the agency fee has been paid, we will establish a direct line of communication between you and your surrogate for the duration of your journey together.
Can I visit my surrogate?
Your relationship with your surrogate is defined between you and not by our agency. If all parties are comfortable with personal visits during the pregnancy, we fully encourage you to have them. Again, these are important conversations to have during the Match Meeting to ensure that everyone’s goals, needs, and expectations are aligned throughout this wonderful process.
If you’re ready to review profiles and meet potential surrogates, contact GSHC Surrogacy Agency today by completing our Intended Parent Intake Form, calling (310) 953-0137, or e-mailing us at: [email protected]