Gestational Carrier (Surrogacy)
For individuals and couples unable to carry a pregnancy themselves, working with a gestational carrier offers an incredible opportunity to experience the joys of parenthood. At RSC, our dedicated team provides expert guidance, personalized care, and a streamlined process to help you navigate every step of this unique family-building journey.
Request an AppointmentWhat is a gestational carrier?
A gestational carrier, sometimes referred to as a surrogate, is a woman who carries a pregnancy for another individual or couple, known as the intended parents. Unlike traditional surrogacy, a gestational carrier has no genetic connection to the baby. Instead, the pregnancy is achieved using an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), using the intended parents’ egg and sperm or donor materials.
This modern approach to surrogacy empowers intended parents—whether heterosexual couples, gay male couples, or individuals—to build their family when pregnancy is not an option.
The process: Working with a gestational carrier
At RSC, we provide expert care and support at every stage of the surrogacy process. Here’s what you can expect:
Step 1: Initial consultation
- Review your medical and reproductive history.
- Discuss your family-building goals and options.
- Outline a personalized treatment plan: This is your opportunity to ask questions and understand how gestational surrogacy can work for you.
Step 2: Creating and freezing embryos
Using our advanced IVF techniques, we’ll create embryos in our state-of-the-art laboratory. These embryos can be tested for genetic health through preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and frozen for later use.
- Intended parents’ contributions: Embryos can be created using your eggs and sperm.
- Donor options: For intended parents using donor eggs or sperm, we’ll guide you through selecting a donor to meet your unique needs.
Step 3: Finding the right gestational carrier
While RSC does not recruit gestational carriers directly, we work closely with trusted agencies and legal professionals to help you find the right match.
- Timeline: Most intended parents are matched with a carrier within 9–12 months.
- Screening: Potential carriers undergo comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations to ensure they are ready for the journey.
We highly recommend partnering with the Center for Surrogate Parenting (CSP), a leading agency with decades of experience in successful surrogacy journeys. CSP typically matches patients with a GC within 5 months.
Step 4: Legal preparation
Once a match is made and the carrier has completed screening, both parties will work with experienced reproductive attorneys to establish legal agreements.
- Contracts: These agreements clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and expectations for both the intended parents and the gestational carrier.
- Protection: Legal contracts safeguard everyone involved, ensuring a positive and smooth process.
Step 5: Embryo transfer
After legal agreements are finalized, a frozen embryo transfer (FET) is performed.
- Procedure: The embryo is thawed and placed into the carrier’s uterus during a simple, outpatient procedure.
- Monitoring: Our team closely tracks the carrier’s progress, optimizing the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Step 6: Pregnancy and beyond
Once the transfer is successful, the carrier’s pregnancy is monitored through regular medical check-ins and ultrasounds. Around 8 weeks, care transitions to an OB/GYN, while you prepare for the arrival of your baby.
Embark on your family-building journey today
Working with a gestational carrier is a profound and life-changing experience. At RSC, we are here to support you with expert care, compassionate guidance, and trusted resources. Contact us to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward building your family.
