The Surrogacy Process in Houston
The surrogacy process in Houston typically involves several key steps:
Step 1. Matching
The first step in a happy and healthy surrogacy process is creating the ideal match between the intended parents and the surrogate. At GHSC, we take various factors into account, including personalities, values, preferences, and expectations. Intended parents will be able to browse various surrogate profiles and choose any candidates they’re interested in. From there, introductory meetings can be set up to see if all parties feel good about the match.
Step 2. Legal and Medical Procedures
Once a match has been made, legal and medical processes can commence. The surrogate will undergo all physical and mental health necessary screenings to safeguard her well-being as well as that of the baby. This will include routine blood tests, ultrasounds, and more.
When it comes to legal matters, the intended parents will draft a surrogacy contract with their attorney. The surrogate will review this contract with her own attorney and note any questions they have or any changes they want to make. Once all parties are in agreement and the contract is signed, the surrogate can begin the initial fertility treatments in preparation for receiving an embryo.
Step 3. Pregnancy and Birth
The surrogate will take a blood test to see if she’s pregnant about two weeks after the embryo transfer. Once she’s been pregnant for eight weeks, she can begin weaning off fertility medications, and after 10 weeks, can stop seeing the fertility doctor and begin seeing an OB/GYN of her choice.
The surrogate will also have the opportunity to pick which hospital in which she’ll deliver the baby. During delivery, the intended parents are usually there to offer support and be part of the special day. Once the baby is born, the surrogate will have a little time with the baby before the intended parents take their new baby home with them.