When choosing a surrogacy agency, there are a few key variables to consider, and it starts with yourself! Whether a surrogate or intended parent looking to find the right surrogacy agency, it is important to think about what values are important to you. Do your research, meet your potential surrogacy partner, retrieve as much information as you can and trust your gut. After all, the future of a family is in their hands. You can also tell a lot about a surrogacy agency through the process by which they select their surrogates, so do not be afraid to ask how an agency chooses its surrogates and about the selection process before presenting a match.
Choosing the right surrogacy agency can be laborious but worth it for such a life-changing experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
Ethical Business Practices: Research the agency, search for information about ownership, possible lawsuits, reputation and reviews.
Case Management: Inquire about the agency’s process for managing the relationship with intended parents and surrogates. Ask if there is a dedicated case manager for you.
Surrogacy Success: Ask about the agency’s track record for successful matches, outcomes, pregnancy rates and birth rates of their surrogates. Research the agency’s reputation.
Services: Learn about the various service offerings, ask about comprehensive packages and services including financial guidance, matching process, legal support, psychological evaluations and clinical coordination.
Fees: Thoroughly read what is included in agency fees, compensation for surrogates, fixed costs vs refundable costs. Request a detailed fee structure breakdown.
Support: Ask about what kind of support and counseling is available for both intended parents and surrogates pre, during and post surrogacy journey and how is the support provided (e.g. 1-on-1, group sessions, medical professionals etc.)
Surrogate Screening Process: Inquire about how the agency screens its surrogates, ask if they use a maternal fetal medicine doctor (MFM), are surrogates screened prior to match, how extensive are the background checks.
Shop Around: Schedule consultations with a few agencies to discuss your needs and get a feel for their approach and responsiveness then trust your gut and the information you’ve retrieved.
There is no one way to choose a surrogacy agency. Essentially an intended parent or surrogate must do what is best for their individual circumstance and family planning goals and we hope these key considerations help make your decision a little easier.
For more information about Alcea surrogacy visit alceasurrogacy.com/surrogates or https://alceasurrogacy.com/intended-parents/ to learn more and book a consultation.