Who is a gestational carrier?
A gestational carrier (GC) is a woman who carries a pregnancy on behalf of another person or couple. Unlike a surrogate, a gestational carrier is not genetically linked to the baby being carried. Eggs are fertilized in a lab, and the embryo is placed into her uterus.
Can I choose my GC?
We will help you navigate the process of finding suitable, experienced agencies to work with, but you are ultimately responsible for deciding who your GC will be. The nature of the relationship comes with your gestational carrier comes down to what makes you most comfortable. Legal contracts are signed by both parties so that everyone is clear about their roles and responsibilities, for as many thing as can be anticipated.
How are GC selected?
Gestational carriers are women who have been extensively screened in order to qualify, and there are a series of requirements that need to be met before they become eligible. Many gestational carriers have personally known someone who needed to use a GC to achieve a family. There are a series of medical and social requirements that need to be met prior to becoming a GC. These women have completed extensive psychological and medical screening, a background check and had a prior successful pregnancy. If they have an intimate partner, their partner must undergo psychological and medical screening as well. The women who complete and pass through the extensive screening are highly committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
If we are using GC, can we plan twins?
While it may seem financially prudent to try and have your GC carry two fetuses at once, twin pregnancies are related to a number of increased risks for the mom as well as the baby. Given these risks, our goal is to give you the best chance of successful pregnancy with the lowest possible likelihood for twins.
How much does working with a GC cost?
For many, the biggest hurdle to moving forward with a gestational carrier is the high cost that this process presents, for services including:
• Navigating the IVF or Donor IVF process to develop your embryos
• Transferring the frozen embryo into the GC’s uterus
• Paying your gestational carrier for their services
-Agency fees
-Legal fees
• Providing OB insurance for your GC
• Additional incidental costs
All told, a cycle with a gestational carrier ranges in total costs from about $100k-200k.
