Your guide to making informed decisions about surrogacy programs.
Surrogacy is a complex process that requires thoughtful preparation. Knowing what to ask can help you approach the process with confidence and clarity. Below are seven essential questions that prospective parents should consider when evaluating surrogacy options.
1. What Are the Legal Frameworks for Surrogacy in My Chosen Destination?
Surrogacy laws differ significantly between countries, so understanding the legal framework is important. In Georgia, for example, surrogacy is supported by clear legislation, and intended parents are recognized as the baby’s legal parents immediately after birth. This eliminates complications and simplifies post-birth formalities.
SILK Medical provides legal assistance to streamline the process. Our legal team handles tasks such as:
- Preparing and translating contracts between intended parents, surrogate mothers, and the clinic.
- Organizing Powers of Attorney (POA) if needed.
- Obtaining the birth certificate and guiding parents through the process of exit documents for their baby.
This comprehensive support simplifies the legal process and helps avoid unnecessary delays.
- Useful resource: Overview of surrogacy laws on HG.org.
2. What Costs Are Involved in a Surrogacy Program?
Surrogacy requires significant financial planning, so understanding the costs involved is essential. Key expenses include:
- Medical services like IVF, embryo transfer, and prenatal care.
- Compensation for the surrogate mother.
- Legal and administrative fees for contracts, documentation, and parental recognition.
SILK Medical’s programs range from $38,900 to $70,000 and are designed to offer transparency. Payments are divided into stages, making it easier to manage costs during the different phases of pregnancy. Additionally, potential contingency costs – such as for multiple embryo transfers – are clearly listed in advance, helping you plan for possible scenarios.
3. What Medical Services and Technology Are Offered?
The success of surrogacy depends on the quality of medical care and the availability of advanced technology. Look for clinics offering services like:
- PGT-A and PGT-M genetic testing to identify healthy embryos.
- AI EmbryoScope, which tracks embryo development for optimal selection.
- IVFID Witness System, which maintains secure embryo tracking throughout the process.
SILK Medical was the first clinic in the region to implement EmbryoScope and IVFID systems, joining a select group of leading clinics worldwide. These technologies contribute to SILK Medical’s outstanding pregnancy and live birth rates, especially in guaranteed surrogacy programs.
- Useful resource: ASRM guide on genetic testing.
4. How Do You Select and Support Surrogates?
The surrogate’s health and well-being are pivotal to the process. Reputable clinics carefully screen surrogate candidates through comprehensive medical evaluations, psychological assessments, and reviews of their obstetric history.
SILK Medical not only conducts rigorous screening but also provides ongoing support for surrogates during pregnancy. This includes regular checkups, psychological support, and assistance with daily needs. By prioritizing the surrogate’s health and comfort, SILK Medical ensures a smooth and safe surrogacy journey for all involved.
- Useful resource: CDC guidelines for surrogacy programs.
5. What Are the Success Rates of the Surrogacy Program?
Success rates are a key metric when evaluating surrogacy programs. Ask for statistics on embryo transfer success, pregnancy outcomes, and live births.
For example, SILK Medical’s success rates include:
- 100% live birth rates in guaranteed surrogacy programs.
- Over 75% first-attempt pregnancy rates in certain IVF programs.
Clinics should provide transparent, verifiable data to help you compare outcomes and choose a program that aligns with your goals.
- Useful resource: SART industry benchmarks.
6. How Long Does the Surrogacy Process Take?
Timelines for surrogacy programs can vary depending on factors like surrogate availability, medical procedures, and legal steps. A typical timeline includes:
- Matching: Finding and approving a surrogate (1–3 months).
- Preparation: Medical and legal processes before pregnancy (1–2 months).
- Pregnancy: Standard gestation period (9 months).
- Post-birth steps: Completing documents for the baby to travel home (1–4 weeks).
SILK Medical helps streamline each stage, reducing unnecessary delays while maintaining careful attention to detail.
7. How Will You Handle Logistics and Communication?
Effective logistics and communication are especially important for international intended parents. SILK Medical provides dedicated coordinators who guide you from the initial consultation onward. They assist with:
- Scheduling clinic visits, tests, and appointments.
- Facilitating communication with the surrogate mother, including updates during pregnancy.
- Arranging stays in Tbilisi, including travel and accommodation assistance.
Some parents prefer to stay closely involved, even visiting the surrogate mother during the pregnancy, while others opt for regular updates. SILK Medical accommodates both preferences, offering frequent updates such as ultrasound videos and medical reports to keep you informed.
Moving Forward with Confidence in Surrogacy
Starting surrogacy is a significant decision, and asking the right questions can help you approach the process with clarity and confidence. By evaluating legal frameworks, costs, medical services, and logistical support, you can identify a clinic that meets your needs.
SILK Medical in Georgia offers a unique combination of affordable programs, advanced technology, and strong legal backing. With a proven track record in supporting international intended parents, SILK Medical provides a reliable and efficient surrogacy experience.
For more information, contact SILK Medical or explore our surrogacy programs.
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