By the time couples reach the decision to pursue surrogacy, they have typically endured years of emotional and financial strain brought on by numerous unsuccessful attempts. Even with the best of intentions, it can be difficult for a couple with a strong desire for a child to objectively select a surrogate who will, ultimately, prove to be the best for their specific situation. As an experienced third party, our agency is able to assist in the selection of a surrogate who will truly fulfill your needs in every way. We provide ongoing assistance/support through the birth of your child, thereby ensuring a smooth process with your surrogate mother.
We begin by reviewing the information provided by the surrogate on her application, verifying medical information through her personal physician as well as running criminal background checks on both the surrogate and her spouse. Home visits are conducted when location allows and recommendations are requested as well. We discuss with the surrogate, in depth, the reality of surrogacy and evaluate the surrogates personal circumstances and motivations. While we are not a licensed psychologist, we do work with licensed psychologists who assist with reviewing all potential surrogate candidates. This enables us to discover any red flags or areas of special concern that may rule the surrogate candidate out. Once you select a surrogate you are interested in, she will need to have an "official" psychological screening with one of our licensed psychologists as this is required by your clinic. (An experienced surrogate will have already undergone a psychological evaluation and will not need to repeat this testing. We will obtain copies of all psychological evaluations the surrogate may have had to provide to your clinic )
Our services continue through your cycle as we work closely with your clinic, coordinating all details of the IVF cycle. Additionally, we provide referrals to surrogacy professionals necessary to carry out a successful surrogacy. These referrals include attorneys, medical clinics, psychologists, etc. Many of these professionals offer discounts to Baby Steps clients, thereby reducing your overall expenses.
We have worked with many attorneys of whom we have the utmost confidence in. These professionals have proven themselves knowledgeable in the field of third party reproduction, attentive to important matters involving the contract between the couple and surrogate and have proven themselves to be efficient and timely in the completion of contracts.
We can assist in establishing you with a medical clinic in your area if you are not yet established with a particular clinic/physician. Our experience working with a variety of medical clinics has given us insight into not only their medical qualifications and success rates, but also the professionalism of their staff and the manner in which they conduct themselves.
There are countless hurdles that occur during any surrogacy situation. Even with the best matches, the reality is that the surrogate and her couple are different people with different perceptions. In an atmosphere such as surrogacy, emotions can sometimes run high and differences of opinion often times exist which can lead to disagreements and/or frustrations between a couple and their surrogate. This is when a neutral, experienced third party can prove invaluable. We are a safe place for the Intended Parents and the Surrogate to vent frustrations and/or seek help with a particular situation. We have worked with numerous couples and have gained a great deal of insight regarding their fears, concerns, and overall feelings, and this enables us to support our couples and efficiently resolve any problems that may arise. Our director has beena surrogate twice and has a great deal of understanding regarding the surrogates emotional state, which enables her to effectively support and resolve issues that may arise with the surrogate.
Our involvement through every phase of your surrogacy journey enables you to relax and enjoy the progressing pregnancy and blossoming friendship with your surrogate. Even after your child is born, we are in contact with hospital officials to ease the transition from hospital to home. Our goal is to provide a safe environment and overall positive experience for everyone involved.
