The two types of surrogacy are gestational surrogacy and traditional surrogacy. Under the gestational surrogacy or In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF); the mother uses donated eggs. In traditional surrogacy or artificial insemination; an insemination kit and sperm from the intended father are used in the fertilization process. Surrogacy procedures can be undertaken either privately or via a surrogacy agency. In the U.S, there are numerous agencies in every state, dedicated to performing surrogacy procedures. On the whole, agencies provide numerous advantages and choice options to surrogate mothers. The agencies primary function is to connect prospective surrogate mothers to prospective patients. Most agencies also provide the candidates with important information, including state and federal rules governing the procedure. Surrogacy regulations typically cover areas such as the candidate’s age range, prior-pregnancy experience and health status.
At the agency, the prospective surrogate mother is first issued the application form, before undergoing the various tests to determine their suitability. The tests are normally carried out at the agency’s expense. Qualifying candidates are then informed about compensation and their rights as participants. Surrogate mother’s enrolled with an agency are expected to follow through all the doctor appointments and examination schedules. Before the transplantation exercise is undertaken; the surrogate mother’s urine cavity or endometrial are first prepared. A medical specialist, trained in embryo implantation usually performs the transfer. On the other hand, a surrogate mother in a private arrangement with a relative or friend is bound to enjoy a lot of freedom; however, the downside to such an arrangement is that it has fewer safeguards and is generally non-binding.
In a typical scenario, an eligible candidate for this exercise should be healthy and be between ages 21 and 37. Most agencies do not allow first time mothers to become surrogate mothers, because many have a limited experience in child-birth; most of them are also not psychological prepared to undertake an exercise of this magnitude. Agencies usually analyze the health status of their candidates using the Body Mass Index (B.M.I). The right candidate should also be alcohol free and be a resident in a state that permits the procedure. A surrogate mother, who has a history of pregnancy related problems, may not be an ideal candidate for the procedure. The other conditions that may limit a prospective surrogate mother from participating in the program, includes a history of ectopic pregnancy, pre-eclampsia, multiple miscarriages, placenta previa and premature birth.