Q: How many surrogate babies have been born through Surrogate Alternatives?

A: Being in business since 1996, we have had just over 300 surrogate babies born through us with a projectable 40 babies due in 2006.

Q: How do you find Surrogate Mothers?
A: We find that many of the potential Surrogates that contact us do so after being referred by a woman who has served as a Surrogate in our program or in other programs. We are also contacted through Internet sources that channel interested potential Surrogates our way based upon our excellent reputation for providing quality care to Surrogates.

Q: Once we sign with your agency, how soon until we are "matched" with a Surrogate?
A: Surrogate Alternatives has on average a minimum of 15 available Surrogates and is one of the few agencies that do not have a waiting list. Finding a Surrogate can be quick, however it is up to you to review profiles of potential Surrogates and choose a Surrogate YOU would like to work with.

Q: We are an international couple, will you help us?
A: Yes. We successfully work with many international clients. A slightly higher fee is required since your contact with the Surrogate will be limited, and the support she needs throughout the arrangement will be provided by our agency. There are also additional costs for postage, phone calls, etc.

Q: What do Intended Parents look for in a Surrogate Mother?
A: Intended Parents desire a Surrogate to be mentally and physically healthy, no use of drugs, alcohol or tobacco, height/weight compatibility, with normal uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries to help ensure a successful outcome.

Q: Once I decide to become a Surrogate with Surrogate Alternatives, will I have a choice who I choose to work with?
A: Most definitely! Once you have been approved, we will add you to our list of available Surrogates. Our California Surrogates are usually matched within 2 months. When an Intended Parent requests your profile you will be contacted and their profile will be provided for you to review. If you are interested, we will arrange a phone conversation between you both so you can become acquainted. Then, if the Intended Parent requests we will arrange for a meeting. Our Surrogates ALWAYS have the final decision on who they help.

Q: Being a Gestational Surrogate, how many embryos are implanted?
A: This would depend on many things such as the quality of the embryo, the age of the donor or Intended Mother, number of embryos available to implant, etc. Usually this discussion is between the doctor, Intended Parent and Surrogate. The average implanted in the transfer procedure is three.

Q: Do you feel pain during the transfer?
A:Not usually. However, some Surrogates may have a tipped uterus or it may be difficult to position the catheter for the procedure. For the most part 95% of Surrogates feel nothing during the transfer. It is painless and lasts a few minutes.

Q: If I get pregnant with twins or triplets, do I receive additional compensation?
A:Yes, most definitely! There is an additional strain on a woman's body carrying more than one baby. You will receive $5,000 per each fetus you carry in excess of one.

Q: What about medical screening. Are all parties required to be tested?
A: Yes, medical screening is done on everyone involved. The basic testing is HIV, HTLV, RPR, drug and alcohol screening and a pap smear. The Surrogate also has a hysteroscopy done. This is a test, which enables the doctor to observe the uterus and to assure there is no scarring from a previous delivery, D & C or Miscarriage, as well as any tumors or fibroids. It is relatively painless and lasts only a few minutes.

Q: What type of support can I expect from Surrogate Alternatives throughout our arrangement?
A: Both parties will be assigned a coordinator or case manager once they have been matched. This person will be in contact with you throughout the entire arrangement from screening to post delivery. We also have monthly support group meetings for the Surrogates that are held at our office locations. Our goal is to work closely with all parties and to achieve a successful outcome for everyone.