Surrogacy

Abbey Fertility offers a comprehensive surrogacy program.

Reasons for surrogacy

There are many reasons why surrogacy could be the best option for starting a family. This includes:

• Recurrent implantation failure and miscarriages
• Male same sex couples
• Women who have undergone a hysterectomy
• Unexplained infertility
• Medical conditions contraindicating pregnancy

Types of surrogacy

• Gestational/Host Surrogacy

Host surrogacy involves IVF, with both the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donor(s). The resulting embryos are transferred into the surrogate’s uterus.

• Traditional/Straight surrogacy

With traditional/straight surrogacy, the surrogate’s eggs are used for treatment. The surrogate is inseminated with either the partner or donor’s sperm.

Surrogate Screening and Selection

We carry out stringent tests and checks to assess the surrogate’s suitability. Acceptance into the program will require the following:

1. An emotional assessment by our counselors, a psychological assessment and an IQ test.
2. Surrogacy candidates undergo a thorough criminal record check.
3. Hysterosalpingography intervention (to assure visualisation of fallopian tubes and uterine cavity)
4. Endometrial lining measurement on the 2nd half of the cycle of the surrogate for implantation success.
5. Screening for serological tests.
6. CBC and coagulation tests.
7. As a precaution we exclude women who have never given birth, as they are prone to grow emotionally attached to the baby/babies.
8. Alcohol (ethanol) and toxicology testing for drug misuse such as the following:
   • Amphetamines
   • Antidepressants
   • Barbiturates and hypnotics
   • Benzodiazepines
   • Cocaine
   • Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)
   • Gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB)
   • Marijuana
   • Narcotics
   • Non-narcotic pain medicines including acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory drugs
   • PCP
   • Phenothiazines (antipsychotic or tranquilizing medications)
   • Prescription medications, any type
9. BMI (body mass index). Potential surrogates with a BMI over 27 are not accepted.
10. We provide full nutritional and medical assistance, accommodation and support to the surrogates.