In gestational surrogacy, an embryo is transferred into the surrogate’s uterus in the hope that it will implant properly, then develop and grow into a healthy baby. This embryo is created from the egg and sperm of the intended parents, or from donor gametes selected by the intended parents. The gestational carrier’s egg is not part of the process at all.
This is different from traditional surrogacy, in which the surrogate’s own egg is used. Traditional surrogacy is much less common in the United States today. NAFG exclusively works with gestational surrogacy arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy & the Baby
Does a surrogate share DNA with the baby?
No. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate does not provide the egg used to create the embryo, so she does not share a genetic relationship with the baby. NAFG only facilitates gestational surrogacy arrangements.
Does a surrogate use her own egg?
No. Gestational surrogates carry an embryo created through IVF using an egg from the intended mother or an egg donor and sperm from an intended father or sperm donor.
Does the surrogate’s blood mix with the baby’s blood?
No. A surrogate and baby have separate circulatory systems. The placenta allows oxygen, nutrients, and other substances to pass between them, but their blood does not normally mix directly.
Can the surrogate nurse the baby?
Some surrogates pump milk for the baby in the hospital and even for some weeks or months afterwards, but the intended parents, present at the birth, establish that initial bond and feed the baby.
Ready to Make a Difference for a Growing Family as a Surrogate?
Northeast Assisted Fertility Group (NAFG) has more than 20 years of experience helping women navigate the surrogacy process, from the initial application and screening through intended parent matching and beyond. We’re committed to making the surrogacy experience as supportive, transparent, and rewarding as possible, which is why qualified NAFG gestational carriers receive high surrogate base compensation ranging from $80,000 to $90,000+ in recognition of the time, effort, and dedication involved in helping another family grow.
If you’re ready to explore whether becoming a surrogate could be right for you, apply with NAFG today and take the first step toward helping make someone’s dream of becoming a parent possible.
We frequently work with surrogates throughout the eastern half of the United States, including New England, the Mid-Atlantic region, the Midwest, and Texas. Our network includes women in cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Portland, Maine, Columbus, Ohio, Cincinnati, Toledo, Ohio, Cleveland, Detroit, Raleigh, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Wherever you’re located, our experienced surrogacy agency is here to provide personalized guidance, ongoing support, and highly competitive compensation throughout your surrogacy experience.
