What should I look for in a surrogate? 

One of the most important characteristics for you to find in your carrier is a sincere desire to partner with you to build your family, and a shared commitment to taking this journey with you as you see fit. You need to be compatible on medical issues regarding the number of embryo to transfer, multiple pregnancy, selective reduction and C-Section. You should trust her completely, and feel comfortable with her immediate family and support systems. You should be able to feel that you can openly communicate with her, and that she can do the same with you. This is a partnership that will live on well after the birth that she provides, and like any meaningful relationship, it makes sense to take all the time you need to cultivate that bond.

What should I look for in an egg donor? 

You should strive to find a donor who provides you with the highest likelihood of passing on the genetic traits that you feel are most important. This does not mean that she should have every quality that you are hoping for, but it does mean that you should think about the characteristics that you most prioritize, and share that list with our team. At CFA we have many donors available for immediate matching, so we encourage you to be "picky." We certainly are too.

How many embryos should I (we) transfer?

At CFA we seldom transfer more than two fresh embryos (blastocysts) in an egg donation cycle. For families who are strongly hoping to avoid the chances of twins, we encourage a single embryo transfer. Putting back more than two puts you and you carrier at a significant risk for a triplet pregnancy which we consider an unjustifiable risk. Click here for pregnancy rates with 2-embryo transfer.

How does the legal process work?

The legal process is meticulous and requires close collaboration with an attorney who is extremely well versed in the ever changing laws of surrogacy, including pre-birth orders (which enable parents,  including both parents in a same-sex couple, to have their names listed on the birth certificate prior to the actual birth) and second-parent adoptions. We work closely with many of the best legal experts in the world, and are happy to facilitate your referral to them.

Does it matter where I live? 

As long as your carrier resides and delivers in a state where surrogacy laws are favorable, it does not matter.  Most of our families work with carriers from around the country.