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Intended Parent Common Questions
Thank you for your interest in becoming an intended parent with Queer Surrogacy. We are dedicated to helping create loving families for LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. As an intended parent, you play a crucial role in realizing these dreams. We understand that you may have many questions about the surrogacy process, requirements, and what to expect.
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This FAQ page is designed to provide you with all the information you need, ensuring you feel confident and supported every step of the way. If you have any additional questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team. Together, we can create beautiful new beginnings.
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What kind of support is available during the surrogacy journey?Our goal is to help you navigate the emotional and physical aspects of the surrogacy journey with confidence. We provide ongoing communication and updates throughout the process, ensuring you are informed and supported at every stage. Our team is just an email, call, or text away and available to answer questions, address concerns, and provide resources to help you prepare for parenthood and build a strong relationship with your surrogate. Being a small team, we are equipped to respond and be available to you anytime you need us.
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How does the surrogacy process begin?The journey starts with an initial consultation with us. During this meeting, we will discuss your goals, answer your questions, and explain the surrogacy process in detail. We will guide you through the necessary steps, which include medical evaluations to ensure you have the genetic material needed, legal agreements to protect all parties involved, and matching with a surrogate whose values and expectations align with yours. This initial stage is crucial for setting the foundation of a successful surrogacy journey.
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What is surrogacy?Surrogacy is a process where a person (the gestational carrier) carries and delivers a child for another individual or couple (the intended parents). This can be an option for those who are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical conditions, infertility, or other reasons. The surrogate agrees to undergo the pregnancy and give the baby to the intended parents upon birth, ensuring that the intended parents have full parental rights.
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Why work with Queer Surrogacy?Working with Queer Surrogacy, you are equipped with an all-LGBTQ+ staff during the surrogacy journey. We can provide a sense of safety, understanding, and empathy that is particularly important for LGBTQ+ intended parents. Our specialized team brings firsthand knowledge of the unique challenges and experiences faced by LGBTQ+ individuals, ensuring that their needs are met with sensitivity and respect. Our supportive environment fosters open communication and trust, helping intended parents feel more comfortable and confident. Additionally, our staff's shared experiences and perspectives can lead to more personalized and relevant support.
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How long does the surrogacy process take?The surrogacy process typically takes 15-18 months from the initial consultation to the birth of your child. However, the timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances, such as the time it takes to match with a surrogate or the need for genetic material. Each surrogacy journey is unique, and our agency is committed to providing support and guidance throughout each stage to ensure a smooth and timely process.
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Can the surrogate have contact with the child after birth?The level of contact post-birth is decided mutually by the surrogate and the intended parents before the surrogacy process begins and is included in the surrogacy agreement. Some intended parents and surrogates prefer to maintain a connection, while others choose to have minimal or no contact. This agreement is based on the preferences and comfort levels of both parties, ensuring that everyone's wishes are respected. Open and honest communication during the matching process helps establish these expectations and build a positive relationship.
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What are the costs associated with surrogacy?Surrogacy costs can vary widely based on factors like medical procedures, legal fees, surrogate compensation, and agency fees. The costs typically include payments for the surrogate's medical care, pregnancy-related expenses, legal agreements, and compensation for the surrogate's time and effort. Additionally, there may be costs for fertility treatments, embryo transfer, and prenatal care. We provide a detailed estimate tailored to your specific situation during the initial consultation, helping you understand and plan for the financial aspects of the surrogacy journey. For more information about the costs associated with your journey, explore the link below:
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How are surrogates screened?Our surrogates undergo an extensive screening process to ensure they are physically and emotionally ready for the surrogacy journey. This process includes comprehensive medical evaluations to assess their health and reproductive history, psychological evaluations to ensure they are mentally prepared for the challenges of surrogacy, background checks for safety and reliability, and personal interviews to understand their motivations and commitment. This rigorous screening process helps ensure that our surrogates are capable and dedicated to carrying a healthy pregnancy.
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What legal protections are in place for intended parents?We ensure all legal requirements are met with detailed surrogacy agreements that outline the rights and responsibilities of both the surrogate and the intended parents. These agreements help protect all parties involved by clearly defining expectations and procedures for various scenarios, including potential complications. Our vetted and experienced legal team specializes in surrogacy law and will work with you to navigate the legal aspects, ensuring that your parental rights are secured and recognized by the law.
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Who can become an intended parent?Intended parents with Queer Surrogacy can be individuals or couples of any gender identity, sexual orientation, or marital status. Whether you are a same-sex couple, a single person, or have a medical condition preventing pregnancy, surrogacy might be a viable path to parenthood. Our only ask is that you, too, identify as LGBTQIA+. Our agency works exclusively with members of the LGBTQ+ community. Our only exception is if the Intended Parent(s) have their own Gestational Carrier who is not LGBTQIA+ and is requesting a Guided Journey with us. For more information about a Guided Journey, please email us at info@queersurrogacy.com.
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What happens after the birth of the baby?After the birth, the baby is typically handed over to you, the intended parents, and the bonding begins. Most legal procedures are completed before birth to ensure you can focus on your baby. Depending on the state you are in, legal procedures are completed to recognize you as the legal parents. We provide post-birth support to ensure a smooth transition, including assistance with the baby's initial care and guidance on legal documentation, such as obtaining a birth certificate. Our agency remains available to support both the surrogate and the intended parents during this crucial period, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and prepared for the next steps.
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How are surrogates and intended parents matched?Matching is based on mutual preferences, values, and expectations. We use a thorough matching process to ensure compatibility between surrogates and intended parents. This includes reviewing profiles, conducting interviews, and facilitating meetings where both parties can ask questions and discuss their hopes and concerns. Both parties have the opportunity to meet and agree before proceeding, ensuring a compatible and supportive relationship. Our goal is to create a positive and collaborative experience for everyone involved.
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How is my privacy protected during the surrogacy process?Your privacy is a top priority. All personal information is kept confidential, and only essential details are shared with the necessary parties involved in the surrogacy process. The surrogacy agreement will also include confidentiality clauses to protect your privacy.​
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What is the process of matching with intended parents like?The matching process involves assessing compatibility between you and the intended parents. This includes considering communication styles, shared interests, and geographic location. At Queer Surrogacy, we prioritize creating a comfortable and supportive relationship for both parties, ensuring everyone feels confident and respected throughout the journey. Depending on the location and desires of both you and the parents, initial visits can be done in-person or via zoom, all facilitated by the Queer Surrogacy team!
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What happens after the birth of the baby?After the birth, there is much to celebrate! While in the hospital, the baby is typically handed over to the intended parents, and their bonding begins. The surrogate receives post-partum care and support. In addition, prearranged legal procedures ensure that the intended parents are recognized as the legal parents. Additional details and plans post-birth will be established prior to the birth of the baby, and Queer Surrogacy works intimately with all parties to ensure everyone has a beautiful experience.
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What motivates other gestational carriers to participate in surrogacy?Many gestational carriers are driven by the desire to help others create families and experience the joy of parenthood. They often have a passion for supporting LGBTQ+ family planning and find fulfillment in making a positive impact on others' lives. Each carrier's motivations are personal, but the common thread is a commitment to kindness and generosity
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What are the qualifications to become a gestational carrier?To become a gestational carrier, you must meet certain medical, psychological, and legal criteria. This often includes being between the ages of 21 and 40, having a history of at least one healthy pregnancy, and being physically and mentally healthy. Additionally, you'll undergo medical and psychological screenings to ensure you are a good candidate for surrogacy.
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What compensation do Gestational Carriers receive?Surrogate compensation varies from approximately $60,000 to $100,000, which includes a base fee and additional payments for milestones and expenses such as maternity clothing, travel, and medical costs.
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Can the surrogate have contact with the Intended Parent(s) and baby after birth?The level of contact post-birth is decided mutually by the surrogate and the intended parents before the surrogacy process begins and is included in the surrogacy agreement. There are various levels of contact post-birth, including in-person visits, Facetime, videos, letters, and text messages. This is discussed and agreed upon during the matching process to ensure everyone's preferences are respected​
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How is the relationship with my own family managed during the surrogacy?Your family will be part of the support system throughout the surrogacy journey. It's important to discuss the process with them and ensure they understand your decision. Queer Surrogacy provides resources and counseling to help your family navigate this experience alongside you​.
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How are medical expenses handled?All medical expenses related to the surrogacy process are covered by the intended parents. This includes prenatal care, delivery, and any necessary medical treatments. An escrow account will be set up to manage and disburse these funds, ensuring timely and secure payments.
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What are the responsibilities of a surrogate?Gestational carriers are responsible for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, attending all medical appointments, and following the guidance of healthcare providers throughout the pregnancy. In addition, gestational carriers are required to be consistent communicators with their intended parents and your Queer Surrogacy team!
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What legal protections are in place for me as a gestational carrier?A detailed surrogacy agreement is created to outline the rights and responsibilities of both you and the intended parents. This legal document covers aspects such as financial compensation, medical procedures, confidentiality, and more, providing clear guidelines and protections for all parties involved.
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