Implanting the Embryo: What to Expect

So, let’s say you’ve made the decision to become a surrogate, the contracts are signed, the routine health tests are done and the doctor has determined you are healthy and ready to carry an embryo, what can you expect?

The most common type of surrogacy in the United States today is gestational surrogacy. In this type of surrogacy, the eggs come from a prearranged third-party egg donor or the intended mother. When it comes to implanting an embryo, timing is everything. Pregnancy involves a massively complex orchestration of hormones, so in the case of a surrogate pregnancy, a mock cycle must be induced. The mock cycle usually begins with estrogen pills, patches or shots to prepare the uterus to receive an embryo. These hormones are given to the intended surrogate in order to create the necessary thickening of the uterine lining. This is critical for the embryo to implant successfully so a pregnancy can occur. The doctor may check your cervix angle and the length of your uterine cavity to prepare you for the next step: implantation.

The day before donor egg retrieval, the surrogate will be given progesterone, a hormone which helps the uterus remain stable and ready to receive the embryo. This hormone can be given orally, through intramuscular injections, or via suppositories. (Hormone therapy will continue until the surrogate’s placenta takes over hormone production around the twelfth week of pregnancy.) When you are physically ready, the embryo will be transferred into the uterus via a liquid medium. Ultrasound is sometimes used so the doctor can place the embryo correctly. Afterward, rest is required in order to assist the embryo in penetrating the uterine wall.

After about nine days to two weeks after implantation, a simple blood test will confirm whether you are pregnant. Also, your hormone levels will be measured. Then depending on your agreement, there may be a series of ultrasounds. After that point, if you’re with Global Surrogacy Service, we will make sure that you receive the best prenatal care available. Each pregnancy is unique and your doctors will keep you informed every step of the way. Your comfort and safety are extremely important to us and we want you to have a comfortable journey as a surrogate.