Whether you’re an intended parent or considering becoming a surrogate, it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction when exploring the surrogacy journey. At Growing Generations, we want you to feel confident about your choice to pursue surrogacy. Below, we unveil the facts about surrogacy by debunking 6 of the most common surrogacy myths we encounter.

Myth #1: Women only become surrogates for the money.

One of the biggest reasons surrogates do what they do is because they believe in helping others grow a family. By becoming a surrogate, you can help someone achieve their goal of becoming a parent despite the difficulties and challenges they face. Becoming a surrogate is not an easy journey and even though surrogates are compensated for their time and effort, money is not the primary motivating factor for becoming one.

Myth #2: A surrogate shares genetic material (DNA) with the baby.

By definition, a surrogate is someone who agrees to carry a pregnancy for another person or couple, giving birth to a baby who has no genetic connection to her. Intended parents create an embryo—either with their own genetic material or that of selected donors—which is implanted into the surrogate through the IVF process. This embryo is not genetically linked to the surrogate in any way.

Myth #3: Surrogates can change their minds and keep the baby.

No, surrogates can NOT change their minds and keep the baby. Before the delivery of the baby, legal contracts about parentage are signed by both the surrogate and the intended parents. When working with a surrogacy agency, the legal counsel ensures that both parties agree on all the details of the surrogacy process. They will call out any legal risks or oddities before the surrogacy journey is undertaken.

In addition, possible surrogates undergo a rigorous screening process to assess their emotional well-being, including tendencies toward attachment. These screenings ensure that our surrogates are emotionally and mentally prepared for their surrogacy journey.

Myth #4: Any woman can become a surrogate.

Before becoming a surrogate, certain requirements need to be met. Surrogates must be between the ages of 21 and 38 years old and have at least one uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery. There are additional health requirements, lifestyle requirements, and financial requirements as well, including body mass index (BMI) restrictions.

After meeting all these requirements, potential surrogates go through a meticulous screening process that includes an in-depth online application, telephone consultation, wellness testing and evaluations, medical examinations, blood screening, a criminal background check, a personal finance review, and a check of insurance options.

Because of the nature of the surrogacy journey, these requirements are in place for the safety and well-being of both the prospective surrogate and the baby they will be carrying.

Myth #5: Intended parents control all aspects of the pregnancy.

Contrary to the myth, the surrogacy journey is built on mutual agreement, trust and understanding between intended parents and surrogates. While intended parents have preferences and expectations regarding the pregnancy, they do not have unilateral control over every decision. Surrogates maintain autonomy over their bodies and health. Their well-being and that of the baby is a priority throughout the process.

Intended parents and surrogates work together to establish clear boundaries and expectations. This collaborative approach ensures both parties feel respected and supported as they navigate through their shared surrogacy journey.

Myth #6: Intended parents don’t bond with their baby.

The bond between a parent and their child transcends biological ties. The essence of parenthood lies in love, care, and nurturing. Intended parents embarking on their surrogacy journey are deeply committed to becoming parents and are emotionally invested in the well-being of their future child.

Intended parents have many opportunities to actively participate in every step of their surrogacy journey—from selecting a surrogate to attending prenatal appointments and finally, being present at the birth. These experiences foster a deep sense of connection and anticipation as they eagerly await the arrival of their baby.

A Clearer Path Forward

Surrogacy is often misunderstood due to common myths and misconceptions. Debunking these myths can foster a greater understanding and support for intended parents and surrogates alike. Having an open mind, a clear view of the facts, and a willingness to explore the surrogacy process can help you make the most of the richly rewarding journey in front of you.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate or pursuing a path to parenthood, you can contact us by completing this form. Call us at (323) 965-7500 or email us at family@growinggenerations.com for more information.

It is not uncommon for potential and first-time surrogates to ask, "Will I get attached to the baby during pregnancy?" Though it is an understandable concern for surrogates—and sometimes, intended parents as well—the truth is that such an attachment is quite rare. 

As a surrogate, you embark on this surrogacy journey to help others build their path to parenthood. For you, it is a deeply compassionate and empathic act, motivated by helping others build and grow their families. We share other reasons you are unlikely to form an attachment to the baby you carry below.

YOU ARE NOT GENETICALLY RELATED TO THE BABY

One of the key factors differentiating surrogate pregnancy from traditional pregnancy is that surrogates understand that the baby is not genetically related to them. Because you, as a surrogate, undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF), the process ensures that the baby is genetically linked to the intended parents (or donors) and not you. This awareness—as well as undergoing the process—helps you maintain a healthy emotional distance, and reinforces your commitment to helping another family achieve their goal of parenthood.

YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR OWN FAMILY

You and many other surrogates choose this path precisely because you feel you have completed your own family. You feel a deep sense of fulfillment in helping others experience the joys of parenthood. Your decision to become a surrogate is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on someone else’s life rather than a longing to expand your own family.

YOU CAN MAINTAIN A RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PARENTS & BABY

Many surrogates and intended parents maintain their connection even after the baby is delivered. Surrogates and parents will have discussed the level of communication and relationship after the baby’s birth, and you may have the opportunity to see the baby again either in person or through photos and updates shared by the intended parents. The ongoing relationship reinforces the collaborative and supportive nature of the surrogacy journey, providing you with a sense of fulfillment and closure.

YOU ARE SCREENED TO ENSURE YOU'RE EMOTIONALLY READY

Before embarking on the surrogacy journey, you undergo a thorough screening process to ensure you are prepared for the experience, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Surrogacy agencies work with medical professionals to evaluate your psychological well-being and assess your ability and capacity to maintain appropriate boundaries throughout the pregnancy and beyond. These screenings help identify any potential attachment challenges and ensure that you  are equipped to navigate the emotional complexities of surrogacy with compassion and professionalism. 

While concerns about your emotional attachment to the baby are natural, the reality is that as a surrogate, you are able to maintain a healthy emotional distance from the baby. You are motivated to help others on their journey to parenthood. You approach your surrogacy journey with a sense of purpose and altruism. By debunking the myth of attachment, there is a better understanding and appreciation for the selflessness and compassion of surrogates who play a vital role in building and growing families.

If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a surrogate, you can fill out an application or contact us online for questions or more information.

For LGBTQIA+ couples, surrogacy may be one of the only options for fulfilling their dreams of starting a family. It can be a powerful affirmation of love and the possibility of having children. While the surrogacy journey can bring so much joy, it also has unique medical and legal considerations.

From finding an egg or sperm donor to navigating varying state and international laws, same-sex couples often face extra steps that require care, precision, and expert guidance. Yet each of those steps represents movement toward something extraordinary: building the family of your dreams.

At Growing Generations, we believe that everyone, regardless of their orientation, deserves to become a parent. Our team helps LGBTQIA+ intended parents understand the medical process, secure their parental rights, and prepare for any hurdles along the way. Because while every surrogacy journey is unique, every intended parent deserves to feel represented, informed, and fully supported along their parenthood journey.

WHY SURROGACY IS A POPULAR PATH FOR LGBTQIA+ FAMILIES

Surrogacy empowers LGBTQIA+ parents to build their families on their own terms. For gay couples, this may involve using one partner’s sperm with an egg donor to create embryos, which are then carried by a gestational surrogate. Some couples even choose to fertilize multiple eggs, one with each partner’s sperm, so that both can share a biological connection through their children.

For lesbian couples, one partner may provide the egg while the other carries the pregnancy through reciprocal IVF, allowing both to participate biologically and emotionally in the process. However, due to personal or medical reasons, they may also need a surrogate to assist in their family-building journey.

These advances in reproductive medicine have redefined what it means to create a family. Today, approximately  18% of LGBTQIA+ adults in the United States are raising children or planning to, according to LGBTQ Parenting in the US (UCLA School of Law Williams Institute). This growing number reflects a cultural and medical landscape that no longer limits family creation to a single model but celebrates the diversity and strength of LGBTQIA+ parenthood.

At Growing Generations, we are proud to have helped pioneer this path decades ago, championing surrogacy as a means for all families to grow. Every journey is unique, but the foundation is always the same: the unwavering belief that everyone deserves the chance to become a parent.

MEDICAL OPTIONS FOR SAME-SEX COUPLES

Every LGBTQIA+ surrogacy journey is unique. Depending on each couple’s biology and goals, one partner’s sperm or eggs may be used to create embryos, or donor eggs, sperm, or both may be involved.

Through in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryos are created in a laboratory using the selected genetic material. Once the embryos are ready, one or more are transferred to your surrogate, who carries your baby to term.

This medical process allows one or both partners to have a biological link to their child, depending on which gametes are used. Some couples even choose to create embryos using sperm from both partners, allowing for the possibility of siblings who share a biological bond with each father.

LEGAL PARENTAGE: NAVIGATING RIGHTS ACROSS STATES 

Securing legal parentage is one of the most important steps in any surrogacy journey, and it can vary widely by state. Some states offer pre-birth orders, which establish legal parentage before the baby’s delivery, ensuring both intended parents’ names appear on the birth certificate from day one.

In other states, additional steps like second-parent or confirmatory adoptions may be required to guarantee parental rights, particularly if only one partner has a genetic connection to the child or if the family plans to travel or relocate internationally. Because these laws are constantly evolving, having a legal team that specializes in LGBTQIA+ family formation is crucial.

At Growing Generations, we partner with the top surrogacy legal attorneys with decades of experience navigating these laws. They help you feel confident that your rights are fully protected at every phase of the process.

HOW DOES SURROGACY FOR LGBTQIA+ PARENTS WORK: STEP-BY-STEP

At Growing Generations, we are committed to helping LGBTQIA+ couples achieve their goal of building a family. Our agency offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to support intended parents throughout their journey. This includes:

• Consultation and Planning: Every surrogacy journey for intended parents begins with an in-depth consultation to discuss goals, expectations, and any specific requirements. This personalized approach ensures that the process aligns with your vision of parenthood.

• Egg Donation Matching: We offer access to a diverse and highly screened egg donor database. Intended parents can select an egg donor based on health history, education, physical traits, and other important factors. Once the donor is chosen, a reproductive specialist retrieves the eggs, which are then fertilized in a laboratory using sperm from one or both intended parents. Some couples choose to fertilize eggs with sperm from both partners, allowing for a genetic connection to their child.

• Sperm Donation Matching: For LGBTQIA+ intended parents who need a sperm donor, we guide you through the matching process. You will have access to trusted donor banks, comprehensive medical, and genetic screening. We will help you navigate everything from selecting donor traits to understanding long-term considerations.

• Matching with a Surrogate: Growing Generations uses a personalized matching process, taking into consideration preferences, expectations, and personalities when pairing intended parents with surrogates. We take pride in carefully matching intended parents with a gestational surrogate who shares their values and commitment to the process. Many of our surrogates are LGBTQIA+ themselves or proud allies and are truly excited to help other LGBTQIA+ families become parents.

• Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy: After fertilization, the healthiest embryo is selected for transfer into the surrogate’s uterus by a fertility clinic we partner with. This process is the same for both heterosexual and LGBTQIA+ parents. Once pregnancy is confirmed, Growing Generations provides ongoing support to both you and your surrogate. This includes regular medical updates and coordination of care to ensure a smooth pregnancy journey.

• Legal Considerations: Establishing parental rights is an important step in any surrogacy journey. While all intended parents must complete legal agreements before the embryo transfer, LGBTQIA+ parents may have additional legal steps depending on their state of residence. Growing Generations works with the best surrogacy lawyers in the country. They ensure all necessary legal protections are in place, including pre-birth or post-birth orders, to establish intended parents as the legal guardians of their child.

• Pregnancy and Birth: Throughout the pregnancy, Growing Generations provides continuous support, ensuring you are involved and informed at every stage. As the due date approaches, we assist with finalizing birth plans and hospital arrangements. Support is provided throughout the delivery process, providing a seamless transition into parenthood. Regardless of the family structure, the joy of welcoming a child is a life-changing moment, and our team is honored to be part of this experience.

EMOTIONAL JOURNEY AND SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Surrogacy can be one of the most profound emotional experiences of a lifetime. For LGBTQIA+ intended parents, it often carries added layers, balancing the excitement of parenthood with the vulnerability of relying on another person to carry your child, and sometimes confronting outdated societal perceptions about family. Emotional support is key throughout this process.

Many of our staff at Growing Generations have gone through the same journey, being LGBTQIA+ through surrogacy or donation. They understand the emotional support our clients need during this process. We also provide access to community resources so you never feel alone in your parenthood journey. Emotional check-ins and support groups allow you to connect with others who have walked a similar path. These relationships will help you build a sense of belonging and pride in your unique story.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SURROGACY AGENCY

Selecting the right surrogacy agency is an important decision LGBTQIA+ intended parents can make. A trusted agency serves as both a guide and an advocate, helping you navigate all aspects of family building with clarity and confidence.

When exploring your options, look for an agency with a proven history of working with LGBTQIA+ parents and a genuine commitment to inclusivity. Experience matters, especially when it comes to understanding the unique legal and logistical considerations that can arise for same-sex couples. An ideal agency will have established relationships with fertility clinics, egg and sperm banks, and legal partners who specialize in reproductive and family law, ensuring every part of your journey is handled with expertise and care.

Equally important is the agency’s approach to communication and support. Transparent financial guidance, ongoing updates, and clear timelines can further help parents feel grounded throughout the process.

At Growing Generations, inclusivity has been part of our foundation since day one. Established in 1996, we were one of the first surrogacy agencies in the world dedicated to helping same-sex couples and LGBTQIA+ individuals become parents. With thousands of successful journeys behind us, we continue to set the standard for compassionate, informed, and personalized surrogacy support, celebrating every family story with pride and respect.

BUILDING FAMILIES WITH PRIDE

At Growing Generations, we have always believed that family is created through love, intention, and the courage to dream, never by convention. For nearly three decades, we have stood beside LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples who choose surrogacy as their path to parenthood, offering a space where every story is honored and every family is celebrated.

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or ready to take the next step, our team is here to guide you with empathy, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to your journey. Because when you build your family with pride, you are shaping a legacy of love that will last for generations.

Connect with Growing Generations for personalized LGBTQIA+ surrogacy guidance. Trusted by thousands of families since 1996.

Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman carries a pregnancy for someone else. However, not all surrogacy is the same. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg and is the baby’s biological mother. On the other hand, in gestational surrogacy, embryos are created through IVF using eggs and sperm from the intended parents or donors. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child.

For first-time intended parents, understanding these two approaches is an important step in making informed decisions. Both paths share the same goal: helping you grow your family. This is a clear, compassionate guide to help you navigate the differences, so you can decide which path is right for you and your family.

What is Traditional Surrogacy?

Before modern science allowed for the creation of embryos outside of the womb, traditional surrogacy was the only way to conceive with a surrogate mother. This type of surrogacy has been practiced the longest. In traditional surrogacy, also referred to as “full” or “genetic” surrogacy, the surrogate is the egg donor and is genetically related to the baby she is carrying. The surrogate becomes pregnant, utilizing sperm from the intended father or donor through a process called intrauterine insemination (IUI). The surrogate carries the baby to term and since she is the biological mother of the baby, she signs her parental rights away right after delivery of the baby to the intended parents, who become the legal guardians.

Because the surrogate is also the biological mother, this pathway introduces emotional and legal complexities that can be challenging to navigate. Today, traditional surrogacy is extremely rare. Most agencies no longer offer it, since it often places additional stress on everyone involved.

What is Gestational Surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is the path most intended parents take and the one most agencies recommend. In this arrangement, the surrogate (or gestational carrier) carries a child created through IVF with the use of the intended mother’s or donor’s egg(s) and the intended father’s or donor’s sperm. It is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus at the fertility clinic. The surrogate does not have genetic ties to the baby she is carrying.

This approach provides greater clarity and peace of mind for everyone. For intended parents, it can mean having a biological connection to their child. For surrogates, it allows them to support your path to parenthood without the emotional and legal complexities of being genetically related.

Genetic Differences Between Surrogacy Types

The most significant difference between traditional and gestational surrogacy lies in genetics.

With traditional surrogacy, the surrogate provides her own egg. She is not only carrying the pregnancy but is also the child’s biological mother. Because of this dual role, traditional surrogacy often brings greater emotional complexity. The surrogate may feel a stronger personal bond with the baby, and questions of parentage can become more complicated for intended parents. These factors are a big reason why traditional surrogacy is now rare and not supported by most agencies.

On the other hand, with gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child she carries. The embryo is created using eggs and sperm from the intended parents, from donors, or from a combination of both. This means the child’s DNA comes entirely from the chosen source and not from the surrogate. For intended parents, this distinction often provides peace of mind, creating clear boundaries and simplifying legal parentage.

Many families also choose gestational surrogacy because it allows them the chance to have a biological connection to their child, even if they need an egg or sperm donor. For example, some couples are able to use one partner’s sperm or eggs, giving them a direct genetic link, while others find comfort in choosing donors whose traits or backgrounds resonate with their family story.

By removing the genetic tie between surrogate and child, gestational surrogacy creates a clear, secure foundation for everyone involved. It respects the surrogate’s role as a carrier, while protecting the emotional well-being of intended parents and ensuring that legal parentage is established from the beginning.

Medical Pathways Compared

The medical steps involved in surrogacy look very different depending on whether you choose traditional or gestational surrogacy. Understanding how each pathway works can help you see why most intended parents today choose gestational surrogacy with the support of an experienced surrogacy agency like Growing Generations.

TRADITIONAL

In traditional surrogacy, pregnancy is typically achieved through intrauterine insemination (IUI) at a clinic, or in some cases, through a home-based insemination process. Since the surrogate provides her own egg, IVF is not required. In terms of medical intervention, it might sound less complex, and it usually is on the surface.

However, simplicity often brings greater challenges later. Because the surrogate is genetically tied to the child, courts are cautious when granting parentage to intended parents. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) acknowledges these risks, strongly encouraging traditional surrogacy arrangements to be handled with great care because of the potential for emotional and legal complications. In addition, some states do not recognize traditional surrogacy contracts at all, leaving intended parents without legal protections.

GESTATIONAL

Gestational surrogacy follows a more advanced and carefully regulated medical process. It begins with in vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs and sperm are retrieved from the intended parents or donors and combined in a lab to create embryos. Once healthy embryos are developed, one is transferred into the surrogate’s uterus under the supervision of a fertility specialist.

This pathway involves more medical steps, but it is highly structured and supported by strong ethical guidelines. ASRM sets clear standards around medical screening for surrogates, the number of embryos that can be transferred, and the informed consent process. These guidelines exist to protect everyone involved, ensuring the surrogate’s health is prioritized and that intended parents have the best chance of a safe and successful pregnancy.

Laws also play an important role in shaping which pathways are allowed. For example, in New York, the Child-Parent Security Act (CPSA) legalized compensated gestational surrogacy in 2021 but explicitly prohibited traditional surrogacy. This law reflects what many states now recognize: gestational surrogacy offers clearer protections and less emotional risk. The CPSA also requires detailed legal contracts, independent legal representation for both parties, and comprehensive medical and psychological screenings, aligning closely with ASRM recommendations.

For intended parents, this means that gestational surrogacy is not only the more common option but also the one most supported by medical and legal professionals across the United States.

Legal & Parentage Considerations

One of the most important differences between the two types of surrogacy is how parentage is established. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s biological connection often means intended parents must complete an adoption after birth to be legally recognized. This process can be lengthy and emotionally difficult.

Gestational surrogacy, on the other hand, allows intended parents in many states to secure their rights through a pre-birth order. This ensures that their names are placed directly on the baby’s birth certificate, offering peace of mind long before delivery day. For families eager to focus on welcoming their child, this clarity makes a world of difference.

Cost Breakdown: Why Numbers Differ

Surrogacy is a significant emotional and financial investment, and the costs can vary greatly depending on the type of surrogacy you choose. Traditional surrogacy is generally less expensive on the surface because it does not require in vitro fertilization (IVF). Since the surrogate’s own egg is used, there is no need for egg retrieval, embryo creation, or embryo transfer procedures. The medical costs are lower, and fewer clinic visits are needed overall.

However, this initial cost savings often comes with increased legal fees and longer timelines due to the complexities of establishing parentage. Some intended parents also face added costs later if second-parent adoption is required to secure full legal rights.

Gestational surrogacy, by comparison, has a higher upfront cost because it involves a full IVF cycle. This includes egg retrieval (from the intended parent or a donor), fertilization in the lab, and embryo transfer into the surrogate’s uterus. These medical procedures require specialized fertility clinics, laboratory services, and highly trained staff. The cost also includes comprehensive medical screening for all parties, as well as medications for the surrogate to prepare her body for pregnancy.

Beyond the medical side, gestational surrogacy includes compensation for the surrogate, legal fees, insurance coverage, and support services throughout the journey. Although the total price tag can be higher, it reflects a carefully managed process that prioritizes safety, clarity, and the emotional well-being of everyone involved.

Pros & Cons for Intended Parents

Every surrogacy journey comes with unique considerations, and first-time intended parents need to understand both the advantages and challenges of each path. While both traditional and gestational surrogacy share the same goal, helping you welcome your child into the world, they differ in ways that can affect your experience medically, legally, financially, and emotionally. Here’s what to keep in mind:

TRADITIONAL SURROGACY

Pros:

• Typically less expensive since IVF is not required.

• The medical process is shorter and involves fewer procedures.

Cons:

• The surrogate is the biological mother, which can lead to emotional and legal complications.

• Parentage often must be established through adoption after birth.

• Many states do not legally recognize or allow traditional surrogacy.

• Rarely offered by reputable agencies due to the risks involved.

GESTATIONAL SURROGACY

Pros:

• The surrogate has no genetic link to the child, which provides clarity and reassurance.

• Parentage can often be secured before birth through a pre-birth order.

• Supported by most states and agencies, with clearer legal protections.

• Higher medical success rates due to advances in IVF.

Cons:

• The overall financial investment is higher because IVF and more medical services are required.

• The process involves more steps and a longer timeline due to fertility treatments and embryo creation.

Choosing a Surrogacy Type with Agency Support

At Growing Generations, our mission is to make your journey to parenthood as safe, supported, and joyful as possible. That’s why, like most reputable agencies, we focus exclusively on gestational surrogacy. This path protects intended parents, surrogates, and children alike, minimizing risks and ensuring that your experience remains centered on the joy of growing your family.

When you work with an agency, you’re not just choosing a medical or legal pathway; you are choosing a team that will stand beside you, guide you, and celebrate with you as you take each step toward parenthood.

Final Thoughts

Surrogacy is a remarkable way to grow a family, and both traditional and gestational surrogacy share the same beautiful goal: paving your path to parenthood. But for most intended parents, gestational surrogacy offers the clarity, safety, and peace of mind they need to move forward with confidence.

Every journey is unique. With the right support, the path ahead feels less overwhelming and more joyful. At Growing Generations, we are here to walk beside you every step of the way, from answering your very first questions to celebrating the moment you hold your baby in your arms.

If you’re ready to learn more about which surrogacy path is right for you, we invite you to connect with us today. Together, we can help you take the next step toward growing the family you’ve been waiting for.

If you miscarry or have an otherwise abnormal pregnancy, your doctor may recommend a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure (as opposed to a natural miscarriage). A D&C can be a first-line treatment option for clearing the uterus or for instances where your body does not expel all tissue on its own. In this case, the procedure is necessary to stop bleeding and prevent hemorrhage. Like any surgical procedure, however, a D&C carries some risks. As a surrogate, it's essential that you understand the risks and benefits of this option.

 

WHAT IS A D&C PROCEDURE?

A D&C procedure usually takes just 10 to 15 minutes, but you may stay at the clinic or medical site for up to 5 hours. During the procedure, you’ll either be sedated using either a general anesthetic or given an epidural or local anesthetic. Your cervix will be dilated to allow a scalpel or vacuum into the uterus to remove tissue associated with pregnancy. This outpatient surgical procedure is generally routine and free of complications. However, as with all medical procedures, there can be risks. 

WHAT ARE COMMON D&C RISKS & COMPLICATIONS?

The most common complication of a D&C, according to the Mayo Clinic, is the perforation of the uterus. In this instance, a cutting object would inadvertently poke a hole in the wall of the uterus during the clearing of the pregnancy tissue. These perforations will usually heal on their own and only represent real concern if a blood vessel or secondary organ is damaged. 

Other potential D&C complications include:

• Damage to the cervix: It is possible for the cervix to be torn during the procedure. If this were to happen, your doctor would apply pressure to the cervix and then use stitches to repair the tear.

• Scar tissue or adhesions inside of the uterus: Known as Asherman’s syndrome, the development of scar tissue in the uterus happens in roughly 30 percent of D&C patients. This condition, which becomes more likely with each subsequent D&C, can lead to painful, absent or otherwise abnormal menstrual cycles. Additionally, it can lead to difficulty with future fertility, occasionally resulting in increased miscarriages or total infertility.

• Infection: While incredibly rare, infection can occur following the procedure. Infections are often detected by a fever or odorous vaginal discharge.

WHAT TO DO DURING D&C RECOVERY

You’ll want to pay close attention to your body after the D&C to ensure that you’re healing properly. You can usually return to your regular activities after a few days, but you may experience mild cramping and light spotting. You should wear a sanitary pad and take pain relievers if necessary. 

Your next menstrual cycle also might come early or late after the procedure. Be sure to call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Heavy bleeding

• Bleeding lasting longer than 2 weeks

• Fever

• Cramping lasting more than 48 hours

• Foul smelling discharge

• Pain that gets worse as the days progress

At Growing Generations, we understand that a miscarriage is a challenging and emotional event for both surrogates and the intended parents. We're here to support you through this difficult time. Reach out to us online at any time. 

Embryos are tiny, delicate things. Following the embryo transfer process, surrogates concerned about how to protect the embryo they're carrying may worry about how secure the embryo is once it's placed in the uterus. Is it possible for the embryo to "fall out" after it has been transferred?

IS IT POSSIBLE FOR AN EMBRYO TO FALL OUT AFTER TRANSFER?

The overwhelming fear is that walking, jumping, or even urinating could cause the embryo to simply slip out of the uterus. Doctors often prescribe bed rest following the transfer to allow the embryo time to “get settled” and implant, so it makes sense that undue movement could cause the embryo to become dislodged and slip out, right? Rest assured that this is highly unlikely. The idea has merit, in theory, but it is not plausible in reality. The uterus is a muscular organ. This means that it stays contracted and tight in its natural state. While the area inside of the uterus is called a “cavity,” it is not a literal empty space. The transferred embryo does not have open space in which to move freely or roll around. 

WHY EMBRYOS DON'T FALL OUT

Your body is prepared well for the embryo transfer with IVF medications. Nearly all IVF doctors will require your uterine lining to be thick enough for the walls to touch in the middle before proceeding with a transfer. This creates an environment in which the thick, sticky endometrial lining leaves no empty space. When the embryo is placed between the uterine walls and the muscle contracts, it will create a secure place for the embryo to bury itself deep within that thick lining and begin to grow. Visualize placing a poppy seed in the crease of your elbow and then folding your arm shut tightly by using your muscle. Now wiggle that arm as hard as you can. No matter how hard you try, that poppy seed will not fly out. 

An implanted embryo inside of a flexed uterus is much the same. No reasonable external physical activity—be it jumping, rolling over in bed, walking, or running—can cause a healthy receptive embryo to become dislodged once it has implanted into the endometrial lining. The bed rest period is meant to help you relax and encourage the embryo to implant and bury itself within the endometrial lining. 

While you should always follow doctor’s orders regarding bed rest, do not be afraid to get out of bed to use the restroom or stretch your legs. If you have questions about what activities are approved, both during bed rest and once you’re cleared to return to daily life, do not be afraid to ask your nurse or doctor.

READY TO LEARN MORE?

Please contact Growing Generations for more information about being a surrogate in our program.