Many intended parents wonder whether a surrogate shares DNA with the baby she carries. It’s a natural concern. After all, the surrogate plays a vital role in bringing the child into the world. But in modern surrogacy, the answer is clear: no, a gestational surrogate does not share genetic material with the baby.

Here’s why. In gestational surrogacy, the process used by reputable surrogacy agencies like Growing Generations, the embryo is created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using an egg and sperm from the intended parents or donors. The resulting embryo is then transferred into the surrogate’s uterus, where she carries and nurtures the pregnancy. While the surrogate provides the environment for the baby to grow, the genetic blueprint comes entirely from the egg and sperm used to create the embryo.

This distinction is important. Traditional surrogacy, where a surrogate’s own egg is used, does involve a genetic link. However, this method is now extremely rare and not part of modern surrogacy practices due to the complex emotional and legal implications.

For intended parents, understanding this science offers peace of mind. A gestational surrogate’s role is one of care, not genetic contribution. Thanks to advances in reproductive medicine and precise laboratory protocols, your baby’s DNA is determined long before implantation, and it belongs entirely to you and/or your chosen donors.

THE BASICS OF DNA AND GENETIC INHERITANCE

To understand why a surrogate doesn’t share DNA with the baby, it helps to begin with a quick look at the science behind genetics. DNA, short for deoxyribonucleic acid, is the molecule that contains all the instructions that make each person unique. It determines countless traits, from physical features like hair color to inherited characteristics such as blood type. Most importantly, DNA is what defines biological relationships.

Every child’s genetic makeup is determined at the moment of conception, when an egg and sperm join to form an embryo. Each contributes half of the baby’s DNA, half from the egg and half from the sperm. These two sources are what establish biological parentage. The uterus, while essential to the baby’s growth and development, does not play any role in shaping genetic identity. Its purpose is to provide a safe, nurturing space where the embryo can implant, grow, and thrive throughout pregnancy.

At Growing Generations, we know that understanding this distinction offers tremendous reassurance to both intended parents and surrogates. In gestational surrogacy, which is the only form of surrogacy we facilitate, the surrogate does not provide an egg and therefore has no genetic connection to the baby she carries. The child’s DNA and their biological story come entirely from the intended parents or their chosen egg and sperm donors.

GENETICS IN TRADITIONAL VS GESTATIONAL SURROGACY

Let’s start with the basics. To understand the surrogacy process and the surrogate's role, it’s important to distinguish between the two main types of surrogacies: gestational surrogacy and the much rarer traditional surrogacy.

Gestational Surrogacy: Gestational surrogacy is the process in which a surrogate carries and delivers a baby for the intended parents. The gestational surrogate does not have genetic ties to the baby she is carrying. The embryo is created in the lab through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended mother’s or donor’s egg and the intended father’s or donor’s sperm. It is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus at the fertility clinic. This is the most common option surrogacy agencies use.

Traditional Surrogacy: Traditional surrogacy was more commonly used before modern science allowed for the creation of embryos outside of the womb. With traditional surrogacy, the surrogate’s egg is fertilized, making her both the genetic contributor and the carrier of the baby. However, this form of surrogacy is rarely practiced today, as gestational surrogacy provides a clear separation between the surrogate and the baby’s genetics.

When the Surrogate Is Genetically Related

Before the advances of modern reproductive technology, traditional surrogacy was the only available option for people who needed help starting a family. In this earlier form of surrogacy, the surrogate’s own egg is used to create the pregnancy, meaning she is both the gestational and genetic mother of the child. Fertilization typically occurs through artificial insemination using the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm.

Because the surrogate’s egg is part of the process, she contributes half of the baby’s DNA, creating a biological connection between her and the child. This genetic link can make traditional surrogacy emotionally and legally complex. Questions around parental rights, consent, and attachment can arise, making the process far more challenging for everyone involved.

At Growing Generations, we recognize how these early practices paved the way for today’s more advanced and emotionally secure paths to parenthood. With the development of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and gestational surrogacy, the need for traditional surrogacy has nearly disappeared. Modern gestational surrogacy ensures that the surrogate has no genetic relationship to the baby, allowing intended parents to build their families with clear legal rights and peace of mind.

WHEN THE SURROGATE IS NOT GENETICALLY RELATED

In gestational surrogacy, the process used by Growing Generations and most modern surrogacy programs today, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby she carries. The pregnancy begins through in vitro fertilization (IVF), where embryos are created in a laboratory using eggs and sperm from the intended parents or chosen donors. Once an embryo is formed, it is carefully transferred into the surrogate’s uterus, where she carries the pregnancy to term.

Because the embryo’s DNA is established at the moment the egg and sperm combine, the surrogate contributes no genetic material to the child. Her body provides the nurturing environment the baby needs to grow, but the baby’s biological identity comes entirely from the people whose egg and sperm were used to create the embryo.

This approach not only clarifies genetic parentage but also strengthens emotional and legal clarity for everyone involved. Gestational surrogacy allows intended parents to build their families with confidence, knowing their child’s DNA reflects the family connection they’ve intentionally chosen.

LEGAL AND EMOTIONAL REASSURANCE FOR INTENDED PARENTS

At fertilization, an embryo is formed from one set of chromosomes from the egg and one from the sperm. The resulting DNA sequence is fixed for that individual and does not change throughout life. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate’s own DNA is not part of that code. However, even though the DNA sequence remains unchanged, the way certain genes are turned on or off, known as gene expression, can be influenced by the womb environment. This process is called epigenetics.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, “epigenetics is the study of how our environment influences our genes by changing the chemicals attached to them.” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) similarly explains, “Epigenetics refers to how your behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way your genes work. Unlike genetic changes (mutations), epigenetic changes do not change the sequence of DNA bases.” In other words, the surrogate’s womb provides a nurturing environment that can influence how genes behave, but not which genes the baby has.

The surrogate’s uterus plays a crucial role in supporting fetal development, and factors such as nutrition, hormone levels, stress, exposure to chemicals, and placental function can all influence epigenetic patterns, like DNA methylation. Research has shown that even maternal well-being and social support can affect placental gene activity linked to neurodevelopment and metabolism. These subtle influences may shape aspects of growth and health, but they do not alter the child’s genetic identity.

It’s important to understand that while gene expression can be affected by the environment, the DNA sequence inherited from the egg and sperm remains unchanged. The surrogate’s body cannot alter or add to that genetic code. In gestational surrogacy, the child’s DNA comes solely from the intended parents or their chosen donors.

At Growing Generations, we believe knowledge brings peace of mind. It begins with the people who help make your journey possible. All of our surrogates are carefully vetted and represent the top 2% of all candidates. We take great care in connecting you with a surrogate who is the best match for your family and values.

SCIENCE, SUPPORT, AND TRUST WITH GROWING GENERATIONS

At Growing Generations, we combine cutting-edge science with compassionate guidance to ensure you feel informed and confident throughout your journey. From beginning to end, our process is designed to create clarity around genetics, parentage, and the medical safeguards that define modern surrogacy.

We partner exclusively with leading IVF clinics, ensuring that every embryo is created under the highest medical and ethical standards. Our screening process for surrogates and donors is among the most comprehensive in the field, covering health, genetics, and overall well-being, so that each match is built on trust and transparency. With Growing Generations, you can be certain that science supports every aspect of your path to parenthood, and we will be with you every step of the way.

Speak with a Growing Generations specialist today to learn more about the genetics behind surrogacy, and our team can help you achieve your dreams of growing your family.

Our egg donors are full of heart and provide a gift that is essential in the surrogacy process. What you provide is something so necessary that none of this could happen without you. Here are 5 reasons to consider becoming an egg donor with Growing Generations.

1. YOU GET TO GIVE LIFE.

Plain and simple, you get to create a life and change the lives of those you help. In many cases, without your gift, this option would not be available to them.

2. IT HONORS A MEMORY.

Time and time again we hear from our donors that the choice to donate eggs was arrived at after watching a close friend or family member struggle with infertility. Often the complications come after cancer treatments leave the woman with slim or no chance of producing usable eggs of her own. Choosing to donate your eggs to a couple in need, for whatever reason, could serve as a living memorial to someone you’ve known who has struggled with infertility of their own.

3. THE FINANCIAL COMPENSATION OFFERS OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOU.

The money you will receive as compensation can open a multitude of doors for you. Consider paying off existing debt, creating a nest egg of savings, or even traveling—all of these are options you can consider. Many of our donors are young women who are still pursuing their education. If this is you, consider the ease of managing your studies without the hassle of also having to maintain a part time job. Egg donor compensation could make this a possibility for you.

4. YOU'RE NOT USING THEM.

Perhaps you’re not ready to start or add to your existing family right now. Maybe you know that those are options that will never appeal to you. As a result, every month you ovulate an egg that is not fertilized and is shed. Couples working with our surrogacy program have all the desire in the world to create or expand their family. What those couples don’t have are viable eggs. By donating the eggs you currently don’t need or desire to have fertilized you are ensuring that those eggs are turned into babies for couples who will love them endlessly.

5. IT'S QUICK.

From legal paperwork to your egg retrieval, once your profile is chosen by an intended parent(s) we will only require about 3 months of your time. You’ll see a few doctors, take a few medications, undergo a brief procedure, and return to your normal daily life. Your obligation is quick. Your impact is forever.

If you're ready to give the gift of life and take the next step to becoming an egg donor, complete your application to get started. We're here to walk you through the process and make your experience smooth and fulfilling.

Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for many people, including single people who want to grow their families. Though this prospect can seem daunting as a single parent without a partner, you will be far from alone. Understanding the process and being prepared for single parent surrogacy will make this experience smoother and more rewarding. The first step is to learn more about what you can expect as you navigate this life-changing journey.

Surrogacy Process for the Single Parent

As a single parent, you will go through the same surrogacy process as any other couple would at Growing Generations. This includes:

• Consultation: Your journey to parenthood starts with a consultation with one of our team members. During this meeting, you will learn more about our surrogacy program and process while we get to know you, your expectations, and your needs.

• Admissions: Once you are ready to start, the necessary paperwork is signed and administrative processes completed, securing your permission to start the surrogacy journey.

• Surrogate Match: You will go through the same surrogate match couples go through during their surrogacy process. Once you are matched with a surrogate, we will facilitate a match meeting via video conference.

• Preparing for the Pregnancy: We will prepare your selected surrogate for additional testing and embryo transfer.

• Preparing for the Birth and Beyond: When the pregnancy enters its second trimester, we will prepare you for the delivery of your child—including what to expect when traveling with your newborn back to your home.

The most important piece of this equation is your willingness and commitment to being a parent. Remember: You are not alone on this journey. The Growing Generations team will be with you every step of the way, guiding you through the process, and answering any and all questions you may have.

Challenges of Single Parent Surrogacy

Though similar in process, there are some unique challenges when taking on surrogacy as a single parent. You are faced with selecting an egg donor, shouldering the costs of surrogacy alone, and needing the support of family and friends more.

Selecting an egg donor

As a single parent, you must secure an egg donor to move forward with surrogacy. This creates an additional step to your surrogacy process, impacting both time and cost. As a surrogacy and egg donation agency, we can assist you with this process and help you find an egg donor match based on our database.

Shouldering the cost of surrogacy alone

The responsibility for paying for the cost of surrogacy falls solely on you as a single parent. Knowing and understanding surrogacy costs and creating a budget at the beginning of the process can help reduce stress. We have a team of finance experts who will work with you to find the best option for your budget.

Needing the support of family and friends

The support of family and friends on your surrogacy journey is essential as a single parent. It is their support of your choice to grow your family through surrogacy that will make this a more positive journey. Surrogacy can be an emotional roller coaster, from the initial decision to pursue it to the ups and downs of the pregnancy itself. Family and friends provide emotional stability and a lending hand when needed.

TIPS FOR PREPARING FOR YOUR SINGLE PARENT JOURNEY

Before embarking on your surrogacy journey as a single parent, it is important to ask yourself some critical questions to ensure you are fully prepared for the road ahead.

• Am I financially prepared?

• Do I have a support system?

• How will I manage my time?

• Am I ready for the emotional journey?

• What are my long-term plans?

Take the time to make these considerations before committing to this wonderful, life-changing journey to parenthood.

GETTING STARTED

Choosing to grow your family through surrogacy as a single parent is a significant decision, with both challenges and rewards. By understanding the process, planning carefully, and surrounding yourself with the right support, you can navigate the journey successfully and welcome your new child with joy and confidence. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to realizing your dream of parenthood—and the first step begins with completing your application.

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.