Answers to common questions from intended parents, organized by topic.
Gestational surrogacy involves a woman carrying a baby created through IVF using the intended parents' or donor eggs and sperm. She has no genetic connection to the child. Traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate uses her own egg, is not offered by GBSS. The process includes matching, screening, legal contracts, medical treatment, pregnancy, and birth.
Surrogacy is pursued by individuals and couples facing infertility, LGBTQIA+ families, single parents, and those with medical conditions that prevent pregnancy.
Gestational surrogacy means the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby. Traditional surrogacy uses the surrogate's own egg. GBSS only offers gestational surrogacy.
Surrogacy laws vary widely. GBSS operates in California, where surrogacy is legal and parent-friendly. We recommend consulting a reproductive law attorney for your specific location.
It generally takes 12 to 24 months from the first consultation to the baby's birth, depending on factors like matching, clinic timelines, and legal steps.
GBSS has 30+ years of experience, a compassionate team, rigorous surrogate screening, inclusive policies, personalized care, and wellness support programs.
Intended parents must have medical clearance, emotional readiness, financial stability, and complete a profile and confidentiality agreement.
Surrogates undergo medical and psychological screening, background checks, and in-person interviews before being made available to intended parents.
GBSS matches based on shared values, communication style, preferences, and location. Intended parents review surrogate profiles and can meet them before committing.
Yes, GBSS arranges virtual or in-person meetings so both parties can ensure a comfortable match.
It depends on the arrangement — anonymous, semi-open, or open — and is discussed and agreed upon during matching.
Costs vary, since it's critically important to GBSS that each intended parent's individual needs are met. Overall factors include surrogate screening costs, legal costs, number of embryos carried, and surrogate medical costs for OB care, insurance, and travel.
Agency fees cover matching, coordination, support services, legal referrals, and emotional guidance throughout the process.
Yes. We understand how critical fertility financing can be, and have multiple financing providers we can refer you to, to help meet your goals as soon as possible.
Insurance coverage is limited. A review is done to assess the surrogate's current plan, and surrogacy-specific insurance may need to be purchased.
The Gestational Surrogacy Agreement (GSA) outlines parental rights, financial terms, and medical decisions. Each party has separate legal counsel.
A Pre-Birth Order (PBO) is typically issued during pregnancy to name the intended parents on the birth certificate and give them legal authority at birth.
Intended parents and surrogates undergo screening. IVF is performed, and embryos are transferred to the surrogate.
You may use your own eggs and sperm, or opt for donors. GBSS works with fertility clinics to support either option.
Yes, intended parents often attend key appointments and the birth, depending on the surrogate's preferences and the match agreement.
Medical protocols and the surrogacy contract guide the response. GBSS offers support and ensures all parties are informed and protected.
Additional cycles may be attempted. GBSS and your fertility clinic will help plan next steps and discuss any added costs.
You'll be listed on the birth certificate, and the baby will be released to you at the hospital. GBSS helps with the discharge process and any required legal steps.
Yes. GBSS offers continuous guidance, emotional support, and logistical coordination for both intended parents and surrogates.