This dictionary is your gentle guide to demystifying the complex terminology of surrogacy. Whether you are wondering about the difference between a Gestational Carrier and a Traditional Surrogate, trying to understand the steps of an IVF cycle, or navigating legal terms like a Pre-Birth Order, our glossary breaks it all down into clear, easy-to-understand definitions. Our goal is to ensure you feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way, allowing you to focus on the joy of the journey ahead.
A woman who generously offers her body to house and grow a developing child for intended parents who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves. (Note: This term now covers both historical and modern arrangements.) It is commonly referred to as gestational carrier.
An arrangement where the surrogate mother uses her own egg to become pregnant with the child she will carry for the intended parents.
Through IVF, the surrogate carries a pregnancy to term but has no genetic link to the baby. Embryos for the procedure are created using the sperm of the intended father or a donor, combined with the eggs of the intended mother or a donor.
An egg donor provides her oocytes (eggs), which are later utilized in IVF for assisted reproduction.
This refers to the egg retrieval procedure where oocytes are collected from the ovaries of the egg donor.
The individuals who assume legal parenthood for children born via surrogacy are commonly referred to as the Intended Mother (IM) and Intended Father (IF).
The initial phase of surrogacy involves the matching process. Intended Parents (IPs) review profiles of potential surrogates. Once the IPs select a surrogate they prefer, that individual gets the opportunity to speak with the IPs to ensure both parties agree to move forward together.
This is the legal agreement outlining the terms and conditions of surrogacy between the Intended Parents (IPs) and the Surrogate. Both parties, through their respective legal counsel, can negotiate these terms before signing. The contract clearly details the rights and obligations of everyone involved.
An Obstetrician (OB) is a physician whose primary role is the delivery of babies and also provides routine well-woman healthcare focused on the female reproductive organs.
An Obstetrician/Gynaecologist (OB/GYN) is a physician who specializes in the function and dysfunction of the female reproductive organs. Their practice includes both medical and surgical treatment for disorders within the female reproductive tract. The RE is the doctor who performs the IVF procedure.
Essentially, a surrogacy schedule is a timeline created by the IVF physician or coordinator. This document lists all the critical appointment dates leading up to the embryo transfer.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is the procedure where an egg and sperm are manually combined to create an embryo in a laboratory setting. Reproductive Endocrinologists are the specialists who diagnose and manage the IVF process.
This describes the transfer of a frozen embryo (an already fertilized and cryopreserved egg) into the uterus of the Surrogate Mother in the case of a surrogacy.
The term Blastocyst refers to a specific, early stage of embryonic development that occurs about five to six days after a sperm fertilizes an egg.
This term refers to Amniocentesis, a crucial test in surrogacy. It involves examining cells from the amniotic fluid to screen for chromosomal abnormalities, genetic disorders, and neural tube defects. Typically, this procedure is performed between 14 and 20 weeks of the pregnancy.
This radiology procedure is utilized to assess the structural condition of the fallopian tubes and the uterus.
Similar to Amniocentesis, Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) is a diagnostic test used to identify abnormalities and inherited disorders. Typically conducted much earlier in pregnancy, between 10 and 12 weeks, this test examines cells taken from the placenta. Access is achieved either by passing a catheter through the vagina into the uterus or by using a needle insertion through the abdomen into the uterus.
Before the surrogate mother gives birth, a court order must be obtained. This legal document is essential as it grants both the Intended Parents and the surrogate access rights to the baby at the hospital. This is the standard in CA and NV.
Testing is a procedure used with in vitro fertilization (IVF) to screen embryos for genetic abnormalities before they are implanted.
Minimally invasive medical procedure that allows a healthcare professional to examine the inside of the uterus (womb). A thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix and into the uterus. The uterus may be filled with carbon dioxide or saline to expand it and improve visibility.
A subspecialty of obstetrics focused on high-risk pregnancies. An MFM specialist is an obstetrician with additional training to diagnose, treat, and manage complications that affect the mother and fetus throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
A licensed mental health professional who provides psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families, focusing on the dynamics of their relationships.
Medical procedures that involve the manipulation of eggs, sperm, or embryos to help individuals with fertility issues conceive. These techniques, which include methods like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), aim to increase the chances of successful conception and are often used for people with infertility or genetic conditions.
The use of donated eggs, sperm, embryos, or a gestational carrier to help a person or couple have a child.
With over 35 years of experience, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is considered one of the best surrogacy agencies in California. Our team members, located throughout California, offer outstanding support for both surrogates and intended parents throughout the surrogacy process. Whether you’re looking to become a surrogate or grow your family, our commitment to personalized care makes SPS an ideal choice for your surrogacy journey.
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