Choosing an egg donation or surrogacy agency is a big decision, no matter whether you are looking to be an egg donor, surrogate mom, or are looking to build your family through one of these techniques. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the right agency for you.
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Reputation:
It’s important to find a reputable agency for your family. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and voice concerns if you have them. A good agency will be forthcoming about any issues they may have faced in the past. It’s also important to consider how long they’ve been in business and what past clients have said about their experiences with that agency.
Screening:
Some aspects of egg donation and/or surrogacy are regulated by the FDA while other guidelines are recommended by ASRM. Ultimately, the chosen IVF physician will determine whether a potential donor or surrogate is medically fit. Still, it’s important to work with an agency that abides by any regulations and guidelines and who is aware of current changes. You can review the agency’s requirements and internal screening process to ensure that you’re in good hands.
Size of their database (Availability):
An experienced agency will have a well vetted database of potential egg donors or surrogates available in multiple states and have international reach. Determine how many available donors or surrogates they have that meet your specific needs. If your ideal candidate is harder to find, the agency should be able to reach out to other reputable sources that may have a candidate that fits your specific needs.
Support:
Egg donation and gestational surrogacy are emotional and complex processes and the people participating in them often require additional support. A strong support team may include in-house licensed therapist, translation services and a dedicated case management team. Additional support may also come from insurance specialists, travel agents, and others who help to streamline the process for your benefit.
Communication:
Good communication is essential, and you need to be able to reach someone from your agency as questions arise. The agency you choose should be consistent from the beginning through the end of your cycles. They should also follow up after your cycles as well to ensure that the journey was a success. It’s not uncommon for agencies to get updates from clients annually as their children grow.
Above & Beyond:
What else does your potential agency do or offer that stands out above the rest? Do they offer better life insurance coverage than the industry standard? Are there any policies to help ensure your success? Do they charge to view potential donors or surrogates? Think about what sets them apart from the other agencies in relation to your family’s needs.
Above all, don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have. Extraordinary Conceptions is very proud of the care we provide all of our clients: egg donors, surrogates and future parents. If you are ready to get started on this journey, please register so that we can give you information specific to your needs.
