Answers to Your Questions About Surrogacy for the LGBT+ Community
Embarking on the journey to parenthood is a momentous step for anyone, but for LGBT+ individuals and couples, the path can sometimes be fraught with unique challenges and considerations. One of the increasingly popular options for family-building is surrogacy—a process that offers hope and opportunity for many. This comprehensive guide aims to address frequently asked questions about surrogacy for LGBT+ couples and individuals, providing insights for all who are exploring this possibility.
Family Creations: All Are Welcome!
With over 15 years of experience in family planning, Family Creations has always offered our services to the LGBTQ+ community. We consider it a privilege to assist gay men and lesbian women on their journey of creating a family. We look forward to helping you achieve the joy of becoming a parent.
While we have offices throughout the United States, our California locations in Los Angeles and San Francisco operate under the most favorable LBGT surrogacy laws in the country. California courts are known for protecting intended parents’ rights to use their genetic material, egg donation, or a gestational surrogate. But don’t let your location stop you! Regardless of where you live, our experienced staff can connect you with expert legal and medical guidance to help you navigate your surrogacy journey.We realize that the cost of surrogacy for LGBT+ couples and individuals may be a barrier, and to help address this, Family Creations has different programs that can help you achieve your goal of having a family. Please give us a call today. We look forward to learning more about you.
LGBT+ Surrogacy FAQs: Introduction & Overview
Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman, known as a surrogate, agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another person or couple. There are two types: gestational and traditional surrogacy. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic link to the child, as the embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate’s egg being fertilized by the intended father’s sperm, making her the biological mother of the child. Family Creations only works with gestational surrogates.
Why Choose Surrogacy?
LGBT surrogacy offers couples and individuals the chance to have a child who shares their genetic makeup. It enables same-sex couples to have biological children, which might not be possible through other means. Over our many years of providing surrogacy for the LGBT community, we have gathered many stories of those who have successfully navigated this path, finding joy and fulfillment as parents.
Can Single Gay Men, Women, or Trans Individuals Work with a Surrogate?
Absolutely! At Family Creations, your sexual orientation, gender identity, or relationship status is not of interest to us. Our #1 goal is to help create loving, supportive family environments.
I’m HIV+. Can I Still Become a Parent through Surrogacy?
Yes. While egg donors and gestational surrogates must complete a rigorous medical screening before being listed in our directions, Family Creations does not require the intended parent(s) to release any medical information. For those with a health diagnosis that may make pregnancy dangerous, surrogacy for LGBT prospective parents is an excellent alternative.
LGBT Surrogacy FAQs: Legal Concerns
Is Surrogacy for LGBT Intended Parents Legal?
The legality of surrogacy varies widely across different states and countries (read more about our egg donation and surrogacy program for intended parents residing outside of the United States). In some states, it is fully legal and protected; in others, it may be more tightly restricted. For those considering LGBT surrogacy, it’s crucial to work with an experienced, professional egg donation and surrogacy agency that can connect you with family planning legal experts in the state you reside in.
Why Are Legal Contracts Necessary to Work with a Surrogate?
At Family Creations, a legal contract between the intended parent(s) and the surrogate is necessary because it establishes the rights and responsibilities for all decisions, including medical procedures, compensation, and parental rights. In short, an LGBT surrogacy contract protects both parties: the intended parent(s) and the surrogate.
LGBT Surrogacy FAQs: Financial Concerns
How Much Does Surrogacy for LGBT Couples Cost?
Surrogacy can be an expensive endeavor, with costs varying based on location, agency fees, medical expenses, legal fees, and compensation for the surrogate. On average, it can range from $100,000 to $150,000 or more. Financial planning is crucial, and prospective parents should explore all financial resources.
Does Family Creations Offer Financial Assistance for Surrogacy and Egg Donation?
Yes. Family Creations strives to be completely transparent about our egg donor and gestational surrogate fees. Not only are all fee schedules outlined on our website, but we also offer different family planning programs to better meet your budget. Pursuing LGBT surrogacy requires an investment of time and money, but we do everything we can to make it within reach. We encourage you to contact the Family Creations office nearest you to talk about all questions you may have.
Family Creations Has Experience with LGBT Surrogacy
When it comes to navigating surrogacy for LGBT prospective parents, finding an agency with knowledge and experience is vital. We believe in open communication, respecting boundaries, and creating mutual understanding with all our intended parents. Our staff welcomes and encourages your questions about our track record, fee structure, legal and medical requirements, and prior clients. Contact us today to learn more and start making your dream of a family a reality!