How many ways can you be a surrogate?
Surrogacy is when a woman agrees to carry a pregnancy for another person or couple. There are two types of surrogacy:
Traditional Surrogacy:
This is where the surrogate has a biological connection to the child(ren) not only is she carrying for someone else she is also using her own egg to do so.
Gestational Surrogacy:
This type of surrogacy is the most common. The surrogate has no biological connection to the child(ren) she carries. Eggs and Sperm are from the intended parents, donor or combination of both.
Who are Intended Parents?
Intended parents can be:
Same Sex Couple
Traditional Couple
Single Man
Single Woman
Are all fees due up front?
No, we work with a two part fee structure. Please contact us for more information.
Are surrogates paid in Canada?
Surrogates cannot be paid in Canada. However, they can be reimbursed for their expenses related to the surrogacy. OSO will provide spreadsheets to the surrogate and information on how to keep track of the expenses to ensure the process runs smoothly.
How does OSO select surrogates?
Our Surrogates go through an evaluation process. We require a medical note, police record check, references and if the surrogate is local we will do a home visit. We want to make sure she has support around her. If she has a spouse we speak with them as well. Only about 14% of the surrogates who enter into our program are accepted. Additional medical and psychological testing is performed at the clinic of the intended parents.
How much contact can we have with the surrogate we have chosen?
The amount of communication you have with your surrogate depends on the comfort levels of all parties. Communication level prior to pregnancy, during pregnancy and after pregnancy should be discussed prior to entering a Surrogacy Agreement with each other.
We are an international couple. How long do we need to stay in Canada after the birth?
The average stay in Ontario is 6-8 weeks after the birth, this allows enough time for all of your documentation to be completed and the baby’s passport to be issued. Other provinces vary it depends on where your surrogate in located.
If I am an international intended parent, how many trips to Canada will I have to make?
Your initial contact with a surrogate can be done via phone, skype or email unless you choose to meet her in person first. Contracts also can be done via the same methods. You will however need to travel to Canada for a clinical appointment as well as delivery of your child(ren). Although some IP’s choose to visit during the pregnancy.
Where will the surrogate give birth?
The surrogate will choose where she will deliver. Typically it is with her previous OB/GYN or Midwife at her local hospital or at home. These issues will be discussed and set out in your Surrogacy Agreement.
Do we have to use a fertility clinic that OSO selects?
No, we work with most clinics across Canada. If you already have a clinic that is great. If not we can recommend clinics to you that have the best outcome.
Will OSO help me find a lawyer to assist with all the legal work?
Definitely, we work with exceptional lawyers across Canada who will assist you with your Surrogacy Agreement so that it clearly abides by Canada’s legislation. All lawyers we recommend will be able to provide assistance post birth as well.
What happens if there is an unsuccessful transfer or miscarriage?
When you complete your Surrogacy Agreement, you will have agreed with your surrogate the number of attempts. In the event of a miscarriage it will depend on how the surrogate heals and the recommendation of the attending physician on when it is safe to try again.
