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- Get To Know Your Surrogacy Agency With These 10 Tips
Choosing a surrogacy agency is one of the most personal and important steps on your path to parenthood. With so many agencies out there, it can be difficult to know what to look for—or even what questions to ask. At Donor Concierge, we’ve helped thousands of intended parents like you navigate the process with clarity and confidence. As an independent search service, we work with over 80 trusted surrogacy agencies across the U.S., helping you find a match that aligns with your values, preferences, and timeline. Whether you're just getting started or comparing a few options, these 10 tips will help you make an informed and empowered decision. Tip #1: Understand the Agency's Reputation A strong reputation isn't just about online reviews—it's about transparency, trust, and follow-through. Here are some questions to ask: How long has the agency been operating? Can they connect you with past clients? How do you screen your surrogate candidates? What type of refund policy do you offer? What can I expect from the surrogacy process ? At Donor Concierge, our 95% match rate and two decades of experience speak for themselves. We're proud of the long-standing partnerships we've built with surrogacy professionals nationwide. Tip #2: Ask About the Agency's History & Industry Relationships Surrogacy is a team effort. The best agencies have solid relationships with fertility clinics, attorneys, and mental health providers. These partnerships make your journey smoother and more successful. As an independent matching service, we've cultivated deep, lasting connections with top-tier agencies, helping you find the right fit faster, often in under 60 days! Tip #3: Learn What the Agency Offers Intended Parents Some agencies simply match you with a surrogate. Others walk beside you through the entire journey. Ask what kind of support is included: Will you have a dedicated case manager? Do they offer help with legal, emotional, and medical resources? We know that growing your family is more than the logistics of finding a surrogate, and that the journey can get overwhelming. As such, we have mental health resources available for our intended parents so that you never feel alone! Tip #4: Explore the Agency's Support Network Emotional support is crucial—before, during, and after your surrogacy journey. You want to find a surrogacy agency that is ready to fill in gaps you didn't even know existed. Ask how the agency builds community among intended parents. At Donor Concierge, our "Parent to Parent" network connects you with other intended parents who've walked this path. Talking to someone who's "been there" can offer insight and comfort that no brochure can provide. Tip #5: Dive Into the Screening Process The best surrogacy agency for you is the one that adds your surrogate preferences to a rigorous, thorough screening process. Remember: you're choosing to partner with a surrogate for the duration of a pregnancy (and sometimes even beyond) in an effort to build your family. You deserve to feel like your opinion matters. You'll want to understand: What medical and psychological evaluations are done? How are surrogates matched to your preferences? At Donor Concierge, we screen each surrogate to ensure they: Meet guidelines set by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine Satisfy your fertility clinic's criteria Are available and ready to move forward From there, we tailor your options based on your unique values and goals . Tip #6: Understand the Full Scope of Services Look for an agency that acts as a home base: a single place to go to for resources on anything surrogacy-related. Your agency should help manage the many moving parts of your journey, including screenings, legal coordination, clinical communication, and more. Donor Concierge offers Standard and Preferred Surrogate Searches, legal and financial guidance, an in-house medical team, and a collaborative approach with your fertility clinic, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Tip #7: Decide How Much Location Matters While it's natural to want a surrogate agency nearby, the best match may not be local. The key is clear communication, not just proximity. Keep an open mind that a surrogacy agency that meets your needs, hears your worries, and finds you the top surrogate matches can be the right choice for you, even if it's not in the city or state you imagined. Tip #8: Ask How Relationships Between Surrogates and Parents Are Supported Your relationship with your surrogate is incredibly meaningful, but you shouldn't overlook your relationship with the agency as well. A strong agency will help facilitate healthy communication and establish expectations early on. We help set the tone from the first match call and encourage respectful, honest dialogue throughout your journey. The right agency doesn't just create connections—they nurture them. Tip #9: Understand the Agency's Financial Approach Surrogacy is an investment. You invest your time, money, and faith into each surrogacy search. A good agency should be upfront about: Fees and refund policies Legal obligations Payment timelines For instance, we offer a one-time flat fee ranging from $5,500 to $9,500. Our website provides a full breakdown of our services, and our in-house team of case managers and experts is always available to answer questions and walk you through what you can expect to invest financially throughout your surrogacy. Tip #10: Trust Your Gut—and Your Support Team Ultimately, the best surrogacy agency is the one that feels right to you. You should feel heard, supported, and informed every step of the way. At Donor Concierge, we're here to guide you through the exciting moments—and the hard ones. You don't have to figure it all out alone, and you deserve the highest level of attention, care, and empathy. Take the Next Step Want to learn more about surrogacy costs or how our matching services work? Explore our blog or contact us to schedule a free consultation with our expert team.
- How To Find an Indian Egg Donor in the U.S.
Finding an egg donor who shares your cultural or ethnic background—someone who feels like family—can be one of the most emotional parts of your fertility journey. For many intended parents searching for an Indian egg donor in the U.S., this connection to heritage, shared values, and familiarity matters deeply. Donor Concierge has helped thousands of intended parents find egg donors who reflect their cultural identity, and we can't wait to help you do the same. Whether you're looking for a donor who resembles a sister, cousin, or someone who fits into your family traditions, our team is committed to supporting you every step of the way. Is It Hard To Find an Indian Egg Donor in the U.S.? Yes, Indian egg donors are typically underrepresented in the U.S. donor pool—but that doesn't mean your perfect match isn't out there. Through our partnerships with 120+ trusted egg donor agencies, we've had consistent success helping intended parents find Indian donors who meet their criteria. Here's what to expect: We typically identify potential matches within 4 to 6 weeks, saving you time, money, and emotional strain. Our search includes Indian, Sri Lankan, and other South Asian backgrounds, depending on your preferences. The availability of candidates can vary, so flexibility in traits like education, religion, or travel availability can improve your chances of a faster match. We offer four egg donor search options—from a one-time 30-day search to a highly personalized Custom Search Program —so you can choose the right level of support for your needs. What Happens During an Indian Egg Donor Search? Your journey begins with a pre-search consultation, where we'll get to know your priorities. We'll ask questions to understand: What cultural or ethnic traits are most important to you? Are there specific physical, academic, or personal characteristics you value? How flexible are you with timing and clinic location? Once we understand your goals, our team will: Search through 25,000+ active egg donor profiles across our network. Curate a short list of donor candidates who meet your desired criteria . Verify each candidate's availability and secure pre-approval from your clinic. Coordinate next steps with the agency if a match is confirmed. Throughout the process, we keep you informed and supported. You'll always know where you are in the search and what to expect next. What Makes Our Indian Egg Donor Search Different? We go beyond database searches to find donors that truly match your vision. Our Custom Search Program includes: Creation of targeted outreach and custom ads A dedicated donor search landing page Direct collaboration with agencies for up-to-date availability Optionally, coordination of AMH testing (when available) Our team also acts as your liaison, advocating for you as we communicate with donor agencies and fertility clinics. This ensures: Accurate and verified information about donor background, heritage, and availability Coordination of important next steps like holds, medical review, or early testing Ongoing updates, so you never feel in the dark Support Throughout Your Journey Finding an Indian egg donor can be an emotional experience, especially when the search involves rare or highly specific criteria. We know that every detail matters, and we're here to ensure you feel heard, supported, and empowered throughout the process. In addition to egg donor matching, Donor Concierge can connect you with: Mental health professionals who specialize in fertility and family-building Reproductive attorneys familiar with U.S. surrogacy and donor laws Genetic counselors to support your medical and family history decisions We also offer a " Parent to Parent " program, connecting you with other intended parents who have walked a similar path and are happy to share insight and encouragement. Ready To Begin Your Search? You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Whether you're just beginning or have been searching for a while, we're here to help you find an egg donor who reflects your heritage, your hopes, and your future. Start your search today by exploring our Custom Search Program or contact us for a free consultation.
- Your Top 5 LGBTQIA+ Surrogacy Questions, Answered
Whether you're a same-sex couple planning to grow your family, a single queer parent considering your options, or navigating legal complexities across states, Donor Concierge is here to help you grow your family through surrogacy . We’ve helped countless LGBTQIA+ intended parents find the right surrogate, donor, and legal guidance for their unique paths to parenthood. Below are five of the most frequently asked questions we hear about LGBTQIA+ surrogacy and how our expert team helps you every step of the way. Q1: Can LGBTQIA+ single parents pursue surrogacy? Yes! Single LGBTQIA+ individuals can absolutely pursue surrogacy. While your journey may involve a few more logistical steps—such as selecting both an egg or sperm donor and a surrogate—it’s entirely possible and well-supported. Your Donor Concierge case manager will: Help you coordinate gamete donor selection Navigate clinic requirements and legal considerations Identify surrogates who match your criteria and are approved by your clinic Serve as your guide and advocate throughout the process Q2: What should I expect from the Donor Concierge surrogacy process? We tailor every surrogacy search to your personal goals, timeline, and family structure. Here's how your journey unfolds: Initial Consultation – Discuss your needs, goals, clinic requirements, and priorities. Surrogate Search – Your case manager searches through 80+ surrogacy agencies to find matches aligned with your preferences. Screening & Approval – We verify availability, coordinate with agencies, and facilitate clinic approval. Support Through Matching – Once a match is confirmed, we assist with introductions, next steps, and timeline planning. We stay with you throughout the entire process, answering questions, providing referrals, and helping manage the emotional and logistical aspects of your journey. Q3: What legal or logistical issues do LGBTQIA+ parents need to consider? Surrogacy laws vary significantly from state to state. Some regions are more inclusive of LGBTQIA+ parents when it comes to establishing parentage or navigating birth orders. We help you: Understand where surrogacy is legal and LGBTQIA+ friendly Plan your journey around favorable laws and protections Identify legal counsel to handle parentage documents or agreements You may also be working with a donor to create embryos. Your case manager can help you decide: Whose gametes will be used Whether to pursue tandem surrogacy journeys Which clinics and legal strategies are best for your family Q4: What does my Donor Concierge case manager do? Your case manager is your partner, coordinator, and advocate throughout your surrogacy journey. They will: Identify surrogates who align with your preferences and clinic requirements Coordinate with surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics Provide referrals to trusted reproductive attorneys and mental health professionals Help you stay on track with next steps, decisions, and deadlines From your first search to your confirmed match, your case manager is here to ensure no detail is overlooked. Q5: Can Donor Concierge also help me find an egg or sperm donor? Yes! In fact, we recommend having embryos ready before beginning the surrogacy matching process. Your case manager can guide you through every aspect of gamete donor selection, including: Egg donor searches Sperm donor coordination Directed or known donor arrangements Private client services for hard-to-find criteria During your consultation, we’ll walk you through these services and build a family-building plan that works for your needs, timeline, and budget. Ready To Start Your Journey? Whether you're still exploring options or ready to begin, know that surrogacy is a valid, empowering path for LGBTQIA+ parents—and you don't have to take it alone. Contact us today to request your free consultation and take the next step toward building the family you've been dreaming of.
- Finding a Jewish Egg Donor During Your Surrogacy Journey
For many intended parents, cultural and religious heritage is a vital part of family building. In Jewish tradition, heritage is typically passed through the maternal line, which can add layers of complexity when searching for an egg donor, especially for those who want their child to be recognized as Jewish by their community or movement. At Donor Concierge, we understand these nuances. With decades of experience helping families navigate egg donation and surrogacy, our case managers are deeply knowledgeable and culturally informed. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process with sensitivity and expertise. Understanding How Jewish Heritage Is Passed Down One of the first questions to explore is how your particular Jewish movement or tradition defines Jewish identity through egg donation. While most rabbinic authorities agree that egg donation and surrogacy are permissible under Jewish law, they often differ on whether the donor must be Jewish. Orthodox and Conservative movements generally require that the egg donor be fully Jewish (born to a Jewish mother or converted according to Jewish law) for the child to be recognized as Jewish. Reform and other progressive movements may hold that a child is Jewish if the intended parent is Jewish and commits to raising the child in the Jewish faith. Clarifying your religious values early on can help shape your search. Your case manager will honor your beliefs and preferences, helping you find a donor whose background aligns with your needs. Consulting With Your Rabbi or Trusted Advisors Speaking with your rabbi or trusted family members can bring valuable clarity to your decision-making process. Your rabbi may help you interpret how Jewish law applies to egg donation and surrogacy, particularly in your specific movement. These conversations can also help you prioritize your donor criteria. For example, is Jewish heritage your top concern, or are there other characteristics—such as education, personality, or appearance—you’d like to consider? Your Donor Concierge case manager can help translate these insights into a practical, focused search strategy. Defining What “Jewish” Means to You in a Donor Once you’ve gathered as much information as possible from external sources, it’s okay to take a beat to ask yourself and your partner what is important to you. Your preferences may align perfectly with your rabbi’s instructions or your movement’s teachings, or they may differ on a case-to-case basis. The more you understand the boundaries of your search, the easier it will be to communicate those boundaries to your case manager. Preparing for a Potentially Longer Search It’s important to acknowledge that finding a Jewish egg donor can take longer than a typical donor search. Jewish egg donors are relatively rare, especially those who meet additional criteria like a specific denomination or level of religious observance. At Donor Concierge, we offer a private client program and work closely with all the agencies to search on your behalf. Your case manager is committed to finding the right donor and/or surrogate. In pursuing your search, your case manager may share that your search may be more extended since the pool of options may be limited to Jewish egg donors only. Your case manager will do their best to push your search forward, even if it is longer. You're Not Alone in This Journey Choosing an egg donor who shares your Jewish heritage is a deeply personal and sometimes emotional process. Many families before you have asked the same questions, wrestled with similar decisions, and found a path that honors their faith and family goals. Donor Concierge supports you with compassion, expertise, and dedication. Our case managers are ready to tap into all available resources to help you find a Jewish egg donor who feels like the right fit for your values, future child, and growing family. Ready to Find a Donor Who Fits Your Needs? At Donor Concierge, we guide you through every step of the egg donor search process with compassion, transparency, and expertise. Our experienced case managers help navigate what can be a complex search when looking for a Jewish egg donor. Request a private consultation today or call us at (415) 663-6097 and take the first step toward building the family of your dreams.
- What To Consider When Starting an Asian Egg Donor Search
Finding the right egg donor is a deeply personal process, especially when cultural heritage and ethnicity are central to your family-building journey. If you’re beginning the search for an Asian egg donor—whether Chinese, Korean, Japanese, or from another Asian background—Donor Concierge is here to support you every step of the way. Our expert case managers are not only knowledgeable about the complexities of egg donation, but also culturally attuned and deeply respectful of the role heritage plays in your decision. From understanding your values to providing access to an unmatched network of egg donor databases, we tailor your experience to help you find the right match. Understand the Trade-Offs in a Specific Egg Donor Search One of the first things to know is that the more specific your donor criteria, the more focused—and sometimes more time-intensive—your search may be. Asian egg donors are in high demand, and finding a match who meets your exact preferences may require patience and flexibility. At Donor Concierge, we begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your background, goals, and ideal donor characteristics. From there, we’ll develop a customized search strategy that reflects your priorities, including ethnicity, education, health history, and more. Our extensive database access means we can move quickly, even for specialized searches like Chinese egg donors or Korean egg donors. We work with hundreds of trusted agencies and donor banks, giving you the broadest reach possible. Define Your Priorities: How Granular Should Your Search Be? Asian heritage is diverse, and your preferences matter. During your consultation, your case manager will ask thoughtful questions to help you clarify what matters most—whether that’s a donor’s country of origin, language spoken, family background, or regional ancestry. If you're nervous about what information to share, don't worry, your case manager will guide you. We will ask whether a donor's country of origin (or even a region her family is from) will be important to you. Whether you're seeking a Japanese egg donor with a strong academic background or a Chinese egg donor with specific health history traits, we'll help you explore what's essential—and what's flexible. How We Support You Throughout Your Asian Egg Donor Search Many egg donor databases lack detailed ethnic information, making it hard to find a suitable cultural match. That’s where Donor Concierge stands out. With over 25 years of leading donor searches, Donor Concierge case managers strive to ensure you feel supported, listened to, and championed throughout your search. Our case managers speak various languages, including Mandarin Chinese and Tagalog, and understand the cultural context of an Asian egg donor search. We also leave no stone unturned, tapping into over 150 trusted agencies and donor banks to find the largest pool of potential donors who match your preferences. A Personalized Egg Donor Search, Tailored to You Your search is an investment—not just financially, but emotionally. We recognize the weight of this decision and treat it with the respect it deserves. After your consultation, your dedicated case manager will guide you through each step of the journey, presenting you with qualified donor profiles that meet your unique criteria. With four service tiers to choose from, we offer flexibility and support no matter where you are in your family-building journey. You can also consider our Private Client Program . You’re Not Alone in This Search Finding an Asian egg donor—especially a Chinese egg donor or Korean egg donor—can feel daunting, You deserve to feel supported throughout this journey. At Donor Concierge, we are committed to helping you find a donor who reflects your values, honors your cultural background, and gives you the confidence to take the next step. If you're ready to take that next step to finding your ideal egg donor , contact us online or call us at (415) 663-6097.
- Want To Find a Surrogate Near You? 4 Things To Consider
You want to find the right surrogate to carry your baby. Of course you do! Our Surrogate Concierge team meets with hundreds of intended parents who all have one thing in common — they want to match with a surrogate who feels like the right fit for their family-building journey. For some, that person is someone who lives close by, while for others (and possibly for you), she is someone who also checks a few other boxes. While finding a surrogate who lives in the same city or state can be important, it is also helpful to keep an open mind because the right surrogate for you may be a little farther than expected. Rest assured that during your search, our Surrogate Concierge case managers understand that there is so much to consider during your fertility journey, so they want to help you make this journey as seamless as possible for you. Here’s some added context on 4 things to consider when working with Surrogate Concierge to find a surrogate. 1. Your State’s Surrogacy Laws While your Surrogate Concierge team will do everything in its power to match you with the right surrogate for you, you may encounter certain restraints that are difficult to navigate. For instance, if you live in a state that doesn’t have the friendliest surrogacy laws or the best access to fertility clinics, your surrogate may live farther than you had initially hoped. In the long run, it may be a change you appreciate because of how much easier it will be to bring your baby home at the end of pregnancy. On Surrogate Concierge, you’ll find key state laws outlined clearly. 2. Your Specific Needs The more clarity you have about who you would like your surrogate to be, the easier it will be for your Surrogate Concierge team to tap into their vast network of surrogacy agencies to find you the right match. Try to take some time before your first meeting to decide why you want to live close to your surrogate and what you’re hoping to get out of the relationship. 3. How Technology Can Support Your Relationship Some families want a close relationship with their surrogates but are open to compromise on how to arrive at that end goal. In some cases, certain families are open to achieving that level of closeness thanks to technology, like video chats or text messaging. Every surrogate and family has different expectations of contact and involvement during a pregnancy. Throughout your search, your case manager will ensure that their process aligns with your expectations and a future surrogate’s wants. Read how intended mom Shilpa built a close relationship with her surrogate , even though they were more than 2,000 miles apart. 4. Your Openness With Your Surrogate Concierge Team The best way to find a surrogate who lives near you is to openly discuss your preferences with your Surrogate Concierge case manager . The more information you equip your case manager with, the easier it will be for them to find you the right surrogate. In addition to finding the right match based on your preferred criteria, your Surrogate Concierge case manager will ensure you have all the tools and resources you need to establish a healthy, open relationship with your surrogate. No matter where they end up living. You will never feel alone at any step of your journey. Remember, while physical distance may limit your options, your case manager may find surrogates who match another aspect of your preferences. The best thing you can do during your surrogate search is to stay open, curious, and excited about what lies ahead! Ready To Find Your Surrogate? Your Surrogate Concierge team is ready to help you find the right surrogate for you, whatever your needs. If you want to take the next step in finding your surrogate, get in touch with us using our online form or call us at (415) 663-6097.
- How To Find an Egg or Sperm Donor Who Fits Your Family's Traits
Your desire to match with an egg or sperm donor who physically resembles your family is not out of this world. In fact, our Donor Concierge case managers are well-versed in walking families through the process of finding egg and sperm donors who are available and aligned with many of their preferences. So, if you walk in with questions like, “Can we find a blonde, tall, and beautiful egg donor?” or “Is there a way to find a sperm donor who is tall, handsome, and brunette?” rest assured that our case managers know which direction to point your search. But, the path to getting there? It starts with having one-on-one conversations with yourself and your own family. Doing the work before you even step into a meeting with your case manager will give you the upper hand as you start your donor search. Here’s how to start that self-discovery process and what comes next in your journey to finding a donor with specific physical traits from height to eye color to skin tone. Think about all the different physical traits that run in your family. Take a few minutes to think about your family and potentially your partner’s family. What physical traits does everyone share? Are there any physical traits that your sibling, cousin, or aunt has that make them unique? Maybe one family member is taller than the rest, or someone has curly hair while everyone else has straight? Maybe you want a petite egg donor because everyone in your family is petite. Your ideal egg donor type may be blonde, beautiful, or even athletic. Jotting down these shared and unique physical characteristics helps set the tone for a simple truth—family members come in all shapes and sizes, and ultimately, you want to find a donor who looks like they could fit into your family. While your case manager will try their best to find someone who matches your preferences, there’s freedom in allowing for unique qualities to surface in your search. List your must-haves versus your nice-to-haves . Before meeting with your case manager, collecting all your thoughts in a single place can be helpful. Try to make your must-haves shorter than your nice-to-haves. Throughout your search, your case manager will encourage you to be open to various physical characteristics to widen the choice of egg and sperm donors they may present to you. The narrower your search criteria are, the fewer egg or sperm donors will fit the bill. There are very few tall, blonde, genius, professional model egg donors. The more you know about the kind of donor you want, the easier it is for your case manager to send you a list of attractive donors who match some or most of your preferences. Understand the criteria Donor Concierge uses to lead searches. Each family’s search is different. You may be looking for a petite egg donor, while another family is searching for an athletic sperm donor. Your case manager will bring not only the decades of experience that come with working at Donor Concierge, but also an open mind—understanding that your path and search are uniquely your own. Throughout the process, they can help narrow your options based on criteria like body type, height, and even blood type . While there is no guarantee the search will yield a donor who meets every preference, your case manager will always be honest and forthcoming with information and insight. Share your preferences with your donor case manager. During your initial meeting, you will complete an intake outlining your desired physical characteristics in a donor. At Donor Concierge, we encourage you to find someone who looks like they would fit into your family. That may mean that they find a tall egg donor or a donor with the same skin tone or hair color as you or your partner. Your donor might look like they could be your sister, your cousin, or your uncle. Your case manager can’t find someone who looks exactly like you or your family, but they can come close. Your case manager will also ask to see photographs of you, your spouse, and other family members to help get a sense of the physical traits that run in your family. Consider your case manager a third set of eyes who can draw lines between the characteristics that pull your family together and the traits that help your family members stand out individually while still knowing they belong. Starting your donor search is such an exciting (and admittedly overwhelming) time. You can trust that your case manager will be there every step of the way, even as you think through what donor physical characteristics and personality traits are most important to you. Ready To Find a Donor Who Feels Like Family? At Donor Concierge, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process with compassion, transparency, and expertise. Whether you’re hoping to find a donor who shares your family’s defining features or simply want help navigating your options, our experienced case managers are here to support you. Request a private consultation today or call us at (415) 663-6097 and take the first step toward building the family you’ve been dreaming of.
- How Much Does Sperm or Egg Donation Cost?
While everyone’s fertility journey is different, we’ve found that the one constant in helping families find more peace of mind is equipping them with the right information at the right time. We keep this in mind whether we’re presenting you with a list of ideal donors or helping you navigate your sperm donation cost or egg donation cost . Third-party fertility options and assisted reproductive technology treatments do indeed come with specific associated costs that you can’t really get around. Still, the more you know, the easier it will be to understand what you can afford, how many rounds will fit into your budget, or even if grants are available to support your family-building dreams. How much does sperm donation cost? Donor sperm costs can range from under $1,000 for at-home insemination to more than $50,000 if sperm is tied to an additional assisted reproductive technology like IUI or IVF, which come with their own associated costs. Your unique fertility treatment costs will vary depending on what your fertility doctor suggests your treatment plan should include. During your Donor Concierge sperm search , your case manager will curate a short list of options across 30+ sperm banks and agencies. After you’ve made your selection, your team will also walk you through how many vials to purchase and any other questions you need answered. How much does egg donation cost? On average, egg donation costs can range from $24,800 to $63,000. However, like sperm donor costs, egg donation costs vary based on the associated assisted reproductive technologies (ART) or other third-party costs. For instance, even if a family member is donating eggs, intended parents may still incur expenses for medical evaluations, lawyer fees, and more. Another potential factor that can influence the cost of donor eggs is whether you use fresh eggs or previously frozen eggs, since the costs and accessibility for each type vary. How do you finance egg or sperm donations? Doing the math on the cost of egg or sperm donation can lead to overwhelming anxiety or fear. It's our job to make sure our clients understand the potential costs and introduce them to some financing options. Existing Health Insurance and Company Benefits Your first step to financing your fertility treatments is to check your existing insurance coverage in your state or your company benefits. You can ask your HR department to outline your company’s fertility benefits, if any. In our work, we’ve seen that many larger companies now offer generous fertility benefits through companies like Carrot Fertility , hoping to attract people who understand the value of preserving their fertility. On a state level, California and Texas have laws that require insurance companies to offer coverage for infertility treatment. The following states have infertility diagnosis and treatment coverage laws: Arkansas Connecticut Delaware Hawaii Illinois Louisiana Maryland Massachusetts Montana New Jersey New York Ohio Rhode Island West Virginia You can also turn to advocacy organizations like Resolve: The National Infertility Association , which has family-building financial resource s to help you ask for fertility benefits and insurance coverage. Fertility Financing Loans In addition to baked-in coverage through your health insurance or company benefits, specific lenders can help finance your fertility journey. Some examples of organizations offering these loans include: Sunfish Prosper Healthcare Lending New Life Fertility Finance CapexMD EggFund EmBorrow In navigating the borrowing process, you may find that these plans depend on estimated costs provided by doctors or agencies and offer access to loans up to $100,000. Fertility Grants With the growing awareness of surrogacy and egg donation needs, more options are becoming available to intended parents. Aside from insurance coverage and fertility loans, fertility and surrogacy grants are an increasingly common option. The following organizations offer grants to intended parents who are unable to cover IVF or surrogacy costs often associated with egg or sperm donation: Tinina Q. Cade Foundation Baby Quest Foundation Pay it Forward Fertility Journey to Parenthood Grant Parental Hope Every family is different, and every intended parent’s situation is unique—some may save money by opting to “DIY” aspects of their journey, while others may save money by finding an agency or organization that can do the work more quickly. Additionally, some grants and foundations specifically cater to certain regions, religious groups, and communities. You can see an expanded list of fertility grants and loans in our related blog post. Start Your Journey With Trusted Experts by Your Side The best thing to do throughout your fertility journey is to communicate with doctors, professionals, and your support system so that you can begin this process with as much information as possible. Luckily, Donor Concierge is here to serve as that bridge for you. Our job isn’t to overwhelm you; it’s to give you as much information as you need to make the best decision for you and your family. If you’re ready to learn more, request a private consultation using our online form.
- Wondering How To Find a Surrogate? Ask These 5 Questions
If you’re curious about surrogacy, you've probably already asked yourself a million questions on the topic. While you may not be short on questions, you may be unsure about the right questions to ask or how to ask the right questions at the right time. For instance, now isn’t the time to stress over how you will feed your baby once your surrogate gives birth. But it is the perfect time to know the answer to questions about where your surrogate should live and what type of relationship you want with them. We pulled together 5 of the most common questions intended parents ask at the beginning of their surrogate search so you have a head start on your quest. These 5 questions can help you explore whether this is the right time to pursue surrogacy, set your expectations, and guide you on how to find the right surrogate for your family. 1. Does the surrogate have to be near me? Or, put simply, does location matter for surrogacy? The answer has a few moving parts. You and your surrogate do not have to live in the same city or state, but your surrogate does have to live in a state where surrogacy is legal. At Donor Concierge, we vet all of our agency partners so your future surrogate meets all the legal requirements before you even get the chance to say hello. All potential surrogates are also prepped to expect some travel during their journey, most likely to your fertility clinic for one or two appointments, including your embryo transfer! 2. What type of relationship do I want with a surrogate? This is one of the more personal questions intended parents contend with before they start their surrogate search. Every surrogate (and every intended parent) is different. There is no “right” way to have a relationship with your surrogate . The goal of asking (and answering) this question is to determine what you feel is the best relationship for you. Do you want a surrogate who is open to constant updates and communication? Are you okay with a surrogate who may want limited contact? Once you land on an answer to this question, you can discuss your preference with your Donor Concierge case manager so they vet each surrogate with your needs in mind. 3. Do I have the support of my family and friends? Bringing a baby into the world is a beautiful, emotional rollercoaster, no matter how you choose to grow your family. Our Donor Concierge team is here to support you every step of the way, but we’re not offended to know that your nuclear support team is full of loving family and friends. The more love and support you get during this journey, the better! Take some time early in your surrogacy search to list out the loved ones you feel most comfortable sharing the joys and hard times with. 4. Am I ready to invest in my surrogate search? Partnering with a surrogate search service like Donor Concierge is a financial investment , and, as we mentioned above, the surrogate search as a whole is also an emotional investment. It’s helpful to set aside time to ask yourself if you have the time, energy, and finances to support your ideal surrogate experience. We have a slew of resources that can help you navigate the financial ins and outs of surrogacy, but before you even get there, asking yourself, "Am I ready to invest in surrogacy?” can help you set the right foundation. 5. What’s most important to me in a surrogate match? Your surrogate criteria list is the surrogate wish list you will share with your Donor Concierge case manager. Since everyone’s journey is different, what is most important to you isn’t something your surrogate support team can guess. You can be as specific as you would like when creating your list. You may want to consider some short list topics such as your ideal surrogate’s: · Wellness habits, like whether they work out regularly · Views about termination or other pregnancy realities that may pop up along the way · Health concerns Other intended parents may also focus on location, why someone wanted to become a surrogate in the first place or their preferred level of communication with a surrogate, as we mentioned above. Remember, no ask or want is too nuanced to mention! Build the family of your dreams Your time is precious, and this journey can be as beautiful and meaningful as you want it to be. These 5 questions can help you set the stage for the surrogacy search that’s best for you. Donor Concierge is ready to help you find the right surrogate for you and your family, so get in touch with us to find out how we can ease your family-building journey.
- Using Our Surrogate Search Service: What You Should Know
Whether you are contemplating working with Donor Concierge's surrogate search service or you’ve already partnered with us to begin your search, it’s important that we ensure our service really is the best fit for you and we properly manage expectations. We want you to have a great experience working with us and ultimately match with a quality candidate in a much faster time than if you worked directly with an agency. There are stories of Donor Concierge matching intended parents with gestational carriers in as little as a week or even a day. Are those stories true? Yes! It happens. Sometimes it takes 2 to 3 months, but even that is a fraction of the time an agency will quote you. Could it happen as quickly for you? Read on to find out! What Our Surrogate Search Service Can Do for You Let’s start with how a surrogate search with Donor Concierge can benefit you. Find a qualified candidate . She has been pre-approved by our internal medical team, meets ASRM guidelines , and has been reviewed to meet your clinic’s gestational carrier requirements. Provide an expedited path . We source surrogates from dozens of agencies rather than leaving you to rely on the candidate pool of one agency. Ensure your surrogate resides in and gives birth in a surrogacy-friendly state . We match you with a candidate based on your specific circumstances and legal considerations. Partner with a trusted surrogacy agency . We vet all our agency partners to ensure that they thoroughly screen their GCs, uphold the highest ethical standards, and efficiently coordinate the journey and support you from match through your baby’s birth. A Few Caveats for a Speedy Surrogate Search And now for a few limitations you should be aware of. Custom Requirements Will Increase Search Time Donor Concierge isn't an opportunity to “custom order” a GC while still expecting the record match time that other Donor Concierge clients have enjoyed. Generally speaking, the longer your wish list, the longer it will take our team of case managers to match you. Think of this as a balancing act of speed versus your criteria. Even one requirement can drastically reduce the candidate pool. Want a CA surrogate? You will eliminate 80% or more of candidates. Need her to be COVID vaccinated ? The pool just shrunk by another 50%. With every additional criterion, you can see how quickly your options will be reduced, and the match time will increase. Imagine how that time continues to go up if you have a long list of preferences! Rejecting Qualified Surrogates Will Impede Your Search Donor Concierge also doesn't take a quantity approach that allows you to pass on numerous qualified candidates. We are always your best chance of finding what you’re looking for in a surrogate, simply because we have access to so many more candidates than any individual agency. Having said that, we can’t control the candidates we see, and we will always be limited by the women who choose to become surrogates. Rest assured, we will do our part to match you with a qualified candidate as quickly as possible, but this only works if you do your part, which is to move forward with a match when a suitable candidate is presented to you. It is not uncommon for intended parents to get in their own way of matching, rejecting surrogates who will go on to have healthy babies for other hopeful parents. Looking for Perfection Can Be a Barrier Our many years of experience have taught us that there is no such thing as a perfect surrogate; after all, no person is perfect. However, there is one thing that’s inherently wonderful about all surrogates, which is that they’ve already done the one thing you need them to do—carry and deliver a healthy baby! Because of this, it’s never our recommendation to reinvent the wheel. For example, some intended parents want to revamp the gestational carrier’s diet or lifestyle. This could dramatically impact her body but not necessarily in a way that’s beneficial to her or your baby. Again, whatever she previously did to have a healthy baby or babies has worked. Trust that she’ll do what’s best to care for herself and your child during pregnancy. Trust That Donor Concierge Has Your Best Interests at Heart Speaking of trust, we presume that you selected your fertility clinic because you like them and trust them. So, trust that they have your back when it comes to your surrogate. At Donor Concierge, we present surrogate candidates with your clinic’s criteria in view, but we see many intended parents impose stricter medical criteria on their GC than their clinic does. It is your clinic’s role to determine whether a surrogate is medically suitable to carry your child. If you have any questions or concerns about your particular GC preferences and how they may impact your search with us, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at (415) 663-6097 . We understand that trusting another human to carry your child requires a tremendous leap of faith. Donor Concierge exists to support you and advocate for you in this endeavor. It takes a village (as they say), which includes our case managers, agency partners, surrogates, attorneys, fertility clinics, and you, our valued intended parents. We ask that you place your trust in us and our nearly 20 years of experience and expertise in surrogate matching. We will help you bring your baby home faster; you just have to let us. If you haven't yet decided on a surrogacy search service, we invite you schedule a one-on-one conversation with us. It's simple with our online form .
- How Much Does Surrogacy Cost: A Breakdown for Intended Parents
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed by the details of a surrogacy journey. Our job at Donor Concierge is to streamline the process for you and add calm and clarity where possible. Our surrogate search service is well positioned to find you the best surrogate and to do so by empowering you with the right information along the way. One of the top (and most important questions) our case managers field from intended parents revolves around surrogacy cost. While the surrogacy cost framework is layered and unique to each family’s circumstances, our answers include many of the same moving parts. Here’s what you need to know about surrogacy costs you may find in your journey. Surrogate Search Service Cost Parents who choose to work with Donor Concierge are investing in a surrogate search service instead of working one on one with surrogacy agencies. They often tell us that they choose to invest with us because our model allows us to simultaneously lead an exhaustive search of more than 80+ surrogacy agencies. Our expert case managers understand how to take an intended parent's wishlist for the perfect surrogate and turn it into a shortlist of viable surrogates, all within 0 to 3 months. Learn more about these surrogate search program options and costs . A Surrogate’s Compensation A surrogate search is the first cost investment parents make into their surrogacy journey. Once they meet their perfect match, each family works with their new surrogacy agency to establish everything from a surrogate’s compensation to insurance packages. While the legal agreement between the intended parents and the surrogate will help outline a surrogate’s payment structure, the intended parents must add all funds to a frozen escrow account to set the agreement into motion. A surrogate’s compensation can range from $45,000 to $80,000, depending on location and experience. Insurance Cost It is not guaranteed that a surrogate will have insurance before meeting with the intended parents. Since insurance is explored on a case-by-case basis, it is not a given that the intended parents will incur the cost. For intended parents who are responsible for surrogate health and life insurance , the cost can range from $5,000 to $30,000. Medical Expenses Some families who choose a surrogate already have a donor egg and sperm they intend to use, while others are searching for a surrogate and donor eggs and sperm simultaneously. Each family’s unique circumstances and needs account for various emotional, financial, and time expenses. On average, intended parents may have to fund an IVF cycle and medications for a surrogate. This expense can start at $7,000 and vary based on location, medications, and procedures. Additional Expenses While surrogacy is well known to involve many medical touchpoints, it is also full of legal and relationship-based milestones. Intended parents will invest time and energy into building the relationship they envision with the surrogate of their choice. They will also have a village of experts—from doctors to lawyers—ready to ensure that the intended parents and the surrogate’s experiences are as seamless as possible. These additional fees can start at $15,000. Connecting You With the Perfect Surrogate Match While looking at the line items of a surrogacy journey may feel overwhelming, it’s important to know exactly what you’re agreeing to when you fold a surrogate into your life. Our job at Donor Concierge is to help you find the perfect surrogate within your budget who will often exceed your expectations. We know that this investment is one our clients save for and hope for endlessly. We work diligently to ensure that we get it right as soon as possible so that you can move into the rest of your surrogacy journey with ease. If you’re considering surrogacy to build your family, take time to review these important questions every intended parent should ask before beginning the search for a surrogate. When you’re ready to move forward, our team is here to help. Request a private consultation today and take the first step toward building your family through surrogacy.
- Surrogate Search Service vs Surrogate Agency: 4 Key Differences You Should Know About
Your surrogate search has probably led you down many rabbit holes. You’re learning new terminology and about new resources every chance you get. At this point in your research, you're likely wondering whether there is a big difference between a surrogate agency and a surrogate search service like Donor Concierge. The short answer is: Yes, there’s a very big difference between a surrogate agency and a surrogate search service. One of the biggest differences is rooted in the kind of experience you can have—one shifts most of the research and legwork to you, while the other takes on the job of making your surrogate search as manageable as possible. Differences Between a Surrogate Search Service & an Agency Here’s what you need to know about how a surrogate search service stands out next to a surrogate agency. 1. Your Support Team First and foremost, your surrogate search doesn’t need to be a lonely one. You don’t have to manage all of the search-related logistics while navigating the emotional ins and outs of choosing who will carry the newest member of your family. A surrogate search service, like Donor Concierge, ensures you have a dedicated and experienced case worker just for you. They are the ones who will take on the responsibility of finding the right match for you. While your case manager will work with surrogacy agencies to find you the right match, the benefit of a dedicated case manager means you have a middle person to navigate all the logistics. 2. Surrogate Options Through a surrogate search service, you’re guaranteed a more personalized surrogate search. Your case manager prioritizes your specific surrogate criteria, which means any potential surrogate options you sift through will be ones that closely match your dream list. · A surrogate agency is also usually limited to showing you surrogates that are on their own agency’s list. · A surrogate search service casts the net far and wide for you. A Donor Concierge case manager starts your search by looking through their highly vetted list of 80+ surrogacy agencies, and that alone increases your chance of finding your right match! You can learn about the questions you should ask as you and your Donor Concierge case worker search for the right surrogate in our related blog post. 3. Match Times Talking about a perfect match—Donor Concierge’s proven model as a surrogate search service has a match time of 0 to 3 months. This is a fraction of the time it could take for a family to find a surrogate match with a one-by-one surrogate agency approach. And because your surrogate search service case manager is working personally with you and your family, we can help you find a match that closely aligns with what you’re looking for in a surrogate. 4. Your Experience Finding a surrogate isn’t a decision you make lightly. You probably had thoughtful conversations with loved ones about why this path is right for you. You deserve an experience that helps you feel supported along the way. Because most surrogate agencies are smaller, there is less opportunity to ensure you feel seen, heard, and understood at every step of your surrogacy process. A surrogate search service like Donor Concierge guarantees that your experience is one you will cherish and be proud of every step of the way. Regardless of your path forward, the surrogacy process will come with its ups and downs. But remember, it doesn’t have to be harder than it already is. A surrogate search service is an opportunity to choose a more personalized, experienced, and supportive path. If you'd like to talk with us about easing your surrogate search, get in touch with us using our online form or call us at (415) 663-6097 .