IVF Basics: How Embryos Are Created for Surrogacy

If you’re starting your surrogacy journey, you’ve probably heard that IVF (in vitro fertilization) is how embryos are created before transfer. But what actually happens in the lab? Here’s a simple breakdown of how science and love come together to make it all possible. 💕

Step 1: Collecting the Eggs

The process begins with the intended mother or an egg donor. She takes fertility medications to produce multiple eggs. Once they’re mature, a fertility doctor retrieves them in a short outpatient procedure.

Step 2: Collecting the Sperm

At the same time, the intended father or sperm donor provides a sample. The lab “washes” the sperm so only the healthiest ones are used for fertilization.

Step 3: Fertilization in the Lab

In the embryology lab, eggs and sperm are combined in a small dish so fertilization can happen naturally—or through ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), where one sperm is placed directly into each egg to boost success rates.

Step 4: Watching Embryos Grow

Fertilized eggs are now embryos! Embryologists watch them grow for about five to six days until they reach the blastocyst stage. At this point, the strongest embryos are chosen for transfer or freezing.

Step 5: Genetic Testing & Freezing

Many intended parents choose PGT (Preimplantation Genetic Testing) to check embryos for chromosomal health before transfer. Healthy embryos are then safely frozen using vitrification until the surrogate’s body is ready.

Step 6: Embryo Transfer

When the surrogate’s uterine lining is prepared, one embryo is gently transferred into her uterus. It’s a quick, painless procedure—and from there, nature takes over.

The Heart of IVF and Surrogacy

The IVF process is an incredible mix of science, teamwork, and hope. From the lab to the transfer room, every step brings intended parents one step closer to their dream—and you, the surrogate, make that dream possible. 💖