Medications During Your Surrogacy Journey

Starting your surrogacy journey is so exciting! Along the way, you’ll probably take a few fertility medications to help your body get ready for embryo transfer and early pregnancy. The thought of pills and shots can feel a little overwhelming at first—but don’t worry, once you get into a routine, it’s not nearly as scary as it looks on paper.

Every clinic has its own plan, so your exact meds and timing might look different from another surrogate’s. Still, here are the most common ones you may see—and a few tips to make them easier.

Birth Control Pills

Yes, you read that right—you might be on birth control before trying to get pregnant! It sounds funny, but it’s used to regulate your cycle so the clinic can time everything perfectly. This part is usually the easiest: just a simple pill once a day for a few weeks.

Tip: Try taking your pill at the same time every day, maybe when you brush your teeth at night, so it becomes second nature.

Lupron (Leuprolide)

Lupron is an injectable that helps “quiet” your natural cycle so your doctor can stay in control of the timing. It’s usually a small shot in your tummy once a day for a couple of weeks.

Tips from surrogates:

• Use an ice pack for 1–2 minutes before the shot—it helps numb the spot.

• Switch sides each day to avoid soreness.

• Reward yourself afterward with a piece of chocolate (because you deserve it!).

Progesterone

Progesterone is the MVP of surrogacy medications. It thickens and supports your uterine lining, making it a cozy home for the embryo. It’s most often given as an intramuscular injection in the hip or upper buttock. These needles look intimidating, but most surrogates say they’re not as bad as they seem once you’ve done a few. You’ll usually start before transfer and continue for several weeks after.

Tips from surrogates:

• Warm the vial in your hand or pocket before drawing up—cold oil is harder to inject.

• Have a heating pad ready afterward to relax the muscle.

• Don’t be shy about asking your partner or a friend to help—it can make the process easier and even kind of bonding.

Other Medications You Might See

Depending on your clinic, you could also be prescribed:

• Estrogen – often as pills, patches, or shots, to help thicken your lining.

• Antibiotics or steroids – sometimes added briefly to support implantation or prevent infection.

A Little Reassurance

Looking at a medication calendar for the first time can feel overwhelming—I remember thinking, “How will I ever keep this all straight?” But with time, it becomes just another part of your routine. Most surrogates find little tricks that work for them, and your clinic will be there every step of the way if you need help or encouragement.

And remember—you are doing something truly amazing. Every pill, every shot, every appointment brings you one step closer to helping someone’s dream of becoming a parent come true.

✨ Important Note: Every clinic’s protocol is different, and what works for one surrogate might not be exactly what you’ll do. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor or nurse—they’ll create the plan that’s right for your body and your journey.