Now accepting new surrogate applications in California—See if you qualify →
Surrogacy Glossary
Terms and definitions you should know
Gestational Surrogacy
A type of surrogacy where the surrogate carries an embryo created from the intended parents' or donors' genetic material. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby.
Traditional Surrogacy
A type of surrogacy where the surrogate's own egg is used, making her genetically related to the baby. This type is less common and not offered by most agencies.
Intended Parents (IPs)
The individual(s) who will become the legal parents of the child born through surrogacy.
Gestational Carrier (GC)
Another term for a gestational surrogate - a woman who carries a pregnancy for intended parents without being genetically related to the baby.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
A medical procedure where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body, creating embryos that can then be transferred to a surrogate.
Embryo Transfer
The medical procedure of placing an embryo into the surrogate's uterus to initiate pregnancy.
Pre-Birth Order
A legal document obtained before birth that establishes the intended parents as the legal parents of the child.
Parentage Order
A court order that legally establishes who the parents of a child are. Can be obtained before or after birth depending on state law.
Escrow Account
A secure account managed by a third party where intended parents deposit funds for surrogate compensation and expenses.
Matching
The process of connecting intended parents with a surrogate based on preferences, values, and compatibility.
Medical Screening
Comprehensive health evaluations including physical exams, blood tests, and psychological assessment that surrogates must complete.
Base Compensation
The primary payment a surrogate receives for carrying a pregnancy, separate from additional benefits and bonuses.
Monthly Allowance
A recurring payment to the surrogate during pregnancy for incidental expenses.
Egg Donor
A woman who provides eggs for use in IVF, either for intended parents who cannot use their own eggs or as part of a donation program.
Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE)
A doctor who specializes in fertility medicine and performs IVF procedures.
ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology)
Medical procedures used to achieve pregnancy, including IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy.
Agency Fee
The fee charged by a surrogacy agency for services including surrogate recruitment, screening, matching, and case management.
Independent Surrogacy
Surrogacy arranged directly between intended parents and a surrogate without an agency's involvement.
Have a question about a term not listed?
Contact Us