10 Common Questions Intended Parents Have about Surrogacy in Oklahoma
The beginning of your Oklahoma surrogacy process as intended parents is so exciting with all the possibilities that lie before you. While uncertainties often accompany possibilities, they don’t have to hinder the joy you have as you look forward to becoming parents. The sooner you can address these uncertainties, the more confident you will be in your decision to move forward with surrogacy. Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma is eager to address any questions or concerns you may have, which is why we put together this list of common questions intended parents have about surrogacy in Oklahoma.
- How Long Does the Surrogacy Process Take in Oklahoma?
No two surrogacy journeys are the same, so there is no set length of time that it takes to go through the surrogacy process. Several steps must take place before the surrogate becomes pregnant, and each of these steps can take up to a few months, even if all goes well. On the low end of the spectrum, it may take only 18 months to complete the entire surrogacy process. In other cases, it can take a couple of years.
- How Does Surrogacy in Oklahoma Work?
For intended parents, the surrogacy process leading up to pregnancy can be roughly divided into four stages: the screening stage, the matching stage, the finalization stage, and the IVF stage.
- The screening stage includes a background check, a health examination, and a psychological evaluation. Intended parents must pass all screening criteria before proceeding any further.
- In the matching stage, intended parents and prospective surrogates report their preferences during an interview with Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma. They are matched with each other if their preferences align.
- The finalization stage entails the intended parents’ attorney drafting the surrogacy contract for both the intended parents and the surrogate to sign. The intended parents and surrogate have the right to amend this contract as necessary before signing the final version.
- During the IVF stage, the intended father will provide his sperm, and the intended mother will provide her eggs for fertilization in a lab. The intended mother may have to undergo some fertility treatments to produce enough eggs for collection. In the event that the intended father or mother can’t provide sperm or eggs, or if the intended parents are LGBTQ+, they will need to rely on a sperm or egg donor to make the embryo.
- How Expensive is Surrogacy in Oklahoma?
Becoming parents through gestational surrogacy can easily cost over $100,000 and even above $200,000 in some cases. While this can seem daunting, know that there are resources available to you to help you afford surrogacy. Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma will work closely with you to come up with a plan to finance any medical, legal, professional, and other expenses you will encounter along the way.
- What if We Already Chose a Surrogate before the Matching Process?
If you already have someone in mind to be your surrogate before the matching process begins, you are more than welcome to select her as long as she meets all the surrogate requirements.
- Are There Any Surrogate Mother Requirements in Oklahoma?
Women who have applied to become surrogates in Oklahoma must meet the following requirements:
- Must be living in the U.S. as a citizen
- Must be 21-39
- Must have a BMI of 18-31
- Must have had no blood transfusions, tattoos, or piercings in the last 12 months
- Must have no history of psychological issues, including Postpartum Depression
- Must not use illicit drugs or tobacco
- Must not abuse alcohol or prescription drugs
- Must not be taking medications that could cause issues during pregnancy
- Must have carried at least one healthy pregnancy to term and delivered with no issues
- Must currently be raising at least one child
- Must have lived in a smoke-free environment for at least 12 months
- Must not be receiving any public assistance
- Must be STD-free
- Must undergo a background check, psychological evaluation, and physical examination
- Does the Surrogacy Agency Set Requirements for Intended Parents?
Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma requires intended parents to meet the following criteria:
- Must undergo a background check and psychological evaluation
- Must be financially stable
- Must have reliable and safe housing
- (For couples) Both partners must be on board with surrogacy
- Must meet all paperwork deadlines
- Must be properly informed of what gestational surrogacy entails
- Must not have a criminal record
- Must respect the surrogate’s boundaries and not take advantage of her
- Must cooperate with Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma throughout the process
- Will We Have a Chance to Get to Know the Surrogate Mother?
Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma encourages you to get to know the surrogate mother and will facilitate any communication or meetings between you as necessary. Many surrogates develop bonds with the intended parents that last for many years.
- Can the Surrogate Mother Carry Multiple Embryos?
It is possible to transfer multiple embryos to the surrogate’s uterus. Both the surrogate and intended parents should clarify within the surrogacy contract whether they are willing to proceed with multiple pregnancies at a time.
- What If the Surrogate Changes Her Mind or Wants to Keep the Baby?
Until she signs the surrogacy contract, the surrogate has the right to change her mind about committing to surrogacy. Because she is a gestational surrogate, as opposed to a traditional surrogate, she understands that she has no parental rights to the baby at any point during or after the surrogacy process.
- How Can Surrogacy in Oklahoma Impact a Surrogate Mother’s Physical and Mental Health?
During the surrogate’s screening process, she must pass a series of rigorous physical and psychological evaluations to minimize the chances of her encountering any physical or mental health complications along the way. While many surrogates report that their surrogacy experience is highly rewarding, the process isn’t entirely risk-free. For example, a surrogate may develop gestational diabetes or another pregnancy-related condition despite not having such issues during prior pregnancies. She may also experience mood changes due to fluctuating hormones or feel a sense of emptiness after the delivery since she will not bring the baby home with her. There is also a small chance that she develops a serious psychological condition called Postpartum Depression which requires urgent attention.
Are You Ready to Begin the Surrogacy Process as Intended Parents in Oklahoma?
Getting all your surrogacy questions answered before starting your journey as intended parents is so important in making an informed decision. Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma is well equipped to provide you with all the answers you need at every stage in the surrogacy process. When you are ready to begin the application process, reach out to us today to get one step closer to becoming the parents you were meant to be!
Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Oklahoma is a surrogacy and adoption agency, licensed by the state of Oklahoma and leader in the community. We assist both intended parents and gestational carriers (surrogates). Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized experience to all involved in the surrogacy process.
Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-310-8790 | Email
Meet the Author: Mary DeStefano is an Ohio native currently living in northern Virginia and works in the litigation consulting industry, where she has experience in antitrust, product liability, and mass torts matters. She holds a B.A. in Economics (‘15) and an M.A. in Applied Economics (‘16) from the University of Cincinnati.
Mary finds great meaning in wielding the written word to develop impactful narratives and to help people stay informed. In her spare time, Mary can be found beachcombing and going on other adventures with her dog along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. She also has an affinity for antiquing and loves a good 80’s movie marathon.
