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What to Expect Medically and Emotionally

Becoming a surrogate is a profound commitment, and part of that journey includes preparing your body for a pregnancy through medical protocols designed for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). While the pregnancy itself will feel similar to your own, the path to conception involves specific medications and monitoring to ensure the best chance for a healthy outcome.

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Medical Overview

Because the pregnancy is not naturally conceived, your body needs hormonal support to prepare the uterine lining and maintain an environment where an embryo can implant and grow. Your exact protocol will be determined by your fertility clinic, but most surrogates can expect:

 

  • Estrogen – Taken orally or through other methods, estrogen helps build and thicken the uterine lining.

 

  • Progesterone – Usually administered vaginally or by injection, progesterone prepares the uterus to support the embryo.

 

  • Lupron (in some protocols) – An injectable that temporarily pauses your natural cycle so it can be synchronized with the embryo transfer.

 

Medications are typically started in the weeks leading up to embryo transfer and continue until about 8–9 weeks of pregnancy, when your body naturally produces the necessary hormones. During this time, you’ll have regular blood work and ultrasounds to confirm your body’s response.​

Physical Side Effects

Physical Side Effects
Most surrogates experience minimal side effects. You may notice mild bloating, cramping, or breast tenderness. If injections are part of your protocol, some temporary soreness at the injection site is normal.

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Emotional Considerations
Hormonal changes can bring mood fluctuations similar to premenstrual symptoms—this is a natural part of the process. It’s also normal to feel a mix of anticipation, responsibility, and emotional connection to the journey. At Giving Tree Surrogacy, we provide ongoing emotional support, connecting you with resources, counseling, and a community of experienced surrogates who understand what you’re experiencing.

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Injections and Self-Administration
Depending on your protocol, you may need to self-administer injections or have a partner or friend assist you. While this can feel intimidating at first, most surrogates find the process to become routine—and they are proud of the role they play in helping a family grow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why should I choose Giving Tree over other agencies or going independent?
    Giving Tree Surrogacy provides expert guidance, compassionate support, and comprehensive care for both intended parents and surrogates. With offices across the U.S., our experienced team simplifies the complex process—including legal, medical, and matching tasks—so everyone can focus on the journey and its meaningful moments. Both parents and surrogates consistently highlight our personalized attention, realistic guidance, and dedication, which make the experience smoother, safer, and deeply rewarding. For more stories from our community, [click here].
  • Is GTS a LGBTQIA+ friendly surrogacy agency?
    We’re not only friendly, we celebrate the community. Our staff is comprised of experienced Intended Parents, surrogates, egg donors, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. We honor everyone for their unique path and expression. For more information on how we support LGBTQIA+, click here.
  • How much do surrogates earn?
    Giving Tree Surrogacy offers one of the most generous base compensation and benefits packages for surrogates, starting at $92,000 for first-time surrogates and up to $115,000 for experienced surrogates. We also offer a generous friend referral bonus, making our program both rewarding and supportive. Every package is designed to honor the time, care, and dedication surrogates give, ensuring they feel valued, supported, and rewarded throughout their unique journey. For more information, [click here].
  • How long is the egg donation process?
    The egg donation process typically takes about 2 to 3 months from the initial application to the actual egg retrieval. Here's a general timeline: 1. Application & Screening (2-6 weeks) Complete an online application. Undergo medical, genetic, and psychological screenings. Match with Intended Parents. 2. Medication & Monitoring (2-4 weeks) Start birth control to synchronize cycles. Begin hormone injections to stimulate egg production. Attend monitoring appointments (bloodwork & ultrasounds). 3. Egg Retrieval (1 day, with recovery) Undergo a minor outpatient procedure under sedation. Recovery usually takes a day or two. After retrieval, many donors resume normal activities within 24-48 hours. However, some experience mild bloating or discomfort for a few days.
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