How do I get started?
Call us at 773.327.7315. We can answer your initial questions,
and set up a meeting that will last about an hour. This is strictly
informational, to acquaint you with the egg donation and/or gestational
surrogacy process.
How long might we have to wait for an egg donor?
It depends how exacting your requirements are of a donor. We
offer various programs and several ways for you to explore your
options, including our private database of egg donor candidates
and that of our sister service, www.donornetworkalliance.com.
Are egg donors pre-screened?
Absolutely. They all undergo at least 90 minutes of intense
interview time with ARR, and several hours of independent psychological
testing before meeting with your reproductive endocrinologist
to undergo medical evaluation.
How much information on egg donors is shared?
They provide photographs from birth to adulthood and photos
of their children (if any). Each completes an extensive questionnaire
sharing all pertinent health information, educational background,
physical characteristics and hobbies. This information is available
to prospective parents; we also share our personal observations
about the candidates.
What is the average wait for gestational surrogates?
Realistically, intended parents should expect a several-month
wait before being matched with their ideal candidate.
Are gestational surrogates pre-screened?
Yes. Every gestational surrogate provides obstetrical records
and an assessment from her OB/GYN to determine her medical
suitability. The surrogate and her husband or significant other
also undergo a comprehensive psychological screening conducted
by an independent board certified licensed clinical psychologist.
What are the legal concerns with egg donation and surrogacy?
With the advent of assisted reproductive technologies, many
issues have arisen, ranging from recognition of maternity and
paternity to potential liabilities to long-term implications
of the process. We provide a list of attorneys with expertise
in this area. ARR is represented by the Chicago law firm of Ballard,
Desai & Miller, one of the leading specialists in
reproductive technology law. Partner Nidhi Desai, who works
very closely with ARR, co-authored Illinois’ 2005 Gestational
Surrogacy Act, one of the most surrogacy friendly laws in the
nation.
