Vita Altera IVF Center
The Surrogacy Process in Cyprus
Surrogacy is a specialized assisted reproduction program considered for women for whom carrying a pregnancy is medically not possible, or for whom pregnancy poses a serious health risk. At the Vita Altera IVF Center, the surrogacy process in Cyprus is conducted based on the intended mother’s medical condition, the genetic origin of the embryo, the gestational carrier candidate’s suitability for pregnancy, official permissions, and a personalized IVF plan.
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy involves the transfer of an embryo created via IVF into the uterus of another woman who will carry the pregnancy.
The woman carrying the pregnancy is referred to as the surrogate or gestational carrier, while the individual(s) planning to have the child are referred to as the intended parent(s).In a surrogacy program, eggs can be obtained from the intended mother or from an egg donor suitable for the medical program. Sperm can be provided by the intended father or, when necessary, from an appropriate donor program.After the embryo is created in the laboratory, the surrogate’s uterus is prepared for pregnancy. On the transfer day, the suitable embryo is placed into the surrogate’s uterus using a thin catheter.Surrogacy is not a standalone pregnancy treatment. It is part of an IVF program that includes egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo development, and embryo transfer.Does the surrogate pass on genetic traits to the embryo?In a gestational surrogacy program where the surrogate’s own eggs are not used, the embryo’s DNA comes from the egg and sperm sources. The surrogate carries the pregnancy in her uterus but does not contribute genetically to the embryo via an egg.
What is Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a surrogacy model where the surrogate only carries the pregnancy, and her own eggs are not used to create the embryo.
The embryo can be created using the intended parents’ own reproductive cells, or, depending on medical necessity and applicable regulations, donor eggs or donor sperm may also be used.In traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s own egg is used, the surrogate is also the genetic mother. This method differs from gestational surrogacy in terms of medical, psychological, and legal aspects.Gestational Surrogacy
- The surrogate’s eggs are not used.
- The embryo is created via IVF or ICSI.
- The surrogate undertakes the pregnancy and birth.
- The genetic link is determined by the egg and sperm sources.
- Uterine preparation is done before embryo transfer.
Traditional Surrogacy
- The surrogate’s own eggs are used.
- The surrogate has a genetic link to the child.
- The legal and psychological process can be more complex.
- It should be evaluated differently from gestational surrogacy.
- May not be practiced in every center or under every jurisdiction.
Which method is described on this page?This content primarily explains the gestational surrogacy process, where the surrogate’s own eggs are not used, and the embryo transfer to the surrogate.
Is Surrogacy Legal in Cyprus?
In the TRNC, surrogacy is not a freely available procedure applicable to every applicant. The treatment must meet the medical and administrative conditions specified in the current regulations.
The surrogacy application is prepared through an authorized assisted reproductive treatment center. The medical justification for the intended mother and the health and identity documents of the surrogate candidate are submitted for evaluation.If the conditions stipulated in the legislation are met, the procedure can be carried out following the evaluation by the Ethics Committee and the authorization of the Competent Authority.The acceptance of the application only signifies medical and administrative permission for the embryo transfer. Procedures related to birth registration, lineage, citizenship, passport, and taking the child to another country may be influenced by the laws of the country of which the families are citizens.Independent legal counsel must be sought before starting treatmentEspecially in programs involving citizens of different countries, the country of birth, the child’s civil registry, citizenship, travel documents, and the legal status of the intended parents should be evaluated with an independent legal expert before treatment.
Why is the Official Approval Process Necessary?
Surrogacy is a process with medical, ethical, and legal implications for the intended mother, the surrogate, the intended parents, and the child to be born.
01
Verification of Medical Necessity
The reason the intended mother cannot carry the pregnancy is documented through specialist evaluations and health reports.02
Protection of the Surrogate
The surrogate candidate’s health status regarding pregnancy, psychological readiness, and the voluntariness of her decision are evaluated.03
Traceable and Safe Process
Reproductive cells, embryos, consents, and treatment records are monitored under security and traceability procedures.Who is Surrogacy Suitable For?
Surrogacy may be considered in documented cases where pregnancy is not possible for the intended mother to carry, or where it poses a serious health risk.
- Women born without a uterus.
- Women whose uterus has been surgically removed.
- Women whose uterus is damaged to an extent that it cannot carry a pregnancy.
- Women with severe intrauterine adhesions that cannot be corrected.
- Women with severe congenital structural abnormalities of the uterus.
- Women with serious heart disease where pregnancy could pose a life-threatening risk.
- Women with serious kidney disease where pregnancy is not safe.
- Women who experienced life-threatening serious complications in previous pregnancies.
- Women for whom carrying a pregnancy is medically unsuitable due to cancer or another disease.
- Other medical conditions deemed appropriate by specialist physicians and official evaluation boards.
Is recurrent unsuccessful IVF attempt sufficient reason alone?Not every failed embryo transfer means the uterus cannot carry a pregnancy. A decision for surrogacy should not be made without investigating embryo characteristics, uterine structure, the endometrial lining, transfer timing, and other possible causes.
Who May Surrogacy Be Unsuitable For?
Requesting surrogacy does not automatically mean the treatment can be applied. Medical justification and official eligibility must be present.
- Individuals without a documented medical condition preventing them from carrying a pregnancy.
- Individuals applying solely because they do not wish to experience pregnancy and childbirth.
- Cases where the application does not meet the conditions of the current legislation.
- If the surrogate candidate has a high risk for pregnancy.
- If there is suspicion of pressure or coercion on the surrogate candidate’s decision.
- If psychological evaluation determines that the individual is not ready for the process.
- If the parties have serious disagreements regarding legal and medical responsibilities.
- If the required health and identity documents cannot be provided.
- If the surrogate candidate does not give informed consent.
- Applications deemed unsuitable by the Ethics Committee or the Competent Authority.
Who Can Be a Surrogate Mother?
It is not sufficient for a surrogate candidate to merely have a uterus. She must possess the medical, psychological, and social conditions to safely carry a pregnancy.
The current official regulations specify an age range of 21–40 for surrogate candidates. Final suitability is determined not only by age but also by a detailed health assessment and official approval.- Meets the specified age and regulatory conditions.
- Provides complete identity and health information.
- Uterine structure is suitable for pregnancy.
- No history of serious pregnancy or childbirth complications.
- No uncontrolled chronic illness.
- Infectious disease screenings yield appropriate results.
- No smoking, alcohol, or substance abuse.
- Evaluation of medication use that could affect pregnancy.
- Psychological and psychiatric evaluations are favorable.
- Makes the decision freely, without pressure.
- Able to adhere to treatment, pregnancy, and delivery follow-ups.
- Provides any additional required information and documents.
Why is having given birth before important?Having previously experienced an uncomplicated pregnancy and birth can provide information about the candidate’s physical and psychological experience with pregnancy. However, a previous healthy delivery does not guarantee that a new pregnancy will be entirely risk-free.
How is a Surrogate Candidate Evaluated?
Gynecological Examination
The uterus, endometrium, ovaries, and gynecological conditions that may affect pregnancy are evaluated via ultrasound and necessary examinations.Pregnancy History
Previous pregnancies, delivery methods, miscarriages, preterm births, gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preeclampsia history are reviewed.General Health Screening
Heart, kidney, liver, thyroid, and metabolic health status, as well as medications used, are evaluated.Psychological Evaluation
The candidate’s level of understanding of the process, motivation, boundaries, family support, and readiness for the postpartum period are assessed.Infectious Disease Tests
Required screenings are performed according to current protocols for the safety of the surrogate, the embryo, and the pregnancy.Independent Consent
The surrogate candidate must understand the potential risks of the procedure, medications, pregnancy, and birth, and make a decision freely.How is the Genetic Link Determined in Surrogacy?
The genetic link of the child is determined not by the person carrying the pregnancy, but by the egg and sperm cells used to create the embryo.
Embryo of the Intended Parents
The egg is taken from the intended mother, and the sperm from the intended father. The child has a genetic link to both intended parents.Use of Donor Eggs
The genetic characteristics of the embryo coming from the egg belong to the egg donor, and those from the sperm belong to the sperm provider.Use of Donor Sperm
The genetic characteristics of the embryo coming from the sperm belong to the sperm donor, and those from the egg belong to the egg provider.Embryo Donation
If embryo donation is used, there may be no genetic link via egg or sperm to the intended parents.Genetic link and legal parenthood are not the same conceptDNA connection, birth registration, and legal parenthood are separate matters. The official registration and citizenship procedures for the child to be born must be evaluated separately according to the legislation of the relevant countries.
What Tests are Performed Before Surrogacy?
Tests are planned to evaluate the intended mother’s medical justification, the reproductive cells that will form the embryo, and the surrogate’s suitability for pregnancy.
For the Intended Parents
- Specialist reports showing the intended mother cannot carry a pregnancy.
- Gynecological examination and ovarian reserve assessment.
- AMH and required hormone tests.
- Semen analysis.
- Infectious disease screenings.
- Genetic tests, if necessary.
- Previous IVF and embryology reports.
- Evaluation of current medications and chronic diseases.
For the Surrogate Candidate
- Gynecological examination and ultrasound.
- Assessment of the uterine cavity and endometrium.
- Review of pregnancy and birth history.
- Complete blood count and required biochemistry tests.
- Thyroid and blood sugar evaluation.
- Infectious disease screenings.
- Cervical screenings and required cultures.
- Psychiatric or psychological evaluation.
- Cardiology or internal medicine consultations as needed.
Are the same tests performed for every application?No. In addition to basic checks, additional examinations may be requested based on the intended mother’s specific condition, the surrogate’s age, pregnancy history, the genetic source of the embryo, and the requirements of the official board.
Why is Psychological Evaluation Important?
Surrogacy is not merely a medical procedure. Pregnancy, childbirth, communication between the parties, and the postpartum period require psychological preparation.
Free Will
It is assessed whether the surrogate candidate made the decision without being under financial, familial, or social pressure.Boundaries During Pregnancy
Expectations regarding examinations, frequency of communication, privacy, and medical decisions that may be made during pregnancy are discussed.Postpartum Period
Delivery, the meeting of the baby with the intended parents, and the surrogate’s physical and emotional recovery process are evaluated.Family Readiness
Support is provided for the intended parents’ psychological preparation for uncertainties, pregnancy monitoring, and postpartum parenthood.How Does the Surrogacy Process in Cyprus Proceed?
Treatment consists of sequential stages, from documenting medical suitability to official approval, from embryo creation to transfer to the surrogate and pregnancy monitoring.
1
Initial Medical Consultation
Evaluation of why the intended mother cannot carry a pregnancy, her previous surgeries, illnesses, and IVF history.2
Review of Available Documents
Examination of specialist reports, ultrasounds, surgical records, hormone tests, and previous embryology results.3
Determining the Embryo Source
Deciding from whom the egg and sperm cells will be obtained, based on medical conditions, genetic link, and applicable rules.4
Evaluation of the Surrogate Candidate
Completion of the candidate’s gynecological exam, pregnancy history, general health tests, and psychological evaluations.5
Legal Consultation
Evaluation of the rights of the parties, medical decisions, birth registration, citizenship, and cross-border procedures with independent legal experts.6
Official Application
Preparation of medical reports, identification details, evaluations, and required consent forms for submission to competent authorities.7
Ethical and Administrative Approval
Evaluation of the application by the Ethics Committee and the Competent Authority in accordance with current legislation.8
Ovarian Stimulation
If the intended mother’s own eggs are to be used, individualized hormonal medication is initiated for ovarian stimulation.9
Egg Retrieval
Developed eggs are collected under brief anesthesia or sedation using ultrasound guidance.10
Fertilization and Embryo Creation
Mature eggs are fertilized with sperm cells using conventional IVF or ICSI.11
Embryo Development Monitoring
Embryos are monitored in the laboratory for several days, and suitable ones for transfer or freezing are assessed.12
Preparation of the Surrogate’s Uterus
The endometrium is synchronized with the embryo’s developmental day using an individualized medication program containing estrogen and progesterone.13
Embryo Transfer
The suitable embryo is placed into the surrogate’s uterus using a thin catheter under ultrasound guidance.14
Pregnancy Test
Pregnancy is assessed by measuring the blood beta hCG level on the date specified by the doctor after transfer.15
Pregnancy Monitoring
If pregnancy is achieved, regular obstetric check-ups, necessary screenings, and risk assessments are continued.16
Birth and Official Procedures
While the birth plan is prepared by the healthcare team, legal procedures related to civil registry, citizenship, and travel documents are followed by relevant experts.Are Embryos Transferred Fresh or Frozen?
Either fresh or frozen embryo transfer can be applied to the surrogate. The appropriate method depends on the embryo’s readiness time, the official approval process, and the surrogate’s uterine preparation.
Fresh Embryo Transfer
- Planned within the same cycle as egg retrieval.
- Treatments of the intended mother and surrogate are coordinated.
- Requires timely suitability of uterine and hormone results.
- Requires more precise planning regarding approval and treatment schedule.
Frozen Embryo Transfer
- Embryos can be created beforehand and stored via vitrification.
- The surrogate’s uterus can be prepared in a separate cycle.
- Allows time for completion of official and medical evaluations.
- Embryos are thawed and assessed for viability before transfer.
How Many Embryos are Transferred to the Surrogate?
The number of embryos to be transferred is determined based on the goal of a healthy singleton pregnancy, embryo characteristics, the surrogate’s age, pregnancy history, and current regulations.
Transferring more than one embryo may increase the likelihood of twins or higher-order multiple pregnancies. Multiple pregnancies are associated with risks such as preterm birth, low birth weight, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes.When suitable embryos are available, single embryo transfer is a primary approach aimed at reducing health risks for both the surrogate and the baby to be born.Two embryos do not guarantee higher successTransferring more than one embryo does not necessarily double the chance of pregnancy in every case, but it can significantly increase the risk of multiple pregnancy. The decision should be made based on individual medical evaluation.
Can PGT be Applied in Surrogacy?
If there is a medical necessity, the application of PGT-A, PGT-M, or PGT-SR to embryos before transfer may be considered.
PGT-A is applied to detect chromosomal number abnormalities in embryos, PGT-M to identify known single-gene disorders in the family, and PGT-SR to investigate imbalances related to chromosomal structural rearrangements.After embryo biopsy, embryos are frozen until genetic results are complete. An embryo with suitable results for transfer can be used after preparing the surrogate’s uterus.PGT does not guarantee pregnancy or a healthy birthPGT only provides information about specific genetic or chromosomal characteristics within the scope of the test applied. It does not guarantee embryo implantation, continuation of pregnancy, or all health characteristics.
Who Makes Medical Decisions During Pregnancy?
The surrogate is the owner of decisions regarding her own body and medical treatments, from embryo transfer until the completion of birth and postpartum care.
Intended parents can be involved in the pregnancy process, but this does not override the surrogate’s right to consent to or refuse medical interventions.The legal and ethical framework for issues such as pregnancy monitoring, screening tests, amniocentesis, continuation of pregnancy, mode of delivery, and emergency medical interventions should be discussed in detail before treatment.A contract does not replace medical consentLegal agreements between the parties may define expectations in the process, but they do not replace the surrogate’s current and free medical consent.
What Issues Should Be Addressed in the Legal Process?
The surrogacy agreement should cover not only fees or the pregnancy schedule but also various potential medical and legal scenarios the parties might face.
- Identities of the parties and the right to independent legal representation.
- Informed consent processes for medical procedures.
- Surrogate’s bodily autonomy and right to medical decision-making.
- Pregnancy check-ups and healthcare costs.
- Potential need for rest and care during pregnancy.
- Multiple pregnancy or pregnancy complications.
- Genetic and prenatal tests.
- Possibility of miscarriage, preterm birth, or neonatal intensive care.
- Mode of delivery and hospital planning.
- Postpartum health and psychological support.
- Birth registration of the baby and legal parenthood procedures.
- Citizenship, passport, and cross-border travel procedures.
- Extraordinary circumstances such as the death or change of mind of a party.
- Confidentiality, communication, and future relationship boundaries.
Pregnancy Risks in Surrogacy
Even if the surrogate is healthy and has had previous uncomplicated births, every pregnancy carries certain medical risks.
Failure to Achieve Pregnancy
The transferred embryo may not implant in the uterus, resulting in a negative pregnancy test.Pregnancy Loss
Even with a positive pregnancy test, miscarriage may occur due to embryo or pregnancy-related factors.Ectopic Pregnancy
Rarely, despite transfer into the uterus, the embryo may implant outside the uterus.Multiple Pregnancy
Transferring more than one embryo can increase the risk of twins or higher-order multiples.Gestational Hypertension
Conditions like high blood pressure and preeclampsia that can affect the mother and baby may develop during pregnancy.Gestational Diabetes
Diabetes may develop due to pregnancy hormones, potentially requiring dietary changes, medication, or insulin therapy.Preterm Birth
Pregnancy may be completed earlier than expected, and the baby may need neonatal intensive care support.Cesarean and Delivery Risks
Depending on the delivery method, bleeding, infection, anesthesia-related, and surgical complications may occur.The surrogate’s health is the priorityIn the event of a medical condition arising during pregnancy, the surrogate’s life, health, and free medical decision-making are the primary priorities.
Factors Affecting Success in Surrogacy
There is no single success rate applicable to everyone in surrogacy. The outcome depends on embryo characteristics, uterine preparation, and the pregnancy process.
Age at Egg Retrieval
The age at which the eggs were collected is an important factor regarding the chromosomal characteristics of the embryo.Egg and Sperm Characteristics
The maturity, count, and biological features of the reproductive cells can affect fertilization and embryo development.Embryo Development
The embryo’s development day, blastocyst structure, and laboratory assessments are considered in the transfer plan.Surrogate’s Uterus
The structure of the uterine cavity and the appropriate development of the endometrium for embryo transfer are necessary.Hormonal Timing
Synchronization between progesterone use and the embryo’s developmental day is important.Transfer Technique
Placing the embryo gently and in the appropriate location within the uterus is a crucial part of the treatment process.General Health
Control of the surrogate’s weight, blood pressure, thyroid, blood sugar, and chronic diseases is important.Single Embryo Transfer
In suitable patients, single embryo transfer helps reduce the risk of multiple pregnancy.Pregnancy Follow-up
Regular obstetric check-ups and timely necessary screenings support the health of the mother and baby.Surrogacy is not a guarantee of successHaving a healthy surrogate candidate and a well-developing embryo does not definitively ensure pregnancy or live birth. Each treatment stage is influenced by individual biological factors.
How Long Does the Surrogacy Process Take?
The total duration varies depending on the preparation of medical reports, evaluation of the surrogate candidate, official approvals, the embryo creation program, and the transfer outcome.
Preliminary evaluation, health tests, psychological consultations, legal preparations, and official applications can take several weeks or longer.Ovarian stimulation with medication usually lasts about 8–12 days. After egg retrieval, embryos are monitored in the laboratory for a few days.If a frozen embryo transfer is planned, the surrogate’s uterine preparation can often be completed within one menstrual cycle.If the first embryo transfer does not result in pregnancy, a new transfer cycle may be necessary. Therefore, a definitive end date or pregnancy guarantee cannot be given for the overall program.Cyprus Surrogacy Costs
Cyprus surrogacy costs do not consist solely of the embryo transfer fee. There are many separate stages including medical evaluation, IVF, medications, official application, and pregnancy monitoring.
Whether each patient will use their own eggs, whether they have existing embryos, and what evaluations the surrogate candidate will need vary.Primary factors that may affect the total cost include:- Initial doctor evaluations and specialist reports.
- Health tests for the surrogate candidate.
- Psychological or psychiatric evaluations.
- Legal consultation and document preparation.
- Official application and approval procedures.
- Ovarian stimulation medications for the intended mother.
- Egg retrieval procedure and anesthesia.
- Sperm preparation and ICSI.
- Embryo culture and development monitoring.
- Embryo freezing and storage.
- Potential PGT applications.
- Uterine preparation medications for the surrogate.
- Embryo thawing and transfer procedure.
- Pregnancy tests and obstetric check-ups.
- Additional specialist evaluations that may be needed during pregnancy.
- Delivery, hospital, and neonatal expenses.
- Travel, accommodation, and cross-border document procedures.
Fixed packages and definitive starting prices can be misleadingWhen evaluating surrogacy costs, it should be checked separately whether IVF, medications, official procedures, pregnancy monitoring, delivery, neonatal care, and legal services are included in the stated price.
Personalized treatment scope and current price information are shared after reviewing the intended mother’s medical reports and the surrogate candidate’s evaluations.Confidentiality, Safety, and Ethical Approach
Information pertaining to the intended parents, the surrogate, egg and sperm sources, and embryos must be protected in accordance with privacy and traceability rules during the surrogacy process.
The surrogate’s health status and pregnancy information should only be shared within the scope of valid consent and medical necessity.It is important that the surrogate candidate does not make a decision under economic, social, or familial pressure, and has independent access to counseling and healthcare services.Intended parents and the surrogate should ideally seek counsel from separate legal experts, and it should not be assumed that someone representing one party represents the other.The surrogate is not a treatment tool, but an independent patientThe surrogate’s health, privacy, free will, and right to medical decision-making must be protected throughout the treatment. The expectations of the intended parents cannot override these rights.
Why Choose Vita Altera IVF Center?
At Vita Altera, surrogacy is handled not just as a transfer procedure, but as a multi-stage process encompassing medical suitability, official evaluation, embryo creation, surrogate preparation, and pregnancy follow-up.
- Personalized surrogacy pre-evaluation.
- Detailed review of the intended mother’s medical reports.
- Comprehensive health evaluation of the surrogate candidate.
- Coordination of official applications and medical documentation.
- Experienced obstetricians and gynecologists.
- Experienced embryology and laboratory team.
- Personalized IVF and ICSI planning.
- Medical evaluation of donation options.
- EmbryoScope+ for embryo development monitoring.
- Chip ID specimen matching and security system.
- Modern embryo vitrification methods.
- Tailored uterine preparation program for the surrogate.
- Ultrasound-guided embryo transfer.
- Personalized evaluation of single embryo transfer.
- Online preliminary medical consultation opportunity.
- Personal patient coordinator support.
- Multilingual patient counseling.
- Regular follow-up before and after treatment.
The clinic cannot guarantee legal outcomes or pregnancyThe medical center carries out the processes of embryo creation, storage, transfer, and clinical follow-up. The pregnancy outcome, birth registration, citizenship, passport, and legal parenthood procedures are not guaranteed and must be evaluated by independent legal experts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy
What is surrogacy?
The transfer of an embryo created via IVF into the uterus of another woman who will carry the pregnancy.
Is surrogacy legal in Cyprus?
In the TRNC, surrogacy is applicable provided the medical conditions specified in the legislation are met, following the evaluation of the Ethics Committee and authorization of the Competent Authority. Not every application is automatically accepted.
Can a couple living in Turkey undergo surrogacy in Cyprus?
The fact that the medical procedure can be performed in the TRNC does not mean that the child’s registration in the Turkish civil registry and legal parenthood procedures will be automatically accepted. Independent legal advice on cross-border family law should be sought before treatment.
Who can benefit from surrogacy?
Women born without a uterus, those whose uterus has been surgically removed, or those for whom pregnancy poses a serious health risk may be evaluated for surrogacy following medical reports and official assessment.
Can individuals who simply do not want to give birth use a surrogate?
No. In the TRNC, the process is conditional upon medical necessity and official permission. Personal preference alone is not a sufficient justification.
Can a woman without a uterus use her own eggs?
Women with functioning ovaries where egg retrieval is medically possible can use their own eggs. The embryo is created in the laboratory and transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
Can surrogacy be done if the ovarian reserve is low?
Surrogacy addresses the uterine issue but does not increase ovarian reserve. The possibility of creating embryos with one’s own eggs depends on age, AMH, antral follicle count, and previous treatment outcomes.
Can surrogacy be done with donor eggs?
The use of donor eggs may be considered, provided there is medical necessity and compliance with current regulations. The genetic link is determined by the egg and sperm sources.
Is the surrogate the genetic mother of the baby?
In gestational surrogacy, since the surrogate’s eggs are not used, she has no genetic link to the child via an egg.
Does the surrogate’s blood pass to the baby?
Oxygen and nutrient exchange occurs between the surrogate and the fetus via the placenta, but their blood does not normally mix directly. The child’s DNA comes from the egg and sperm that formed the embryo.
How old should the surrogate be?
The current official regulations specify an age range of 21–40 for surrogate candidates. Besides age, general health, pregnancy history, and official eligibility are also evaluated.
Does the surrogate need to have given birth before?
A previous healthy pregnancy and birth provide important information about the candidate’s ability to carry a pregnancy. Definitive requirements and acceptance criteria are determined by current legislation and board evaluation.
Can a family member be a surrogate?
It may be possible to evaluate a relative or acquaintance as a candidate; however, the candidate’s medical and psychological suitability, free will, and legal status must be examined with the same rigor.
How is a surrogate found?
Identifying a surrogate candidate should not be considered a routine donor matching process done at a medical center. The candidate’s free will, legal status, health history, and official suitability must be independently reviewed.
Does the clinic guarantee finding a surrogate?
No. The clinic can only manage the medical process and required evaluations for candidates deemed suitable in terms of health and treatment conditions. Finding a candidate, obtaining official approval, or achieving a pregnancy cannot be guaranteed.
What tests are performed on the surrogate candidate?
Gynecological examination, uterine assessment, general blood tests, infectious disease screenings, pregnancy history review, and psychological evaluations are performed. Additional tests may be requested based on individual health status.
Is embryo transfer to the surrogate painful?
Embryo transfer is usually a brief procedure that does not require anesthesia. Mild pressure or brief discomfort may be felt during the passage of the catheter.
How many embryos are transferred to the surrogate?
The number of embryos is determined based on the surrogate’s health, embryo characteristics, and current regulations. In suitable patients, single embryo transfer is evaluated to achieve a healthy singleton pregnancy.
Can twin pregnancy occur in surrogacy?
Yes. Transferring more than one embryo increases the risk of a twin pregnancy. A single embryo can also rarely split spontaneously, leading to identical twins.
Is PGT performed in surrogacy?
PGT-A, PGT-M, or PGT-SR may be considered if there is a medical necessity. PGT does not show all diseases and does not guarantee pregnancy.
Can the surrogate change her mind during pregnancy?
The surrogate retains her consent and decision-making rights regarding her own medical care throughout the pregnancy. Legal parenthood and postpartum processes are separately evaluated according to the law of the relevant country and the pre-prepared documents.
Can the surrogate decide on the mode of delivery?
The mode of delivery is determined based on medical necessity and the surrogate’s informed consent. The intended parents cannot unilaterally decide on a cesarean or vaginal delivery.
Is a surrogacy contract sufficient?
No. Besides the contract, medical suitability, necessary official permits, independent legal advice, and the surrogate’s current consent for each procedure are required.
Whose name appears on the baby’s birth certificate?
Birth registration and parenthood procedures may vary depending on the place of birth, the nationality of the parties, and the relevant legal rules. This issue must be clarified with legal experts before treatment.
How is the baby’s citizenship determined?
Citizenship depends on the nationality of the intended parents, the place of birth, and the laws of the relevant countries. The clinic cannot guarantee the outcome of citizenship or passport applications.
What happens if the first embryo transfer fails?
Uterine preparation, transfer technique, and embryo development are evaluated. If suitable frozen embryos are available, a new transfer cycle can be planned.
Does surrogacy guarantee pregnancy?
No. Embryo formation, development, uterine implantation, and the pregnancy resulting in a live birth cannot be guaranteed.
How long does surrogacy take?
Due to medical evaluations, official approvals, IVF, and the transfer program, the duration varies from person to person. If pregnancy occurs, regular monitoring is required until birth.
Can the first consultation be done online?
Yes. The intended mother’s surgical, gynecological, cardiology, nephrology, or other specialist reports, as well as previous IVF results, can be shared before the online preliminary consultation.
Which documents should be sent before coming to Cyprus?
Specialist reports showing the intended mother cannot carry a pregnancy, surgical records, hormone tests, ultrasound results, previous embryology reports, and information on any frozen embryos should be shared.
How can I learn about Cyprus surrogacy costs?
The cost varies according to the need for IVF, medications, embryo source, official applications, surrogate evaluations, number of transfers, pregnancy monitoring, and legal procedures. A personalized scope is created after reviewing the medical file.
