Once a connection is made with your Intended Parents, the next step will be your Screening appointment with a Reproductive Clinic. Here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect during the screening process.
Medical Questionnaire
First you will be asked to complete a Medical Questionnaire and bring it with you the day of your screening. It will be reviewed by one of the Registered Nurses at the clinic during your appointment. This questionnaire will cover general information such as:
– Pregnancy history
– Complete medical profile
– Medical history of your immediate family
– Personal profile of expectations, general thoughts, and preferences for surrogacy
Physical Examination
The Nurse will also complete a Physical Examination to determine general overall health. Examples include:
– Checking vital signs
– Physical examination for potential conditions
Laboratory Tests
They will also take a Blood and Cervical Culture Samples. They send these samples to a Laboratory Technician to run tests for things such as HIV, hepatitis A, B & C, VDRL, CMV, rubella immunity, various hormones, etc.
Sonohysterogram
A Sonohysterogram will also be performed. This is an ultrasound using a saline solution injection to make images of the uterine cavity, cervix, fallopian tubes and ovaries. You may want to take Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen 30 minutes prior to your Sonohysterogram as it may cause period like cramping. Light spotting may also occur for some.
Personal Interview
Lastly, a Personal Interview will be arranged with a social worker or psychologist. This is done to make sure you understand the emotional aspect of surrogacy, have a support system in place, and that you and your Intended Parents are on the same page when it comes to expectations.
After completion of these tests, you will meet with the Doctor to discuss your protocol and general time frame for cycle syncing with your Intended Mother or Egg Donor.