If you have already started down the path of working with a  surrogate  to begin or add to your family, or if you are considering it, you likely have questions about how COVID-19 may impact your plans. A recent video on the Gays with Kids website included Q&A with assisted reproduction experts who weighed in on COVID-19’s impact on surrogacy – at least to date.

The top questions and answers included in that review are summarized below:

Q: Has COVID-19 impacted surrogacy timelines?

A: Generally speaking, IVF and other assisted reproduction treatments were on hold until recently, although during that time clinics were generally still open for things like sperm donation. As IVF has re-opened, clinics are restarting treatments and procedures.

Q: Has COVID-19 impacted surrogacy costs?

A: There have not been increases in costs, aside from people already in the process who may have been obligated to pay for a surrogate’s insurance or other ongoing expenses. There are actually some signs that costs are decreasing, as some agencies and clinics offer discounts, payment delays, and other incentives.

Q: Has there been a marked decrease in the number of available surrogates or egg donors due to COVID-19?

A: There has been a slight decrease in the number of available surrogates and egg donors, but overall, numbers have been pretty close to normal. Of course, there is still a lot of uncertainty nationwide (and worldwide) about COVID-19. It is possible we will see an increase or decrease in the coming months.

Q: What measures are in place to ensure the safety of both surrogates and babies?

A: There is not yet widespread virus testing for surrogates. However, keep in mind that surrogates are concerned about their own health and family members’ health – in addition to being concerned about your baby, so they are generally not taking unnecessary risks.

Q: What impact has COVID-19 had on international surrogacy?

A: Unfortunately, international travel bans and restrictions have impacted intended parents, making it difficult, but not impossible,  for them to come to the U.S. and more complicated to return to their home countries with their children.

Keep in mind that the situation is fluid, and there is still a lot the experts just don’t know. As the situation continues to evolve and we learn more about the novel coronavirus, we may see additional impacts on surrogacy.

To learn more about how we work with individuals, couples, and families who want to work with a  surrogate and other assisted reproduction methods to start or add to their families, contact us today!