ASSISTED REPRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Why do I need a written agreement to work with an egg donor or gestational surrogate if I trust them?
Laws surrounding any type of assisted reproduction technology are changing rapidly as new scientific breakthroughs challenge the courts with new issues. It’s important to have a strong contract, written by an informed reproductive lawyer, such as Steven Dubin, to protect all of your rights at every stage of the process.
Do all states have similar laws regarding egg donation and surrogacy?
Not at all. Again, this is why you need a lawyer experienced in Assisted Reproductive Technology Law. State laws vary widely and it is critical to be familiar with the laws in the state where the procedure(s) will be performed, the residency of the surrogate, as well as the law in the state where the baby will be born.
Does health insurance cover any of the medical expenses?
Again this varies. In some cases, the gestational surrogate’s policy will cover some of the expenses. Each case must be looked at carefully. It is the responsibility of the attorney for the surrogate to review the benefits in her health policy. If the gestational surrogate’s insurance policy does not cover surrogacy, the intended parents must be responsible.
Must an egg donor/surrogacy agreement be in place before the egg donor or surrogate may undergo medical screening?
Most in vitro fertilization physicians’ offices require a signed agreement before beginning any medical treatment or screening. It is always best to have the agreement prepared and executed as soon as possible.
What are some expenses I may face as an intended parent?
- Attorney’s fees (may include attorney’s fees for egg donor or surrogate).
- Possible health insurance premiums for the surrogate through the birth and, sometimes, a few weeks afterward.
- Surrogate’s life insurance during the pregnancy through delivery.
- Psychological counseling during the pregnancy through delivery and possibly a few months after.
- Child care for surrogate when she’s going to the doctor or performing other duties under the contract.
- Maternity Clothing
Possible Expenses:
- Lost Wages (for the surrogate).
- Housekeeping (if surrogate is confined to bed during pregnancy).
- Childcare (if surrogate is confined to bed during pregnancy).
Each case is as different as the people involved. The foregoing items are not intended to be all-inclusive.
Link to Definitions of Assisted Reproduction Technology
Commonly Used Terms page