6.14 Transitioning from IVF Clinic to OB-GYN Care in Surrogacy

A big milestone in your surrogacy journey comes when it’s time to “graduate” from the IVF clinic and begin seeing an OB-GYN for regular prenatal care. This moment marks a meaningful shift—from focused fertility treatment to routine pregnancy support. It’s a sign that things are going well, and your body is doing exactly what it needs to.

1. When Does the Transition Happen?

This transition usually happens around 8 to 10 weeks of pregnancy. Before then, the IVF clinic keeps a close eye on things—monitoring your hormone levels through bloodwork and checking early ultrasounds.

Once a heartbeat is confirmed (typically between 6 to 8 weeks) and everything looks healthy, your doctor will let you know it’s time to stop medications and move forward with OB care. That’s when you’ll begin seeing a regular pregnancy doctor—your OB-GYN—for the rest of your prenatal care.

2. How to Get Ready for the Switch

Making this shift is exciting, but it also takes a little preparation. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Choosing Your OB-GYN

If you don’t already have one, start by checking which doctors are in-network with your insurance. It’s also helpful to find someone who has experience supporting surrogate pregnancies—just so they understand your unique role in the journey. Most importantly, choose someone you feel comfortable with and who treats you with respect and care.

Scheduling Your First Appointment

Once the IVF clinic confirms a viable pregnancy, go ahead and schedule your first OB visit. Let the office know this is a surrogate pregnancy—some places have their own protocols, and it’s best to give them a heads-up early. Try to get your appointment on the calendar quickly, since important first-trimester screenings have to happen within a certain timeframe.

Transferring Your Medical Records

Before your OB appointment, make sure the IVF clinic sends over your records. This includes details about the embryo transfer, medications you were on, blood test results, and early ultrasounds. Your GSHC case manager can help coordinate this part if needed—just reach out. Getting those records to your OB before your visit helps avoid delays and makes sure your new doctor has the full picture.

3. Why This Timing Matters

The first trimester is a crucial time, and staying on schedule means your OB can do all the right tests at the right moments. That includes genetic screenings and early checks to make sure everything is progressing as it should.

More than that, making this switch early helps you feel confident and supported. Knowing you have your doctor lined up, your appointments set, and everything ready to go takes a weight off your shoulders—and that matters, too.

This part of the journey is worth celebrating. Moving from the IVF clinic to your OB-GYN means you’ve reached a new stage—one where your pregnancy care becomes more familiar and steady.

We’re so proud of you for everything you’ve done to get here. If you need help finding an OB, coordinating records, or just have questions along the way, your GSHC team is always here for you.

You’re not in this alone—we’re with you every step of the way. 💛

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