6.2 Embryo Transfer Process for Surrogate Mothers: Medication, Travel, and Planning for a Successful Transfer

The embryo transfer process is a critical phase in surrogacy that requires strict adherence to the medication protocol, careful travel planning, and full cooperation with medical guidelines. At GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation, we ensure that our surrogates receive comprehensive support for medication management, travel arrangements, and the embryo transfer procedure to optimize the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Step 1: Understanding the Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) Calendar

Once you're matched, your fertility clinic will give you a Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) calendar. Think of it as your personal roadmap. It tells you exactly what medications to take, when to take them, and what appointments you’ll have.

This calendar usually includes:

A detailed medication schedule (with timing and doses)
Monitoring appointments for bloodwork and ultrasounds to check your hormone levels and uterine lining
A transfer date—this is set based on how your body responds to the medications

Missing a dose or taking medication incorrectly could affect the success of the embryo transfer. So, following this schedule closely is really important—and we’ll help you stay on track.

Step 2: Medication Management & Case Manager Support

Taking your medications correctly is a huge part of preparing your body for pregnancy. At GSHC, you won’t do it alone. Your case manager will be with you every step of the way to make sure everything is clear and manageable.

We’ll help with:

Explaining each medication—how to take it, when, and what it’s for
Making sure you have enough medication on hand, even for weekends or holidays
Understanding how to store medications properly (some need refrigeration, some don’t)
Teaching or reviewing injection techniques if needed
Keeping you updated if dosages change after a clinic visit

Some surrogates run out of medication on a Friday night and can’t get more until Monday. We’ll help you avoid that by checking in regularly and reminding you to order refills in advance.

And if anything ever feels confusing or off—we’re just a text or call away.

Step 3: Planning Your Embryo Transfer Trip

In most cases, surrogates will travel to the fertility clinic for the embryo transfer. We handle all the logistics so you can focus on feeling calm and ready.

Here’s what we take care of:

Booking your flights, rental car, or rideshare
Reserving a comfortable hotel near the clinic
Adjusting plans if the clinic changes your transfer date
Covering costs for a support person if you’d like to bring someone with you
Helping you pack and prep—especially making sure you bring your medications (and know how to store them while traveling)

Tip: Keep your medications in your carry-on with a copy of the prescription in case you’re asked at airport security.

Step 4: The Embryo Transfer Procedure

The actual transfer is usually quick, easy, and doesn’t require anesthesia. Here’s how it works:

You’ll arrive with a full bladder (strange, but it helps them guide the placement of the embryo)
The clinic will transfer one or more embryos using a thin catheter, guided by ultrasound
Afterward, you’ll rest briefly at the clinic before heading back to your hotel or home

Most clinics recommend taking it easy for the next day or two—light activity, no heavy lifting, and plenty of rest.

Step 5: Post-Transfer Monitoring & Pregnancy Confirmation

The next phase is all about waiting and checking in. This is when we’ll start looking for signs that the embryo implanted and pregnancy has begun.

Here’s the usual timeline:

First beta hCG blood test about 9–12 days after transfer. This checks for pregnancy hormones in your blood.
Second beta test 48 hours later to confirm the levels are rising as they should.
Ultrasound around 6–7 weeks to look for a fetal heartbeat.

Once a heartbeat is confirmed, that’s a huge milestone—this is when you officially begin receiving your base compensation, as outlined in your agreement.

If the hormone levels don’t rise as expected, the clinic will let us know what next steps are needed, and we’ll be there to support you no matter what.

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