Weekly Surrogacy Journey Updates: Embryo Transfers and New Milestones

Every surrogacy journey is made up of meaningful steps—from medical preparation and embryo transfer to follow-up appointments and ongoing communication. This week, the ACRC Surrogacy team supported two surrogates through embryo transfers, celebrated a new milestone with a first-time surrogate and coordinated an important IVF appointment in Tokyo.

To protect their privacy, each surrogate is identified only by her first initial.

This Week at a Glance

• Surrogate J completed a frozen embryo transfer after meeting her clinic’s pre-transfer requirements.

• Surrogate D completed her embryo transfer with support from her ACRC coordinator.

• An IVF patient in Tokyo received her clinic-prescribed trigger medication ahead of a planned egg retrieval.

• Surrogate R reached a new stage of her first surrogacy journey with strong support from her family.

These updates reflect different parts of the IVF and surrogacy process. An embryo transfer is an important milestone, but pregnancy is confirmed later through testing and follow-up directed by the fertility clinic.

Surrogate J Completes Her Frozen Embryo Transfer

This week, Surrogate J completed her frozen embryo transfer, also known as an FET. Her clinic reported that the procedure went smoothly and that her uterine lining and hormone levels met the clinic’s requirements for transfer.

Surrogate J is a mother of two and has previously completed a surrogacy journey. Her earlier experience has helped her feel familiar with the medication schedule, clinic instructions and follow-up process that may occur after embryo transfer.

Her ACRC case manager will continue to provide practical support, help coordinate upcoming appointments and assist her in following the care plan provided by her fertility clinic. We are sending Surrogate J our warmest wishes as she moves through the waiting period before pregnancy testing.

Surrogate D Reaches Her Embryo Transfer Milestone

Surrogate D also completed her embryo transfer this week. Her ACRC coordinator accompanied her to the clinic and helped with appointment logistics and on-site communication so she could feel informed and supported throughout the day.

Known for her cheerful, open personality, Surrogate D enjoys using photography to capture meaningful moments in her life. Her positive spirit brought warmth to an already memorable day.

Following the transfer, Surrogate D will continue to follow medication and lifestyle guidance from her fertility clinic. The ACRC team will remain available for reminders, coordination and emotional support while she waits for her next appointment. We wish her comfort and calm during this important stage of her surrogacy journey.

International IVF Coordination in Tokyo

This week, ACRC’s Japanese team also assisted an IVF patient during a visit to a partner fertility clinic in Tokyo. The clinic provided her prescribed trigger medication and confirmed the precise timing of the injection before her planned egg retrieval.

A trigger shot is commonly used near the end of ovarian stimulation to support the final maturation of eggs before retrieval. According to the clinic’s latest ultrasound assessment, approximately 20 follicles were visible, and the egg retrieval was scheduled for the following week.

ACRC’s role is to help coordinate communication, appointments and practical arrangements. All medication instructions, medical assessments and treatment decisions are provided by the patient’s licensed fertility clinic. We wish her a smooth appointment and a comfortable recovery.

Surrogate R Begins a New Chapter

Surrogate R reached a new milestone in her cycle this week. She comes from a large family, has always loved children and feels deeply connected to the experience of helping another family grow.

Although this is her first surrogacy journey, Surrogate R is surrounded by encouragement. Friends with relevant experience have offered personal support, and her family has shown understanding and respect for her decision. A dependable support network can be especially meaningful as a surrogate moves through appointments, medications and the emotional moments of the process.

The ACRC team will continue helping Surrogate R stay organized, communicate with the professionals involved and prepare for each upcoming milestone. Personal experiences from friends can provide reassurance, while medical guidance will always come directly from her fertility clinic.

What Support Does a Surrogate Receive Around Embryo Transfer?

The exact experience varies by clinic and individual care plan, but support may include:

• Coordination of clinic appointments and travel arrangements when needed

• Help keeping track of important dates and clinic instructions

• Communication among the surrogate, intended parents and relevant professionals

• Practical and emotional check-ins before and after transfer

• Coordination of follow-up appointments and pregnancy-test milestones

Medical care, medication protocols and pregnancy testing are directed by licensed fertility professionals. ACRC Surrogacy helps keep the wider journey organized and ensures that surrogates and intended parents know what comes next.

A Note About Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Confirmation

Completing an embryo transfer is an encouraging milestone, but it does not immediately confirm pregnancy. The fertility clinic will schedule the appropriate testing—often a blood test to determine whether implantation has occurred. Every journey is different, and outcomes depend on many medical factors outside the surrogate’s or intended parents’ control.

Considering Surrogacy? Take the Next Step with ACRC

Whether you are hoping to grow your family through surrogacy or are considering becoming a surrogate, ACRC offers personalized guidance from the first conversation through the milestones that follow.

For Intended Parents

Learn about the U.S. surrogacy process, matching, expected timelines and the support available throughout your journey. Schedule a complimentary intended parent consultation with ACRC Surrogacy.

For Prospective Surrogates

If you live in the United States, have experienced at least one healthy pregnancy and delivery, and want to learn whether surrogacy may be right for you, explore ACRC’s general qualifications, support and compensation information. Learn more and apply to become a surrogate.

Visit ACRC Surrogacy to learn more about our U.S. surrogacy and family-building support for intended parents and surrogates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a frozen embryo transfer in surrogacy?

A frozen embryo transfer, or FET, is a procedure in which a previously created and frozen embryo is thawed and transferred to a surrogate’s uterus. The fertility clinic determines the treatment protocol, monitors the surrogate’s readiness and performs the transfer.

Does an embryo transfer mean the surrogate is pregnant?

Not yet. Pregnancy can only be confirmed through testing scheduled by the fertility clinic after the transfer. A completed transfer is an important milestone, but it should not be described as a confirmed pregnancy.

Does a surrogate undergo egg retrieval?

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate does not provide the egg and does not undergo egg retrieval for the surrogacy cycle. Egg retrieval involves an intended mother or egg donor. The resulting embryo may later be transferred to the surrogate.

What does ACRC do after a surrogate’s embryo transfer?

ACRC helps coordinate communication and upcoming milestones, provides practical and emotional support, and assists the surrogate in staying organized. Medical decisions and instructions come directly from the fertility clinic.

How can I become a surrogate with ACRC?

Prospective surrogates can review the general requirements and submit an application through ACRC’s Become a Surrogate page. Eligibility is determined through screening and review with ACRC and the appropriate professionals.

How can intended parents begin a surrogacy journey?

Intended parents can begin by booking a complimentary consultation to discuss their family-building goals, possible next steps and the support ACRC provides.

Editorial note: This article shares general journey updates and educational information. It is not medical or legal advice. Treatment plans and outcomes vary, and all medical questions should be discussed with a licensed fertility professional.

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