Surrogate Medications

Each surrogate has a medication protocol specific to her body based on test results from her evaluation at the fertility clinic. The calendar is set in advance after consulting your, the intended parents’, and the fertility clinic’s schedule. The information below is a sample only – all fertility clinics have their own protocol that is tailored to you specifically and must be followed per doctor’s orders.

• Begin birth control pills as prescribed to suppress ovarian function, which helps synchronize the intended mother with your cycle.
• Lupron injection is begun daily to further suppress the ovaries. It is a subcutaneous needle and you will be doing these shots at home, typically in the evenings.
• Next is estrogen, which can be a vaginal suppository, patches, or an oral pill. The purpose is to thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for the upcoming embryo transfer. Typically there are two monitoring appointments while on estrogen.
• Progesterone in oil is an intramuscular injection and is about 6 to 7 days prior to the embryo transfer. It further prepares the uterus for the embryo and the maintenance of early pregnancy.
• There can also be baby aspirin, prednisone, and antibiotics added to the protocol. The aspirin and prednisone increase blood flow and prevent clotting, decreasing chances that the embryo is rejected.
• Most surrogates stay on estrogen and progesterone injections until about 10 weeks of pregnancy.

You must remain abstinent according to the physician’s directions, during this phase, if you have a male partner in order to prevent unplanned pregnancy. This is a provision of the surrogate contract – you would be considered in breach of contract should you become pregnant during the cycle.