#51 How to Pick a Fertility Clinic for Surrogacy (Without Regret)

Episode Notes

When it comes to IVF for surrogacy, not all fertility clinics are created equal. And the wrong choice can lead to delays, surprise restrictions, and missed chances at parenthood.

In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares four often-overlooked—but crucial—factors to consider when selecting a fertility clinic. From restrictive agency requirements to embryo thawing policies, this honest conversation is a must-listen before you commit to any clinic.

🎧 Whether you’ve already created embryos or are still exploring, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and choose a clinic that truly supports your journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• 02:28 — The surprising shift in support when you switch from IVF to surrogacy

• 04:06 — Why exclusivity deals with lawyers or therapists can be a red flag

• 08:17 — How independent surrogacy is treated differently by some clinics

• 10:54 — The surrogate vetting mistake that changed everything for Alyssa

• 13:18 — How to work around clinic pushback when going independent

• 14:30 — Real stories of communication delays that stalled surrogacy journeys

• 16:18 — What to ask about portal access, turnaround times, and surrogate updates

• 18:09 — The embryo transfer dealbreaker no one tells you about

• 20:21 — Why freeze/thaw protocols matter when changing clinics

• 22:11 — A 4-part checklist for choosing the right clinic
  

Resources Mentioned:

• SMS #39: 4 Crucial Tips for Choosing a Great Surrogacy Clinic

• ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion

• Surrogate vetting essentials

• SMS #11 Should you risk shipping embryos for surrogacy to a new clinic?

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App
  

“You’ve already waited long enough—don’t let the wrong clinic make you wait even longer.”