Understanding Surrogacy For HIV+ & AIDS+ Intended Parents

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can we use our own eggs and sperm in surrogacy?

  Yes, many intended parents opt to use their own genetic material in the surrogacy process. Vireo assists in arranging the necessary medical procedures to ensure a successful embryo transfer using your eggs and sperm.

• Can we use donor eggs or sperm if we are HIV+?

  Yes, if either intended parent cannot provide genetic material due to health concerns, you may use donor eggs or sperm. Vireo works with trusted local cryo banks and fertility clinics to help you select a donor that fits your needs and preferences, ensuring a smooth and secure process.

• Can we have a biological child if one or both of us is HIV+?

  Yes, with the advancements in medical technology, HIV+ individuals can have biological children without transmitting the virus. Procedures like sperm washing and the use of antiretroviral therapy ensure that HIV does not affect the baby or the surrogate.

• Can HIV+ or AIDS+ individuals pursue surrogacy safely?

  Yes, HIV+ and AIDS+ individuals can safely pursue surrogacy through specialized medical protocols that prevent the transmission of HIV to the surrogate or the child. Vireo partners with fertility clinics experienced in working with HIV+ intended parents, ensuring a safe and secure process.

• Are there additional health requirements for HIV+ or AIDS+ intended parents?

  Yes, HIV+ and AIDS+ intended parents must have an undetectable viral load and be in good overall health before starting the surrogacy process. Your fertility clinic will conduct a thorough medical evaluation to confirm that you meet the health criteria required for safe surrogacy.

• What are the medical protocols for preventing HIV transmission to the surrogate and the baby?

  Fertility clinics use a process called sperm washing for HIV+ men, which separates the sperm from seminal fluid, where the virus is present. This ensures that only the sperm, free from HIV, is used for fertilization. For HIV+ women, doctors will assess viral load and health to ensure a safe process. Additionally, antiretroviral treatment (ART) is used to further reduce any risk.

• Can we select the gender of our baby?

  In some countries, gender selection may be legally permitted for family balancing purposes through Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS). Vireo can assist in determining if gender selection is an option based on your chosen destination.

• Can we select the surrogate mother ourselves?

  Yes, at Vireo, you can be involved in the surrogate selection process. We provide a curated list of surrogates who meet specific health, psychological, and lifestyle criteria. You’ll have the opportunity to review profiles and select a surrogate who aligns with your preferences.

• What are the medical risks for the surrogate and baby?

  Vireo only works with surrogates who meet strict health and medical criteria. Both the surrogate and baby will receive top-notch medical care throughout the pregnancy to mitigate risks, ensuring a healthy delivery.

• How does the egg or sperm donation process work?

  We collaborate with partner clinics that provide a carefully selected pool of qualified egg donors, while you may choose sperm donors from local and international Cryo banks, ensuring that you find the perfect match for your family’s needs. Donors are pre-screened for health, genetic history, and other key factors. Once a donor is selected, the eggs or sperm are retrieved and used to create embryos, which are then transferred to the surrogate.

• Can we attend our baby’s birth?

  Yes, our surrogacy programs allow intended parents to attend the birth of their child. However, for male intended parents, attendance at the birth must be agreed upon with the surrogate mother, as her comfort and consent are essential. Also, It's important to note that attendance may depend on hospital policies and the legal framework in the country where the birth takes place. Our team will help coordinate the process and provide you with the necessary guidance to ensure your attendance is seamless and stress-free.

• Is it possible for one partner to attend the birth while the other stays in their home country?

  Yes, it is possible for one partner to attend the birth while the other remains in their home country in most surrogacy destinations. However, in Georgia and Ukraine, this may only be allowed in cases of dire need due to specific legal and procedural requirements. We understand that sometimes logistical or personal circumstances may prevent both partners from attending. Vireo will support your family’s unique situation, ensuring that the absent partner is still part of the experience through virtual options like video calls, or providing updates as the birth progresses.

• Are babysitting services available?

  Yes, in some countries, we can assist you in arranging babysitting services during your stay. This can provide you with peace of mind as you navigate the final stages of your surrogacy journey and prepare to bring your baby home. Our local partners will recommend trusted services that meet your needs.

• What happens after the baby is born?

  After the birth, Vireo helps manage the legal paperwork necessary to transfer parental rights to you. We also assist in arranging travel documents, birth certificates, and anything else needed for a smooth transition home with your new baby.

• Do we need to stay in the destination country after the baby is born?

  Depending on local regulations, you may need to stay in the country for a period of 3 to 4 weeks to finalize legal procedures and obtain travel documents for your baby. Vireo helps facilitate these processes to ensure a smooth transition home.