The Surrogacy Institute of Hawaii

SIH provides comprehensive, step-by-step instruction and guidance regarding the complex surrogacy process.

Legal protection for both the surrogate and the intended parents is essential to ensure legal parentage and that all parties provide informed consent. SIH facilitates legal services and verifies that appropriate legal contracts are in place.

SIH coordinates IVF services and the prenatal care of the surrogate, from preconception counseling to successful delivery, to ensure that both the surrogate and intended parents receive appropriate care and communication between all parties throughout the process

SIH provides emotional and educational support to all parties involved in navigating any challenges that may arise during the surrogacy journey. Referral to mental health counseling can be provided if needed.

If not already established, intended parents can establish care with the Fertility Institute of Hawaii to discuss their personalized treatment plan. Potential surrogates will also have an initial consultation to answer questions and evaluate suitability for the process.

Surrogates undergo comprehensive screening, which includes the following, and is coordinated by SIH

• Medical history interview
• General physical examination
• Psychological testing
• Consultation with an obstetric specialist
• Saline ultrasound uterine evaluation
• Blood work

Intended parents and suitable surrogates will be connected with each other and allowed to decide whether they wish to proceed with the process.

Surrogates and intended parents consult with attorneys (facilitated by SIH) and complete a legal contract.

Intended parents create embryos using the eggs and sperm of intended parents or appropriate donors. Surrogates undergo frozen embryo transfer.

Surrogates undergo the same type of prenatal care as any other pregnant woman who has undergone IVF. A physician at the Fertility Institute of Hawaii will follow the surrogate through 8 weeks of pregnancy; then, the surrogate will continue regular obstetric care with their OBGYN for the remainder of the pregnancy.

Depending on the state and legal contract, post-birth paperwork may be required to establish parentage. Routine delivery and postpartum care are provided by obstetricians and coordinated by SIH.

Intended parents will need to undergo In Vitro Fertilization to create embryos, which will be used for transfer to the surrogate. These treatments can vary widely based on your medical diagnosis.

This fee covers recruitment, matching, and coordination of all medical care throughout the surrogacy journey as well as emotional and legal support. Please note that the exact fee may vary depending on where the surrogate and intended parent(s) reside due to additional coordination and legal services required when either party is located out of state.

Surrogates are compensated for their time, effort, and medical risks with an amount that the surrogate and intended parent(s) agree upon

Additional fees intended parents can expect to compensate their surrogate for will depend on whether certain contingencies occur, which may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Insurance coverage for the surrogate
• Invasive procedures
• Additional screening or evaluation of the surrogate
• Travel expenses (as needed)
• Lost wages

The intended parents are responsible for the legal fees for their own and the surrogate’s legal counsel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Surrogates have the right to receive appropriate medical care and treatment, ultimately putting their health and safety above all else. Intended parents must have legal contracts completed by an attorney before and after birth to ensure appropriate documentation of legal parentage. Surrogates and intended parents should agree upon and document their desire regarding the number of embryos to transfer and key issues in prenatal care, such as selective reduction, termination, and delivery procedures.

Intended parents tend to be involved in the prenatal care and related procedures of the surrogate, although geographic proximity and the personal choices of the intended parents and surrogate often dictate the level of involvement. Intended parents and surrogates should discuss their expectations before finalizing any agreements. At SIH, we assist with navigating these conversations between the parties.

Surrogacy Institute of Hawaii (SIH) offers a uniquely supportive and professional experience for surrogates by being the only agency in the state partnered directly with a fertility clinic, The Fertility Institute of Hawaii. This exclusive partnership means your care is managed by a trusted team of reproductive specialists from day one. As a physician-led agency, SIH ensures that every surrogate is thoroughly screened, medically evaluated, and counseled by licensed professionals, not just agency staff, so you can feel confident and supported throughout your entire journey.

Our integrated approach sets us apart, providing the highest standard of care while prioritizing your health, safety, and peace of mind.

Thank you for your interest in becoming a surrogate. By taking this step, you are making a life-changing difference for those who need your help building their families.
We understand that the surrogacy journey is deeply meaningful, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our comprehensive screening process ensures the suitability and well-being of all parties involved, and our team is committed to supporting you throughout the experience.