If you’re new to the world of surrogacy, you’ve probably already noticed it comes with its own language—full of acronyms, abbreviations, and terms that can feel overwhelming at first. From IVF to PBO and everything in between, it’s completely normal to feel a little lost when you start your journey.
TAKE THE SURROGACY QUIZ >>>>> CHAT WITH A SURROGATE
Common Surrogacy Acronyms & What They Mean
GC – Gestational Carrier
A GC is a woman who carries a pregnancy created using someone else’s egg. The surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.
IP(s) – Intended Parent(s)
The individual(s) who will become the legal parent(s) of the child born via surrogacy.
IVF – In Vitro Fertilization
A process where eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab to create embryos. The embryo is then transferred into the surrogate’s uterus.
FET – Frozen Embryo Transfer
A common type of IVF transfer where a previously frozen embryo is thawed and placed into the surrogate’s uterus.
RE – Reproductive Endocrinologist
A fertility specialist who oversees the medical side of surrogacy, including IVF and embryo transfer procedures.
OB – Obstetrician
A doctor who provides prenatal care and delivers babies. Surrogates are typically transferred from the fertility clinic to an OB after the first trimester.
TAKE THE SURROGACY QUIZ >>>>> CHAT WITH A SURROGATE
PBO – Pre-Birth Order
A legal document obtained before birth that declares the intended parents as the legal parents of the baby.
TS – Traditional Surrogacy
A form of surrogacy where the surrogate uses her own egg and is genetically related to the baby. Note: At Surrogacy Mentor, we only work with gestational surrogacy (GC), not traditional surrogacy.
2WW – Two-Week Wait
The period of time between the embryo transfer and the pregnancy test. Often filled with anticipation and emotions!
HPT – Home Pregnancy Test
Many surrogates take an HPT during the two-week wait, though the clinic will confirm pregnancy through bloodwork.
Beta – Beta hCG Test
A blood test that measures pregnancy hormone levels to confirm and track early pregnancy progress.
Mock Cycle
A test cycle using medications to evaluate how a surrogate’s body responds before the real embryo transfer cycle begins.
Lupron
A medication often used to suppress natural ovulation before an IVF cycle begins.
Estrogen & Progesterone
Hormones taken to prepare the uterus for embryo transfer and support the early stages of pregnancy.
Legal & Contract Terms to Know
Escrow Account
A neutral third-party account used to hold and distribute payment related to the surrogacy, such as the surrogate’s compensation and reimbursements.
Base Compensation
The agreed-upon payment to the surrogate, typically disbursed in monthly installments after pregnancy is confirmed.
Multiples Fee
An additional fee paid to a surrogate if she is carrying more than one baby (e.g., twins).
Invasive Procedures Fee
Compensation provided if the surrogate undergoes procedures like a D&C, amniocentesis, or C-section.
Life Insurance Policy
A short-term life insurance policy that is typically included in the surrogate contract to protect her family in case of a medical emergency.
Tips for Navigating Surrogacy Lingo
Ask Questions: If you’re ever unsure what something means, ask your agency, coordinator, or doctor. No question is too small.
Write It Down: Keep a running list of terms in a notebook or notes app—you’ll be surprised how fast you’ll learn!
Lean on Your Community: Talking with other surrogates (in forums or support groups) can help demystify acronyms and provide real-life context.
TAKE THE SURROGACY QUIZ >>>>> CHAT WITH A SURROGATE
Learning the language of surrogacy doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right support and resources, you’ll feel fluent in no time. Understanding common acronyms and terms helps you feel more informed, confident, and in control of your journey.
Follow Surrogacy Mentor on Instagram , Facebook, YouTube and TikTok!