An interview with Maria Valencia, the Founder and Executive Chairman at the International Surrogacy Agency
BY MARK ARIEL
Surrogacy has been instrumental in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and family-building options,” states Maria Valencia, the Founder and Executive Chairman at the International Surrogacy Agency, in an interview with THE FIGHT.
“By being involved in the surrogacy industry, you are contributing to the progress and acceptance of diverse family structures, helping to create a more inclusive and understanding society.”
“My first job out of college was working at a surrogacy agency and the first time I helped a couple through their surrogacy journey I knew I loved this industry,” reveals Valencia.
“Surrogacy has the power to create families and bring immense joy and happiness to people’s lives. Being involved in this industry means being a part of the journey towards parenthood. It’s a privilege to play a role in such a transformative and beautiful experience. Surrogacy also empowers women who choose to become surrogates. It allows them to carry a pregnancy to help others, while also providing them with financial compensation and a sense of fulfillment. Surrogates have a deep sense of satisfaction and pride in their ability to make a difference in someone else’s life,” states Valencia.
The typical surrogacy treatment plan for an LGBTQ person or couple may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific IVF/ surrogacy program, says Valencia. However, she notes, here is a general outline of the steps involved in a surrogacy plan:
Initial Consultation: The LGBTQ person or couple meets with a fertility specialist and a surrogacy agency to discuss their goals, medical history, timeline, and any specific requirements or preferences.
Medical Evaluation with IVF clinic: Both partners may undergo medical evaluations to assess their reproductive health. This may include blood tests, hormone level checks, and semen analysis. If the intended parents plan to use their own genetic material, the partner who will provide the eggs undergoes ovarian stimulation to produce multiple eggs. The eggs are then retrieved and fertilized with the partner’s sperm (or donor sperm) through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Maria Valencia: “By being involved in the surrogacy industry, you are contributing to the progress and acceptance of diverse family structures, helping to create a more inclusive and understanding society.”
Surrogate Selection: The intended parents work with the surrogacy agency to find a suitable surrogate. The agency screens potential surrogates for physical, criminal and mental health, as well as their willingness to participate in the surrogacy process.
Legal Process: The intended parents and surrogate work with legal professionals to establish a surrogacy agreement that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved. This agreement covers issues such as compensation, medical decisions, and parental rights.
Embryo Transfer: Embryo is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
Pregnancy and Support: Once the embryo transfer is successful, the surrogate carries the pregnancy to term. Regular prenatal care is provided to the surrogate, and the intended parents may be involved in the process, attending appointments and providing emotional support.
Birth and Parental Rights: When the is born, the intended parents assume legal parental rights through a pre-established legal process, such as a pre-birth order (this process started during the pregnancy) The surrogate have no legal rights or obligations to the child.
“It’s important to note that the specific details and requirements of a surrogacy treatment plan can vary based on the laws and regulations of the state where the surrogacy takes place,” explains Valenica.
“Additionally, the process may involve additional steps or considerations for LGBTQ individuals or couples, such as using donor eggs or sperm, or navigating legal complexities related to same-sex parenting. Consulting with a fertility specialist or surrogacy agency experienced in working with LGBTQ individuals or couples can provide more tailored information and guidance.”
For more info visit: www.internationalsurrogacycenter.com.
