One of the many exciting milestones in a surrogacy journey is the medical clearance appointment. The medical clearance is when the GC (Gestational Carrier) goes to the Intended Parent(s)’ fertility clinic and is evaluated to ensure the GC is physically qualified to be a surrogate. (Fun fact: the picture above is when we met our GC, Amber and her husband, Dalton, for the first time when they flew in for our medical clearance appointment)

One question I’m often asked is whether the IP(s) should attend the medical clearance appointment. Here are four factors to consider when deciding whether to attend the medical clearance appointment IRL.

1. Location of Fertility Clinic

If your fertility clinic is in close proximity to your home, it is easier and less costly to attend the appointment since you aren't booking travel accommodations. As surrogacy in general is expensive, the cost of travel is an important consideration when deciding whether to attend the appointment.

2. Fertility Clinic’s Policies

Each fertility clinic varies on whether the IP(s) can be present during the evaluations (most commonly a saline sonogram and mock embryo transfer). During my personal experience with surrogacy, the fertility clinic did not allow me to be present in the room due to size constraints. I attended the medical clearance appointment for both of my surrogacy journeys and remained in the waiting room during the parts I was not able to be present.

I recommend finding out whether the reproductive endocrinologist (RE) will be meeting with the GC during the visit, or if the meeting and any initial results are presented once all of the bloodwork is completed.  If consultation with the RE is part of the visit, this is an opportunity to ask the doctor questions and seek clarification with the GC present.

3. Relationship Building

What is your relationship like with your GC? For IPs with a known GC (i.e., family member, friend, or member of the community), attending this appointment to build rapport may not be as necessary as someone who is developing a relationship with their GC. For a GC who is flying in for the medical clearance appointment, this is an opportunity to demonstrate your appreciation and how you will emotionally support the GC through the entire surrogacy journey. It also may be the first opportunity to meet your GC and her partner in person.

4. Overall Accessibility 

Undergoing fertility treatments and related appointments (i.e., egg retrieval, and appointments with surrogacy professionals) often causes many IPs to take a significant amount of time off of work. For those with secondary infertility, ease of childcare to attend the appointment can be another important consideration.

While attending the medical clearance appointment is not mandatory for IPs, it’s a great way to connect with your GC and her partner, show your support, and meet with the fertility team.