Medical note: A gestational carrier remains the person who gives consent for her own medical care throughout embryo transfer, pregnancy, labor, delivery and aftercare.
Early pregnancy
After embryo transfer, the fertility clinic follows its own protocol for pregnancy testing and early monitoring. If pregnancy is established, the clinic determines how long it continues reproductive-endocrinology follow-up and when care transitions to an obstetric provider.
Prenatal care
Once under obstetric care, the carrier receives prenatal care appropriate to her pregnancy and medical history. The exact schedule of visits, screening tests and imaging is set by her clinicians rather than by a universal surrogacy timetable.
Intended-parent involvement
Intended parents may attend selected appointments or receive updates if the carrier agrees. Expectations about communication, privacy and involvement should be discussed before pregnancy, but they do not replace the carrier's authority over her medical decisions.
Delivery planning
Birth planning may address who is present, communication with the hospital, newborn logistics and any legal documents the hospital needs. Medical decisions during labor and delivery remain with the carrier and her treating clinicians.
After delivery
The carrier begins postpartum recovery like any person who has given birth. Follow-up care, recovery time and support needs vary according to the delivery and any complications. Financial or logistical arrangements should follow the written agreement and applicable law.
Related guides
Medical guide for surrogates · Surrogacy risks · Health insurance