Updated January 2026
Quick Summary
Surrogacy involves medical, legal, and clinical terminology that can feel unfamiliar at the beginning of the process. This guide explains the most common surrogacy terms intended parents encounter so they can better understand conversations with clinics, attorneys, and agencies and feel more confident as they move through the journey.
Table of Contents
- Quick Summary
- Why Understanding Surrogacy Terms Matters
- Amniocentesis
- Blastocyst
- Gestational Carrier or Surrogate
- Egg Donor
- Gestational Surrogacy
- Intended Parents
- In Vitro Fertilization
- Matching
- Pre Birth Order
- Post Birth Order
- How to Use This Glossary During Your Journey
- Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy Terms
- Next Steps After Learning Surrogacy Terminology
Why Understanding Surrogacy Terms Matters
Surrogacy introduces terminology that many people have never encountered before. These terms appear in medical appointments, legal contracts, insurance reviews, and clinic communications. Understanding the surrogacy process language helps intended parents make informed decisions and reduces confusion during what can already be an emotionally complex process.
While surrogacy professionals explain each step, having a foundational understanding allows for clearer conversations and more confident planning and budgeting.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic test used to detect certain chromosomal or genetic conditions. It analyzes cells found in the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus. The test is typically recommended only when medically indicated and is used to gather additional information about fetal development.
Blastocyst
A blastocyst is an embryo that has reached a later stage of development, usually several days after fertilization. At this stage, the embryo is often suitable for transfer or freezing. Many IVF cycles involve transferring embryos at the blastocyst stage.
Gestational Carrier or Surrogate
A gestational carrier, commonly referred to as a surrogate, is the woman who carries the pregnancy. In gestational surrogacy, the carrier has no genetic relationship to the baby. She is medically and psychologically screened before entering the process.
Egg Donor
An egg donor is a woman who provides eggs that are used to create embryos through in vitro fertilization. Egg donors may be known or anonymous depending on the arrangement. The donor does not have parental rights or responsibilities related to the child.
Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy is the most common form of surrogacy in the United States. The embryo is created using the genetic material of one or both intended parents or donors and is then transferred to the gestational carrier. The carrier is not genetically related to the child.
Intended Parents
Intended parents are the individual or individuals who plan to become the legal parents of a child born through surrogacy. Intended parents may include couples or single parents and may use their own genetic material or donor material depending on their circumstances.
In Vitro Fertilization
In vitro fertilization, often called IVF, is the process of fertilizing eggs with sperm in a laboratory setting. Once embryos are created, they may be transferred to a gestational carrier or frozen for future use.
Matching
Matching is the process of pairing intended parents with a gestational carrier or egg donor. This process considers medical compatibility, expectations, communication preferences, and legal requirements. A thoughtful match supports a smoother experience for everyone involved.
Pre Birth Order
A pre birth order is a court issued legal document obtained before the child is born. It typically establishes the intended parents as the legal parents at birth and allows their names to be placed on the birth certificate. Availability depends on state law.
Post Birth Order
A post birth order is a court issued legal document completed after the child is born. It formally establishes the intended parents as the legal parents and updates the birth certificate when required.
How to Use This Glossary During Your Journey
Surrogacy terms often come up gradually rather than all at once. Many intended parents return to a glossary like this multiple times as new stages unfold. Understanding the language helps reduce stress and allows families to focus on the bigger picture rather than unfamiliar terminology.
If a term is unclear at any point, asking questions is encouraged. Clear communication is an important part of informed decision making.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogacy Terms
Do intended parents need to know all surrogacy terms before starting
No. Most people learn these terms gradually as they move through the process. This guide is designed to support understanding along the way.
Are surrogacy terms used the same way by clinics and attorneys
In most cases yes, although definitions may vary slightly depending on medical context or state specific legal requirements.
Is gestational surrogacy different from traditional surrogacy
Yes. Gestational surrogacy does not involve a genetic connection between the carrier and the baby, while traditional surrogacy does. Gestational surrogacy is far more common today.
Next Steps After Learning Surrogacy Terminology
Understanding the language of surrogacy is an important foundation. Families who want to see how these terms apply to their specific situation often speak with a surrogacy professional early in the process. Reviewing terminology, timelines, and expectations together can provide clarity and reassurance.
