Embryo adoption is a beautiful and complex path to growing a family. For couples navigating infertility, faith-based family building, or a desire to give frozen embryos a chance at life, this option offers hope!
As I was thinking about what to talk about this week, it dawned on me that I haven’t shared many resources for embryo donation or adoption yet! So we’re going to change that today 😉
If you’re just beginning your research, this guide will walk you through trusted organizations, legal considerations, touch on financial planning, and give emotional support resources.
What Is Embryo Adoption?
Embryo adoption occurs when embryos created through IVF by one family are placed with another individual or couple who then carries and gives birth to the child. Unlike traditional adoption, the receiving mother experiences pregnancy and childbirth.
It blends aspects of reproductive medicine and adoption law, which makes understanding the process essential. Be sure to visit Understanding the Embryo for more information on the IVF process!
Faith-Based Embryo Adoption Programs
Many families begin their search with Christian-based organizations that emphasize the dignity of embryos as human life.
❄️ Snowflakes Embryo Adoption
- One of the first embryo adoption programs in the U.S.
- Offers open adoption options
- Provides matching services and home studies
- Strong pro-life framework
You can learn more about Snowflakes here
🤍 National Embryo Donation Center
- Christian nonprofit medical clinic
- Provides frozen embryo transfers
- Lower-cost program compared to private agencies
- Requires doctrinal alignment
I have heard nothing but good about this organization out of Tennessee. You can learn more about the NEDC here
Clinic-Based Embryo Donation Programs
Some fertility clinics offer embryo donation programs directly, often at a lower cost than agency-based adoption.
Shady Grove Fertility
- Offers anonymous and directed embryo donation
- Medical screening included
- Requires consultation
CNY Fertility
- Known for affordable IVF options
- May offer embryo donation opportunities
- Requires medical eligibility screening
🌧Local Washington State Clinics
- SRM -Seattle Reproductive Medicine
- POMA -Tacoma
If you are looking to adopt, SRM has a small program and stipulates you must not have any other children. We adopted our first through SRM.
POMA Also has a small in-house donation and adoption program and no stipulations on children already in your family.
Legal Considerations
Embryo adoption laws vary by state. Some states treat it as property transfer, while others follow adoption-style contracts.
You will likely need:
- A reproductive attorney
- A formal embryo transfer agreement
- Clear understanding of parental rights laws in your state
To find a specialist, consider:
- American Academy of Assisted Reproductive Technology Attorneys
Financial Planning for Embryo Adoption
Costs can range from $7,000–$30,000+, depending on:
- Agency vs clinic program
- Legal fees
- Medical screening
- Embryo transfer procedure
- Travel expenses
Emotional & Spiritual Support Resources
Embryo adoption carries unique emotional dynamics — genetic disconnect, openness with donor family, and future conversations with children.
Support options:
- Here! 🙋🏼♀️ If you’re looking for support and encouragement, I am here for you! Please reach out with prayer requests anytime 🙏🏻
- Licensed counselors trained in reproductive trauma
- Christian Embryo Adoption and Donation FB group –here
I highly recommend joining this group for support and also for private matching with familes for donation and adoption. Keep in mind that although this is a Christian group, ethical opinions vary widely here!
Here are some excellent resources in printed form:
Questions to Ask Before Pursuing Embryo Adoption
- Are we comfortable with open or semi-open relationships?
- What level of genetic history information do we want?
- How will we talk to our future child about their story?
- What does our state require legally?
- What medical screening will be required?
Final Encouragement
Embryo adoption is not a quick decision. It requires prayer, research, legal guidance, and emotional preparation.
But for many families, it has become a redemptive and life-giving path.
If you are walking this road, you are not alone! Please reach out to us if you have questions 🤍
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