The short answer: The success rate for gestational surrogacy (live birth per embryo transfer) ranges from 50% to 75%, depending on factors like embryo quality, surrogate health, and clinic expertise.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what affects success—and how to improve your chances.
1. Overall Success Rates by Age & Embryo Type
A. Using the Intended Mother’s Eggs
| Age of Egg Provider | Live Birth Rate per Transfer |
|---|---|
| Under 35 | 60–75% |
| 35–37 | 50–65% |
| 38–40 | 40–55% |
| Over 40 | 20–35% |
B. Using Donor Eggs (Higher Success)
- Live birth rate: 65–80% per transfer (younger, screened donors).
- Why better? Donor eggs typically come from women under 30.
2. Key Factors That Impact Success
A. Embryo Quality
- Euploid (chromosomally normal) embryos: 60–70% success.
- Untested embryos: Lower, depending on age.
B. Surrogate’s Health
- Ideal BMI (18–30): Higher implantation rates.
- Prior successful pregnancies: 10–15% better outcomes.
C. Clinic & Lab Expertise
- Top IVF clinics: 5–10% higher success than average.
- Vitrification (fast-freezing): Better than slow-freezing.
D. Number of Embryos Transferred
- Single embryo transfer (SET): ~55% success (safer, preferred).
- Double embryo transfer: ~65% but higher risk of twins.
3. How to Maximize Success
✔ Use PGT-A testing to screen embryos.
✔ Choose a proven surrogate with a healthy pregnancy history.
✔ Opt for a top-rated IVF clinic with high success rates.
✔ Consider donor eggs if over 38 with poor egg quality.
4. Realistic Expectations
- First-transfer success isn’t guaranteed—some need 2–3 attempts.
- Miscarriage rates are similar to natural pregnancy (~15–25%).
- Insurance may not cover multiple cycles—budget accordingly.
Final Answer
✅ Best-case scenario (donor egg + young surrogate): ~75% success.
✅ Average (own eggs, good embryo): ~50–65%.
✅ Lower (untested embryos, older eggs): ~30–45%.
Want clinic-specific success rates? Ask for SART/CDC reports!
