Fertility treatments have come a long way and have helped many people and couples. But for some, the treatments did not produce the results they hoped for: a baby.

It is estimated that in the United States, 10 to 15 percent of couples are infertile. More than 200,000 cases of infertility are reported annually. And what individuals and couples endure is heartbreaking, especially when a pregnancy or full-term pregnancy is unsuccessful.

As CEO of an international egg donor and surrogacy agency, we have had the great honor of helping individuals and couples who have struggled with infertility. Surrogacy has helped countless expectant parents achieve their dreams of having a baby.

There are various reasons why both men and women are diagnosed with infertility. While male problems are primarily related to sperm production and delivery challenges, women may face the following medical health hurdles:

• Foods for ovulation
• Being born without a uterus
• Had a partial or total hysterectomy
• Cervical abnormalities
• Endometriosis
• Low egg reserve
• Hormonal challenges
• Diabetes
• Pulmonary hypertension

And more…

Cancer treatments for both men and women can also make them infertile.

Couples and individuals may find themselves considering surrogacy when their fertility treatment attempts have been unsuccessful. When the intended parents are ready, and it may take some time, they find a renewed sense of hope due to gestational surrogacy.

In the LGBT community, gay men cannot become fathers without the help of an egg donor and gestational surrogate. Women who want to become surrogate mothers can help make those dreams of parenthood come true.

Candidates who partner with an accredited agency can help carry a baby for someone else. In some cases, an expectant mother may use her own eggs and the expectant father may use her own sperm. What is needed is a healthy uterus for the time of gestation and until the exciting moment of delivery.

Other times, an egg donor and maybe even a sperm donor may be needed. Every surrogacy journey is unique, but the common thread is making sure that each person has the opportunity to experience the love of a child.

While expectant parents do their due diligence when partnering with an agency, the same goes for surrogate mothers. These ladies are done building their own families and want to help someone else build theirs. When a woman decides to become a surrogate mother, as she anticipates the excitement of the journey, it is important that she interview the agency to make sure they are in a great position. An agency must be in the industry for a decade or more, have an official physical location, offer a benefits package starting at $40,000 or more, pay travel expenses up front, offer a generous $500,000 life insurance policy, and exude professionalism and friendliness.

Surrogacy has become one of the most powerful tools for treating infertility both here in the United States and abroad. For those who continue to struggle with infertility, know that there are options to start the family you’ve always wanted.

Special Note: The information contained in this article should not be used for decision making. The laws related to surrogacy and egg donation are constantly evolving and the author does not guarantee that the information contained in this document is consistent with current law. This information is provided as a starting point only. Consult with a reproduction attorney for the most up-to-date information applicable to your circumstance.