Worried about how changing abortion laws might affect your surrogacy journey? You’re not alone. In this urgent episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne dives into exactly how abortion laws impact surrogacy—from limiting access to IVF and restricting doctors, to threatening the very care surrogates and intended parents depend on. Even if abortion isn’t part of your plan, these laws can create roadblocks and risks for everyone trying to build a family.
Get clarity on what’s happening, why it matters now, and the concrete steps you need to protect your surrogate, your embryos, and your future.
🎧 Press play and arm yourself with vital knowledge!
What You’ll Learn:
00:00 — How abortion bans are already affecting surrogacy in the U.S.
02:15 — The hidden consequences for fertility clinics and reproductive care
03:12 — Why personhood laws are disrupting IVF and embryo care
05:19 — How Alabama’s Supreme Court decision impacted IVF treatments
07:41 — The “abortion ban domino effect” and its reach across surrogacy
10:03 — How surrogacy and termination laws intersect—and what it means for you
11:29 — What you must do before matching with a surrogate in restrictive states
13:30 — Why every surrogacy plan should include termination discussions upfront
15:13 — The medical malpractice paradox that’s making OBs scared to act
17:14 — How you can still protect your surrogacy journey amidst legal confusion
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
Surrogacy care is being impacted by legal ambiguity, and every intended parent needs to stay informed
Personhood laws threaten more than abortion—they could impact IVF access and embryo storage
Abortion-related legal changes are pushing OB/GYNs out of the field, leading to surrogate care shortages
You must discuss termination and know your surrogate’s stance before moving forward
Proactive legal planning is your best defense in navigating this changing landscape
Start your surrogacy journey with clarity and protection—don’t skip the legal preparation.
📱 Download the BloomBridge app today to access tools and guides that prepare you for every step of the surrogacy process.
“When abortion laws change, fertility care changes. And your surrogacy journey needs to be ready for it.”
Dr. Alyssa Small Layne digs into why Bloomberg’s “IVF Disrupted” resonated so widely and what it reveals about the modern fertility industry. She explains how a specialty that once covered broad reproductive care narrowed to one core product—IVF—then absorbed private-equity incentives and startup-style operations. The result can be speed over safeguards, glossy lobbies over lab quality, and patients left guessing about real risk.
In this episode, you’ll learn how to look past marketing, ask process-focused questions, and spot profit-driven decisions before they shape your care. Press play to learn how to evaluate clinics with clarity and confidence.
What You’ll Learn:
03:14 — How REI shifted from medicine to marketing
04:50 — Why private equity targets IVF clinics
06:52 — How fast growth leads to dangerous mistakes
08:20 — Real cases of embryo mix-ups and clinic errors
14:30 — The lab procedures you never get to see
16:50 — Why clinics reject patients to protect success rates
17:34 — Add-on procedures that increase cost but not outcomes
19:39 — How intended parents can push for industry change
Resources Mentioned:
SMS#47 Hidden Risks of PGT-A Testing in IVF and Surrogacy - Allison Freeman
Key Takeaways:
A narrow, procedure-driven model can sideline safety and transparency.
Lobby aesthetics never substitute for validated lab processes and controls.
Profit incentives may shape add-ons, timelines, and who performs procedures.
Ask precise, process-focused questions to evaluate real clinic safeguards.
Choosing or re-evaluating a clinic? Use today’s questions to assess lab quality, staffing, and add-on recommendations—then press play for the full guide.
“Don’t judge care by the lobby. Ask how the lab protects your embryos.”
You’ve waited, hoped, and dreamed—and now your baby is coming home. But what happens next?
In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne sits down with postpartum coach and doula Jaquie Dason to talk about the emotional, physical, and mental transition that happens after surrogacy. From bonding fears and sleep anxiety to preparing your home (and heart) for life with a newborn, Jaquie shares the practical tools and emotional truths every intended parent should know—especially those feeling nervous, unsure, or overwhelmed by the “what now?”
Jaquie also shares her own unique connection to the surrogacy world—she was born through traditional surrogacy herself—and what that means for the way she supports families today.
What You’ll Learn:
00:50 — Why bonding fears are normal for parents through surrogacy
02:28 — What postpartum advice isn’t being passed down anymore
04:13 — Safe sleep myths from older generations (and how to update them)
06:17 — Why surrogacy parents may struggle more with sleep loss
08:07 — Creating a surrogacy-specific parenting course
09:31 — How to build secure attachment even without pregnancy
11:15 — What “secure attachment” means—and how to create it
13:06 — Understanding newborn cues: hunger, overstimulation, and more
14:07 — Dunstan Baby Language and how sounds reveal baby needs
15:08 — Why confidence grows when you understand your baby
17:27 — Why instinct alone isn’t enough—you need tools
19:01 — The #1 thing parents over-prepare for (hint: it’s not knowledge)
21:06 — Jaquie’s birth story as a child of traditional surrogacy
23:51 — On bonding without breastfeeding: “My mom didn’t, and we were incredibly close”
26:33 — What it felt like to meet her birth mom
30:40 — How to talk to your child about their surrogacy story
32:23 — The best book for toddlers learning how babies are made
33:50 — Why traditional surrogacy still deserves clarity and respect
34:44 — The truth about spoiling your newborn (you can’t!)
35:43 — Sleep strategies that work—within 24-hour cycles
36:39 — How to ask for help (and why you absolutely should)
37:42 — Final advice for anxious intended parents preparing to bring home baby
Resources Mentioned:
Jaquie Dason
Instagram: @jaquiepostpartumcoach
Key Takeaways:
Secure attachment is created through compassion, response, and connection—not pregnancy
Bonding is possible and powerful, no matter how your baby arrives
Tools like newborn cue recognition and postpartum support reduce fear and increase confidence
You don’t have to do this alone—and you were never meant to
If you're preparing to bring home your baby, give yourself permission to get support. Explore Jaquie’s surrogacy-specific parenting course. Use BloomBridge to build your fourth-trimester toolkit.
“You can’t spoil a newborn. They need love, holding, and support—just like you do.”
When you’ve been through surrogacy once, everything changes the second time around.
In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares what she and her family are doing differently on their second surrogacy journey—and how those changes can help you avoid common setbacks, delays, and disappointments.
From choosing not to rush, to using the Surrogacy First Six, to prioritizing proximity and emotional alignment over speed, this episode is a masterclass in intentional surrogacy planning.
Whether you’re just starting out or already navigating your second (or third) journey, Alyssa walks you through 10 key things they’re doing differently—and why BloomBridge was built to simplify it all for other parents.
What You’ll Learn:
00:52 — Why they’re building BloomBridge while doing surrogacy again
03:36 — The first time vs second time: what they wish they knew
05:18 — What their “200-page Google Doc” turned into
07:50 — Why DIY surrogacy research wastes more than time
08:28 — New approach to matching with surrogates through BloomBridge
09:31 — Why compatibility scores and ID verification matter
11:21 — How they’re preparing potential surrogates before matching
12:12 — Why they’re not using a traditional agency—and how concierge support might replace it
13:18 — Clarifying that BloomBridge supports both independent and agency-based paths
14:49 — How the Surrogacy First Six became a filter to prevent misalignment
16:45 — The power of saying no and being picky
17:28 — Why proximity (driving distance) now matters more than ever
20:12 — The “small red flag” story they ignored last time (and now won’t)
21:20 — Why they’re using escrow this time—and how it avoids financial conflict
22:40 — Alyssa’s healing experience with induced lactation after hysterectomy
24:32 — The push present she wishes she had: a postpartum doula
27:26 — What a great doula actually did for their family
30:17 — Why nutrition planning with Green Chef became their postpartum secret weapon
33:30 — What this second journey is really about: doing it better—and doing it for you, too
Resources Mentioned:
(Note- This post includes an affiliate link. That means if you try Green Chef through our link, we may receive a small thank-you commission—at no extra cost to you. We only share things we genuinely use and recommend.)
Thinking about surrogacy—or doing it again? 💡 Start where Alyssa did this time: with BloomBridge. 💻 Create your free profile, explore vetted surrogates, and plan your next steps with tools built for you.
“We’re still living the story, but now—as we walk—we’re creating the map.”
Double embryo transfer (DET) is often discouraged in surrogacy—but are there ever exceptions?
In this follow-up to their powerful SET vs. DET conversation, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne welcomes back Dr. Erica Bove to explore the rare—but real—cases where two embryos might be transferred into a surrogate. Together, they explore age-based ASRM guidelines, the impact of embryo quality, endometriosis, failed cycles, and how patient history can influence decision-making.
They also discuss surrogate qualifications, uterine environment, legal contracts, and the emotional nuances that make this one of the most complex decisions in modern family-building.
What You’ll Learn:
00:50 — Why single embryo transfer (SET) is still the gold standard
02:04 — The ASRM exceptions for older eggs, day-3 embryos, or poor prognosis
04:21 — How genetic testing changes the equation completely
05:30 — 30–50% twin risk with two euploid embryos
06:13 — Why most OBs are still “twitchy” about DET—even in IVF
07:09 — Whether failed transfers or miscarriages justify DET
08:13 — The miscarriage data no one talks about with twins
09:08 — Endometriosis and embryo quality—even in a new uterus
10:42 — Whether surrogate height or twin history matter (data vs assumptions)
12:22 — Why surrogacy matching must include detailed contracts and expectations
14:35 — The role of values, identity, and support in surrogacy decision-making
16:44 — Why traditional fertility support groups don’t always work for surrogacy parents
18:51 — The need for dedicated surrogate-focused support and coaching
21:57 — The unseen stress surrogates face—and why they deserve emotional support too
23:46 — How Dr. Bove’s coaching changed her practice and patient relationships
26:52 — The #1 message Dr. Bove wants every intended parent to remember
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
Even in rare cases, DET requires deep evaluation of egg quality, age, history, and uterine environment
PGT-A tested embryos dramatically raise the chance of twins—up to 50%
Height and prior twin deliveries may be helpful—but evidence is still anecdotal
Legal contracts and clear emotional support plans are critical in complex surrogacy cases
Surrogates deserve emotional care—not just medical clearance
Planning your embryo transfer? 📱 Use BloomBridge to plan your full journey—transfers, timelines, and emotional support included.
“More efficient isn’t always safer. A single embryo transfer is still the best path to a healthy baby.”
Should you transfer one embryo—or two?
In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne sits down with reproductive endocrinologist and OB/GYN Dr. Erica Bove to talk about one of the most emotionally charged and medically controversial decisions in IVF and surrogacy: single vs. double embryo transfer (SET vs DET).
From real-life patient stories to hard NICU truths, Dr. Bove shares why many doctors are urging families to think twice about twin pregnancies—even if they seem like the faster or more affordable option. You’ll learn about the hidden risks, financial trade-offs, ethical gray zones, and what ASRM guidelines actually say about embryo transfer in surrogacy cases.
This conversation is especially important for intended parents considering transferring more than one embryo—and for those who think “more is better.”
What You’ll Learn:
00:52 — What SET and DET really mean in IVF and surrogacy
03:59 — Why multiple embryo transfer used to be standard practice
05:49 — Does transferring two embryos give you a better chance?
07:29 — The financial argument for DET—and its hidden flaws
08:32 — The emotional cost of doing surrogacy twice
10:53 — What if each parent wants a biologically related child?
12:47 — Why OB/GYNs “twitch” when patients ask for DET
13:50 — The hard facts about twin pregnancies: early births, NICU stays, and long-term disability
16:14 — Why twins are medically riskier for both the surrogate and the babies
17:04 — What the ASRM guidelines recommend—and why
19:26 — What you’re really signing up for when you choose DET
20:02 — How embryo splitting can lead to unexpected triplets or quadruplets
21:55 — Real stories of selective reduction—and the emotional toll
23:08 — How medical ethics come into play when DET is requested
24:57 — When double embryo transfer might be considered (and who decides)
Resources Mentioned:
Dr Erica Bove- Instagram and Website
Key Takeaways:
SET is almost always safer—for the babies, surrogate, and your long-term outcomes
DET comes with higher risks: preterm birth, NICU time, and pregnancy complications
The financial “savings” of twins often disappear in NICU bills and long-term care
Your decision affects not just you, but your surrogate—and that relationship matters
You can still have two children—just not always in one pregnancy
Thinking about transferring more than one embryo? 🎧 Start with this episode, then download the ASRM guidelines and review your clinic’s policies.
📱 Explore BloomBridge for vetted surrogacy tools, smarter decisions, and support for both heart and science.
“You can put in two embryos and still end up with four babies. Are you ready for that?”
The traditional surrogacy match system isn’t working. Whether you’re with an agency or searching independently, most intended parents are unknowingly set up to fail—or settle.
From long waitlists and lack of transparency to mismatches and hidden costs, Alyssa breaks down the outdated dynamics inside both agency and independent paths. She shares why how you find a surrogate matters just as much as who you match with—and introduces a better way forward through the BloomBridge platform.
What You’ll Learn:
00:00 — Why online matching groups can be risky
01:46 — The two ways to find a surrogate (agency vs independent)
03:29 — Why agencies feel “safe” but aren’t always regulated
05:20 — Alyssa’s personal journey comparing 20+ agencies
06:02 — The tool she created to simplify agency research
07:41 — What really happens when agencies “match” you
09:18 — What independent matching is (and isn’t)
11:11 — How Alyssa matched in 8 weeks vs a 2-year agency quote
12:06 — The truth about disqualified surrogates in online spaces
13:55 — The emotional cost of the traditional match process
15:20 — Why most intended parents are worn down before they match
16:14 — What BloomBridge is doing differently to fix the system
17:46 — What “the right match” really means for your journey
18:23 — Recap of key takeaways and tools you can use right now
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
The match process is outdated, slow, and often lacks transparency
Agencies vary wildly—there’s no regulation and little accountability
Independent matching can work—but only with strategy and vetting tools
Most intended parents are stuck in a system that drains their energy
BloomBridge makes surrogates visible, organized, and accessible—finally
If you’ve been spinning your wheels with agencies or burned out by online matching groups, it’s time to take control. ✨ Download the BloomBridge app to start seeing real surrogate options and make informed, empowered decisions from day one.
“The system isn’t broken—it’s just outdated. You deserve more than hoping and waiting. You deserve to choose.”
Surrogacy is an exciting and emotional journey—but it’s also complex and full of potential pitfalls. From choosing the cheapest option to rushing into the first match, there are mistakes that could cost you more than just money—they could cost you time, peace of mind, and years of waiting.
In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne breaks down 5 common surrogacy mistakes that can derail your plans. She shares insights from her own surrogacy journey and practical advice for avoiding these mistakes, ensuring your journey stays smooth, supported, and on track.
🎧 If you’re feeling overwhelmed by surrogacy options or unsure how to start, this episode is your guide to avoiding the biggest missteps.
What You’ll Learn:
01:40 — The hidden dangers of choosing the cheapest surrogacy option
03:12 — Why all surrogacy agencies are NOT the same
05:10 — How to ensure your surrogate shares your core values (and why this matters)
07:14 — Why rushing to match can hurt you more than help you
09:00 — The real cost of relying on online forums instead of expert advice
11:24 — How to assess agencies and surrogates with a clear, informed mindset
13:30 — How doing it right the first time saves you stress, time, and money
15:02 — The personal story behind Alyssa’s own mistake and what she learned
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
Cutting corners on surrogacy can cost you years of time and emotional energy
Agencies are not one-size-fits-all—invest time to find the right fit
Clear communication, matched values, and solid preparation can save you money
Don’t rely on online forums or incomplete advice—use expert support for peace of mind
Already feeling like you’ve made some of these mistakes? It’s not too late to course-correct! Download our Surrogate Vetting Essentials Guide and get expert tools to set yourself up for a smoother, less stressful surrogacy journey.
“Surrogacy doesn’t have to be a maze. The more informed you are, the smoother your journey will be.”
Ever wonder what your fertility clinic is really using to determine if a surrogate is a “yes” or a “no”?
In this essential episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne breaks down the official ASRM guidelines—the very framework most U.S. fertility clinics use to decide what’s acceptable, what’s risky, and what’s required in surrogacy. These aren’t laws, but they shape everything from who qualifies as a surrogate to how many embryos can be transferred.
This episode will help you understand red flags, ask smarter questions, and save yourself time, money, and heartbreak—especially if you're going independent or have already matched.
What You’ll Learn:
03:15 — What the ASRM guidelines are (and why they matter)
04:50 — How understanding them can protect you from losing tens of thousands of dollars
06:32 — Who qualifies as an intended parent (it’s more inclusive than you think)
09:48 — Who can be a surrogate and which health guidelines are non-negotiable
12:35 — Medical tests surrogates must pass before approval
14:37 — Why vaccination status matters in contract agreements
15:16 — The emotional side of surrogacy: what ASRM says about mental health support
18:14 — Legal must-haves before embryo transfer can begin
20:14 — Embryo transfer guidelines (spoiler: single embryo is strongly recommended)
21:57 — When two embryos might be considered and why nuance matters
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
The ASRM guidelines aren’t laws, but they shape most clinical and agency decisions
Not every disqualified surrogate is a “bad match”—context matters
You don’t need to be infertile to qualify for surrogacy, just have a documented medical need
Contracts, mental health screening, and single embryo transfer are all non-optional steps
Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin? Download the BloomBridge app and grab the Surrogate Vetting Essentials Guide to get clarity before matching or submitting records to a clinic.
“Surrogacy isn’t simple—but with the ASRM guidelines in your back pocket, you’re not walking in blind.”
This episode is your all-access pass to the real surrogacy questions people are too afraid to ask—or don’t know they should.
From choosing a clinic and evaluating surrogates to understanding rematch policies, legal logistics, and even inducing lactation—Dr. Alyssa Small Layne brings her unique perspective as both an OB/GYN and a two-time intended parent through surrogacy. You’ll hear real questions from the community, broken down with clarity, honesty, and lived experience.
If you’ve ever wondered “is this normal?” or “what should I be doing differently?”—this conversation is for you.
What You’ll Learn:
01:38 — How to start the surrogacy process if you're using your own eggs
04:57 — What to ask during your very first agency consult
07:03 — The six non-negotiable values you and your surrogate must align on
11:49 — Why red flags aren’t just about medical history, but values too
12:26 — How to evaluate surrogate profiles (real examples included!)
16:32 — What to do if your surrogate backs out and you haven’t been rematched
19:24 — Why FDA testing requirements confuse international intended parents
23:09 — How carrier screening works—and when it should happen
24:54 — Can you do a DNA test after birth if you have doubts?
28:17 — Is it possible to induce lactation without medication?
31:10 — Can your surrogate deliver in a different city or state?
Resources Mentioned:
ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion
BloomBridge Surrogacy App: https://gojunie.com/solutions/bloombridge
Key Takeaways:
You deserve better than agencies showing unqualified surrogates
Rematch policies matter—ask before you sign
International parents face extra testing rules, but there are workarounds
Early planning prevents delivery chaos—especially across state lines
Your questions are valid, and asking them protects your baby and your peace of mind
Loved this Q&A format? Let us know your surrogacy questions for future episodes or explore the BloomBridge app for vetted tools, agency lists, and insider insights to guide every step of your journey.
“You’re not fumbling in the dark. You’re not at the mercy of the system. You’re the parent building your family—and you're going to get there.”
Ever wonder what your fertility clinic is really using to determine if a surrogate is a “yes” or a “no”?
In this essential episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne breaks down the official ASRM guidelines—the very framework most U.S. fertility clinics use to decide what’s acceptable, what’s risky, and what’s required in surrogacy. These aren’t laws, but they shape everything from who qualifies as a surrogate to how many embryos can be transferred.
This episode will help you understand red flags, ask smarter questions, and save yourself time, money, and heartbreak—especially if you're going independent or have already matched.
What You’ll Learn:
03:15 — What the ASRM guidelines are (and why they matter)
04:50 — How understanding them can protect you from losing tens of thousands of dollars
06:32 — Who qualifies as an intended parent (it’s more inclusive than you think)
09:48 — Who can be a surrogate and which health guidelines are non-negotiable
12:35 — Medical tests surrogates must pass before approval
14:37 — Why vaccination status matters in contract agreements
15:16 — The emotional side of surrogacy: what ASRM says about mental health support
18:14 — Legal must-haves before embryo transfer can begin
20:14 — Embryo transfer guidelines (spoiler: single embryo is strongly recommended)
21:57 — When two embryos might be considered and why nuance matters
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
The ASRM guidelines aren’t laws, but they shape most clinical and agency decisions
Not every disqualified surrogate is a “bad match”—context matters
You don’t need to be infertile to qualify for surrogacy, just have a documented medical need
Contracts, mental health screening, and single embryo transfer are all non-optional steps
Feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin?
Download the BloomBridge app and grab the Surrogate Vetting Essentials Guide to get clarity before matching or submitting records to a clinic.
“Surrogacy isn’t simple—but with the ASRM guidelines in your back pocket, you’re not walking in blind.”
When is the “right time” to tell your child they were donor conceived? And how do you talk about it in a way that builds connection—not confusion?
In this powerful follow-up to Episode 53, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne speaks with Wendy Kramer, co-founder of the Donor Sibling Registry and parent of a donor-conceived son. Together, they tackle the big questions: how early to start the conversation, what language to use with toddlers and teens, and how to support your child emotionally when their donor or half-siblings don’t respond.
Whether you’re still expecting or already parenting a donor-conceived child, this episode will give you real-world tools, language, and compassion to lead your family forward.
What You’ll Learn:
01:01 — Why waiting to tell your child can lead to deep regret
02:06 — How to raise donor-conceived kids with realistic expectations
03:19 — Why donors (and half-siblings) sometimes say no
06:00 — Tips for reaching out to a donor or relative respectfully
08:17 — How to start the conversation with toddlers and young children
09:19 — The children’s book Wendy wrote to guide these conversations
11:08 — Why kids deserve to grow up knowing their donor family
13:30 — When to start searching for half-siblings (hint: before birth!)
15:08 — How the DSR protects your privacy during early contact
17:06 — Why the industry resists openness—and who profits from it
20:24 — What Wendy wishes the donor conception industry would change
21:38 — The most powerful thing she’s learned from thousands of families
22:13 — The #1 message Wendy wants all intended parents to remember
Resources Mentioned:
SMS #26 - The Man with 1000 Kids - Safety Precautions for Surrogacy
SMS #54 - Why Biology Matters: How to Find Donor Siblings and Families for Your Child - Wendy Kramer
Book Your family - a donor kids story: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Family-Donor-Kids-Story/dp/0692106936
Key Takeaways:
Don’t wait for your child to ask—start the donor conversation early
If a donor says “no,” it’s often about fear or timing—not rejection
Early openness prevents identity confusion and builds trust
You can build relationships with donor relatives without losing your parental role
Ready to start the conversation—or deepen it—with your child? Explore BloomBridge’s donor conception resources or connect with Wendy and the DSR to join thousands of families leading with love and openness.
“You don’t wait for kids to discover their cousins—so why would you wait for them to find their half-siblings?”
What happens when your child starts asking about their biological roots—and you realize you don’t have all the answers?
In Part 1 of this thoughtful two-part series, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne explores why donor-conceived children often seek connection to their genetic identity, how families can prepare for these questions, and the pros and cons of platforms like the Donor Sibling Registry (DSR). Whether you're using an egg, sperm, or embryo donor, this episode will help you navigate the emotional, ethical, and practical sides of sharing your child’s origin story.
What You’ll Learn:
Why biology matters to donor-conceived kids—even if you’re the full-time parent
How early conversations about origin shape identity and trust
The difference between anonymous vs. known donors
What the Donor Sibling Registry is and how it works
The emotional weight of “finding out” vs. “growing up knowing”
Why openness now avoids difficult surprises later
What to expect when connecting with donor siblings or half-sibling families
Legal limitations around donor tracking
How to emotionally prepare before searching
Why this isn’t about replacing you—it’s about completing a part of them
Resources Mentioned:
SMS #26- The Man with 1000 Kids - Safety Precautions for Surrogacy
Book Your family - a donor kids story: https://www.amazon.com/Your-Family-Donor-Kids-Story/dp/0692106936
Key Takeaways:
Children often care about their genetic identity more than we expect
Early openness creates stronger family bonds
DSR is one of the few platforms that allows intentional, mutual contact
Parents should emotionally prepare before connecting with donor-linked families
What happens when a baby born via surrogacy in the U.S. is suddenly left in legal limbo—unable to get a passport, unable to go home?
In this urgent and eye-opening conversation, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne sits down with attorney and former intended parent Lesa Slaughter to explain the fast-changing legal landscape around birthright citizenship. They unpack what the Trump-era executive order could mean for international intended parents, the risks of stateless children, and what you must do now to protect your baby’s legal status.
Even if you’re U.S.-based, this conversation touches on surrogacy agency ethics, escrow fraud, and how to choose the right legal support. If you're planning a surrogacy journey or already matched with a surrogate, this is essential listening.
What You’ll Learn:
01:18 — Why the executive order threatens birthright citizenship
03:00 — What the courts have said so far (and what’s next)
06:50 — How international parents usually secure a U.S. passport
08:00 — Why dual citizenship may not protect you
10:00 — Why international parents need three lawyers, not two
12:14 — What happens if the order takes effect (hint: you don’t want to be the test case)
16:35 — How babies born via surrogacy can become stateless
20:00 — Why manipulating birth certificates could be considered fraud
23:55 — Should you still pursue U.S. surrogacy? Lesa’s honest advice
26:30 — What to ask your agency about post-birth support
28:00 — Why surrogacy agencies are largely unregulated
30:00 — State-specific laws around attorneys and escrow
35:00 — Final advice: build a team, expect the unexpected, and prepare
Resources Mentioned:
Matched already? Planning your journey? Don’t wait—consult with an experienced U.S. reproductive attorney AND an immigration lawyer from your home country. Then download the BloomBridge app to map your legal prep step-by-step.
“You vetted your surrogate, picked the perfect clinic—now make sure your baby has a way home.”
When you're searching for a surrogate, it’s easy to focus on personality, values, or past experience—but there’s one key factor many intended parents overlook: BMI.
In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares what BMI really means for surrogacy, why fertility clinics and agencies have strict BMI cutoffs, and how to approach the topic with compassion and clarity. This is the conversation Alyssa wishes she could have with every intended parent before they fall in love with a surrogate match that doesn’t meet medical screening.
🎧 If you’re unsure what “too high” or “too low” really means—or what the risks are to your surrogate, baby, and budget—this episode is your roadmap.
What You’ll Learn:
01:44 — The BMI red flag in a forum post that sparked this conversation
02:23 — Why a surrogate’s OB clearance doesn’t mean clinic approval
03:44 — The medical risks of high BMI for surrogate and baby
06:52 — How high BMI affects embryo transfer success and miscarriage risk
08:27 — Real-world costs of BMI-related complications
09:32 — What are the actual BMI cutoffs (and who sets them)?
11:14 — The “double standard” debate: IVF for self vs. IVF for surrogacy
13:20 — Why BMI is more than a number—and when to make exceptions
17:09 — OB clearance vs. final clinic approval
18:05 — Why independent surrogacy doesn’t mean cutting corners
21:40 — How to talk about BMI respectfully with your surrogate
23:26 — Ethical concerns when agencies push surrogates outside guidelines
25:26 — 5 steps to protect your journey and future baby
Resources Mentioned:
ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion
BloomBridge Surrogacy App: https://gojunie.com/solutions/bloombridge
Case management
“It's not about judgment—it’s about lowering risks and giving your baby the healthiest start possible.”
When it comes to IVF for surrogacy, not all fertility clinics are created equal. And the wrong choice can lead to delays, surprise restrictions, and missed chances at parenthood.
In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares four often-overlooked—but crucial—factors to consider when selecting a fertility clinic. From restrictive agency requirements to embryo thawing policies, this honest conversation is a must-listen before you commit to any clinic.
🎧 Whether you’ve already created embryos or are still exploring, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and choose a clinic that truly supports your journey.
What You’ll Learn:
02:28 — The surprising shift in support when you switch from IVF to surrogacy
04:06 — Why exclusivity deals with lawyers or therapists can be a red flag
08:17 — How independent surrogacy is treated differently by some clinics
10:54 — The surrogate vetting mistake that changed everything for Alyssa
13:18 — How to work around clinic pushback when going independent
14:30 — Real stories of communication delays that stalled surrogacy journeys
16:18 — What to ask about portal access, turnaround times, and surrogate updates
18:09 — The embryo transfer dealbreaker no one tells you about
20:21 — Why freeze/thaw protocols matter when changing clinics
22:11 — A 4-part checklist for choosing the right clinic
Resources Mentioned:
SMS #39: 4 Crucial Tips for Choosing a Great Surrogacy Clinic
ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion
“You’ve already waited long enough—don’t let the wrong clinic make you wait even longer.”
Should you work with two surrogates at once? What does it take—mentally, emotionally, and logistically—to grow your family through a dual surrogacy path?
In this vulnerable and empowering episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne speaks with Carly Joseph, a mom of two babies born via two separate surrogates just months apart. Carly shares what led her to pursue surrogacy after eight IVF cycles and six pregnancy losses, what it was like to walk two paths simultaneously, and how she now supports others as a surrogacy concierge.
🎧 Whether you're an intended parent exploring your options or just want to hear what resilience really looks like—this one will move you.
What You’ll Learn:
03:12 — Why Carly turned to surrogacy after years of IVF and loss
06:28 — What fertility clinics don’t tell you about the process
09:28 — What happened after her first surrogate’s pregnancy ended in loss
14:43 — Matching with a second surrogate while grieving and hoping
16:51 — The emotional weight of transferring embryos to two surrogates
18:55 — One surrogate pregnant, another on deck—when the timeline overlaps
23:30 — NICU stays, caregiving logistics, and becoming a parent to two babies
27:50 — The practical and emotional challenges of dual surrogacy
35:51 — What Carly wishes she had known before starting
Resources Mentioned:
What if your insurance actually helped you build your family?
In this conversation, surrogacy attorney and longtime advocate Ryan Ferrante joins Dr. Alyssa Small Layne to break down how Illinois is setting a national standard for inclusive, patient-centered fertility coverage.
They discuss how advocacy, state legislation, and redefined infertility standards are expanding access for LGBTQ+ families, single parents, and anyone needing third-party reproduction—including surrogacy. Whether you're facing frustrating denials, unclear mandates, or sky-high costs, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to ask better questions, get involved, and know your rights.
🎧 Press play to learn why what’s happening in Illinois could be a blueprint for the rest of the country.
What You’ll Learn:
02:33 — How Ryan’s surrogacy journey led him to legal advocacy
07:47 — Why Illinois is considered the gold standard in fertility access
10:46 — The major shift in how infertility is now defined—and why it matters
16:34 — What “surrogacy-friendly insurance” really means
22:48 — Could embryo transfer and screening be covered in Illinois? It’s possible.
24:52 — The non-binding referendum that 72% of Illinois voters supported
30:45 — What’s now covered under Illinois fertility mandates (hint: PGT, IVF, and more)
34:23 — IVF and abortion rights: why they’re more connected than people think
38:30 — How to advocate for change in just two questions: why am I here, and how can you help?
Resources Mentioned:
🧭 Resolve: The National Infertility Association
📝 Federal Advocacy Day
📘 American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
🧡 BloomBridge App — includes the Surrogacy Step-by-Step Guide & Cost Calculator
“Advocacy isn’t just for lawmakers—it starts with a story. And that story might be yours.”
PGT-A testing has been promoted as a breakthrough—promising fewer miscarriages, faster time to pregnancy, and better IVF outcomes. But what if those claims aren’t fully backed by science?
In this follow-up conversation, fertility attorney and IVF mom Allison Freeman returns to discuss the pending class-action lawsuits filed against embryo testing labs. She and Alyssa break down what patients are being told, why those promises may be misleading, and the real risks for anyone making decisions based on PGT-A results.
🎧 If you're facing embryo decisions, surrogacy timelines, or wondering whether testing is really worth the cost—this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn:
01:52 — Why the lawsuits target labs (not clinics) and what’s being claimed
02:10 — The bold promises made by PGT-A labs—and why they raise red flags
05:36 — Could lawsuits increase IVF costs or hurt innovation?
08:17 — The real financial burden of testing (and its ripple effects)
10:00 — How PGT-A took off in the U.S. despite early skepticism
12:10 — When PGT-A might be helpful—and when it’s overused
14:56 — Why Allison chose to keep her mosaic embryos in storage
16:43 — IVF “add-ons”: what they are and how to question them
21:12 — What to ask your clinic before agreeing to any test or protocol
Resources Mentioned:
Surrogacy Step-By-Step Guide https://gojunie.com/surrogacy-starter-kit
Time Article: IVF Patients Say a Test Caused Them to Discard Embryos. Now They’re Suing
SMS - Hidden Risks of PGT-A Testing in IVF and Surrogacy - Allison Freeman (Part 1)
BloomBridge Surrogacy App: https://gojunie.com/solutions/bloombridge
PGT-A testing is marketed as a smart, science-backed way to improve your chances of a healthy baby. But what if it’s not giving you the full story?
In this eye-opening conversation, fertility attorney and IVF mom Allison Freeman joins Alyssa to unpack the science, marketing, and legal implications behind preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).
From personal IVF loss to class-action lawsuits, Allison shares why more patients are questioning the test—and why some may be discarding embryos based on misleading or unvalidated results.
🎧 If you’re considering embryo testing—or already making transfer decisions—this episode is a must-listen.
What You’ll Learn:
02:16 — Allison’s IVF journey and two very different paths to motherhood
09:08 — How a personal red flag during IUI launched her legal advocacy
16:24 — What PGT-A testing is, and how it’s commonly presented to patients
19:04 — The rise in “zero embryos” after testing—and what that might mean
21:55 — Why PGT-A biopsies aren’t as definitive as many think
26:27 — The risks of relying on embryo testing to avoid miscarriage
29:46 — How PGT-A impacts surrogacy matching and timeline delays
34:54 — What ASRM’s new guidance really says—and what patients often miss
Resources Mentioned:
Key Takeaways:
PGT-A is widely used—but hasn’t been validated the way most patients expect
The test analyzes placental (not fetal) tissue, which can cause discrepancies
Surrogates and agencies often require PGT-A without understanding its limitations
Patients should ask: what am I being promised, and is there data to back it up?
🎧 Considering embryo testing? With ASRM’s most recent guidance, and the BloomBridge surrogacy app you'll be prepared for tough decisions.
