Cycling is the medical process used to synchronize the reproductive cycles of the Surrogate and the Egg Donor or Intended Mother before embryo transfer. Hormonal medications are used in a precise sequence to prepare the Surrogate’s uterus and stimulate egg production in the donor. The process runs on a carefully monitored timeline, with ultrasounds and blood tests guiding each stage. Getting cycling right is foundational to a successful surrogacy outcome.
Are you starting your journey as an Intended Parent or a Surrogate? Congratulations. This experience brings meaning, growth, and the arrival of a new life.
Many people are curious about surrogacy and what the process entails. That’s why we at Simple Surrogacy have decided to educate our readers about the surrogacy process! Understanding “What is cycling in surrogacy?” marks one of the earliest steps in preparing for the path ahead. This article explains cycling, how it works, and its role in the overall journey.
After the Surrogate and the Egg Donor (or Intended Mother) complete contracts and medical screening, the next step is cycle synchronization. This alignment makes embryo transfer possible at the correct time.
Cycle synchronization typically begins with birth control pills. Around 14 days in, both the Surrogate and the Egg Donor begin taking Lupron, a medication administered via injection just under the skin.
Lupron works by temporarily pausing the body’s natural hormone production, allowing the medical team to precisely control the cycle timing. The goal is to have the Surrogate’s uterus prepared and ready at exactly the right moment for the best possible results.
You can get a broader overview of how this fits into the full journey on our surrogacy process page.
The Surrogate usually begins the process about one week before the Egg Donor. This timing gives the uterus time to develop a receptive lining before egg retrieval occurs.
Once her menstrual cycle begins on Lupron, the dosage is usually reduced by half. At this stage, she starts Estrogen replacement, which may come in the form of pills, patches, or injections.
Depending on the individual, the doctor may also introduce:
Once the uterine lining reaches an ideal thickness, the Surrogate can be kept in a holding pattern for up to two weeks. This built-in flexibility allows the medical team to time everything precisely around the egg retrieval.
On the third day of her cycle, the Egg Donor begins injectable fertility hormones. These stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs rather than the usual one or two. The hormone injections continue for seven to twelve days, depending on how her body responds.
Monitoring is frequent and thorough during this phase. She will typically be seen around three times a week through ultrasound and blood work to track follicle development. Once the follicles reach 18 to 20mm, she receives an HCG injection. This triggers an LH surge, helping the eggs mature fully. Exactly 36 hours after the HCG shot, egg retrieval takes place.
The retrieved eggs are then fertilized using sperm from the Intended Father or a donor, and the fertilized eggs are incubated for two to five days before transfer.
On the day of retrieval, the Surrogate stops Lupron and begins Progesterone replacement, usually through intramuscular injections, though suppositories or Crinone gel are also options. Progesterone continues until the 12th week of pregnancy or until a negative test result is confirmed.
Estrogen replacement also continues until the placenta takes over hormone production at week 12. Since Lupron suppresses natural hormone output, external hormone supplementation is necessary to maintain the pregnancy during this window.
Choosing the right agency makes a meaningful difference at every stage of the process, including the cycling stage. Here is what sets us apart:
If you are thinking about becoming a Surrogate or are ready to explore surrogacy as an Intended Parent, knowing the medical process ahead of time makes the journey feel far less daunting.
Cycling is just one part of a carefully structured process, and knowing what lies ahead helps you move through it with confidence. Take a closer look at our surrogacy steps to see the full picture, and when you are ready to talk through your options, reach out to the Simple Surrogacy team.
Yes. Each person responds differently to hormones. Frequent ultrasound and blood tests guide adjustments in dosage and timing. This creates a customized schedule rather than a fixed timeline.
A failed transfer does not end the journey. Remaining viable embryos may be frozen and used in a subsequent transfer attempt. The medical team reviews what occurred and adjusts the protocol before the next cycle begins.
Most Surrogates describe the injections as manageable rather than painful, though comfort levels vary. Intramuscular Progesterone injections can cause localized soreness. Medical teams provide guidance on injection technique and site rotation, which helps minimize discomfort throughout the cycling period.
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