Oftentimes, embryos are created before the search for a surrogate begins. This is part of the IVF process and makes gestational surrogacy possible.

In this step:

• The Intended Parent(s) provide their gametes and/or get help from a donor.
  

• Fertilization can be done conventionally or through direct injection (ICSI). They are incubated and graded for up to 7 days when it hatches. Yes, we all hatched at one time.
  

• Sometimes preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is done to evaluate the embryo's genetic qualities or diseases.
  

• Embryos are then cryopreserved for hopeful use. Water is replaced with a protective fluid and flash-frozen with liquid nitrogen to be stored below -266° F.