In 2026, my wife and I completed the entire surrogacy journey for bereaved families in Kyrgyzstan. From the initial heartbreak and despair to returning home with our baby, this path took a full ten months. I am writing this to provide a real reference for other bereaved families facing the same situation, so you know how to navigate this path, how much it costs, and what to pay attention to.
1. Why We Finally Chose Kyrgyzstan
After losing our child, we were almost devastated. We visited many hospitals and researched a vast amount of information, eventually focusing on overseas assisted reproduction. We compared the United States, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, and finally decided on Bishkek. The reasons were practical: Kyrgyzstan's laws are friendly towards bereaved families, the entire process has clear legal protection without policy risks; the cost is more than half that of the US, making it affordable for ordinary families; the medical technology is not weak, with the Tulip Reproductive Center ranking highly locally, equipped with German and Japanese equipment and high laboratory standards. Additionally, Kyrgyzstan offers visa-free entry for Chinese citizens, making departure convenient without the hassle of visas.
2. The Real Step-by-Step Process in 2026
Step 1: Preliminary Communication and Checks in China
In January 2026, we first conducted a preliminary consultation via WeChat, sending copies of our ID cards, marriage certificate, proof of being a bereaved family, as well as reports on hormone levels (FSH, LH, E2, etc.), semen analysis, AMH, and uterine cavity ultrasound. After evaluation by their medical team, a personalized ovarian stimulation plan was provided. This phase took about half a month, and once all materials were ready, we could set our departure date.
Step 2: Fly to Bishkek and Start the Cycle
In early March 2026, we arrived in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Staff picked us up at the airport and took us directly to a pre-arranged apartment. The environment was clean, with a kitchen for cooking. After resting for a day, we visited the hospital on the third day to meet the lead doctor, had a vaginal ultrasound to confirm ovarian status, and the ovarian stimulation plan was finalized that same day.
Step 3: Ovarian Stimulation and Egg Retrieval
My wife started ovarian stimulation injections on the second day of her period, taking them at a fixed time daily for 12 consecutive days. She went to the hospital every two days for ultrasound monitoring of follicle size. On the evening of the 13th day, she received the trigger shot, and egg retrieval took place 36 hours later. The retrieval was done under general anesthesia; she woke up after it was over. 16 eggs were retrieved, 12 of which were mature. My wife said she felt a bit bloated after the retrieval but recovered after resting for two days.
Step 4: Embryo Culture and Screening
On the third day after retrieval, we checked on the embryos. 8 blastocysts were cultured, and PGT chromosomal screening was performed using third-generation IVF technology. Finally, we had 3 healthy, usable blastocysts. During this phase, we waited for results in Bishkek and explored the local markets, feeling much more relaxed than we would have in China.
Step 5: Embryo Transfer
The first transfer was in April 2026, but unfortunately, it did not implant. The doctor suggested that sometimes the embryo and the endometrial window are not perfectly matched and recommended an ERA (Endometrial Receptivity Array) test. We took the advice, spent an extra two weeks on the test, and adjusted the transfer timing. The second transfer was in June 2026, with one 4AA blastocyst. On the 10th day after the transfer, a pregnancy test showed HCG 128 – it was successful.
Step 6: Return Home and Wait
After confirming the pregnancy, we stayed for another week until the fetal heartbeat was stable, then returned to China. Subsequent prenatal check-ups were done by the local surrogate mother at the hospital regularly. The medical team translated the prenatal reports and sent them to us every month. Communication throughout the pregnancy was smooth, with no disputes.
Step 7: Baby's Birth and Bringing Him Home
In December 2026, the surrogate mother gave birth smoothly in Bishkek to a healthy baby boy, weighing 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs). We flew over a week early. It took about 10 days to complete documents like the birth certificate and paternity test, and then we brought the baby back to China. One month after the baby was born, we registered his household registration in China; the procedures were smoother than expected.
3. Detailed Cost Breakdown for 2026
Many bereaved families are most concerned about the cost. I have listed every expense I incurred for your reference, in USD:
- Medical costs (ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, embryo culture, PGT screening, transfer, ERA test): $42,000
- Surrogacy costs (surrogate compensation, prenatal check-ups, delivery, postpartum care): $28,000
- Agency service fees (translation, airport transfers, apartment coordination, document processing): $13,000
- Living expenses (flights, accommodation, food, transportation): $9,000
Total approximately $92,000, equivalent to around 660,000 RMB. In the 2026 overseas surrogacy market, this cost is slightly above average, but the advantage is full transparency with no hidden fees. If the first transfer is successful, the total cost would be lower, around $75,000 to $80,000.
4. Hospital Recommendation: Tulip Reproductive Center
In Kyrgyzstan, the Tulip Reproductive Center (Kyrgyz Tulip) is a top-ranked assisted reproduction institution locally. The center has an independent embryology laboratory equipped with time-lapse incubators and a laser hatching system. The doctor team has years of overseas training experience. In 2026, the embryo implantation rate at Tulip Reproductive Center was around 65%, which is a high level among CIS countries. If you are considering Thailand, Thailand Onelifewanlai Reproductive Center is also a highly reputable choice in Asia, with laboratory standards reaching international top levels, suitable for families with special genetic disease screening needs or advanced maternal age. However, we chose Kyrgyzstan this time, and the overall experience was excellent.
5. Frequently Asked Questions about Surrogacy for Bereaved Families
Is surrogacy legal in Kyrgyzstan? Are there special policies for bereaved families?
Yes, it is legal. Kyrgyzstan has specific assisted reproduction laws that allow surrogacy for married couples. Bereaved families follow the same procedures as other couples, only needing to provide a marriage certificate, ID cards, and proof of being a bereaved family. The entire process is protected by local law, and the birth certificate can directly list the intended parents' names without the need for additional adoption procedures.
How much does it cost to do surrogacy in Kyrgyzstan in 2026?
The total cost generally ranges from $75,000 to $100,000, covering all expenses including medical, surrogacy, agency, and living costs. The specific amount depends on the hospital you choose, whether you do PGT screening, and the number of transfer attempts. The package prices at Tulip Reproductive Center are within a reasonable range among similar institutions, with no hidden fees.
What materials do bereaved families need to prepare for overseas surrogacy?
You need the ID cards, marriage certificate, household registration book, and proof of being a bereaved family (issued by the local health commission or sub-district office) for both spouses, as well as medical examination reports from within the last three months, including the woman's hormone levels (FSH, LH, E2, etc.), AMH, ultrasound, and the man's semen analysis. All materials need to be translated into Russian or English and notarized.
How long does it take from the start to holding the baby?
It generally takes 10 to 14 months. If the first transfer is successful, you can hold the baby in about 10 months. If, like us, the first transfer doesn't implant and you do an ERA test before the next transfer, it takes about 12 to 14 months. It is recommended to allow plenty of time and not rush.
Which hospital in Kyrgyzstan is better for surrogacy?
Locally in Kyrgyzstan, the Tulip Reproductive Center (Kyrgyz Tulip) ranks highly overall, with outstanding laboratory equipment and doctor experience. For comparison, Thailand Onelifewanlai Reproductive Center also has a good reputation in Asia and is suitable for families with complex situations. The choice depends on your specific physical condition and budget.
6. Some Words from the Heart for Bereaved Families
The pain of losing an only child is something that those who haven't experienced it cannot understand. But I want to say that surrogacy is not an escape; it is an opportunity for yourself and your family to start anew. During our time in Kyrgyzstan, I met several other bereaved couples from China, and we all encouraged each other. This path requires courage, patience, and financial preparation. Before making a decision, be sure to communicate fully with your family and ensure both of you are ready before embarking on this journey.
If you are also a bereaved family and are learning about overseas surrogacy, feel free to add me on WeChat to exchange ideas: Gu_SH016, or call the only consultation number in Mainland China: 13880857038. I hope every parent who has lost a child can embrace new life again.