ESHRE 2O25 Recap: How Fertility Innovation Is Shaping the Future of Surrogacy

Sitting at the airport in Paris after attending the 41st Annual Meeting of ESHRE (European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology), I’m reflecting on how much is changing in our world. From groundbreaking tech to shifting ethical conversations, the event spotlighted developments that directly impact surrogacy journeys, intended parents, and fertility clinics alike.

Here’s a breakdown of the major takeaways - and what they mean for the future of third-party reproduction and global surrogacy.

Artificial Intelligence Is Revolutionizing Fertility Care

Walking through ESHRE 2025, the transformation was undeniable - AI in IVF has moved from experimental curiosity to clinical cornerstone. This year proved that AI in fertility treatment isn't just a buzzword anymore; it's the reality reshaping how we approach reproductive medicine.

Clinics worldwide are now actively adopting machine learning tools to optimize ovarian stimulation protocols with unprecedented precision, embryo prediction in terms of viability and oocyte quality beyond human capability, and improve clinical decision-making using large-scale data analysis that was impossible just years ago.

The conversations weren't about potential anymore - they were about documented results. Embryologists shared stories of AI systems achieving 30% better pregnancy rates while reducing the emotional toll of multiple failed cycles that have historically defined the IVF experience.

For surrogacy specifically, these advances represent a complete paradigm shift in how we approach third-party reproduction.

What this means for surrogacy is nothing short of revolutionary: higher chances of success with fewer embryos needed for transfer, and potentially shorter journeys for intended parents who've often endured years of uncertainty.

The AI-powered oocyte and embryo selection systems are creating surrogacy experiences that are more efficient and emotionally sustainable. Instead of the traditional trial-and-error approach that could stretch surrogacy journeys across multiple years, we're seeing intended parents reach their goals faster with greater confidence in outcomes. The IVF technology isn't replacing the human touch that makes surrogacy so meaningful - it's amplifying our ability to optimize every aspect of the medical process.

PGT-A Controversy and NGS Under Ethical and Technical Scrutiny

The PGT-A controversy dominated every genetics session at ESHRE 2025, and the debates were intense. Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) in IVF were the hot topics everyone was talking about between sessions. While these embryo testing technologies offer deep insights into embryo genetics, there's growing concern about the ethical implications of embryo selection, over-reliance on mosaicism data, and potential loss of viable embryos due to rigid testing standards. The IVF ethics discussions were particularly heated, with some clinics admitting they might be discarding perfectly good embryos because the genetic data looks questionable on paper.

For surrogacy programs, this controversy hits differently because every embryo transfer carries enormous weight. As genetic testing in IVF becomes more advanced, surrogacy professionals and intended parents alike must stay informed about what's medically necessary - and what's still debated among experts. The reality is that we're still figuring out what all this genetic data actually means for successful pregnancies, and the gap between what we can test for and what we should test for keeps getting wider.

One Embryo Transfer (SET) Becoming the New Global Standard

Single embryo transfer is quietly becoming the default at clinics worldwide, and ESHRE 2025 made it clear this isn't just a trend - it's the new standard. More clinics around the world are switching to SET as their go-to protocol, representing a major shift from the "transfer two and hope for the best" mentality that dominated IVF for decades. This reflects a fundamental push for safer pregnancies, dramatically lower risk of twins or higher-order multiples, and better long-term health outcomes for both surrogate and baby. The data presented was compelling: countries that have embraced SET in surrogacy are seeing fewer NICU admissions, reduced maternal complications, and healthier babies overall.

For surrogacy professionals, this shift demands more strategic planning and completely different conversations with clients. The embryo transfer trends are forcing us to have clearer communication with clinics and intended parents about success rates and realistic expectations when you're only transferring one embryo at a time. 

Rise of Frozen Egg Banks

The rise of frozen egg donor banks was impossible to ignore at ESHRE 2025 - this trend is fundamentally reshaping how intended parents access donor gametes. The growth of frozen egg banks is changing the entire donor egg landscape, with more patients now buying pre-frozen donor oocytes instead of waiting for fresh cycles, skipping the traditional fresh donor cycle coordination completely, and using international egg banks to match more quickly than ever before. What used to take a few months of donor matching and cycle coordination can now happen in days. The convenience factor is undeniable, and the quality of frozen oocyte IVF has improved dramatically with better vitrification techniques.

For surrogacy programs, this shift is speeding up timelines for many journeys but creating new challenges we're still figuring out. While buying donor eggs from established banks eliminates the uncertainty of donor availability, it's also raising important questions around egg quality consistency, optimal batch size for each intended parent, and whether fertilization outcomes truly match fresh donor cycles. The conversations I had with embryologists revealed mixed feelings - some love the predictability, while others highlight that the final success rates as per the number of blastocysts received with a fresh cycle is still much higher.

Male Infertility Research Gains Momentum

Male infertility research finally got the spotlight it deserved at ESHRE 2025, and it was long overdue. For too long, male factor infertility was the overlooked piece of the fertility puzzle, but that's changing fast. The conference dedicated entire sessions to sperm quality, DNA fragmentation, and how paternal age affects outcomes in ways we're just beginning to understand. There was a major focus on the impact of lifestyle factors, environmental toxins, and BMI on male fertility - topics that used to get maybe one poster session but now had packed auditoriums. The advanced testing methods for male fertility being presented were genuinely impressive, from AI-powered sperm selection to genetic analysis that can pinpoint exactly why conception isn't happening.

This shift is crucial for IVF and male factor cases, especially since nearly 50% of infertility involves some male component. Better diagnosis of male infertility issues means more effective treatment paths for intended parents, and frankly, it means we stop putting women through endless procedures when the problem might be easily addressed on the male side. The conversations with andrologists revealed how much we've been missing - simple lifestyle changes, targeted supplements, or specific sperm preparation techniques can dramatically improve outcomes. For surrogacy programs, this means having more thorough preparation for sperm donation, which could save everyone time, money, and emotional energy down the road.

Embryos Created in One Country, Shipped for Surrogacy to Another

Cross-border surrogacy dominated private conversations with agencies and shipping companies at ESHRE 2025, and the numbers were staggering. A growing number of embryos are being created in one country and shipped internationally for transfer into a surrogate, creating an entirely new industry around international gamete transport. Countries like Argentina, Canada, and Albania were frequently discussed as origin points, while Mexico, Colombia and surprisingly Ghana in recent months were on the receiving side with one global transport provider reporting that 90% of their business is now surrogacy-related. The scale of this movement is unprecedented—we're talking about thousands of embryos crossing borders monthly, each representing someone's hope for a family and requiring precise temperature control, legal documentation, and timing coordination.

This trend has huge implications that extend far beyond the embryo transport logistics themselves. The legal frameworks across borders are struggling to keep up with the reality of families being created through international collaboration, and the regulatory gaps are creating both opportunities and headaches for intended parents. What struck me most was hearing from logistics companies who now spend more time on customs documentation than medical protocols. The technology for safe embryo shipping has advanced remarkably, but the human systems—legal, regulatory, and logistical—are still catching up to what's become a routine part of modern surrogacy destinations.

Final Thoughts: What This Means for the Surrogacy Community

The overarching message from ESHRE 2025 was crystal clear: fertility care is becoming smarter, more personalized, and undeniably more global. As these technologies evolve and our industry adapts at breakneck speed, the future of surrogacy is taking shape before our eyes. Surrogacy journeys are becoming more efficient through AI-powered matching and optimized protocols, more collaborative with international embryo transport and cross-border partnerships, and genuinely more patient-centered as we move away from one-size-fits-all approaches. The surrogacy trends 2025 revealed at the conference painted a picture of an industry that's finally catching up to what intended parents have been asking for: faster timelines, better outcomes, and more control over their journey.

But here's the reality check from every ESHRE update session: with innovation comes complexity that can be overwhelming. It's never been more important for intended parents, surrogates, and professionals to stay informed about these rapid changes, ask the right questions about new technologies and protocols, and lean on trusted experts throughout the process. The tools are incredible, the possibilities are expanding, but navigating this new landscape requires more knowledge and guidance than ever before. The future of surrogacy isn't just about better technology—it's about how we help people use that technology to build their families without getting lost in the complexity of all these amazing new options.

Have questions about how these trends could impact your surrogacy journey? Reach out— I'm here to help you navigate this evolving landscape with clarity and confidence.

Contact independent surrogacy consultant here

FAQs

How is artificial intelligence changing IVF and surrogacy success rates?

AI in IVF has evolved from experimental technology to a clinical standard in 2025. Machine learning tools now optimize ovarian stimulation protocols, predict embryo viability with greater accuracy than human assessment, and analyze large-scale data to improve clinical decisions. Embryologists are reporting approximately 30% better pregnancy rates using AI-powered embryo selection systems. For surrogacy specifically, this means higher success rates with fewer embryos needed for transfer, potentially shorter journeys for intended parents, and more efficient processes overall. The technology doesn't replace the human element of fertility care—it enhances precision in the medical aspects of treatment.

What is the PGT-A controversy and should I use genetic testing for my embryos?

PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies) and Next-Generation Sequencing have become controversial topics in fertility medicine. While these technologies provide detailed genetic information about embryos, experts are debating whether rigid testing standards may lead to discarding viable embryos based on questionable genetic data. The main concerns include the ethical implications of embryo selection, over-reliance on mosaicism data (embryos with both normal and abnormal cells), and the gap between what we can test for versus what we should test for. For surrogacy programs, this is particularly important since every embryo transfer carries significant weight. The key takeaway is to stay informed about what's medically necessary versus what's still debated among experts, and have thorough discussions with your fertility clinic about their testing protocols.

Why are fertility clinics switching to single embryo transfer?

Single embryo transfer (SET) is becoming the global standard because it prioritizes safer pregnancies and better health outcomes. Transferring one embryo dramatically reduces the risk of twins or higher-order multiples, which are associated with more NICU admissions, maternal complications, and health challenges for babies. Countries that have embraced SET in surrogacy are seeing healthier outcomes overall. While this approach may seem more conservative, improved embryo selection technology (including AI) means that single embryo transfers can achieve comparable or better success rates than transferring multiple embryos. This shift requires more strategic planning and clearer communication about success rates and timelines with intended parents.

What are frozen egg banks and how do they affect surrogacy timelines?

Frozen egg donor banks allow intended parents to purchase pre-frozen donor oocytes instead of coordinating fresh donor cycles. This innovation has dramatically reduced matching timelines—what used to take months can now happen in days. The benefits include immediate donor availability, elimination of cycle coordination delays, and access to international egg banks with diverse donor options. However, questions remain about egg quality consistency across batches, optimal batch sizes, and whether fertilization outcomes truly match fresh donor cycles. Some embryologists note that the final number of viable blastocysts from fresh cycles is still typically higher than from frozen eggs, though vitrification techniques continue to improve.

How does male infertility research impact surrogacy and IVF outcomes?

Male infertility research received significant attention at ESHRE 2025, addressing a factor that contributes to nearly 50% of infertility cases. Advanced testing methods now include AI-powered sperm selection, DNA fragmentation analysis, and genetic testing to pinpoint specific issues. Research shows that lifestyle factors, environmental toxins, BMI, and paternal age significantly impact sperm quality and IVF outcomes. For surrogacy programs, this means more thorough preparation for sperm donation, which can include targeted lifestyle modifications, supplements, or specialized sperm preparation techniques. Addressing male factor issues upfront can save intended parents time, money, and emotional energy by improving success rates from the start.

Can embryos be created in one country and used for surrogacy in another?

Yes, cross-border embryo shipping has become a significant aspect of modern surrogacy. Embryos are increasingly being created in one country and shipped internationally for transfer into a surrogate in another country. Countries like Argentina, Canada, and Albania are common origin points, while Mexico, Colombia, and Ghana are frequently receiving destinations. One global transport provider reports that 90% of their business is now surrogacy-related, with thousands of embryos crossing borders monthly. While the technology for safe embryo shipping has advanced remarkably with precise temperature control and timing coordination, legal frameworks and regulatory systems are still catching up to this practice. Intended parents considering this option should work with experienced professionals to navigate the complex legal documentation and international regulations involved.

What are the main surrogacy trends from ESHRE 2025?

The key surrogacy trends from ESHRE 2025 include: AI-powered optimization making journeys more efficient with higher success rates; single embryo transfer becoming the global standard for safer pregnancies; frozen egg banks accelerating timelines by eliminating fresh donor coordination; increased focus on male infertility improving overall outcomes; and cross-border embryo transport creating truly global surrogacy options. The overarching theme is that fertility care is becoming smarter, more personalized, and more global. However, with innovation comes complexity—intended parents, surrogates, and professionals need to stay informed, ask the right questions about new technologies, and work with trusted experts to navigate these rapid changes.

How should intended parents prepare for these new fertility technologies?

Intended parents should approach these innovations by staying informed about the latest advances while maintaining realistic expectations. Key preparation steps include: researching how AI-powered embryo selection works at your chosen clinic and what success rates they've documented; discussing the pros and cons of PGT-A testing with your fertility specialist given your specific situation; understanding your clinic's policies on single versus multiple embryo transfer; considering whether frozen or fresh donor eggs align with your priorities and timeline; ensuring both partners undergo comprehensive fertility testing, including male factor assessments; and if considering cross-border surrogacy, consulting with legal experts about international embryo shipping regulations. The most important step is working with experienced surrogacy professionals who understand these evolving technologies and can help you make informed decisions tailored to your unique journey.

Are these fertility innovations making surrogacy more expensive?

The cost impact varies by innovation. AI-powered embryo selection and advanced genetic testing may increase upfront costs, but can potentially reduce overall expenses by improving first-transfer success rates and reducing the need for multiple cycles. Frozen egg banks can be more cost-effective than fresh donor cycles by eliminating coordination delays and associated expenses. Single embryo transfer may extend timelines if multiple attempts are needed, but reduces costs associated with multiple births and their complications. Cross-border embryo shipping adds logistical expenses but may provide access to more affordable surrogacy destinations. The financial equation is complex and depends on individual circumstances—working with a surrogacy consultant can help you understand the cost-benefit analysis for your specific situation.

Where can I learn more about how these ESHRE 2025 innovations affect my surrogacy journey?

To understand how these fertility innovations specifically apply to your surrogacy journey, consider consulting with an independent surrogacy consultant who stays current with industry developments, connecting with fertility clinics that have adopted these technologies and can explain their protocols, joining intended parent support groups to learn from others' experiences with new technologies, and reviewing recent success rate data from clinics using AI and advanced selection methods. The landscape is evolving rapidly, and personalized guidance from experienced professionals is essential to navigate these options effectively and make informed decisions that align with your goals, timeline, and budget.