Surrogacy Explained: Real Story, Costs, and How to Become a Parent with Dr. Alyssa Small Layne
If you’ve ever wondered whether surrogacy could be part of your fertility journey—this episode will open your eyes.
Today, I’m joined by Dr. Alyssa Small Layne, a board-certified OBGYN and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon, who shares both her professional expertise and deeply personal journey through infertility, loss, and ultimately becoming a mother through surrogacy.
In this episode, we cover:
• What surrogacy actually is (and what it’s not)
• Who may need a gestational carrier
• The emotional reality of infertility, miscarriage, and loss
• How Dr. Alyssa navigated IVF, pregnancy complications, and hysterectomy
• The true cost of surrogacy—and how to do it more affordably
• Independent vs agency surrogacy (what most people don’t know)
• Timeline, process, and what to expect step-by-step
• Common misconceptions about surrogacy
• How to know if surrogacy is right for you
This is more than a medical conversation—it’s a story of resilience, faith, and redefining what motherhood can look like.
If you feel like you’ve tried everything and nothing is working, this episode is a reminder:
there may still be a path forward.
About Dr. Alyssa Small Layne
I am Dr. Alyssa Small Layne, a board-certified OB/GYN and fellowship trained
endometriosis excision and fibroid surgeon. My professional career has centered on helping patients with fibroids, endometriosis, and infertility. I currently serve as the Director for Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Howard University.
I see myself in my patients and clients because my personal journey is marked by
fibroids, IVF, and ultimately becoming a mother through surrogacy. This gives me an unshakable understanding of the emotional and physical toll families face.
Surrogacy is one of the most complex paths to parenthood: it’s expensive,
overwhelming, and too often without a clear roadmap. In an industry where agencies and professionals compete for attention, intended parents and surrogates are left underserved—hungry for trustworthy resources and meaningful guidance.
alyssa@gojunie.com
www.gojunie.com
Surrogacy Made Simple
Also, be sure to check out our website: loveandsciencefertility.com
Follow us on social media:
IG: www.instagram.com/loveandsciencefertility
FB: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553692167183
Please don’t let infertility have the final word. We are here to take the burden from you so that you can achieve your goal of building your family with confidence and compassion. I’m rooting for you always.
In Gratitude,
