The Surrogacy Process, Step by Step
Surrogacy follows a structured process, and every step is designed to protect you, the baby, and the intended parents, while providing the clarity and support you need to move forward with confidence. While each journey is unique, most follow the same general stages outlined below.
Initial Application and Screening
Your journey begins with a brief online application. Once submitted, you will schedule a call with one of our intake specialists to talk through your health history, prior pregnancies, and any questions you may have.
If you meet the initial qualifications, we will:
- Request and review your medical records
- Complete a background check
- Confirm that surrogacy is medically appropriate for you
- Help you create your customized benefits package
We understand that sharing personal information can feel significant. Our team will explain each step clearly, maintain your privacy, and remain available to answer questions throughout the process. The goal of this stage is to ensure that a surrogacy journey is safe for you to pursue.
Matching with Intended Parents
Once you are fully approved, we begin the matching process. We carefully review intended parent profiles to ensure that expectations, communication styles, and values align well with yours.
During matching, you will:
- Review intended parent profiles
- Ask questions
- Participate in a meeting before any decision is made
Matching is never rushed. The goal is to create a respectful and comfortable partnership where everyone feels prepared to move forward together.
Once all parties agree to move forward, we review your health insurance policy to determine whether it is surrogacy-friendly. If adjustments are needed, or if you do not currently have health insurance, we coordinate with an insurance specialist after medical clearance to help secure appropriate coverage before a transfer cycle begins.
Medical and Psychological Screening
After a match is confirmed, you will attend an in-person medical screening at the intended parents’ IVF clinic. This appointment may include:
- A physical exam
- Lab work
- Drug Testing
- Infectious Disease Testing
- A review of your medical history
If you are partnered, your partner may be required to undergo drug and infections disease testing as well.You will also complete a psychological evaluation. The intended parents complete their own evaluation, and in many cases, there is a joint session with you and the intended parents together. This ensures everyone feels prepared and aligned before beginning a transfer cycle.
Legal Agreements
Once medical clearance is received, a legal agreement is drafted outlining compensation, responsibilities, and expectations during pregnancy. You will have your own independent attorney to review the contract and represent your interests.
This agreement is designed to protect your rights and clearly define expectations before any medications or transfer procedures begin.
Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy
Once the contracts are finalized, you will begin the medical protocol for embryo transfer at the IVF clinic. This may include medications and monitoring appointments to prepare your body.
If the transfer is successful, early pregnancy is monitored by the clinic before you transition to your regular obstetric provider.
Throughout pregnancy, our team remains involved to assist with:
- Appointment coordination
- Reimbursement tracking
- Communication support
- Escrow management for compensation and approved expenses
Your health and well-being remain a priority at every stage.
Delivery and Postpartum
Plans for delivery are discussed in advance so expectations are clear for you, the intended parents, and hospital staff. After birth, we remain available to provide guidance as you recover and transition out of the journey.
Even after delivery, we continue to serve as a resource during your postpartum period.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is completely normal to have questions when you are considering becoming a surrogate. This is a meaningful decision, and you deserve to understand what the process involves before moving forward.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we hear. If you do not see what you are looking for, please reach out. We are here to talk through your questions and help you feel informed and confident as you explore this path.
How long does each stage of the process take?
The timeline varies for each journey. Screening and approval may take several weeks. Matching can take additional time depending on alignment with intended parents. After a match, medical screening, legal contracts, and transfer preparation follow a structured timeline guided by the IVF clinic.
What happens if I am not approved during screening?
If medical records or screening results show that surrogacy may not be appropriate, we will explain the reason clearly. In some cases, additional documentation may be requested. In others, medical guidance may determine that it is not safe to proceed.
When is my insurance reviewed?
Your health insurance is reviewed after a match is confirmed. We determine whether it is surrogacy-friendly before beginning the legal process. If additional coverage is needed, we coordinate with an insurance specialist to secure appropriate protection
Do I have to meet the intended parents before agreeing to match?
Yes. You will have the opportunity to review profiles and meet with the intended parents before any match is finalized. We do not move forward unless all parties feel comfortable.
When does the legal contract happen?
The legal agreement is drafted after medical and psychological clearance. You will have your own independent attorney to review the contract before any medications or transfer procedures begin.
What happens if the embryo transfer does not work?
If a transfer is not successful, the medical team will review next steps. Depending on the agreement and medical recommendation, additional transfers may be scheduled.
