Learn what you need to know
Four structured guides covering every aspect of surrogacy — written in plain language, with no medical jargon.
The Medical Process
Understanding the medical side of surrogacy doesn't require a medical degree. Here's what actually happens, explained clearly.
How IVF works
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is the process of creating an embryo outside the body. Eggs are retrieved from the intended mother (or an egg donor), fertilized with sperm in a lab, and the resulting embryo is transferred to your surrogate's uterus. The embryo is not genetically related to your surrogate.
The embryo transfer
The transfer itself is a simple outpatient procedure — similar to a pap smear. Your surrogate takes medication to prepare her uterus, the embryo is placed using a thin catheter, and she rests for a short time before going home. Most surrogates return to normal activities the same day.
Confirming pregnancy
About 10–14 days after the transfer, your surrogate takes a blood test to confirm pregnancy. If the first transfer doesn't result in pregnancy, it's common to try again. Most intended parents achieve pregnancy within 1–3 transfer attempts.
Prenatal care
Once pregnancy is confirmed, your surrogate receives standard prenatal care from her own OB or midwife. You'll receive regular updates and can attend appointments if you both agree to it. The pregnancy is medically identical to any other — your surrogate is simply carrying the baby.
Legal Foundations
Surrogacy law protects you, your surrogate, and your child. Here's what the legal process actually involves.
The surrogacy agreement
Before any medical procedures begin, both parties sign a comprehensive surrogacy contract. This document covers compensation, medical decisions, contact expectations, what happens in various scenarios, and how parental rights are established. Both you and your surrogate have independent legal representation.
Establishing parental rights
In most states, intended parents can obtain a pre-birth order — a court order that establishes your legal parentage before the baby is born. This means your names go directly on the birth certificate. In states where pre-birth orders aren't available, a post-birth adoption process is used instead.
State-by-state differences
Surrogacy laws vary significantly by state. Some states are very surrogacy-friendly with clear statutes; others require more complex legal steps. We work in all 50 states and have vetted legal partners in every jurisdiction. We'll explain exactly what the laws mean for your situation.
International considerations
If you live outside the US, there are additional legal steps to bring your child home. We have experience working with international intended parents and can connect you with immigration attorneys who specialize in this area.
Financial Planning
Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment. Here's a clear breakdown of what's involved and how to plan for it.
Total cost overview
Total costs typically range from $120,000 to $180,000. This includes agency fees ($25,000–$35,000), surrogate compensation ($40,000–$60,000), medical expenses ($20,000–$40,000), legal fees ($10,000–$15,000), and insurance ($15,000–$25,000). We provide a detailed, itemized estimate before you commit to anything.
Surrogate compensation
Your surrogate receives a base compensation for carrying your baby, plus additional payments for specific milestones and expenses — maternity clothing, travel, lost wages for medical appointments, and more. All compensation is outlined in the legal agreement before the process begins.
Insurance
Surrogacy-specific insurance is one of the most important financial considerations. Some surrogates have health insurance that covers surrogacy; others need a separate policy. We work with insurance specialists who understand surrogacy coverage and will help you find the right solution.
Financing options
Several lenders specialize in surrogacy financing, offering loans with terms designed for the surrogacy timeline. We can connect you with reputable financing partners. Many intended parents also use a combination of savings, loans, and family support.
Emotional Preparation
The emotional journey of surrogacy is real and valid. Here's honest guidance on what to expect — and how to navigate it.
The emotional landscape
Intended parents often experience a complex mix of hope, anxiety, grief (especially if you've faced infertility), and profound gratitude. All of these feelings are normal. The process has high points and hard moments — knowing this in advance helps you prepare.
Your relationship with your surrogate
Most intended parents and surrogates develop a warm, meaningful relationship. The level of contact is agreed upon before matching. Some maintain close friendships for years; others have a respectful, professional relationship. There's no right answer — only what works for both of you.
The two-week wait
The period between the embryo transfer and the pregnancy test is often the most emotionally challenging part of the process. Having support — a partner, a therapist, a community — makes a significant difference. We can connect you with counselors who specialize in surrogacy.
Becoming a parent
When your baby arrives, you may feel an unexpected range of emotions — overwhelming joy, but also adjustment. This is completely normal. We stay in touch after the birth and can connect you with parent support resources as you settle into your new family.
Questions about any of these topics?
Our coordinators are happy to talk through anything in more detail.
Talk to a Coordinator