How to Become a Surrogate Tips: Your Step-by-Step Guide to the Journey

You’ve been thinking about it for a while now – the idea of helping another family experience the joy of having a child, while also earning money that could change your own family’s future. Surrogacy is truly a special journey that combines incredible generosity with practical benefits.

Maybe you’re wondering: “Can I even do this if I haven’t had a baby of my own yet?” or “How long will this whole process take?” Perhaps you’re concerned about the emotional side – like how you’ll feel during delivery or whether you’ll feel attached to the baby.

These are all normal questions! It’s a big decision, and that’s why we’re here. At Physician’s Surrogacy, we’re the nation’s only OB-managed surrogacy agency, which means your health and well-being are at the center of everything we do.

In this article, we’ll share our top tips for getting started on your surrogacy journey—no fluff, just practical advice and honest information to help you decide if this path is right for you.

Key Takeaways

• Becoming a surrogate requires emotional readiness, a strong support system, and clear personal motivations for the journey.
• Key qualifications include having at least one previous healthy pregnancy, being between 20.5 and 39.5 years old, and having a BMI under 32.
• The process involves a step-by-step journey from application and medical screenings to legal agreements and the embryo transfer.
• Surrogates receive comprehensive compensation packages starting from $48,000 to $75,000, with all medical and related expenses fully covered.

Tip #1: Prepare Emotionally and Mentally

Before you fill out any applications, it’s worth taking some time for self-reflection. Surrogacy is an amazing experience, but it also requires emotional preparation and a solid support system.

Talk it Out with Your Support System

One of the most important first steps is having open conversations with your partner, family members, and close friends. Their support will be crucial throughout your journey.

“When I had the twins, they had to be in the special care nursery for a bit and the parents were with them, understandably. When my family couldn’t be there with me, I was pretty sad and the hormone dump was no fun!” one surrogate shared.

Having a strong support network is especially important during the pregnancy and after delivery.

Define Your “Why”

Take some time to think about your motivations. Most surrogates have a beautiful blend of reasons:

• The desire to help others experience parenthood
• The financial opportunity to change your family’s circumstances
• The unique experience of pregnancy when you enjoyed your previous pregnancies

Understanding your own motivations will help you stay focused throughout the process.

Set Your Expectations

Consider what kind of relationship you want with the intended parents (IPs). Some surrogates prefer to maintain a close connection with the family they help create, while others are comfortable with a more professional relationship. There’s no right or wrong answer here – it’s about what feels right for you.

Tip #2: Check if You Meet the Basic Qualifications

Let’s talk about the requirements. This is often the first big question for women considering surrogacy.

The Big One: Pregnancy History

One of the most common questions we get is about pregnancy history. To become a gestational carrier, agencies do require that you’ve had at least one healthy, full-term pregnancy and are raising that child. This is to make sure the process is as safe as possible for you.

As one experienced surrogate explained to someone hoping to join their ranks: “Sadly since you haven’t carried a successful pregnancy yet, surrogacy agencies will not accept you to be a gestational carrier. It is a requirement to carry one healthy baby of your own to term.”

This requirement exists for good reason – it confirms that your body can safely carry a pregnancy and helps protect your health.

Physician’s Surrogacy Requirements Checklist:

• Age: You’re between 20½ and 39½ years old.
• Pregnancy History: You’ve had at least one full-term, uncomplicated pregnancy and are currently raising your child.
• BMI: Your Body Mass Index (BMI) is under 32. (If you’re not quite there, don’t worry! We can offer support to help you meet this goal.)
• Residency: You’re a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident living in a surrogacy-friendly state.
• Health Status: You’re in good physical and mental health with no history of serious complications during previous pregnancies.
• Lifestyle: You’re a non-smoker and don’t use illicit drugs.

If you check all these boxes, you’re likely a good candidate for surrogacy!

Tips for Each Stage of the Surrogacy Journey

Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to begin your surrogacy journey. We’ve broken it down into manageable stages so you know exactly what to expect.

Tip 1: Start with the Initial Form

It all starts with a short form. This initial application helps us determine if you meet the basic requirements for surrogacy. It only takes about 10-15 minutes to complete, and it’s the first step toward changing someone’s life (and your own!).

After submitting the form, one of our coordinators will give you a call to chat more about the process and answer your questions about compensation. This is a no-pressure conversation – it’s simply about giving you the information you need to decide if surrogacy is right for you.

Tip 2: Prepare for the Medical Pre-Screening

Many women worry about this step, but there’s no need to! The medical screening is thorough, but it’s designed to be a smooth process that protects your health. You can expect:

• Medical History Review: A conversation with a fertility specialist about your health and previous pregnancies. They’ll review your pregnancy records to make sure you had healthy pregnancies in the past.
• Physical Exam & Bloodwork: A standard gynecological exam and blood tests to check for infectious diseases, hormone levels, and blood type. These tests help make sure you’re in good health to carry a pregnancy.
• Uterine Health Check: A simple vaginal ultrasound to make sure your uterus is healthy and ready for pregnancy. Sometimes a hysteroscopy might also be used to get a more detailed look.

All of these procedures are standard medical practices, and our team will guide you through each step with care and respect.

Tip 3: Embrace the Psychological Chat

You’ll also have a psychological evaluation. This isn’t a test; it’s a conversation to make sure you’re emotionally prepared for the journey ahead and to talk through any feelings you might have about the process.

The psychologist will discuss topics like:

• How you might handle attachment to the baby during pregnancy
• Ways to explain surrogacy to your own children
• How you’ll cope with the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy

This conversation helps everyone feel confident that you’re emotionally ready for the unique experience of carrying a baby for someone else.

Tip 4: Get Ready for a Fast Matching Process

We know waiting is hard. While the industry average for matching can be 6-12 months, our average match time is just one week.

How do we do it? Here at Physician’s Surrogacy, you complete your full medical screening before you’re presented to intended parents. This means once you’re cleared, you’re ready to go, which gets you to the embryo transfer stage much faster.

This “Medically Cleared Fast Track Program” is a game-changer in the industry. You can even earn a $500 bonus for being match-ready and legally available.

As one intended parent shared: “I don’t know how much time my IPs took to create embryos. But it was one month to match for them and then four months to transfer.” Our program aims to streamline this process and reduce those waiting periods.

Tip 5: Make it Official with a Surrogacy Agreement

Once you’re matched with intended parents, it’s time to make things official with a legal contract. This agreement protects everyone involved by clearly outlining:

• Compensation details
• Medical decisions
• Expectations for contact during and after pregnancy
• And other important details

You’ll have your own independent lawyer to represent you during this process, making sure your interests are protected. The intended parents cover all legal fees, so this doesn’t cost you anything out of pocket.

Tip 6: Prepare for the Embryo Transfer

Once the legal details are sorted, you’ll begin medications to prepare your body for the embryo transfer. This involves a few monitoring appointments to make sure the timing is perfect.

The embryo transfer itself is a quick, simple procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia. It’s similar to a pap smear – a thin catheter is used to place the embryo in your uterus. Most women describe feeling little to no discomfort during the procedure.

After the transfer, you’ll have a waiting period of about 10-14 days before taking a pregnancy test to confirm if the transfer was successful. This waiting period can feel long, but our team will be there to support you every step of the way.

Let’s Talk Numbers: Your Surrogacy Compensation

Let’s be honest – while helping others is incredibly rewarding, the financial compensation is also an important factor for most surrogates. Here’s a clear breakdown of what you can expect.

Base Compensation

Our base compensation packages start from $48,000 to $75,000 for first-time surrogates. This isn’t just a random number – it reflects the significant commitment you’re making and the life-changing gift you’re giving to another family.

If you’re an experienced surrogate, you can earn up to $95,000. This higher compensation acknowledges the value of your previous experience and demonstrated commitment to helping families grow.

No Out-of-Pocket Costs

One thing we want to make absolutely clear: you won’t have to pay for anything out of pocket. All your surrogacy-related expenses are covered—from medical bills and legal fees to travel and lost wages if you’re employed.

Here’s what’s covered:

• All medical procedures and appointments
• Medications
• Legal fees and insurance
• Maternity clothes allowance
• Travel expenses for appointments
• Lost wages if you need to miss work
• Childcare expenses for appointments

Bonus Opportunities

On top of your base compensation, there are several ways to earn additional money:

• Multiple Births: Additional compensation if you carry twins
• C-Section: Additional compensation if a C-section is needed
• Invasive Procedures: Compensation for any invasive procedures during the pregnancy

Plus, you can earn a $1,500 referral bonus for every successful referral. What’s amazing is that you can earn this even if you don’t end up qualifying to be a surrogate yourself! If you know someone who would be a great surrogate, this is a wonderful way to support the cause while earning some extra money.

You’re Not in This Alone: The OB-Managed Difference

One of the biggest concerns for potential surrogates is about health complications and emotional support. This is where our unique OB-managed approach makes all the difference.

A Doctor on Your Team

What does ‘OB-Managed’ mean for you? It means you have a dedicated team of in-house OB/GYNs overseeing your entire journey. This provides a level of medical safety that’s truly unique and helps address fears about potential pregnancy complications.

Our physician-led model helps us achieve a preterm delivery rate that is less than 50% of the national average. This means you’re much less likely to experience early delivery complications when working with us.

A common concern is: “What happens if anything arises during delivery which means you are at risk but is only capable of being dealt with in a way which puts the baby at risk?” With our OB-managed approach, you have medical experts advocating for your health every step of the way.

24/7 Support

You’ll have a dedicated case manager who is available 24/7. You’re never alone and always have someone to call with questions or concerns. Whether it’s a medical question at 2 AM or an emotional moment where you just need someone to talk to, we’re here for you.

Post-Delivery Care

We know the journey doesn’t end at delivery. We provide post-delivery care and support for 3-6 months to help you physically and emotionally as your body recovers.

This addresses a common concern shared by surrogates: “When I had the twins, they had to be in the special care nursery for a bit and the parents were with them, understandably. When my family couldn’t be there with me, I was pretty sad and the hormone dump was no fun!”

Our post-delivery support helps you navigate these emotions and physical changes, making sure you don’t feel alone during this important transition.

A Community Connection

Beyond our professional support team, we also connect you with other surrogates through support groups and events. These connections can be invaluable – there’s nothing quite like talking to someone who truly understands what you’re experiencing.

Many of our surrogates form lasting friendships with other women in the program, creating a supportive community that extends well beyond the surrogacy journey itself.

Common Questions About Becoming a Surrogate

As you consider this journey, you probably have some questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we hear:

“Will I have any genetic connection to the baby?”

No. As a gestational surrogate, you’ll be carrying an embryo created from the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. You won’t have any genetic connection to the baby you carry.

“How much contact will I have with the intended parents?”

This varies based on both your preferences and the intended parents’ wishes. Some matches develop close friendships with lots of communication, while others prefer a more professional relationship. During the matching process, we make sure both parties have compatible expectations about communication.

“Can I be a surrogate if I’ve had a C-section?”

Yes! Having had a C-section doesn’t disqualify you from being a surrogate. Our medical team will review your specific medical history to determine if there are any concerns, but many of our successful surrogates have had previous C-sections.

“Will I need to travel?”

Most of your appointments will be local, but there may be some travel required for the embryo transfer. All travel expenses are fully covered, including childcare arrangements if needed.

“What if I miscarry?”

While this is rare, it can happen. If a miscarriage occurs, you would still receive compensation for the time and procedures you’ve undergone. More importantly, you would receive full medical and emotional support throughout the recovery process.

“How will surrogacy affect my family?”

Your family, especially your children, will be part of this journey too. Many surrogates report that the experience teaches their children about generosity and helping others. We provide resources to help you explain surrogacy to your children in age-appropriate ways.

What Sets Physician’s Surrogacy Apart?

As you consider becoming a surrogate, it’s important to know that not all surrogacy agencies offer the same level of support and benefits. Here at Physician’s Surrogacy, we pride ourselves on our unique offerings:

1. OB-Managed Care: As the nation’s only OB-managed surrogacy agency, we provide unparalleled medical supervision and support throughout your journey.
2. Faster Matching: Our innovative Medically Cleared Fast Track program dramatically reduces wait times, with an average match time of just one week compared to the industry standard of 6-12 months.
3. Top-Tier Compensation: We offer some of the most competitive compensation packages in the industry, with clear payment schedules and no hidden costs.
4. Comprehensive Support: From 24/7 case management to post-delivery care, we make sure you’re supported at every step of your journey.
5. Community of Surrogates: You’ll have opportunities to connect with other surrogates, building relationships with women who truly understand what you’re experiencing.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Becoming a surrogate is a significant journey, but it boils down to a few key things: meeting the health requirements, having a strong support system, and finding an agency that puts your well-being first. Compensation is generous, and every expense—from medical to legal—is covered.

If this path feels right for you, the best way to begin is by filling out a no-commitment application to learn more.

FAQs about Becoming a Surrogate

How long does the entire surrogacy process take?

The entire surrogacy process usually takes 12 to 18 months from your application to the baby’s delivery. This timeline covers all medical, legal, and pregnancy stages.

Why do I need to have had a previous healthy pregnancy?

You need to have a previous healthy pregnancy to ensure the process is as safe as possible for you. This history confirms your body can carry a pregnancy to term with minimal risk.

Who pays for all the medical bills and other expenses?

The intended parents pay for all medical bills and surrogacy-related expenses. You will never have any out-of-pocket costs for medical care, legal fees, or travel.

What is the difference between a gestational and traditional surrogate?

The main difference is that a gestational surrogate has no genetic link to the baby. The embryo is from the intended parents or donors, whereas a traditional surrogate uses her own egg.

Can I choose the intended parents I want to work with?

Yes, you can choose the intended parents you work with. The matching process is mutual, ensuring both you and the parents feel it’s a perfect fit before moving forward.

How much does a surrogate get paid for the first time?

A first-time surrogate gets paid a base compensation of $48,000 to $75,000. This is in addition to a benefits package that covers all of your expenses during the journey.

What happens to my compensation if the pregnancy doesn’t go to full term?

If the pregnancy doesn’t go to term, your compensation is paid for the milestones completed. The contract outlines payments for key stages like the transfer and confirmed pregnancy.

What does ‘OB-managed’ mean for my health?

An ‘OB-managed’ agency means your health is monitored by in-house OB/GYNs throughout the journey. This ensures you receive expert medical oversight focused on your well-being.

For agencies, publishing clear, supportive content like this is crucial for building trust. If friction in your CMS slows you down, See Wisp in action to learn how a headless CMS can help your team publish faster. If it’s a good fit, you can create a free account.