If you’re considering surrogacy, whether as a surrogate or an intended parent, the process can
feel overwhelming at first. Understanding each step can help ease uncertainty and give you
confidence as you move forward. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to how the surrogacy journey
typically unfolds from application to delivery.
Step 1: The Application Process
For Surrogates:
The journey begins with completing an initial application. This includes basic health history,
pregnancy history, lifestyle information, and background details. Agencies review eligibility
requirements such as age, previous healthy pregnancies, BMI guidelines, and overall stability at
home.
For Intended Parents:
Intended parents complete an application outlining their family goals, medical history, and
expectations. Many agencies also conduct consultations to ensure everyone understands the
financial, legal, and emotional commitments involved.
Step 2: Screening & Medical Records Review
Once the application is approved, both parties move into screening.
For Surrogates:
– Medical records from prior pregnancies are reviewed.
– Background checks are completed.
– A psychological evaluation is conducted.
– A home assessment may be required.
For Intended Parents:
– Fertility clinic records are reviewed.
– Embryo readiness is confirmed.
– Financial readiness is verified.
This step ensures safety, stability, and alignment for everyone involved.
Step 3: Matching
Matching is one of the most meaningful parts of the journey. Agencies carefully review profiles
to pair intended parents and surrogates based on shared values, communication styles,
expectations, and preferences.
A match meeting (often virtual) allows both sides to connect, ask questions, and confirm they
feel comfortable moving forward together.
When everyone agrees, it’s official!
Step 4: Legal Contracts
Before any medical procedures begin, legal contracts are drafted and reviewed by separate
attorneys for both parties. These agreements outline:
– Compensation (if applicable)
– Medical decisions
– Communication expectations
– Birth plans
– Insurance details
– Parental rights
Once contracts are signed, the medical process can begin.
Step 5: Medical Protocol & Embryo Transfer
The surrogate begins a medication cycle to prepare her body for embryo transfer. This may
include hormone injections and monitoring appointments.
The embryo transfer takes place at the fertility clinic. About 9–12 days later, a blood test
confirms whether pregnancy has been achieved.
If successful, early pregnancy monitoring continues at the fertility clinic before transitioning to a
regular OB provider.
Step 6: Pregnancy & Ongoing Communication
Throughout the pregnancy:
– Regular OB appointments occur.
– Updates are shared between the surrogate and intended parents.
– Milestones (ultrasounds, gender reveal, etc.) are celebrated together.
– Agency case managers provide support along the way.
Clear communication and mutual respect are key during this stage.
Step 7: Birth Planning
As delivery approaches, a birth plan is created outlining:
– Who will be in the delivery room
– Hospital arrangements
– Legal parentage documentation
Immediate post-birth plans
Pre-birth orders (where applicable) establish the intended parents as the legal parents before
delivery.
Step 8: Delivery Day
Delivery day is emotional and unforgettable.
The surrogate gives birth, and the intended parents meet their baby, often within moments.
Hospital staff follow the agreed plan to ensure everyone feels supported and respected.
It is a day filled with gratitude, joy, and often tears.
Step 9: Postpartum & Transition
After delivery:
– The surrogate attends postpartum appointments.
– Insurance and escrow accounts are finalized.
– Ongoing communication continues based on what was agreed upon.
Many surrogate and intended parent relationships continue long after birth, sometimes for years.
Final Thoughts
Surrogacy is a journey built on trust, compassion, and shared hope. While the process involves
legal, medical, and emotional layers, at its heart, it’s about helping families grow.
Whether you’re exploring becoming a surrogate or pursuing parenthood through surrogacy,
understanding each step can make the path feel clearer, and far less intimidating.
If you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to learn more about what your journey could look
like.