5 Essential Steps to Take Before You Become a Surrogate

1. Check Your Eligibility & Health Readiness

Before anything else, you’ll go through a thorough health and wellness screening—both physical and mental. Agencies and medical teams will review your medical history, reproductive health, and emotional resilience. It’s all about ensuring you’re in great shape, both body and mind, to carry a pregnancy safely.

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2. Set Up a Strong Support System

Surrogacy is a journey, but you don’t take it alone. Whether you’re partnering with your spouse, a friend, or family member, enlisting a primary support person is crucial. This person will help with IVF shot reminders, clinic visits, childcare, and cuddles on tough days.

If you're single, consider who can step in as your go-to support. Agencies typically welcome someone 18 or older to accompany you—especially to embryo transfer appointments and delivery.

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3. Choose the Right Professional Team

Your experience will rely on selecting a caring, experienced agency and IVF clinic. Here’s what to look for:

• Clear explanations of support during pregnancy and postpartum
  
• Transparent compensation and benefits
  
• Matching you with intended parents who align with your values
  
• Frequent, comfortable communication that suits your style
  

Think of yourself and your future baby—and remember, Expecting.Ai is here to guide you through agency and clinic decisions every step of the way.

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4. Understand the IVF & Pregnancy Experience

Becoming a gestational surrogate means using IVF to carry an embryo that’s not genetically yours. Expect to take hormone medications to prepare for transfer and early pregnancy.

Physically, you’ll experience similar changes as any pregnancy. Emotionally, it can be more complex—you’re helping someone build their dream, which brings deep purpose and joy, along with natural nerves. Building strong relationships with your medical team and intended parents can help you navigate the emotional highs and lows.

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5. Reflect on Your “Why” & Emotional Wellness

Surrogacy is about more than biology—it’s about heart. Clarify your reasons: Are you driven by the joy of pregnancy, the desire to help others, or a combination? Being clear about your motivation helps during the matching process and keeps you grounded.

Make an emotional wellness plan:

• Practice stress-relief habits (walks, journaling, music)
  
• Build supportive social connections
  
• Be mindful of attachment—you are not the baby’s parent, but you are vital to its start
  
• Talk openly with your intended parents about expectations and boundaries
  

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What Comes Next?

Once these five foundations are in place, you'll be ready to:

1. Start the application process – complete medical and psychological screening.
   
2. Get matched – share your story and meet intended parents who resonate with you.
   
3. Begin treatment – work with medical teams to schedule embryo transfer.
   
4. Navigate your pregnancy – lean on your support system and care team.
   
5. Prepare for postpartum – agency guidance continues after birth to support your recovery.
   

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In Summary

1. Confirm your health and emotional readiness
   
2. Build a trusted support team
   
3. Choose experienced professionals
   
4. Understand the IVF and pregnancy path
   
5. Know your motivations and plan for emotional self-care
   

At Expecting.Ai, we celebrate every surrogate’s journey—and we’re dedicated to helping you share the incredible gift of parenthood.

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Let’s Walk This Path Together

Ready to explore surrogacy? Our compassionate team is here for you—every question, emotion, and milestone. Reach out to take your first steps toward a journey filled with purpose, community, and impact.