Surrogates
How to Become a Surrogate in the U.S.: A Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a surrogate is a meaningful decision that allows you to help another family grow while receiving medical care, professional support, and fair compensation.
This guide explains how to become a surrogate in the United States, who qualifies, what the process looks like, how long it takes, and what to expect at every stage.
Whether you’re just exploring the idea or ready to apply, this page walks you through the journey clearly and transparently.
What Is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a process in which a woman carries a pregnancy for intended parents who cannot carry a child themselves.
In the U.S., most journeys involve gestational surrogacy, meaning:
- The surrogate does not use her own eggs
- The embryo is created through IVF
- The surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby
Gestational surrogacy is widely practiced and legally structured in many U.S. states.
Who Can Become a Surrogate?
Surrogacy has specific eligibility criteria designed to protect both the surrogate and the baby.
While requirements may vary slightly by clinic or state, most surrogates meet the following general guidelines.
Basic Surrogate Requirements
- Age typically between 21 and 40
- At least one prior healthy pregnancy and delivery
- No major pregnancy complications
- Good physical and mental health
- Non-smoker and no drug use
- Stable living environment
- Legal residency in a surrogacy-friendly U.S. state
These criteria exist to ensure a safe and healthy journey for everyone involved.
Surrogate Medical Requirements
Medical screening is a key part of becoming a surrogate and is handled by fertility professionals.
This usually includes:
- Review of medical records
- Physical exam
- Bloodwork and hormone testing
- Uterine evaluation
- Infectious disease screening
- IVF readiness assessment
Medical screening ensures your body is well prepared for pregnancy and embryo transfer.
Psychological Screening & Emotional Readiness
Surrogacy is both a physical and emotional journey.
You’ll typically complete:
- A psychological evaluation
- A consultation to discuss expectations and boundaries
- Education about emotional aspects of surrogacy
This step helps confirm that surrogacy is the right choice for you and that you feel supported throughout the process.
Step-by-Step: How to Become a Surrogate
Here’s a clear overview of the typical surrogacy journey in the U.S.
Step 1: Submit an Application
You begin by completing a detailed application that covers:
- Health history
- Pregnancy history
- Lifestyle information
- Availability and preferences
Step 2: Initial Screening
Your application is reviewed to confirm basic eligibility before moving forward.
Step 3: Medical & Psychological Evaluations
You complete clinical screenings and psychological assessments with licensed professionals.
Step 4: Matching With Intended Parents
Once approved, you are matched with intended parents based on:
- Medical compatibility
- Expectations and values
- Communication preferences
Step 5: Legal Agreements
Each party has independent legal representation.
A surrogacy agreement outlines:
- Compensation
- Medical decisions
- Parental rights
- Expectations during pregnancy
Step 6: IVF & Embryo Transfer
You begin a medically supervised cycle leading up to embryo transfer at a fertility clinic.
Step 7: Pregnancy & Support
Throughout pregnancy, you receive ongoing medical care, emotional support, and coordination until delivery.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Surrogate?
The timeline varies, but most journeys follow this general range:
- Application & screening: 2–8 weeks
- Matching process: 1–4 weeks
- Legal & medical preparation: 4–6 weeks
- Pregnancy: ~9 months
From application to delivery, the full process typically takes 12–18 months.
Surrogate Compensation & Benefits
Surrogates in the U.S. receive compensation for their time, commitment, and responsibility.
Compensation often includes:
- Base compensation
- Monthly allowances
- Medical expense coverage
- Travel expenses
- Maternity-related reimbursements
Exact compensation depends on experience, location, and journey specifics and is outlined clearly before pregnancy begins.
Legal Rights & Protections for Surrogates
Surrogacy in the U.S. is governed by state laws, which is why legal guidance is essential.
Legal protections include:
- Independent legal representation
- A binding surrogacy agreement
- Clearly defined parental rights
- Protection of medical decision-making within agreed boundaries
Working within surrogacy-friendly states ensures legal clarity and protection.
Support Throughout the Surrogacy Journey
A well-structured surrogacy journey includes continuous support, such as:
- Dedicated coordinators
- Medical guidance
- Emotional and logistical support
- Clear communication with all parties
Support is designed to help you feel informed, respected, and cared for from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Surrogate
Do surrogates use their own eggs?
No. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate does not have a genetic connection to the baby.
What disqualifies someone from being a surrogate?
Common disqualifiers include certain medical conditions, pregnancy complications, smoking, or lack of prior pregnancy.
Can I work while being a surrogate?
In most cases, yes. Many surrogates continue working, depending on job type and medical guidance.
Who pays medical bills during surrogacy?
All pregnancy-related medical expenses are covered as part of the surrogacy arrangement.
Is surrogacy safe?
When properly screened and medically supervised, surrogacy is considered a safe and well-established process.
Is Becoming a Surrogate Right for You?
Becoming a surrogate is a personal decision that combines generosity, responsibility, and commitment.
Many surrogates describe the experience as one of the most meaningful journeys of their lives.
If you’re considering surrogacy, the next step is learning more about eligibility and speaking with a professional who can guide you through the process.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You can start by checking your eligibility or speaking with a surrogacy coordinator who can answer your questions and guide you through the process at your own pace.
