How To Become a Surrogate

Surrogacy is a life-changing journey that allows women to help others build their families. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, understanding the process, requirements, and different types of surrogacy is essential. This guide includes all the information you need to get started, including a clear, step-by-step overview of how to become a surrogate and what to expect along the way. 

What Is Surrogacy? 

Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction in which a woman, called a gestational surrogate, carries and delivers a baby for someone else, known as the intended parent. As a surrogate, you offer the gift of parenthood to those who cannot have a child on their own, including individuals and couples facing infertility, same-sex couples, and those with medical or genetic conditions that prevent them from carrying a pregnancy. 

What Are the Different Types of Surrogacy? 

There are 2 main types of surrogacies, each with distinct processes and implications: 

• Gestational surrogacy: The most common type today. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby. An embryo is created via IVF using the intended parents’ or a donor’s eggs and sperm and then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. 

• Traditional surrogacy: The surrogate’s own eggs are fertilized through intrauterine insemination from the intended father or a donor, making her the biological mother of the child. This type is less common and carries additional legal and emotional complexities.

  
  

Every type of surrogacy is either compensated (commercial) or uncompensated (altruistic), which means: 

• Compensated surrogacy: The surrogate receives payment beyond medical expenses for her time and commitment. 

• Altruistic surrogacy: The surrogate is not paid, except for reimbursement of medical costs. This is common when the surrogate is a friend or family member. 

Who Can Become a Surrogate? 

Surrogates are motivated by the desire to help others and often enjoy pregnancy. Many have completed their own families and want to give the gift of parenthood to others. They are healthy, organized, honest, informed, and supported by a strong personal network. Potential surrogates must meet the following criteria (among others): 

• Be between the ages of 21 and 44 

• Have given birth to and are currently parenting at least one child 

• Have a history of uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries 

• Have a BMI under 33 (Calculate my BMI) 

• Live in a surrogate-friendly U.S. state 

• Demonstrate financial stability 

• Abstain from illegal drug use, tobacco, or alcohol abuse 

• Have a reliable support system 

For details, visit our Surrogate Requirements page. 

The Surrogacy Process: Step by Step

Becoming a surrogate involves several stages, each designed to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all parties: 

1. Research and Application: Research surrogacy agencies to find the best fit. Complete an online application typically covering personal, medical, and lifestyle information to determine initial eligibility. 

2. Consultation and Screening: If accepted, you’ll have a consultation with a social worker to discuss your motivations and expectations. Screening involves a review of your medical records and a background check. You’ll complete additional forms, submit photos, and provide insurance details. Both you and your support person will have screening calls with a licensed social worker. 

3. Matching With Intended Parents: Agencies match surrogates and intended parents based on legal, medical, and personal compatibility. Profiles are exchanged, and a video call helps both parties get to know each other. 

4. Medical Screening and Legal Contracts: Attend an overnight medical screening at the intended parents’ IVF clinic (IP covers travel expenses). Both parties work with independent legal counsel to draft and sign the Carrier Agreement. 

5. Medications and Embryo Transfer: Begin a medication cycle to prepare your body for embryo transfer. Undergo the embryo transfer procedure at the clinic. 

6. Pregnancy and Support: If the transfer is successful, you’ll be monitored until about 10 to 12 weeks of pregnancy, then transition to your own OB/GYN (many surrogates choose the one they used for their own children). You’ll receive ongoing support from your agency and maintain communication with the IPs. 

7. Delivery: The intended parents are usually present at the birth to welcome their child. The agency helps coordinate the delivery and post-birth arrangements. 

How Much Do Surrogates Make?  

Surrogates are compensated for their time, effort, and commitment. Surrogate pay depends on a few factors:  

• Where you live 

• Whether you have insurance 

• If you’re a first-time or experienced surrogate 

  
  

First-time surrogates are paid $55,000 to $65,000+ with added benefits and payments on top of the base compensation of $35,000 to $50,000+. They also receive additional compensation and benefits for insurance, lost wages, housekeeping, and more.

Circle Surrogacy offers the most comprehensive and protective pay and benefits package for gestational carriers and their families. See full details about how a surrogate is paid and how much she can expect to earn. 

Why Work With an Agency? 

Working with a reputable agency like Circle provides: 

• Full support and guidance throughout the process 

• Professional matching services 

• Medical, legal, and emotional support 

• Assistance with logistics, insurance, and compensation 

Agencies ensure that both surrogates and intended parents have a safe, smooth, and rewarding experience. 

Ready To Start Your Surrogacy Journey? 

Surrogacy is a journey of compassion, commitment, and connection. By becoming a surrogate, you have the unique opportunity to change lives and help dreams of parenthood come true. Get started with Circle Surrogacy today by completing our online application for surrogates. Our experienced, compassionate team looks forward to guiding you through this meaningful journey.