The Surrogate Journey: What to Expect in the U.S. Process

surrogacy process

The journey to parenthood in the United States is a life-changing experience—both for intended parents and the women who step forward to help create families. At the heart of it all, the surrogacy process is filled with compassion, commitment, and careful planning. Whether you’re wondering who a surrogate mom is or searching for surrogate programs near me, understanding what lies ahead is the first step toward a smooth, rewarding journey.

In the U.S., surrogacy is well-structured, with clear guidelines to protect both surrogates and intended parents. With the support of agencies like Indian Egg Donors, you can navigate this process confidently—knowing each stage is guided by expertise, empathy, and transparency.

Who is a Surrogate Mom?

A surrogate mother is a woman who carries and delivers a baby for someone else, often because the intended parents are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. In the U.S., surrogacy is generally gestational—meaning the surrogate has no genetic link to the child. The embryo is created through IVF using either the intended mother’s or donor’s egg and the intended father’s or donor’s sperm.

Surrogates make an extraordinary commitment, driven by a desire to help others experience the joy of parenthood. For some, it’s also a way to support their own families financially while giving the priceless gift of life.

The Surrogacy Process in the U.S. – Step by Step

1. Research and Initial Inquiry

If you’re looking for a surrogate mother or considering the role yourself, the first step is learning about the legal, medical, and emotional aspects of surrogacy. Agencies like Indian Egg Donors provide free consultations to explain your options.

2. Application and Screening

Surrogates go through comprehensive screening, which may include:

  • Medical evaluations
  • Psychological assessments
  • Background checks
  • Lifestyle review

This ensures the surrogate is physically and emotionally ready for the journey.

3. Matching with Intended Parents

Matching is a thoughtful process where shared expectations, personalities, and values are considered. Both sides meet—virtually or in person—to ensure comfort and trust before moving forward.

4. Legal Contracts

Surrogacy contracts outline:

  • Compensation and expenses
  • Medical decisions
  • Birth plans
  • Parental rights

In the U.S., these agreements are legally binding, offering peace of mind for all parties.

5. Medical Preparations

The medical phase includes fertility treatments, IVF, and embryo transfer. Surrogates receive full guidance from fertility specialists.

6. Pregnancy and Support

Once pregnant, surrogates attend regular medical check-ups and stay in close contact with intended parents. Agencies often provide counseling to ensure emotional well-being.

7. Delivery and Handover

The most emotional stage—delivery—is handled according to the agreed birth plan. Intended parents are usually present, ready to meet their new baby.

Types of Surrogacy in the U.S.

Understanding types of surrogacy helps you decide which is best for your circumstances:

  • Gestational Surrogacy: The surrogate carries an embryo with no genetic relation to her.
  • Traditional Surrogacy: Rare in the U.S., where the surrogate’s egg is used.
  • Compensated Surrogacy: The surrogate receives agreed-upon financial compensation.
  • Altruistic Surrogacy: The surrogate is reimbursed only for medical and pregnancy-related expenses.

Special Considerations – Surrogacy for Single Men

Single men who dream of fatherhood can also benefit from surrogacy. With surrogacy for single men, the process may include choosing both an egg donor and a surrogate. Agencies like Indian Egg Donors have experience guiding single intended fathers through every step.

Why Work with a Trusted Agency like Indian Egg Donors

Choosing a reliable agency makes a world of difference. Indian Egg Donors offers:

Who is a surrogate mom

  • Expert legal guidance for state-specific surrogacy laws
  • An extensive surrogate and donor database for faster matching
  • International coordination for intended parents abroad
  • Personalized emotional support for surrogates and intended parents alike

Benefits of Becoming a Surrogate in the USA

If you’re wondering, “I want to be a surrogate,” here’s what you can expect:

  • Fulfillment – Helping create a family is deeply rewarding.
  • Financial benefits – Compensation can support your own family’s goals.
  • Emotional connection – Build lasting bonds with grateful parents.
  • Medical care – Receive top-quality prenatal and delivery care.

Surrogacy Programs Near Me – How to Start

If you’re searching for surrogate programs near me, start with agencies that have a proven record of transparency and success. Indian Egg Donors works nationwide, meaning location isn’t a barrier—they can connect you with local fertility clinics, legal teams, and counseling services.

FAQs

Q1. How long does the surrogacy process take?

Ans: Typically, it takes 12–18 months from matching to delivery.

Q2. Do surrogates have any legal rights to the baby?

Ans: In gestational surrogacy, legal agreements ensure the intended parents are recognized as the baby’s legal parents.

Q3. Can I become a surrogate if I’ve never had a child before?

Ans: No, most agencies require surrogates to have at least one successful prior pregnancy.

Q4. How much are surrogates paid in the U.S.?

Ans: Compensation varies, but experienced surrogates often receive higher pay.

Q5. Is surrogacy for single men legal in all states?

Ans: It depends on state laws—your agency will guide you on legal requirements.

Conclusion

The surrogacy process in the U.S. is a structured, supportive path that transforms lives. Whether you are looking for a surrogate mother or exploring how to become a surrogate in USA, the right guidance makes the journey smoother, safer, and more fulfilling. With the expertise of Indian Egg Donors, every step is handled with care, compassion, and professionalism—making dreams of parenthood a reality.

Contact Indian Egg Donors today at (212) 661-7177 to start your surrogacy journey.

Dr. Pooja Patel
Physician – Chief Surrogacy Coordinator  pooja@surrogacy4all.com

Dr. Pooja Patel is a Chief Surrogacy Coordinator at Surrogacy4all. She has 10 years of experience in Anesthesiology and critical care medicine.

She received her medical degree from Seth GS Medical College and K.E.M Hospital in India. She then completed an internship. She finished her Anesthesia residency at Grant Govt Medical College and JJ Group of Hospitals in India.

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