Becoming a surrogate is a deeply personal decision that has the power to change lives — both for the family you’ll help and for you. It’s important to take the time to understand the full journey ahead, including the responsibilities, steps and requirements involved.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: why surrogacy may be a good fit for you, what the process looks like, the qualifications to get started, compensation details and tips for navigating a healthy and rewarding experience.
What Is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a process where a woman carries and gives birth to a baby for someone else, often called the intended parents. Intended parents may not be able to carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical reasons or may choose not to for health and safety concerns.
There are two types of surrogacy. They are:
- Gestational surrogacy: The surrogate carries a baby that is not genetically related to her. The embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors.
- Traditional surrogacy: The surrogate uses her own egg, making her the genetic mother of the baby she carries for the intended parents.
Gestational surrogacy is more common and is often preferred because it allows intended parents to maintain a biological connection to their child. It can also reduce emotional and legal complexities for both the surrogate and the intended parents.
For surrogates, the experience of helping intended parents grow their family is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing the hope and joy this journey brings can be one of the most unforgettable and meaningful experiences of their lives.
Why Consider Becoming a Surrogate?
There are many reasons why surrogacy might feel like the right path for you. One of the most meaningful is the emotional fulfillment it brings. Research published in Human Reproduction followed surrogates up to 10 years after their journey and found that the experience was overwhelmingly positive for both surrogates and intended parents. Surrogates reported low rates of post-birth depression and often described the experience in two key ways: it was hard work, but it was worth it. Many surrogates saw the journey as a core part of their identity, giving them a lasting sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
Surrogacy also opens the door to lifelong connections. Surrogates often develop strong relationships with intended parents and build meaningful bonds with other surrogates who share similar experiences. It’s a chance to support a diverse range of families, including those in the LGBTQ+ community, and help them achieve their dreams of parenthood.
Surrogates receive financial compensation for their time and commitment. Base compensation — starting between $45,000 and $60,000 depending on experience and location — is the guaranteed payment a surrogate receives before any additional bonuses or reimbursements. Surrogates are also compensated for travel and unexpected inconveniences.
Requirements to Become a Surrogate
Before applying to become a surrogate, it’s important to ensure you meet the necessary qualifications. These criteria help protect your health and the well-being of the intended parents throughout the surrogacy process.
The requirements to become a surrogate include:
- You are in the age range of 21 to 38 years old.
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- You have a good pregnancy history, including no more than five deliveries or two C-sections.
- You have a healthy medical history, including a BMI within an acceptable range (under 30).
- You lead a healthy and stable lifestyle.
The legal requirements for how to become a surrogate mother are:
- You reside in a surrogacy-friendly state.
- You have a full understanding of the surrogacy contract and its implications.
Finally, it’s important to consider your personal circumstances. Surrogacy requires time and dedication, so be sure you can commit to the full process, including any travel that may be required. Having a strong support system — whether it’s your partner, family or close friends — can make a big difference in navigating this journey successfully.
The Surrogacy Process
Once you’ve decided to become a surrogate, you may be eager to get started. Here’s an overview of each step in the journey:
Step 1: The Application and Onboarding
Apply to be a surrogate here. As part of the application, you’ll provide details about your medical history, including vaccinations, and share your availability to begin the process.
Step 2: Match Process
Once a surrogate is screened and meets all requirements, we’ll match you with intended parents who share your surrogacy goals and values. When a potential match is identified, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and decide if you’re comfortable moving forward together.
Step 3: Medical and Psychological Screenings
You’ll participate in a series of health and psychological evaluations. These assessments are designed to prioritize your well-being and ensure you’re physically and mentally prepared for the journey of being a surrogate.
Step 4: Legal Agreements
After confirming a match, both you and the intended parents will work with legal professionals to create a surrogacy contract. This agreement outlines everyone’s rights, responsibilities and key details like the surrogacy timeline, payment schedule and health coverage. The legal process can take a few months to finalize.
Step 5: Embryo Transfer
With medical clearance in place, you’ll begin a treatment plan to prepare your body for embryo transfer. Over the course of three to four weeks, you’ll attend monitoring appointments at the IVF clinic to ensure everything is progressing smoothly.
Step 6: Pregnancy and Delivery
Once the embryo transfer is successful, you’ll receive regular prenatal care, including ultrasounds and any necessary tests. The intended parents will stay closely involved, often through regular check-ins. Around the 10-week mark, the IVF clinic will transfer your care to an OB/GYN.
When the baby is born, the intended parents will be present at the hospital to meet and take their baby home. This moment is often deeply emotional for everyone involved. Many surrogates maintain a relationship with the intended parents after delivery, keeping communication open to find a dynamic that feels right for all parties.
Compensation and Benefits
Surrogates receive a base pay ranging from $45,000 up to $60,000, depending on experience and location. This is paid in monthly installments. There may be additional payments for multiple pregnancies or additional embryo transfers. All medical, travel and legal expenses for the surrogate will be covered, as well as health insurance and emotional support. Surrogate mothers with Joy of Life typically receive anywhere from $55,000 to $85,000 in total compensation.
But our commitment to the well-being of our surrogate mothers extends beyond financial compensation. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Up to $250,000 in premium life insurance (subject to qualification)
- Medical insurance
- Psychological support
- Round-the-clock assistance
- Nutritional counseling
- And more!
Tips for a Successful Surrogacy Journey
Being a surrogate can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s important to prioritize your physical and emotional well-being throughout the process. Here are some key tips to help you feel your best:
- Take care of your body: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and other nutritious foods. Regular physical activity (as approved by your healthcare provider) and staying on top of prenatal care appointments will help support a healthy pregnancy.
- Prioritize emotional wellness: Your emotional health matters just as much as your physical health. Keep communication open with the intended parents and your surrogacy agency. Lean on the support systems and resources available to surrogates, such as counseling or support groups, to help you navigate any challenges along the way.
By focusing on both your physical and emotional well-being, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy a positive and fulfilling surrogacy experience.
Why Choose Joy of Life for Your Surrogacy Journey?
At Joy of Life, we know that family means everything. That’s why we’re committed to helping others achieve the dream of parenthood. Our experienced team understands the clinical, emotional and legal complexities of surrogacy and is here to provide guidance and support to both surrogates and intended parents throughout the journey.
Becoming a surrogate is a life-changing experience — for you and for the family you help create. At Joy of Life, we’re with you every step of the way, helping you turn this decision into a truly rewarding journey.
