Surrogacy in USA
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Average price: 150,000 to 250,000 USD
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Legal status: Regulated (varies by state)
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Intended Parents Accepted: All
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Types of surrogacy supported: Both Gestational and Traditional Surrogacy
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Surrogate Compensation: Commercial surrogacy
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The Surrogacy Insider viewpoint: Surrogacy in the U.S. can be very expensive, but it also offers some of the strongest legal protections.
Expert, unbiased guidance to help you navigate international surrogacy with confidence
Surrogacy in the United States is often considered the golden standard due to its well-established legal framework, advanced medical facilities, and comprehensive support systems. The U.S. offers a high level of legal protection for intended parents, with clear laws in many states that ensure parental rights are granted to the intended parents from the moment of birth. But it is important to remember that the U.S. does not regulate surrogacy on a federal level, so each state has its own laws about how surrogacy is regulated.
As of 2025, surrogacy is now legal in all 50 states following Michigan's historic legalization in April 2025 (passed in April 2024 but took effect in March/April 2025), making it the last state to lift its criminal ban on compensated surrogacy. (Check the map of surrogacy laws in all 50 states of USA here).
Additionally, the U.S. has some of the most experienced fertility clinics and professionals, along with rigorous health and ethical standards for both surrogates and egg donors. The country also offers a robust network of agencies and legal experts specializing in surrogacy, ensuring a highly coordinated and transparent process. The U.S. has also strengthened protections for LGBTQ+ families, with more states offering pre-birth orders for same-sex couples and single parents regardless of genetic connection. These factors make the U.S. a popular destination for many intended parents seeking a secure and well-regulated surrogacy experience, despite the higher costs involved.
Why work with the Surrogacy Insider
✓ 250+ families supported
✓ 6+ years of experience
✓ All family types are welcome
✓ Completely unbiased guidance
Types of surrogacy and their implications
Two main categories of surrogacy are gestational and traditional. Every kind has unique medical, legal, and personal differences the intending parents must be aware of.
Gestational surrogacy: where the surrogate bears an embryo produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF), using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. Since the surrogate has no genetic relationship to the kid, this is the most popular type of surrogacy in the USA. Gestational surrogacy now accounts for the overwhelming majority of surrogacy arrangements in the United States, and is the preferred method for all family types including heterosexual couples, LGBTQ+ families, and single parents.
Traditional surrogacy: where the surrogate uses her own egg, therefore becoming the biological mother of the child. Since the surrogate has a genetic relationship with the baby, this type of surrogacy is less popular in the United States because of the complicated legal and emotional aspects. The legal procedures are more difficult, and proving parental rights for intended parents can be tricky as well. Many states now have specific restrictions or requirements for traditional surrogacy, and most surrogacy agencies do not offer traditional surrogacy services due to the legal complexities and potential for custody disputes.
For surrogacy in the United States, gestational surrogacy presents major legal benefits. The intended parents can more readily establish their legal rights since the surrogate is not genetically linked to the child, therefore lowering any conflicts and streamlining the process generally. With the 2025 legal expansions in states like Michigan and Massachusetts, gestational surrogacy now has clearer legal pathways, with many states offering pre-birth orders that establish parental rights before the baby is even born.
Understanding the legal landscape for surrogacy in the USA
State-by-state variation in surrogacy laws
As of 2025, surrogacy is now legal (meaning not criminally prohibited) in all 50 states following groundbreaking legislation in Michigan (April 2025) and Massachusetts (January 2025). However, states still have greatly different rules and regulations for surrogacy in the USA. Certain states, including Connecticut, Illinois, and California, among others, have well-established laws safeguarding the rights of intended parents and surrogates with streamlined processes and pre-birth orders readily available. Not all states, meanwhile, are equally straightforward. Some have additional restrictions or specific requirements such as residency requirements, marital status conditions, or genetic connection mandates. So, the answer to the question: "Is surrogacy legal in all 50 states?" is yes in theory, but with important variations. While compensated surrogacy is no longer criminally prohibited anywhere in the United States, each state takes a different approach to regulating surrogacy agreements, pre-birth orders, and parental rights establishment. It is also important to remember that legal does not automatically mean regulated.
The Importance of hiring a specialized surrogacy attorney
Negotiating the legal details of surrogacy in the United States calls for professional direction. Engaging a specialised surrogacy attorney is essential to ensure that all legal requirements are met and that all parties are fully protected. An attorney can draft and review agreements, establish parental rights, and ensure compliance with the specific surrogacy laws of each state.
In 2025, with evolving state regulations and ongoing legal developments (including questions around birthright citizenship for international parents), working with an experienced surrogacy attorney who stays current on legal changes is more important than ever. Your attorney should be licensed in the state where your surrogate resides and where the baby will be born.
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Contracts and key legal protections
The whole surrogacy process revolves much around contracts. These legal agreements spell out the obligations and expectations of the surrogate mother as well as the intended parents. Key protections include agreements for parental rights, medical treatment, and compensation. Modern surrogacy contracts in 2025 also address important considerations such as selective reduction decisions, termination rights, multiple births, medical complications, surrogate decision-making autonomy, and detailed compensation structures including base pay and expense reimbursements. Contracts are meant to avoid misinterpretation and guarantee that the procedure is clear for all the engaged parties.
How much does surrogacy in the USA cost?
In 2025, the cost of surrogacy in the US typically ranges between $150,000 to $200,000, with some journeys reaching $250,000 or more depending on various factors. Industry experts predict costs will continue to increase by 20-25% through the end of 2025. Typical expenses are:
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Agency Fees: This is pay for services, including screening, support throughout the process, and surrogate matching. Typical range: $20,000-$35,000.
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Surrogate Compensation: The surrogate is paid for her time, effort, and commitment to the pregnancy. Experience and location influence this. In 2025, surrogate compensation is increasing to recognize the physical and emotional demands of the journey, with experienced surrogates commanding higher fees.
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Medical Procedures: The overall investment covers IVF, embryo transfer, prenatal care, and delivery costs. Expect $25,000-$50,000 for IVF cycles, with additional costs if multiple transfers are needed.
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Legal Fees: They cover parental rights and contract preparation. Typical range: $10,000-$25,000, with costs varying by state complexity and whether both intended parents need legal establishment of rights.
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Insurance Costs: A critical and growing expense. Surrogacy-specific insurance policies range from $8,000-$30,000 depending on coverage. Insurance costs are rising in 2025, and coverage is becoming more limited, potentially leaving families with higher out-of-pocket medical expenses.
The cost of surrogacy in the USA can be influenced by several elements, including the state where the surrogacy takes place, medical needs, and the experience of the surrogate. California, New York, and Illinois tend to be the most expensive states due to higher costs of living and surrogate compensation, while states like Texas and Florida may be more affordable.
Intended parents should look into financing choices, employer benefits, or payment schedules provided by surrogacy companies in order to manage expenses. Encouragingly, more employers are now offering fertility and surrogacy benefits as part of their compensation packages in 2025, which can significantly offset costs for eligible families.
USA surrogacy compared to other destinations
Making an informed choice means understanding all your options. Here's how the USA compares to other destinations available to international intended parents:
Factor | USA | Colombia | Ghana | Armenia | Mexico | Albania | Georgia |
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Legal Status | Varies by state; not federally regulated | Not explicitly regulated, but is not prohibited either - Colombian Constitution on children born through ART | Legal, recognized but not fully regulated | Legal with clear framework | Not federally regulated; based on Supreme Court decision | Unregulated (draft legislation pending) | Legal with clear framework |
Cost Range | $150,000-$250,000 | $50,000-$70,000 | $35,000-$60,000 | $50,000-$80,000 | $60,000-$100,000 | $80,000-$95,000 | $40,000-$80,000 |
Legal Security | Very High | Moderate | High | High | High | Moderate | High |
LGBTQ+ Friendly | Yes | Yes | No | No | Yes | Yes (although not specified) | No |
Single Parents | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
Medical Standards | High | Varying quality | Varying quality | Good | High | Varying quality | Good |
Each destination has its own advantages and risks. During our consultations, I'll help you understand which option aligns best with your priorities, budget, and family situation.
Each destination has its own advantages and risks. During our consultations, I'll help you understand which option aligns best with your priorities, budget, and family situation.
USA surrogacy compared to other destinations
Making an informed choice means understanding all your options. Here's how the USA compares to other destinations available to international intended parents:
USA
Legal Status
Varies by state; not federally regulated
Cost Range
$150,000-$250,000
Legal Security
Very High
Legal Security
Yes
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
High quality
Legal Status
Not explicitly regulated, but is not prohibited either - Colombian Constitution on children born through ART
Cost Range
$50,000-$70,000
Legal Security
Moderate
Legal Security
Yes
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
Varying quality
Legal Status
Legal, recognized but not fully regulated
Cost Range
$35,000-$60,000
Legal Security
High
Legal Security
No
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
Varying quality
Legal Status
Legal with clear framework
Cost Range
$50,000-$80,000
Legal Security
High
LGBTQ+ Friendly
No
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
Good
Legal Status
Not federally regulated; based on Supreme Court decision
Cost Range
$60,000-$100,000
Legal Security
High
LGBTQ+ Friendly
Yes
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
High quality
Legal Status
Unregulated (draft legislation pending)
Cost Range
$80,000-$95,000
Legal Security
Moderate
LGBTQ+ Friendly
Yes (although not specified)
Single Parents Friendly
Yes
Medical Standards
Varying quality
Georgia
Legal Status
Legal with clear framework
Cost Range
$40,000-$80,000
Legal Security
High
LGBTQ+ Friendly
No
Single Parents Friendly
No
Medical Standards
Good
Choosing the right surrogacy agency
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Choosing an appropriate surrogacy agency is a very important concern in the entire journey. In 2025, with evolving state laws and increased legal complexities, selecting an agency with current expertise is more critical than ever. Here's how:
Research and questions to ask
Look for agencies that have established success, transparent pricing, and support services. Ask about experience, timelines, screening processes, and success rates. In 2025, also ask about their experience with your specific family structure (LGBTQ+ couples, single parents, international parents), their familiarity with recent legal changes in states like Michigan and Massachusetts, and how they handle emerging issues like birthright citizenship concerns for international families. Inquire whether they offer all-inclusive pricing and unlimited attempts or itemized costs, and request references from families similar to yours.
Surrogate screening and matching process
Many agencies have extensive medical and psychological screenings that provide evidence of the physical and emotional preparedness of the surrogate. Matching in the context of surrogacy in the USA involves lining up values, communication preferences, and lifestyle compatibility between the intended parents and the surrogate mother. Leading agencies in 2025 are increasingly using advanced matching technologies and AI-assisted tools to improve compatibility, while still maintaining the personal touch that makes surrogacy relationships successful.
Factors to Consider: While selecting a surrogate, consider the location, values about family, lifestyle, and whether she will be willing to maintain contact after the birth. Location is particularly important as it determines which state laws will apply—some states offer pre-birth orders while others require post-birth adoption procedures. For international intended parents, consider agencies with established protocols for navigating current citizenship and passport documentation processes. Compatibility ensures a much smoother journey for all involved. Look for agencies that demonstrate cultural competence and have experience supporting diverse family structures, as the surrogacy landscape in 2025 is more inclusive than ever before.
Why is USA popular choice for surrogacy
Legal Security Nationwide
As of 2025, compensated surrogacy is no longer criminally prohibited anywhere in the U.S., though it is not yet affirmatively legalized or uniformly regulated in all states. But many states offer robust parental rights protections and pre-birth orders available in many states.
World-Class Medical Standards
Access to advanced fertility clinics, cutting-edge IVF technology, and experienced reproductive specialists.
All Types of Families Accepted
Fully Inclusive
Supportive of LGBTQ+ couples, single parents, and all family structures with equal legal protections.
Personal Connections with Donors and Surrogates
Unlike in many other countries, U.S. programs often allow intended parents to have meaningful, open relationships with both their egg donor and surrogate. Egg donor arrangements can be non-anonymous, enabling you to meet the donor and maintain ongoing contact if mutually agreed. Similarly, intended parents can have direct communication with their surrogate throughout the journey and, when desired, continue to stay in touch after the birth, fostering a genuine, supportive connection built on trust and shared experience
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Automatic US citizenship
Despite recent discussions and uncertainties surrounding birthright citizenship, a child born in the United States is, at this time, still automatically granted U.S. citizenship — a factor that remains highly desirable for many international families.
Understanding the challenges and disadvantages of USA surrogacy
The United States offers many advantages for surrogacy, but as your independent consultant, I need to give you the complete picture. Here are the real disadvantages you should consider.
High costs and rising expenses
Surrogacy in the USA is the most expensive in the world at $150,000 to $250,000+. Industry experts predict costs will continue to increase by 20-25% through the end of 2025, and insurance costs are rising significantly with coverage becoming more limited.
Complex legal landscape
While surrogacy is now legal in all 50 states, the legal framework varies significantly, with some states offering robust protections while others impose restrictions. States like Indiana don't enforce surrogacy contracts, creating significant legal risks. You'll need specialized attorneys for your surrogate's state, adding complexity and cost.
Longer Timelines
The number of surrogates in the US has decreased by nearly 60 percent from the pandemic. Wait times, which used to be three to six months, are often doubled.
Surrogate Autonomy
In the U.S., surrogates retain full bodily autonomy, meaning they have the legal right to make personal decisions throughout the pregnancy — including those related to medical care, abortion, or termination. While this is a cornerstone of U.S. law protecting individual rights, it differs from other surrogacy destinations where agreements may require the surrogate to continue the pregnancy unless there are medical reasons not to. This autonomy can add an additional layer of unpredictability for intended parents.
Insurance and Medical Costs
Insurance coverage for surrogacy-related complications is limited and increasingly expensive, with coverage varying widely. Out-of-pocket medical costs for fertility treatments, prenatal care, and delivery are the highest in the world.
Surrogacy: When Things Go Wrong
Even in the United States, where surrogacy is highly regulated and supported by advanced medical care, serious complications and problematic cases can occur. High-profile incidents highlight that surrogacy is not without risk:
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A Silicon Valley couple experienced the death of a baby in utero and subsequently pursued a legal case against the surrogate. In a separate pregnancy with the same couple, another surrogate suffered a life-threatening complication, losing 5.5 liters of blood and requiring an emergency hysterectomy, yet the pregnancy was described as “successful” because the baby survived.
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In California, a couple allegedly misled multiple surrogates simultaneously, with one saying they “preyed on my vulnerability.” Authorities arrested the couple on felony charges, and 21 children involved are now in protective care.
These examples show that, despite legal protections, medical expertise, and careful planning, surrogacy can still involve serious risks, complications, and unexpected challenges.
Importance of communication
Building trust and openness
Building a trusting relationship between the intended parents and the surrogate mother in the USA is essential for a successful surrogacy journey. Open communication helps set expectations, address concerns, and create a positive experience. When both parties share their hopes, fears, and goals, they lay the foundation for a strong partnership.
In 2025, with new legal requirements in states like Michigan and Massachusetts mandating mental health evaluations and ongoing support, the importance of psychological wellness and open dialogue is more recognized than ever. Modern surrogacy journeys benefit from professional counseling services and mediation support when needed.
Maintaining Strong Support Systems
The role of open communication cannot be overstated. A strong support system benefits both the intended parents and the surrogate mother in the USA. In 2025, technology has enhanced communication with secure apps, video check-ins, and real-time updates that keep all parties connected throughout the journey. However, the human element remains irreplaceable. The Surrogacy Insider can introduce you to trustworthy agencies that practice regular check-ins, updates, and support to make the process smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Look for agencies that provide dedicated case managers, and resources for navigating both expected milestones and unexpected challenges, including emerging legal developments that may affect your journey.
If you’re ready to take the next step, consider scheduling a consultation. I am here to provide personalized guidance and help you navigate these stages confidently. Whether you're a heterosexual couple, LGBTQ+ family, single parent, or international intended parent, specialized guidance tailored to your unique situation is available to help you build your family with confidence in 2025 and beyond.
Why Work With The Surrogacy Insider?
Unbiased Guidance You Can Trust
I'm Olga Pysana, founder of The Surrogacy Insider. Unlike agencies that promote only their own services, I provide completely independent, transparent guidance focused solely on your best interests.
My Background:
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2019-2024: Part of a global surrogacy agency, directly involved in creating 250+ families
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In depth experience across Ukraine, Mexico, Colombia, Cyprus, UK, Armenia, Georgia…
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Behind-the-scenes insight into legal, medical, logistical, and emotional aspects of surrogacy
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2024: Founded The Surrogacy Insider to fill the gap in unbiased, transparent information
What Makes Me Different:
✓ Not an agency: No sales pressure, only honest guidance
✓ Truly unbiased: I recommend what's best for YOU
✓ Direct relationships: I personally connect you with trusted providers I know and have worked with
✓ Realistic information in the research stage: You get the full picture: both advantages and risks
✓ Your advocate: Your interests are protected from the get go
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My Belief:
Everyone deserves the chance to become a parent. Whether you're considering the USA or any other destination, I'm here to ensure you make informed, empowered decisions based on transparency, not sales pitches.
Families I've Helped Build
Real stories from intended parents who trusted me to guide their journey.
Olga Gave Us the Truth We Needed
"After talking to several agencies who only wanted to sell us their services, Olga was a breath of fresh air. She explained the pros and cons of each destination honestly, helped us understand the real risks, and connected us with an excellent agency. We felt informed and in control of our decisions for the first time."
She Was With Us Every Step
"Olga's experience shows in every conversation. She knew exactly what questions to ask, which red flags to watch for, and how to navigate the complex issues we faced in the research stage. Her connections and experience made all the difference. We now have our beautiful son
Unbiased Guidance Made All the Difference
"We appreciated that Olga wasn't trying to sell us on any particular option. She presented the facts, helped us weigh the pros and cons, and supported whatever decision we made. Her honesty and transparency gave us confidence to start our journey."
Frequently Asked Questions About USA Surrogacy
The cost of surrogacy in the US typically ranges from $100,000 to $200,000, with some journeys reaching $250,000 or more. This includes agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical expenses, legal charges, and insurance costs. The final amount depends on factors like the surrogate's experience, which state you choose, and whether you need multiple IVF cycles. See our detailed cost breakdown above for specific expense categories.
Yes! As of 2025, surrogacy is now legal in all 50 states following Michigan's legalization in April 2025 and Massachusetts's legalization in January 2025. However, state laws differ significantly. While compensated surrogacy is no longer criminally prohibited anywhere, some states have additional requirements like residency conditions, marital status specifications, or genetic connection mandates. To understand the legal landscape in your specific state, consult a professional surrogacy attorney.
Well-written surrogacy agreements provide legal protections by outlining the rights and obligations of both the surrogate and intended parents. These contracts guarantee clarity on compensation, medical treatment, and parental rights, giving everyone involved a safe framework. In many states, pre-birth orders establish your parental rights before the baby is even born. Modern 2025 contracts also address selective reduction, termination rights, multiple births, medical complications, and surrogate decision-making autonomy.
From initial consultation to bringing your baby home, the typical timeline is 12-18 months. This includes 1-4 months for agency selection and matching, 1-2 months for legal agreements, 1-2 months for medical procedures and embryo transfer, 9 months for pregnancy, and 1-4 weeks for post-birth finalization. Individual timelines vary based on how quickly you find a match, IVF success rates, and state-specific legal requirements.
Success rates depend primarily on the quality of embryos and the age of the egg source. With high-quality embryos and a qualified surrogate, success rates per transfer are approximately 60-70% for women under 35, 50-60% for women aged 35-37, 40-50% for women aged 38-40, and 20-30% for women over 40. Using donor eggs from younger women significantly improves success rates. Most intended parents achieve success within 1-3 embryo transfers.
Absolutely! The USA is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly surrogacy destinations in the world. As of 2025, all 50 states permit surrogacy for LGBTQ+ couples and single parents. Many states now offer pre-birth orders for same-sex couples regardless of genetic connection, giving you the same legal rights and protections as heterosexual couples. Most surrogacy agencies actively welcome and support LGBTQ+ families and single parents.
Comprehensive surrogacy contracts address potential complications and outline responsibilities for all parties. Your insurance coverage, specifically the maternity insurance for the surrogate, covers medical complications. Legal agreements specify medical decision-making authority, financial responsibilities for complications, hospitalization and extended care, NICU costs for premature babies, and what happens in worst-case scenarios. Your agency and legal team prepare contingency plans for various scenarios to protect everyone involved.
Consider several key factors when choosing a state. The legal framework varies, with some states like California, Illinois, and Connecticut offering pre-birth orders while others require post-birth procedures. Costs also differ significantly, as living expenses affect surrogate compensation (California and New York are most expensive, while Texas and Florida may be more affordable). Think about proximity to your location for appointments and birth, surrogate availability in different states, any additional requirements based on your family structure, and for international parents, which states have better citizenship protocols. Your attorney and consultant can help identify the best state for your specific situation.
As of 2025, there is ongoing legal uncertainty around birthright citizenship. President Trump signed an executive order attempting to end automatic citizenship for children born to non-US citizen parents, but multiple federal courts have blocked it as unconstitutional. Currently, birthright citizenship remains protected, and most legal experts believe it will continue to be protected. Contingency plans exist if the situation changes, and international parents can still obtain travel documents for their babies. Your specialized attorney will navigate the current requirements. This situation is fluid, so consult with a surrogacy attorney experienced in international cases for the most current guidance.
The process depends on the current legal status of birthright citizenship. If birthright citizenship is protected (the current status), your baby born in the USA is automatically a US citizen. You'll obtain a US birth certificate with your names, apply for a US passport (typically taking 2-4 weeks), and travel home with your baby. If birthright citizenship becomes restricted, you'll need to apply for your country's citizenship and passport, which may take longer depending on your country. Emergency procedures may be available, and the UK, Canada, and many European countries have established protocols. Your agency and attorney will guide you through the specific process for your country.
Most countries can pursue USA surrogacy, though some face fewer complications than others. The process is typically easier for citizens of the UK, Ireland, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most European countries, Israel, and some Asian countries (check current regulations). It's more complex for citizens of countries where surrogacy is illegal, as you may face legal issues at home, or countries without established citizenship transfer protocols. Additional considerations include your country's recognition of surrogacy arrangements, the process for getting your baby citizenship in your home country, and any travel restrictions or visa requirements. Always consult with both USA and home-country attorneys before proceeding.
Yes, many options exist to make surrogacy more affordable. A growing number of companies now offer fertility and surrogacy benefits, with coverage ranging from $10,000 to full coverage, so check with your HR department. Most agencies offer structured payment plans that allow you to pay in phases throughout the journey, reducing the immediate financial burden. You can also explore fertility-specific loans with competitive rates, personal loans from banks or credit unions, or home equity lines of credit. Various organizations offer grants to qualifying families (typically $2,000-$10,000), and LGBTQ+ families may have access to specific grant opportunities. Some medical expenses may also be tax-deductible, so consult with a tax professional about your specific situation.
Failed transfers are common and should be planned for in your budget and expectations. Financially, some agencies offer "shared risk" or guarantee programs, but additional transfers typically incur extra medical costs of $5,000-$15,000 each. The surrogate may also receive additional compensation, so budget for 2-3 transfer attempts. Emotionally, support services can help you process disappointment, and most families succeed within 1-3 attempts while your agency coordinates next steps. Medically, the clinic will review what happened and adjust the protocol, potentially recommending different embryos or techniques while the surrogate undergoes a new preparation cycle.
Reputable agencies conduct extensive screening to ensure surrogate readiness and safety. Medical screening includes a physical examination, medical history review, OB/GYN evaluation, review of previous pregnancy records, STD and drug testing, and psychological evaluation. Background checks cover criminal history, financial stability, home environment assessment, and references from friends and family. Eligibility requirements typically include being aged 21-40, having a BMI within a healthy range, at least one successful previous pregnancy, being a non-smoker with no drug use, maintaining a stable home environment, being a US citizen or permanent resident, and having no major mental health issues. Psychological screening assesses mental health, understanding of surrogacy implications, support system strength, and motivation for becoming a surrogate.
Compatibility issues are rare but addressable when they occur. Prevention is key through a thorough matching process, clear communication from the start, and regular check-ins throughout the journey. If issues arise, agencies offer mediation services, professional counseling, communication facilitation, and contract review of obligations. In the worst case and rare situations, matches can be dissolved. Before pregnancy, both parties can opt out, but during pregnancy, contract terms govern continuation and the agency helps find a new match if needed before pregnancy begins. This is why careful matching and clear contracts are so important
Usually yes, if you want to be! Most surrogacy arrangements include intended parents being present in the delivery room (subject to the surrogate's choice), a birth plan coordinated in advance, hospital notification of your parental status, immediate bonding time with baby, and some parents even stay in the hospital room with their baby. For international parents, you should plan to arrive 2-4 weeks before the due date and may need to stay several weeks after birth. Arrange accommodations near the hospital, and your birth plan should account for time zone differences if you're not physically there for the delivery.
Multiple births are addressed in your surrogacy contract before pregnancy begins. Financially, expect additional compensation for the surrogate (typically $5,000-$10,000 per additional baby), higher medical costs, increased insurance needs, so budget accordingly. Medically, multiple pregnancies are higher-risk and require more monitoring, may need specialized care, could involve bed rest for the surrogate, and have an increased chance of premature birth. The sensitive topic of selective reduction should also be addressed upfront in your contract, covering whether it's for medical necessity versus personal choice and what input the surrogate has in this decision.
Yes! Many intended parents use their own genetic material. Heterosexual couples can use their own eggs and sperm to create embryos via IVF and transfer them to the surrogate. Same-sex male couples can use their own sperm combined with a donor egg, while same-sex female couples can use their own egg with donor sperm, where one partner's egg is used and either the other partner could carry if able, or a surrogate carries. Single parents can use their own egg or sperm and add donor sperm or donor egg as needed. If you need egg or sperm donors, factor in additional costs of $20,000-$40,000 for egg donation, and agencies can help coordinate donor matching.
Comprehensive support should be available from multiple sources throughout your journey. From your agency, expect a dedicated case manager, 24/7 emergency support, regular check-in calls and meetings, and coordination with all parties. Mental health support includes counseling for intended parents, surrogate support services, couples counseling if needed, and access to support groups. Practical support covers financial coordination, legal liaisons, medical appointment coordination, travel arrangements for birth, and hospital birth plan preparation. Community support connects you with online forums and Facebook groups, other intended parents, and mentorship from families who've completed the journey.
Post-birth procedures vary by state but follow a general pattern. In the immediate days after birth (1-7 days), your baby is born and goes home with you or to the NICU if needed, the birth certificate application is filed, your pre-birth order takes effect (if obtained) or the post-birth order process begins, hospital discharge is planned, and you'll have pediatrician appointments. In the short-term (weeks 1-4), the birth certificate is issued with your names, you'll apply for a Social Security number for US babies, passport application is submitted (especially critical for international parents), post-birth legal finalization occurs if required in your state, and final payments are made to the surrogate and agency. Ongoing, some families maintain contact with the surrogate based on your agreement, post-partum check-ins ensure the surrogate is healthy, your new life as parents begins, and your agency remains available for any follow-up questions.
No! Surrogacy is available to married couples (both heterosexual and same-sex), unmarried couples, single parents (male and female), divorced individuals, and widowed individuals. Some states have additional requirements about marital status, but many states have no such restrictions. Your consultant and attorney will help you navigate your specific state's requirements based on your family structure.
I'm not an agency—I'm an independent consultant who provides unbiased guidance. When you work with me, you get objective information about all your options including the USA and other destinations, understand the real advantages and risks of each choice, receive personalized recommendations based on your specific situation, and get connected to trusted agencies, attorneys, and providers I know personally from my 6+ years in the industry. You'll have an advocate in the research phase, focused solely on your interests rather than sales targets.
I work with a carefully curated network of surrogacy agencies and attorneys across the United States—providers I've built direct relationships with over my 6+ years in the industry and professionals I know personally and trust to prioritize your best interests. The specific recommendations depend on your location and preferred state for surrogacy, your family structure (LGBTQ+, single parent, heterosexual couple), whether you're domestic or international, your budget and priorities, and your timeline. In our consultation, I'll make personalized recommendations based on your unique situation.
Absolutely. I have extensive experience supporting international intended parents, having worked with families from over 30 countries during my time with a global surrogacy agency. I understand the unique challenges international parents face, including birthright citizenship concerns in the current 2025 situation, travel documentation and passport processes, your home country's recognition of surrogacy, timing of travel and length of stay in the USA, and working with US providers while abroad. I can connect you with agencies and attorneys who specialize in international surrogacy and help you navigate both US and your home country's requirements.
That's exactly the kind of conversation I'm here for. With my background supporting surrogacy journeys in Ukraine, Mexico, Colombia, Cyprus, Georgia, Armenia, and Albania from 2019-2024, I can help you understand how the USA compares to other destinations in terms of cost, legal security, timeline, and medical standards. We'll discuss which destination might be best for your specific situation and priorities, the realistic advantages and risks of each option, and current geopolitical or legal situations that might affect your choice. There's no pressure to choose the USA, my role is to give you all the information you need to make the best decision for your family.
Still researching? Check free resources for intended parents in our blog section
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In Your Free 30-Minute Consultation, You'll Get:
☑ Honest Assessment of whether USA surrogacy is right for your situation
☑ State Recommendations based on your family structure and location
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☑ Comparison with Other Destinations if you're considering alternatives
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