Surrogacy is a process where a woman conceives and gives birth to a child for another person or couple, who then become the legal parents and raise the child as their own. This option enables infertile heterosexual couples, single individuals, and same-sex couples to have children.

The time required to find a suitable surrogate can vary widely, sometimes extending to several months. Since the demand for surrogates has surged, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, many people experience longer waiting periods. Expecting’s concierge service offers the advantage of selecting an available surrogate without any waiting time. If you're considering signing a contract with an agency, it's crucial to inquire about their estimated matching time and their policy on rematching.

Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate being genetically related to the child. This method is less common now, with most opting for gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby. The egg comes from either a donor or the intended parent.

It's advisable to begin your search with some preparation, ideally after you have a clinic and embryos ready. You can find reliable information to start navigating this journey on Expecting.ai's blog.

The criteria for choosing the ideal surrogate vary among intended parents and may include considerations such as proximity to the fertility clinic, communication preferences, the surrogate's willingness to work with different types of parents (e.g., single parents, same-sex couples), budget constraints, and the surrogate's previous experience. Expecting.ai offers a platform that allows you to filter options based on your specific priorities, helping you find your ideal match. Here are 3 Essential Tips for Intended Parents on How to Choose Your Ideal Surrogate and 10 Questions Intended Parents Should Ask Their Surrogate in the Match Call to ensure a smooth and informed decision-making process.

The surrogacy journey begins with selecting a reputable clinic and involves egg retrieval (your own or from a donor), followed by finding a healthy surrogate to carry the pregnancy. Ensure the candidate has gone through a comprehensive screening process, including retrieving her medical records, an interview with a mental health professional, a home visit, a background check, and sharing her records with your clinic to confirm she passes the medical screening. Once your surrogate is medically cleared, the next steps include signing a legal contract, opening an escrow account to manage the funds, choosing the insurance package that fits your needs, and setting a date for the transfer day. For a detailed guide, read about The Surrogacy Process Roadmap – Step By Step on our blog.

The surrogacy process typically takes between one to two years from selecting a surrogate to the birth of the child. However, due to the journey's inherent uncertainties, some intended parents may experience a longer timeline. Having a dedicated and experienced team to accompany you throughout your journey can help reduce uncertainty and streamline the process. A professional team is adept at handling any hiccups that might occur, ensuring a more efficient experience.