The Path

The surrogacy process.

Apply first, then move through screening, matching, legal, and medical stages — here's what to expect at each one.

A surrogate reviewing her journey with a surrogacy coordinator

The full process, step by step.

Five steps from first application to delivery day — what each stage covers, and how long it usually takes.

01

Application process

1-2 weeks
1
Complete the initial intake form

Share essential information so we can assess your preliminary qualifications.

2
Phone consultation with a surrogacy advisor

Get your questions answered and learn more about the program.

3
Preliminary agency screening

We review your medical history, lifestyle factors, and support system.

4
Matching with intended parents

Matched on shared values, expectations, and communication style.

Pro tip: take your time on the intake form — the more detailed your responses, the better we can assist you.

02

Screening process

2-4 weeks
1
Presentable profile sent out

Your profile is shared with intended parents for consideration.

2
Video consultation with intended parents

A guided virtual conversation to establish a connection.

3
Match confirmation

Once the match is confirmed, you move into the medical steps.

4
Official medical records approval

The IVF facility officially approves your medical records.

03

Transfer preparation

3-4 weeks
1
Embryo transfer date set-up

We coordinate the transfer schedule so all parties are aligned and prepared.

2
Medication & injection calendar

A personalized schedule optimizes your body's readiness for transfer.

3
IVF medical appointments

Required visits monitor progress and keep everything on track.

04

FET procedure

2-3 weeks
1
Frozen embryo transfer (FET)

Uterine lining preparation, embryo thawing, and precise placement.

2
Pregnancy confirmation

A blood test about 10–14 days after transfer confirms pregnancy.

3
10-week monitoring process

Regular ultrasounds and hormone checks, with care adjusted as needed.

4
IVF facility graduation

Around 10 weeks, care transitions to your regular obstetric team.

05

Pregnancy & delivery

36-40 weeks
1
Regular OB/GYN check-ups

Prenatal visits track the baby's development and your well-being.

2
Establishing parental rights

Specialized attorneys complete the agreements and legal requirements.

3
Delivering the baby to intended parents

The birth plan is coordinated, parents are present if desired, and the first moments together are facilitated.

What varies by journey

Timing depends on screening results, matching pace, clinic scheduling, and transfer outcomes. Treat any single timeline estimate as a guide — not a promise.

Before going deeper

Know the basics fit first.

The application confirms age, BMI, prior birth, and state — before a coordinator follow-up walks you through the full timeline.

Process FAQ.

It varies, but application to delivery often spans well over a year. Screening pace, matching, clinic scheduling, legal clearance, and transfer outcomes all affect timing.
Screening usually includes medical records review, clinic clearance, psychological evaluation, background check, insurance review, and conversations about timing, support, and expectations.
You review intended-parent profiles, compare values and communication preferences, then move forward only when both sides feel comfortable with a mutual match and introduction call.
Not sure what's next?