Becoming a Surrogate.
Being a surrogate means carrying a baby for people who cannot have children on their own. These might be couples struggling with infertility, same-sex couples, or single individuals who dream of becoming parents. As a surrogate, you'll be their helping hand in making this dream come true.
We believe surrogates are extraordinary women. For over 20 years, we've supported hundreds of surrogates through their journeys. Our team understands that this decision comes from your heart and your desire to help others experience the joy of parenthood.
Many of our surrogates tell us that carrying a child for someone else was one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. They form special bonds with the intended parents and feel immense pride in the families they help create. Some of our surrogates have even returned to help more families after their first journey!
We know you probably have many questions about what being a surrogate means, how the process works, and what support you'll receive. On this page, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about becoming a surrogate with SFSC – from the basic requirements to the detailed process and the compensation you can expect.
Surrogate Requirements.
Before applying to become a surrogate with San Francisco Surrogacy Center, it's important to understand the requirements. These guidelines help ensure that surrogacy is physically and emotionally right for you, and that you're prepared for this important journey.
If you're not sure if you meet all of these requirements, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Surrogate Compensation.
We believe in fairly compensating our surrogates for the incredible gift they give to intended parents. While we know that most surrogates are motivated primarily by the desire to help others, we also understand that the surrogacy journey requires significant time, energy, and commitment.
First-time surrogates can expect a base compensation between $55,000 and $65,000, while experienced surrogates may receive between $65,000 and $75,000. Payments are made in monthly installments, starting once pregnancy is confirmed with a heartbeat.
On top of your base compensation, you'll receive a comprehensive benefits package to support you throughout your journey. This includes a housekeeping and child care allowance, pregnancy bonuses, wellness counseling, coverage for lost wages, exclusive retreats, thoughtful gifts, and full coverage of all related expenses.
Surrogates can receive an additional $10,000 to $30,000 in allowances and bonuses, depending on key milestones and the completion timeline. All health insurance, medical expenses, and out-of-pocket costs will be fully covered by the intended parents.
All compensation is held in a protected escrow account managed by a trusted third party. This ensures your payments are secure and will be made according to the schedule in your contract, regardless of any changes in the intended parents' situation.
We believe in complete transparency about compensation. Before you begin your journey, you'll receive a detailed compensation outline that clearly explains exactly what you'll receive and when. Our financial coordinators will walk you through this information and answer any questions you might have.
Surrogate Process.
Becoming a surrogate is a step-by-step journey. We guide you through each phase with careful attention and support. Here's what you can expect:
Phase 1: Application and Initial Screening (4-6 weeks)
- Online Application: Fill out our secure online application with basic information about yourself and your pregnancy history.
- Initial Consultation: Have a phone call with one of our surrogate coordinators who will explain the process and answer your questions.
- Pre-Screening: We'll review your medical records and conduct initial evaluations to ensure surrogacy is right for you.
- Home Visit: A coordinator will visit your home to meet you and your family and discuss how surrogacy might fit into your life.
- Background Checks: Standard criminal and financial checks for you and adult members of your household.
Phase 2: Medical and Psychological Screening (3-4 weeks)
- Medical Screening: Complete a thorough medical examination at one of our partner fertility clinics.
- Psychological Evaluation: Meet with our licensed therapist for an assessment and to discuss the emotional aspects of surrogacy.
- Family Counseling: Optional sessions for your partner and/or children to ensure everyone understands the journey ahead.
- Surrogate Support Group: Attend a meeting with experienced surrogates to learn from their experiences.
Phase 3: Matching and Legal Contracts (1-3 months)
- Creating Your Profile: We'll help you create a profile that shares your story and preferences with potential intended parents.
- Matching Process: We'll introduce you to intended parents who match your preferences and values.
- Match Meeting: Meet potential intended parents (in person or via video call) to see if you connect well.
- Legal Contracts: Once matched, you'll work with your own attorney (paid for by the intended parents) to review and sign the surrogacy agreement.
- Clearance Letter: After contracts are signed, the fertility clinic will issue a clearance letter to begin medical preparations.
Phase 4: Medical Procedures and Embryo Transfer (1-3 months)
- Medical Protocol: Follow a medication schedule prescribed by the fertility doctor to prepare your body.
- Monitoring Appointments: Attend regular ultrasounds and blood tests to ensure your body is responding well to medications.
- Embryo Transfer: A simple procedure where the embryo is placed in your uterus at the fertility clinic.
- Two-Week Wait: The time between transfer and pregnancy test when you'll take special care and possibly limit activities.
- Pregnancy Test: Blood test at the clinic to confirm pregnancy.
Phase 5: Pregnancy and Delivery (9 months)
- Early Pregnancy: Regular check-ups and ultrasounds at the fertility clinic until about 10-12 weeks.
- Regular Prenatal Care: Transfer to your regular OB/GYN for standard pregnancy care.
- Communication with Intended Parents: Regular updates and possible attendance of intended parents at key appointments.
- Birth Plan Development: Work with your coordinator, the intended parents, and your doctor to create a hospital plan.
- Delivery: The intended parents are typically present for the birth, and the baby goes directly to them.
Phase 6: Post-Birth Recovery and Closure (1-2 months)
- Medical Follow-up: Postpartum check-up to ensure you're healing properly.
- Emotional Support: Continued access to counseling services as you process the end of your journey.
- Final Compensation: Receive any remaining payments and benefits.
- Relationship Transition: Guidance on maintaining whatever level of contact you and the intended parents agree upon.
- Celebration: A special gift and recognition from SFSC to honor your amazing gift.