Frequently Asked Questions
At Stork Connections, we are dedicated to providing a supportive online community in the surrogacy community. This area is where we have most of our most frequently asked questions. If your question is not here please reach out and we would love to connect with you one on one to answer those questions.
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FAQ Sections
Click a specific section below or scroll to see all questions
Surrogates
Intended Parents
Legal & Financial Considerations
Surrogates:
Eligibility Requirements
Who can become a surrogate?
To become a surrogate, you need to be between the ages of 21-40, have a history of healthy pregnancies, and be in good physical and mental health. You must also pass a background check and meet certain lifestyle requirements.
What are the health and lifestyle requirements?
You should have a BMI within a healthy range, no history of drug or alcohol abuse, and not smoke or use nicotine products. You must also be willing to commit to following medical advice throughout the pregnancy.
How do I apply to become a surrogate?
You can apply by filling out our online application form. After submission, our team will review your details, and if you meet the initial criteria, we’ll schedule an interview and health screening.
What is the Screening Process like?
The screening process involves a thorough review of your medical history, a psychological evaluation, and an in-person or virtual interview. You’ll also undergo a physical exam and lab work to ensure you're in good health.
Surrogates:
Application Process
Surrogates:
Compensation & Benefits
How much will I get paid as a surrogate?
Surrogates typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000+, depending on various factors like prior surrogacy experience, location, and the specific needs of the intended parents. Payments are made in installments throughout the pregnancy.
What additional expenses are covered?
In addition to base compensation, all medical expenses, travel costs, legal fees, maternity clothing allowances, and other incidentals related to the pregnancy are covered.
Do I need to hire my own lawyer?
Yes, surrogates have their own legal representation, paid for by the intended parents, to review and negotiate the surrogacy contract to ensure your rights are protected. At Stork Connections we already have pre-vetted legal representation you can choose from if you do not already have one.
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What legal protections are in place for surrogates?
The contract you sign will clearly outline your compensation, responsibilities, and protections, including insurance coverage, liability, and post-birth terms.
Surrogates:
Legal & Contracts
Surrogates:
Medical Process
What are the medical procedures involved in surrogacy?
The medical process includes fertility treatments, which may involve taking hormone medications and undergoing procedures like embryo transfer. After pregnancy is confirmed, your prenatal care will follow standard medical protocols.
What kind of medical care will I recieve?
Surrogates receive top-notch medical care from licensed fertility specialists and OBGYNs. Your health and the baby's health are monitored closely throughout the pregnancy.
What kind of emotional support is available during the surrogacy journey?
You’ll have access to a support team, including a counselor or therapist, to help you navigate the emotional aspects of surrogacy. We also offer peer support from experienced surrogates.
Is there a wellness program available for surrogates?
Yes, we connect surrogates with resources such as fitness programs, nutritional counseling, and mental health support to ensure your well-being throughout the process.
Surrogates:
Support & Resources
Surrogates:
Matching with Intended Parents
How will I be matched with Intended Parents
Our team works carefully to match you with intended parents whose values and expectations align with yours. You’ll have the opportunity to meet them before any commitments are made.
Can I choose the intended parents I want to work with?
Yes, you will have input in the matching process, and we will only move forward with intended parents that you feel comfortable working with.
What happens after the baby is born?
After the birth, the baby will go home with the intended parents, and legal steps will finalize their parental rights. You will receive the final installment of your compensation.
Will I have contact with the intended parents & baby?
This depends on your agreement with the intended parents. Some surrogates maintain a relationship, while others prefer to part ways after the process is complete.
Surrogates:
Post-Birth Questions
Intended Parents:
Surrogacy Basics
Intended Parents:
Legal & Financial Considerations
What is surrogacy & How does it work?
Surrogacy is a process where a woman (the surrogate) carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple (the intended parents). The process typically involves IVF, where the intended parents' embryo is transferred to the surrogate's uterus.
Who should consider using a surrogate?
Couples or individuals who cannot carry a pregnancy due to medical reasons, same-sex couples, or single individuals looking to grow their family may consider surrogacy.
Why decide to go with an agency versus going independently?
Choosing an agency provides a structured, professionally managed process with legal, medical, and emotional support built-in. An agency handles complex areas like matching with a surrogate, screening, legal contracts, medical coordination, and financial management (such as handling escrow accounts). Going independently may seem more cost-effective, but it comes with greater risks and the potential for missed details that could lead to legal or emotional challenges later on. An agency also offers experience and peace of mind, ensuring that all parties are protected and supported throughout the surrogacy journey. In the end studies have shown Intended Parents save money almost 87% of the time when opting to use an agency.
What are the legal steps involved in surrogacy?
You will need to sign a legal contract with the surrogate, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties. This ensures that both you and the surrogate are protected legally throughout the process.
What are the costs associated with surrogacy?
The cost of surrogacy can vary, but it generally ranges from $80,000 to $150,000, including agency fees, surrogate compensation, legal fees, and medical expenses when you work with Stork Connections.
How are surrogates selected & Screened?
All surrogates go through a rigorous screening process, including medical evaluations, background checks, and psychological assessments, to ensure they are physically and emotionally prepared for surrogacy.
Can I choose my surrogate?
Yes, you will be presented with profiles of surrogates, and you can choose someone whose personality and values align with yours. The decision is mutual between you and the surrogate.
Intended Parents:
Choosing a Surrogate
Intended Parents:
The Matching Process
What is surrogacy & How does it work?
Surrogacy is a process where a woman (the surrogate) carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple (the intended parents). The process typically involves IVF, where the intended parents' embryo is transferred to the surrogate's uterus.
What is the average time to match?
On average, we match intended parents with a surrogate within 2 to 4 months. However, if you have very specific preferences or unique qualifications for your surrogate, the matching process may take longer as we work to find the perfect fit for your family.
How does the medical process work for intended parents?
You will undergo IVF to create embryos if you haven’t already. Once embryos are ready, they are transferred to the surrogate. If needed, we can assist with finding egg or sperm donors.
What are the next steps if we don't have embryos ready?
If you don’t have embryos ready, you’ll need to work with a fertility clinic to either create embryos or explore donor options. We can help you through this process.​
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Intended Parents:
Medical Process for Intended Parents
Intended Parents:
Emotional Support & Guidance
What kind of support can I expect during this process?
You will have access to emotional and psychological support from counselors and surrogacy specialists. We ensure you feel supported every step of the way, both emotionally and logistically.
Will we be connected to counseling services?
Yes, we connect you with professional counseling services to help you navigate the emotional complexities of surrogacy.
How do we establish legal parenthood after the birth?
Legal parenthood is typically established before birth through a pre-birth or post-birth order, depending on the state laws. This ensures your parental rights are recognized once the baby is born.
Will we be present at the birth?
Most intended parents are present at the birth, depending on the surrogate's comfort level and hospital policies. We work to ensure that your experience is as inclusive as possible. However, it is ultimately whatever you agree on during the legal process