The Surrogacy Timeline: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Surrogacy is a life-changing journey that brings families together in the most extraordinary way. Whether you're an intended parent or a surrogate, understanding the surrogacy process can help you navigate each stage with confidence. This guide breaks down the surrogacy timeline, step-by-step, from the initial decision to welcoming a new baby.

1. Research and Decision-Making (1-3 Months)

Intended Parents:

• Research Surrogacy Options: Explore different types of surrogacy (gestational vs. traditional) and decide what's right for you.

• Select a Surrogacy Agency: Partner with a reputable agency like Stork Connections for guidance throughout the process.

• Financial Planning: Understand the financial commitment and begin budgeting for the journey.

  
  

Surrogates:

• Learn About the Process: Research surrogacy requirements, compensation, and expectations.

• Evaluate Readiness: Reflect on personal, emotional, and physical readiness to become a surrogate.

  
  

Resources:

• Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy (SEEDS): www.seedsethics.org

• American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM): www.asrm.org

  
  

2. Application and Screening (1-3 Months)

Intended Parents:

• Submit an Application: Complete agency forms and questionnaires.

• Consultations: Attend interviews and consultations to discuss goals and preferences.

• Background Checks: Undergo necessary background and financial screenings.

  
  

Surrogates:

• Application Submission: Provide personal, medical, and lifestyle information.

• Medical Screening: Complete physical exams, fertility tests, and obstetric history reviews.

• Psychological Evaluation: Ensure emotional readiness for the surrogacy journey.

  
  

Resources:

• Resolve: The National Infertility Association: www.resolve.org

  
  

3. Matching Process (1-2 Months)

• Profile Review: Intended parents and surrogates review each other’s profiles.

• Match Meeting: Introduced to discuss expectations, values, and relationship preferences.

• Match Agreement: Formalize the match when both parties feel comfortable moving forward.

  
  

Resources:

• SEEDS Matching Guidelines: www.seedsethics.org

  
  

4. Legal Agreements (1-2 Months)

• Hire Attorneys: Both intended parents and surrogates must have separate legal counsel.

• Draft and Review Contracts: Define rights, responsibilities, compensation, and contingency plans.

• Sign Legal Agreements: Finalize the contract to proceed with medical procedures.

  
  

Resources:

• Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA): www.adoptionart.org

  
  

5. Medical Preparation and Embryo Transfer (1-2 Months)

• Medical Evaluation: Surrogate undergoes medical evaluations at the IVF clinic.

• Cycle Synchronization: Use of medications to prepare the surrogate’s body for embryo transfer.

• Embryo Transfer: IVF clinic transfers the embryo into the surrogate's uterus.

• Pregnancy Confirmation: Confirm pregnancy through blood tests and ultrasounds.

  
  

Resources:

• Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART): www.sart.org

  
  

6. Pregnancy and Support (9 Months)

• Regular Checkups: Ongoing prenatal care with the surrogate’s OB-GYN.

• Open Communication: Maintain healthy communication between surrogate and intended parents.

  
  

• Support Services: Access to counseling, support groups, and case management.

  
  

Resources:

• March of Dimes: www.marchofdimes.org

  
  

7. Delivery and Postpartum (1-2 Months)

• Birth Plan Execution: Follow the agreed-upon birth plan at the chosen hospital.

• Legal Parentage: Intended parents secure legal parentage through pre-birth or post-birth orders.

• Postpartum Recovery: Surrogate focuses on recovery with access to physical and emotional support.

  
  

Resources:

• Postpartum Support International (PSI): www.postpartum.net

  
  

Final Thoughts

The surrogacy process is filled with anticipation, challenges, and immense joy. With the right support, clear communication, and trusted professionals, the journey can be a beautiful experience for both surrogates and intended parents. Stork Connections is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way—helping families grow with compassion and care.

Interested in starting your surrogacy journey? Contact Stork Connections today to learn more!