Why do women become surrogates?
Reasons vary — some surrogates have loved being pregnant and want to help someone else experience parenthood, some have a personal connection to infertility or family-building struggles, and some are drawn to the compensation. Most agencies and clinics look for a genuine, considered motivation, not just a financial one, since surrogacy is a significant physical and emotional commitment.
What are the basic requirements?
Requirements vary by agency and clinic, but common baseline criteria include:
- Having already had at least one healthy pregnancy and delivery of your own
- Being within a certain age range (commonly 21–40)
- Passing a medical evaluation confirming you're a good candidate for pregnancy
- Passing a
- Having a stable living situation, and if applicable, support from a partner or family
- Not currently using nicotine products, and meeting other general health guidelines
See the full screening requirements page for more detail on what these evaluations typically involve.
Can I be paid for being a surrogate?
In many states, yes — is legal, meaning you can be paid for your time and effort, not just reimbursed for expenses. Some states only allow "altruistic" (unpaid, expenses-only) surrogacy. This varies significantly by state — check your state's legal guide for the specifics.
Should I go through an agency or match independently?
Both are legal paths, but they come with different tradeoffs:
- Agency-facilitated typically includes built-in screening, legal coordination, and support throughout the journey — often for a fee.
- Independent matching (for example, through personal networks or online groups) gives you more direct control but carries more risk, since there's no built-in vetting process. If you match independently, take extra care with screening and legal protections before moving forward.
What does the legal side involve for me?
Before any medical procedures begin, you'll sign a — a legal contract outlining compensation, medical decisions, and expectations during the pregnancy. Most states require you to have your own attorney, separate from the intended parents' attorney, so your interests are independently represented.
What about my own health insurance?
This needs to be addressed early, before you're matched or screened — many individual health plans exclude coverage for surrogacy pregnancies specifically. See the insurance guide for surrogates for what to check before moving forward.
This isn't medical or legal advice
This page is a general starting point. Actual requirements depend on the agency or clinic you work with and the state you live in — always confirm specifics directly with the professionals involved in your journey.