Overview
Every surrogacy journey is a little different, but most follow the same general stages: , , legal agreements, the medical process, and finally parentage and birth. This page walks through each stage. For a visual, interactive version, see the timeline tracker.
1. Matching
This is where a surrogate and intended parent(s) find and choose each other — through an agency, independently, or a mix of both. Matching usually includes getting to know each other and confirming that expectations align (communication during the pregnancy, medical decisions, compensation, and more) before moving forward.
Independent matching (for example, through Facebook groups or personal networks) is legal, but it carries more risk than agency-facilitated matching, since there's no built-in vetting process. If you're matching independently, take extra care with screening and legal steps before moving forward with anyone.
2. Screening
Before anything is finalized, the surrogate typically completes a medical evaluation (confirming she's a good candidate for pregnancy) and a psychological evaluation (assessing readiness for the emotional aspects of surrogacy). Intended parents may also go through a home study or background check, depending on the agency or clinic involved.
3. Legal agreements
Once matched and screened, a written is drafted and signed — before any medical procedures begin. This agreement covers compensation, medical decision-making, expectations during the pregnancy, and each party's rights and responsibilities.
Most states require the surrogate and intended parent(s) to each have their own, separate attorney. Legal requirements vary significantly by state — see the state legal guide for your specific state's rules.
4. The medical process
Once the legal agreement is signed, the medical process begins: typically hormone preparation for the surrogate, followed by the . If the transfer is successful, prenatal care continues through the pregnancy, coordinated between the surrogate's medical team and the intended parents.
Insurance coverage for this stage should already be sorted out well before the transfer — see the insurance guide if you haven't addressed this yet.
5. Parentage and birth
Depending on the state, intended parents may be able to secure a — a court judgment, issued before delivery, naming them as the legal parent(s). In states that don't allow this, parentage is typically established through a similar process after birth instead. This step determines who is listed on the original birth certificate and whether any additional legal steps are needed. Requirements vary widely by state — check the legal guide for the specifics that apply to you.
How long does this take?
Timelines vary a lot depending on matching speed, screening results, and legal processing times, but many journeys take a year or more from starting the matching process to delivery. The timeline tracker breaks down typical durations for each stage.
This isn't legal, medical, or financial advice
This page is meant to give you a general roadmap. Actual requirements and timelines depend on your state, your agency or independent arrangement, and your specific circumstances — always confirm specifics with the professionals involved in your journey.