How Surrogacy Works: The Definitive Guide for Intended Parents

Surrogacy has become a beacon of hope for individuals and couples who dream of having a child but face medical, biological, or social challenges. Whether you're exploring surrogacy for the first time or ready to take your first steps, this definitive guide is here to help you understand how surrogacy works—from the legal and medical process to choosing the right surrogate or agency.

What Is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman (the surrogate) carries and delivers a baby on behalf of intended parents. This method helps individuals or couples—regardless of gender, marital status, or sexual orientation—build their families.

Types of Surrogacy:

Type

Description

Genetic Link

Gestational Surrogacy

The surrogate carries an embryo created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors.

No genetic link to the surrogate.

Traditional Surrogacy

The surrogate uses her own egg and is artificially inseminated with the intended father's or donor's sperm.

Genetic link to the surrogate. (Less common due to legal complexity.)

Who Uses Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is ideal for:

• Heterosexual couples facing infertility or uterine issues
• LGBTQ+ couples or individuals
• Single parents
• Women who are unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical conditions

How Surrogacy Works: Step-by-Step Process

Here is a detailed breakdown of how the surrogacy journey typically unfolds:

1. Initial Consultation and Decision-Making

• Understand your needs (medical, legal, financial)
• Choose between independent surrogacy or agency-led surrogacy
• Research laws in your country or abroad

2. Find a Surrogate

• Through a surrogacy agency
• Personal network or surrogate matching platforms
• Ensure psychological screening, background checks, and medical clearance

3. Legal Agreements

• Create a comprehensive surrogacy agreement
• Define rights, responsibilities, compensation, medical decision-making, etc.
• Involve surrogacy lawyers for all parties

4. Medical Process (IVF & Embryo Transfer)

• IVF is used to create embryos using eggs and sperm from the intended parents or donors
• Embryo is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus
• Pregnancy is confirmed via blood tests and ultrasounds

IVF Step

Who's Involved

Time Frame

Ovarian Stimulation & Egg Retrieval

Intended Mother / Egg Donor

10–14 days

Fertilization & Embryo Creation

Lab Specialists

3–5 days

Embryo Transfer to Surrogate

Surrogate

Around Day 5

Pregnancy Test & Monitoring

Surrogate, IVF clinic

10–14 days post-transfer

5. Pregnancy Monitoring

• Regular check-ups and ultrasounds
• Emotional support and updates shared with the intended parents
• Agency or case manager may facilitate communication

6. Birth and Legal Parenthood

• Delivery typically happens in a pre-approved hospital
• Legal steps are taken to transfer parental rights to the intended parents
• Birth certificate is issued (with names of the intended parents)

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost?

Surrogacy costs vary based on country, legal framework, and medical needs.

Global Surrogacy Cost Comparison Table:

Country

Average Cost (USD)

Legal Status

Notes

USA

$120,000 – $180,000

Highly Regulated

Best for legal protection

Georgia

$45,000 – $60,000

Legal for heterosexual couples

Favorable laws

Ukraine

$40,000 – $55,000

Legal for married heterosexual couples

Temporarily suspended due to conflict

Mexico

$50,000 – $70,000

Legal in some states

Available for singles & LGBTQ+

India

$30,000 – $50,000

Altruistic Only

Only for Indian citizens or OCI holders

Colombia

$55,000 – $70,000

Legal and inclusive

Popular for LGBT parents

Neelam is working as a full-time International Fertility and Surrogacy Consultant representing IVF Conceptions and Complete Surrogacy Consulting.