Frequently Asked questions: for surrogates

Becoming a surrogate is a rewarding journey, but understanding the process is crucial before you start. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Assess Your Eligibility: Ideal surrogates are typically between 21 and 38 years old, have previously given birth to at least one healthy child, and are in good physical and mental health.

2. Support System: Ensure you have a dependable support network in place, as surrogacy involves regular medical appointments and personal commitments.

3. Background Checks: Be prepared to undergo criminal background checks as part of the process.

If you meet these criteria and are ready to take this incredible step, we’re here to guide you through every phase of this rewarding experience. Please click here to see other requirements.

The compensation for a surrogate varies significantly based on factors like location, agency fees, and the specific terms of the agreement with the intended parents. Typically, surrogates can earn between $35,000 and $91,000, or even more, depending on their experience and qualifications.

A surrogate mother becomes pregnant through assisted reproductive technology, commonly known as IVF (in vitro fertilization). In the IVF process, eggs are fertilized with sperm outside of the body. The resulting embryos are then transferred into the surrogate's uterus for continued development. If the procedure is successful, the surrogate will carry the baby for approximately nine months before giving birth.

Absolutely! It’s essential to have a strong support system of family or friends during the surrogacy process. Their support will be crucial in helping you navigate the journey and manage the various aspects of being a surrogate.

Yes! The intended parents you are matched with will provide surrogate-friendly health insurance for you.

Yes! Even if you have undergone a tubal ligation (commonly referred to as "having your tubes tied"), you can still become a surrogate mother. Tubal ligation prevents ovulation but does not affect the ability of an embryo to implant and develop in your uterus. Therefore, having had a tubal ligation should not be a barrier if you are considering surrogacy.

You can start the screening process 2 to 3 months after giving birth. However, your profile will only become active in our database once you have finished breastfeeding and sufficient time has passed for your body to fully recover from delivery.

Typically, the process from submitting your intake form to receiving a match confirmation takes about 4 to 5 weeks.

Intended parents come from all around the world, and we collaborate with those seeking surrogacy in California from various countries. If an in-person meeting isn’t possible, our surrogates and intended parents typically connect through a video call before proceeding with a match.

Initially, you might incur expenses for mailing your medical records and other related paperwork. However, all other costs associated with being a surrogate are covered by the intended parents.

The Intended Parents you match with will cover all costs associated with your surrogacy.

At Patriot Conceptions, we will select intended parents who meet your criteria and present your profile to them. Once we have interested intended parents, we will arrange a video interview via Skype or WeChat. After the interview, both you and the intended parents will have the chance to decide if you would like to proceed with the match.

You will need to be seen at the intended parents' fertility clinic, or a local fertility clinic, for the first 10 weeks of pregnancy. After this period, you can choose an OB/GYN of your preference for ongoing care.

Absolutely not. The baby will share 100% of the DNA and genetics of the intended parents or the egg donor if one was used. The gestational carrier does not pass on any of her own DNA to the baby.

Physically speaking, pregnancy is no different from a traditional pregnancy once your body accepts the pregnancy.

Here’s an overview of what to expect during the IVF process:

1. Initial Consultation: A fertility specialist will review your medical history and perform a physical examination.

2. Fertilization: Eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab dish. If sperm quality or count is an issue, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be used, where a single sperm is injected directly into the egg.

3. Embryo Transfer: After fertilization, embryos are cultured in the lab until they reach the blastocyst stage. One or two embryos are then transferred into the uterus through a simple procedure called embryo transfer.

4. Pregnancy Test: About two weeks after the embryo transfer, a pregnancy test will be conducted to determine if the IVF treatment was successful.

After an embryo transfer in a surrogacy arrangement, the surrogate will need to wait a few weeks to determine if the pregnancy has been successful. During this waiting period, it is crucial for the surrogate to prioritize both her physical and emotional well-being.

The surrogate should follow the fertility specialist's instructions, which may include taking prescribed medications, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding any activities that could jeopardize the embryo. Regular check-ups will also be necessary to monitor the pregnancy's progress.

If the pregnancy is successful, the surrogate will carry the baby to term and give birth. After delivery, the baby will be handed over to the intended parents, completing the surrogacy arrangement.

To become a surrogate, you must meet several key requirements:

1. Age: Be at least 18 years old.

2. Health Certification: Obtain certification from a medical professional confirming that you are healthy and capable of carrying a pregnancy to term.

3. Eligibility Criteria: Be a United States citizen and have no known medical conditions that could impede your ability to become pregnant.

Additionally, you will need an OBGYN to certify that you can carry a pregnancy to term and maintain a healthy pregnancy, along with clear documentation of your health history from a previous doctor.

While the IRS does not require 1099 forms for surrogacy payments, the tax implications of these payments can vary based on the specifics of the arrangement and state laws. To understand how your surrogacy payments may be taxed and to ensure compliance with any tax obligations, it is crucial to consult with a tax attorney or accountant for personalized guidance.

Becoming a surrogate mother involves a complex process with many steps. We recognize the legal, medical, and emotional aspects of surrogacy and are committed to making the journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. Our guidance and support will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless experience for both you and the intended parents.