Your Comprehensive Guide to the Surrogacy Journey

Starting a surrogacy journey can feel both exciting and overwhelming. As intended parents, you’re stepping into a process that combines legal, medical, and emotional steps. But remember, you don’t have to navigate this path alone. This guide will walk you through what to expect, helping you feel prepared and confident every step of the way.

Understanding the Role of Intended Parents

As intended parents, you are the legal and biological parent(s) of the child. The surrogate, also known as a gestational carrier, carries the baby but has no genetic link. Your role is to partner with your agency, legal team, and surrogate. Together, you will make decisions, provide consent, and be present through key milestones.

The Surrogacy Process: Step by Step

1. Initial Consultation

• Meet with a surrogacy agency to learn about the process, timelines, and costs.

• Ask questions openly—this is your time to explore whether surrogacy is the right path for you.

  
  

2. Matching with a Surrogate

• Agencies carefully match intended parents with surrogates based on values, expectations, and personalities.

• This step usually takes 3–4 months.

  
  

3. Legal Agreements

• Both you and your surrogate will work with specialized attorneys.

• Contracts cover compensation, responsibilities, medical decisions, and parental rights.

  
  

4. Medical Preparation & Embryo Transfer

• Embryos are created through IVF and transferred to the surrogate.

• You’ll receive updates from the clinic and agency throughout the process.

  
  

5. Pregnancy & Support

• Your surrogate receives ongoing medical care and emotional support.

• You’ll be updated on milestones, attend appointments if possible, and stay connected with your surrogate.

  
  

6. Delivery & Parent Transition

• At birth, you’ll be present to welcome your baby.

• Your parental rights are secured through pre-birth or post-birth orders, depending on your state’s laws.

  
  

Timelines: How Long Does It Take?

While every journey is unique, most intended parents can expect the process to take 12–18 months:

• Matching: 3–4 months

• Legal & Medical Prep: 1–2 months

• Pregnancy: 9 months

  
  

What Is Expected of Intended Parents?

To ensure a smooth journey, intended parents are expected to:

• Be transparent about their goals and preferences.

• Respect and support the surrogate throughout the process.

• Be financially prepared for surrogacy costs, including agency fees, medical costs, surrogate compensation, and legal expenses.

• Stay engaged—whether through check-ins, attending appointments, or sharing milestones with their surrogate.

  
  

Emotional Considerations

Surrogacy is not just a medical or legal process—it’s deeply emotional. Many intended parents experience:

• Joy and hope at moving closer to parenthood.

• Anxiety while waiting for updates and outcomes.

• Gratitude for the surrogate who is helping them fulfill their dream.

  
  

Most agencies provide emotional support resources, counseling, or peer mentorship programs to help you through the ups and downs.

Building a Support Network

Finding Your Community

As you embark on this journey, consider building a support network. Connecting with other intended parents can provide comfort and understanding. You can share experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This community can be invaluable, offering insights and encouragement.

Professional Support

Don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Therapists specializing in family building can help you navigate the emotional landscape of surrogacy. They can provide coping strategies for anxiety and stress, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.

Preparing for Parenthood

Educating Yourself

As you prepare for parenthood, take time to educate yourself about pregnancy and newborn care. Attend classes, read books, and engage with resources that resonate with you. Knowledge can empower you and ease any fears you may have.

Bonding with Your Baby

Consider ways to bond with your baby even before birth. You can participate in ultrasound appointments and share your excitement with your surrogate. Creating a connection early on can enhance your experience as intended parents.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an intended parent through surrogacy is a life-changing journey. By knowing what to expect, staying informed, and leaning on the expertise of your agency, you can walk this path with confidence and peace of mind.

At One Village Surrogacy, we guide intended parents with clarity, compassion, and expert support. We want you to focus on what truly matters: welcoming your baby.

If you’re ready to take the next step, consider reaching out to us. We’re here to help you navigate this beautiful journey with care and understanding.