Become a Surrogate

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Thinking you might want to become a surrogate? Start here

If you want to become a surrogate, we applaud your selflessness, empathy and love for others. More and more women are committing to walk this beautiful path, and those who do find the process incredibly gratifying, inspiring and rewarding. There is no other experience that compares to giving the gift of life to another, growing a family and fulfilling dreams. We are grateful to you for your generous heart, and we are here to help guide you in learning everything you need to know about being a gestational carrier, also known as a gestational surrogate or surrogate.

What to know when you want to become a surrogate

If you’re just learning about the process of surrogacy, there are a few important things to know before getting started.

All surrogates must meet specific criteria related to their age, location and health. This protects both you and the baby, as well as the intended parents who are eagerly awaiting their little one’s birth.

“How do I start the process of becoming a surrogate?”

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You can apply here by taking a quick quiz to determine your eligibility to become a surrogate. We will reach out to you to start the process once this step is completed.

If you’re approved to move forward, there will be several steps in the process before the exciting day when the embryo is transferred and pregnancy starts. This preliminary phase can take several months, and will include medical and mental health screening, as well as a background check and home study. All of these steps are designed to ensure that everyone involved is ready to move forward with confidence.

You’ll have many opportunities to bond with the baby’s parents along the way. This is one of the most rewarding parts of this experience, culminating with the magical day that you finally meet the baby and place him or her into their loving parents’ arms. There is never a dry eye in the room!

Before you become a surrogate, let us assure you that you will never have to pay for any costs associated with your pregnancy, birth or recovery. From prenatal vitamins to health insurance to delivery costs, and every expense in between, all your needs will be met at no cost to you. In addition, your grateful intended parents will also compensate you for your care, efforts and time.

You will have more control over the process than you may expect. Important medical decisions, such as whether prenatal testing will be performed or if certain vaccinations are desired, will be explored in advance with you and the intended parents. While many decisions are made as a team, certain choices are always left up to the surrogate, such as who is present during labor or in the delivery room. When you are a surrogate, your safety and comfort are our top priority.

Learn more about being a gestational carrier

At Les Petits Surrogacy, we have built our reputation on trust, accessibility and integrity. If you are thinking you want to become a surrogate, there’s no better place to start than right here. We’d love to talk to you and welcome you to contact us to learn more about being a gestational carrier.

We’re standing by to answer other questions you may have at info@lespetitssurrogacy.com or by requesting a phone consultation.

Is Surrogacy Right for YOU?

Take the Qualifying Quiz and Find Out!
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Frequently Asked Questions about Surrogacy

Surrogacy is an arrangement, often supported by a legal agreement, wherein a woman (the Surrogate) agrees to become pregnant and give birth to a child for another person or couple who will become the child’s parent(s) after birth. People may choose surrogacy as an option for many reasons. Some cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.  Others may have medical reasons.  This can include couples facing infertility, same-sex couples, and any single individual seeking to have children.

There are two main types of surrogacy:  traditional (where the Surrogate is the biological mother) and gestational (where the Surrogate has no biological ties to the baby).  At Les Petits Surrogacy we only focus on gestational surrogacy.

Gestational Surrogacy – Gestational surrogacy involves the implantation of an embryo created via in vitro fertilization (IVF), using the egg and sperm of the Intended Parents or donors. The gestational Surrogate has no biological or genetic ties to the child, as the egg and sperm used to create the embryo are not hers. This is the most common type of surrogacy and often preferred due to its clear separation of biological and gestational roles, which can simplify the legal situation regarding the parentage of the child.

Surrogacy requires careful consideration and planning, including legal arrangements that respect the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved. It is important for those considering surrogacy to consult with legal and medical professionals to navigate the complex aspects of this process.

Is Surrogacy Right for YOU?

Take the Qualifying Quiz and Find Out!

Overall, being a surrogate offers the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of others while experiencing amazing growth and fulfillment.  While it’s a unique and rewarding journey filled with love, surrogacy can be filled with questions and misconceptions.  We’ve worked to address many of them here.

Many Surrogates work, go to school and may be raising a family at the same time.

At Les Petits Surrogacy we only focus on gestational surrogacy.  In this type of surrogacy there are no genetic ties to the baby and you will not be related to the child.

There are many steps to the surrogacy process and it’s often best to take each one a step at a time.  We’re here to help you navigate each one and we pride ourselves on making each step as clear as possible.  We’re also aware of the challenges along the way and will work with you to overcome any obstacles.

To help understand what’s involved you’ll want to familiarize yourself with  your surrogacy journey.

The compensation for gestational Surrogates can vary depending on various factors such as location, agency fees, medical expenses, and any additional compensation for specific circumstances or requirements. However, a typical compensation package for gestational Surrogates in the United States may include the following breakdown:

  1. Base Compensation: This is the core compensation paid to the gestational Surrogate for carrying the pregnancy to term. The base compensation can vary widely but often ranges from $55,000 to over $100,000. Factors such as the Surrogate’s experience, location, and agency fees may influence the base compensation amount.
  2. Extras: Gestational Surrogates receive a monthly allowance to cover additional expenses related to pregnancy and additional allowances for items such as maternity clothing, prenatal vitamins, wellness and travel to medical appointments. The monthly allowance typically ranges from $300 or more per month.
  3. Medical Expenses: The Intended Parents cover all medical expenses associated with the surrogacy journey, including prenatal care, fertility treatments, labor and delivery costs, and any necessary medical procedures. These expenses are separate from the base compensation and can vary depending on the Surrogate’s health insurance coverage and specific medical needs.
  4. Insurance Coverage: In some cases, the Intended Parents may also provide health insurance coverage for the gestational Surrogate to cover medical expenses related to the pregnancy and childbirth. If the Surrogate does not have adequate insurance coverage, the Intended Parents may purchase a surrogacy friendly insurance policy.
  5. Lost Wages: Gestational Surrogates may receive compensation for any lost wages or income due to time off work for medical appointments, pregnancy-related restrictions, and recovery after childbirth. The amount of lost wages compensation varies depending on the Surrogate’s individual circumstances and may be negotiated as part of the overall compensation package.
  6. Additional Compensation: Depending on the surrogacy arrangement, gestational Surrogates may receive additional compensation for specific circumstances, requirements or requests. For example, Surrogates may receive extra compensation for carrying multiples (e.g., twins or triplets), adhering to an organic diet, undergoing a cesarean section, or experiencing pregnancy-related complications.

Compensation is typically outlined in a legal contract between the Surrogate and the Intended Parents, and it’s essential for both parties to fully understand and agree to the terms before proceeding with the surrogacy journey. Additionally, compensation amounts and breakdowns may vary in different states and countries where surrogacy is practiced.

Overall, Surrogates have rights that are intended to protect their well-being, autonomy, and dignity throughout the surrogacy journey. It’s essential for Surrogates to be fully informed, supported, and empowered to make decisions that align with their values and preferences.

At Les Petits Surrogacy each surrogate’s needs, preferences, and well-being, are honored and respected.  We take special pride in ensuring our surrogate’s rights.  Typical surrogacy rights span:

Autonomy and Choice:  Within surrogacy, our Surrogates are empowered with autonomy. They are able to embrace the path that feels aligned with their desires, choosing the intended parents who resonate with them.

Guided by Informed Consent:  Our Surrogates are steeped in knowledge. Every step of the surrogacy process is shared, illuminating the journey ahead with awareness.

Screening and Matching:  Surrogates undergo thorough screening processes to ensure they are physically, emotionally, and psychologically prepared for surrogacy.  We also guide our Surrogates through the matching process every step of the way. They actively participate in the matching process including the opportunity to review profiles of intended parents and the selection process.

Communication and Support:  Surrogates have the right to open and transparent communication with the surrogacy agency or intended parents. They should receive adequate support, counseling, and guidance throughout the surrogacy journey, including access to mental health professionals.

Legal Protections: Surrogates have legal rights and protections outlined in surrogacy contracts. These contracts should clearly define the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of all parties involved, including compensation, medical care, and any potential contingencies.   All surrogates need to consult an attorney in their state.

Healthcare and Well-being: Surrogates have the right to receive quality healthcare and medical support throughout the surrogacy process. This includes regular prenatal care, monitoring of their health and the health of the baby, and access to medical resources if complications arise.

Financial Compensation and Benefits: Surrogates have the right to fair and reasonable financial compensation for their time, effort, and the physical risks associated with surrogacy. Compensation should cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs, as well as additional compensation for the surrogate’s time and commitment.

Respect and Dignity: Surrogates have the right to be treated with respect, dignity, and empathy by all parties involved in the surrogacy process. They should not be subjected to coercion, pressure, or exploitation, and their decisions and boundaries should be honored at all times.

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It takes a special woman to qualify as a Surrogate. Surrogates must live in surrogate-friendly states.  A friendly state is one that has laws recognizing surrogacy and protecting all parties.  Other qualifications may vary in different states.   In general, here’s what you need to qualify.

  • Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
  • Age Requirements: Must be between 21 and 40 years old.
  • Pregnancy History: Must have had at least one full-term pregnancy without complications and be raising your child.
  • C-section Limit: Must have had no more than two C-sections.
  • Termination and Reduction:  Must be comfortable leaving all decisions regarding termination and reduction up to Intended Parent(s). 
  • Residency: Must reside in a state that is supportive of surrogacy.
  • Health Criteria: Must have a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32 or less.
  • Medication Restrictions: Cannot be taking any medication for anxiety or depression, as these could pose risks during pregnancy and recovery.
  • Smoking and Exposure: Must be a non-smoker and not exposed to second-hand smoke, including vaping and medical marijuana.
  • Drug Use: Must not use illegal drugs or have a history of illegal drug use.
  • Financial Independence: Cannot be heavily dependent on any federal or state financial assistance.
  • Criminal Background: Must have no criminal record.
  • Financial Stability: Must be financially stable.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination: There is no requirement to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

These stringent requirements ensure that surrogates are physically and emotionally equipped to handle the demands and responsibilities of carrying a pregnancy for someone else.

Surrogacy regulation in the U.S. largely depends on individual state laws where the Surrogate resides making the process complex, especially across state lines. Surrogacy laws are also quite new and subject to frequent changes. Les Petits Surrogacy keeps up many changes but we advise Surrogates and Intended Parents alike to discuss all applicable laws with their attorney during the legal phase for the latest changes and implications.

Most Surrogacy-Friendly States in the U.S. States such as California, Colorado, Connecticut, D.C., Delaware, Idaho, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington are known for their surrogacy-friendly laws. These states allow surrogacy for all parents, enable both parents to be named on the birth certificate, and facilitate pre-birth orders to establish legal parentage before the child’s birth.

States Where Caution Is Advised or Surrogacy is Prohibited
Surrogacy isn’t legal in all U.S. states, such as Louisiana.  In other states, legal hurdles may exist, or surrogacy may not be advised. 

If You are Intended Parents in an Unfriendly Surrogate State
If you live in a state where surrogacy is banned or fraught with legal difficulties, there are still numerous options available. Many Intended Parents from less surrogacy-friendly states choose to engage Surrogates from states with more favorable laws. Surrogacy agencies often have a broad network of surrogates across various states, and consulting with a surrogacy specialist can help clarify the best approach for your family-building journey.

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Applying is easy.  Simply take this preliminary quiz to see if you qualify to become a Surrogate.  Upon submission of your form, Rebecca will contact you to schedule your initial consultation.   After your consultation and upon approval to proceed you’ll fill out an in-depth application which will be used to start your matching process with couples seeking to be Intended Parents.

You can also learn more about the surrogacy process and timeline whenever you’re ready!

Is Surrogacy Right for YOU?

Take the Qualifying Quiz and Find Out!