Category: Documenting Your Journey

Whether you are a surrogate or intended parent, your surrogacy story is an amazing one that deserves to be shared. Here’s how.

Let’s Talk Surrogacy: Why I Became a Surrogate (Episode 1)

Let’s Talk Surrogacy is your go-to podcast for real, unfiltered conversations about the surrogacy journey from both sides of the experience.

Welcome to Let’s Talk Surrogacy

New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of every month! Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel so you never miss a story that could inspire or inform your own surrogacy journey.

Featuring surrogates, intended parents, and industry professionals, we explore the emotional, physical, and legal realities of creating a family through surrogacy.

Whether you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate, navigating infertility, or simply curious about how the process works, this podcast offers insight, guidance, and support every step of the way.

Prefer to listen? Stream this episode on your favorite podcast platform:

Episode Highlight: Meg’s Surrogacy Journey

In this heartfelt episode, we meet Meg, a two-time surrogate and mom of four, who shares why she chose to carry for others and how her journey evolved between her two experiences.

Meg discusses the real-life physical and emotional demands of surrogacy. She also opens up about experiencing a miscarriage during her second journey and how strong agency support helped her find resilience and success in a second transfer attempt.

Meg’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength, empathy, and support it takes to walk the surrogacy path—and how deeply meaningful it can be for both surrogates and intended parents.

Join the Conversation

Have thoughts on this episode? Leave a comment below or follow us on Instagram—we’d love to hear your story, questions or reflections on surrogacy.

Do Intended Parents Need a Night Doula After Surrogacy?

Overnight care and emotional support for intended parents: how postpartum night doulas ease your transition into parenthood after surrogacy.

Becoming a parent through surrogacy is a beautiful, transformative experience but the shift into parenthood can also be intense and overwhelming.

That’s where a postpartum night doula can make a lasting difference.

Want a smoother start to parenthood? We can help you find a postpartum night doula and share exactly how they support you after your baby is born. Contact us today.

A night doula offers support during your most vulnerable hours so you can rest, reconnect and embrace your new role with confidence.

What Is a Postpartum Night Doula – and How Can They Help Intended Parents?

A postpartum night doula is a trained caregiver who provides overnight support to families in the first weeks and months after birth.

Their focus goes beyond feeding and diapering they create a nurturing nighttime environment for both baby and parents.

Unlike a night nanny, who is often task-oriented, or a birth doula, who supports labor, a night doula is trained to help families emotionally and practically during the delicate postpartum period.

What a Postpartum Night Doula Can Offer:

  • Overnight infant care and soothing
  • Breastfeeding, pumping, and bottle-feeding support (including induced lactation for non-birthing parents)
  • Emotional guidance and postpartum education
  • Encouragement and strategies for bonding
  • Calm presence during transitions and nighttime anxieties

For families who became parents through surrogacy, a night doula is often the first consistent support presence at home bridging emotional and physical gaps in the earliest hours of parenting.

Why Intended Parents May Need Support After Surrogacy

For many intended parents, the moment their baby arrives is surreal. Joy is often mixed with fear, uncertainty and exhaustion especially when postpartum recovery wasn’t part of their own physical experience.

A postpartum night doula provides a grounding force during this time, helping you navigate:

  • Fatigue from travel, time zones, or unexpected delivery timing
  • The absence of hormonal and physical preparation for parenthood
  • Early moments of bonding and caretaking with your newborn
  • Emotional processing of the surrogacy journey and transition into “full-time parent”

Whether you’re solo parenting, part of an LGBTQ+ couple or welcoming twins, a night doula ensures that you are supported holistically, not just as a caregiver, but as a human becoming a parent.

How a Postpartum Doula Supports the Parent-Child Bond

Bonding isn’t always instant, especially for non-birthing parents. And that’s okay. A postpartum night doula gently supports this process without pressure or judgment.

They guide parents in nurturing early connections with their baby, using evidence-based practices and emotional support tailored to the surrogacy experience.

Bonding Support May Include:

  • Skin-to-skin guidance during wake windows
  • Involvement in feeding and soothing
  • Coaching on reading baby cues
  • Reassurance that bonding is a journey, not a benchmark

By reinforcing your role as a confident, present parent, a night doula can help deepen the emotional connection you’re forming, even during a 3 a.m. diaper change.

Night Doula vs. Night Nanny

Choosing the right type of overnight support depends on the kind of help you need—emotional, physical, practical or all of the above. Here’s how a postpartum night doula compares to other options:

Postpartum Night Doula

  • Focus: Emotional support and practical overnight newborn care
  • Training: Often certified through organizations like DONA or CAPPA
  • Ideal For: Families seeking holistic care especially intended parents navigating bonding and role transition after surrogacy

Night Nanny

  • Focus: Basic newborn care tasks like feeding, diapering, and soothing
  • Training: May not have formal training or certification
  • Ideal For: Parents looking for routine infant care but not emotional or parental guidance

How Much Does a Night Doula Cost: Is the Support Worth It?

The cost of hiring a postpartum night doula typically ranges from $35 to $60+ per hour, depending on:

  • Your location
  • The doula’s experience level and certifications
  • Shift duration (usually 8–12 hours per night)

Is It Worth It?

For most families, the answer is yes. A night doula supports sleep, emotional regulation and bonding, elements that shape your first months as a parent.

Benefits include:

  • Improved rest and mental health
  • Stronger infant-parent attachment
  • Greater confidence and calmness during nighttime challenges

Some employers or FSA/HSA plans may offer reimbursement ask your agency or doula provider about options.

If you’re concerned about affording a night doula in addition to your overall surrogacy costs, learn more about affording surrogacy today.

How to Find a Night Doula Who Understands Surrogacy

Choosing a postpartum night doula who understands the emotional dynamics of surrogacy is key.

Look for doulas with:

  • Experience supporting intended parents and non-gestational families
  • Familiarity with assisted reproduction and donor/lactation complexities
  • Cultural competence and inclusive care (LGBTQIA+, single parent, etc.)
  • Strong communication, empathy, and active listening skills
  • Certification from programs like DONA International or CAPPA

Ask for references and trust your gut. The right doula will feel like a steady hand and a soft landing.

Find a Postpartum Night Doula Near Me

Here are some directories where you can search for certified professionals:

You can also find discussions and reviews on Reddit, surrogacy forums and local parenting groups where intended parents share real-world recommendations.

When the Birth Is Over, the Journey Continues

The birth may be over, but the parenting journey is just beginning. We understand what it means to become a parent through surrogacy and how essential postpartum night doula support can be in helping you settle into your new role with grace and confidence.

Schedule a consultation today to learn more about how we can help you find the right night doula and build a support plan that honors your surrogacy journey.

I Don’t Want to Do IVF Anymore: What Are My Options?

Deciding to stop IVF can feel overwhelming, but it’s also an opportunity to explore new paths like surrogacy. Take the next step toward creating the family you’ve dreamed of.

Many people who have faced IVF failure have found success through surrogacy, giving them the chance to have a biological child without enduring more physical and emotional strain.

It’s normal to feel frustrated, exhausted or even heartbroken. Deciding to stop IVF doesn’t define you or your ability to be a parent. You’ve done your best, and now it’s time to think about what comes next in your journey.

In this article, we’ll explore when to quit IVF, how to cope with the emotional impact of IVF failure and what your next options could be.

If you’re feeling unsure about continuing IVF, know that you’re not alone—and there are alternatives that could be a better fit for you. Reach out today to explore how surrogacy could help you build your family with hope and confidence.

I Want to Be a Parent But I Don’t Want to Do IVF Anymore

If you’re feeling like it’s time to give up on IVF, it’s completely understandable. After multiple failed cycles, the emotional and physical toll can feel overwhelming.  You might be considering quitting ivf because:

  • Emotional exhaustion: Repeated IVF failures can lead to frustration, sadness, and a sense of defeat. The emotional rollercoaster can be overwhelming.
  • Physical toll: IVF medications, appointments, and procedures take a physical toll on your body, leading to fatigue and burnout.
  • Financial strain: The cost of multiple IVF cycles can add up, making you question whether it’s worth continuing.
  • Few or no embryos left: Running low or being out of embryos can make the thought of starting over feel exhausting and emotionally heavy.
  • Need for a break: Sometimes, taking a step back is necessary to focus on your emotional and physical health before deciding what’s next.

The constant hope followed by disappointment, along with the stress of medications and appointments, can leave you exhausted and questioning whether it’s worth continuing.

Your Options: Surrogacy After Failed IVF

Many people who face IVF failure find success through surrogacy. With a healthy, screened surrogate carrying your baby, you increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

Surrogacy may also be more cost-effective in some cases, especially if you’ve already undergone multiple rounds of IVF.

Here’s how surrogacy after failed IVF can work for you:

  • Use your IVF embryos: If you have embryos left from your IVF cycles, you can use those with your surrogate.
  • We work with families with one embryo: We’re one of the few agencies that will work with families who have just one embryo. Some agencies won’t work with individuals or couples with a single embryo, but American Surrogacy will.
  • Donor eggs: You can use an egg bank or fertility clinic to find donor eggs to create embryos for surrogacy.
  • Double donor IVF: For those needing both egg and sperm donations, double donor IVF is a possibility, allowing you to still pursue surrogacy.
  • Donor embryos: If you’re running low on embryos or don’t have any left, donor embryos can be a great option to move forward with surrogacy.

Whether you have embryos left or need donor assistance, surrogacy offers a path forward when IVF alone hasn’t been successful.

If you’re curious about how surrogacy works or want to know more about the process, reach out to our surrogacy specialists today. If you’re not ready to reach out, check out our article about your options.

When to Give Up on IVF After Multiple Failed Attempts

Every fertility journey is different, and people choose to stop IVF for various reasons.

Here are situations where it may be time to consider moving on from failed IVF:

  • Repeated IVF failures: Even after adjusting medications or trying donor eggs, medical factors such as uterine issues, autoimmune problems or unexplained infertility may prevent implantation.
  • Financial strain: IVF can be expensive. If you need to undergo multiple cycles, it can cause significant financial strain. You may start to question whether it’s worth continuing to spend money on a path that might not lead to a family.
  • Burnout: The emotional, mental and even physical toll of IVF can be overwhelming. If you or your partner are feeling burnt out, or if one of you isn’t fully on board with continuing, it’s important to listen to those feelings. IVF should be a joint decision, and both partners need to be on the same page.
  • Out of embryos: If you have few or no embryos left, the thought of creating more through IVF may feel exhausting or unattainable. The emotional weight of this can make it harder to continue.

No matter your reason, deciding against IVF is okay. It doesn’t make you any less of a potential parent. You’ve given it your all, and now you can explore new options.

How to Move on After Failed IVF

Coping with IVF failure is not easy, and you may be feeling a range of emotions, such as grief and anger. It’s important to give yourself permission to feel those emotions and then find ways to process them.

Moving on doesn’t mean forgetting about IVF or pretending it didn’t matter. It’s about accepting that this chapter didn’t go the way you hoped, but your journey is far from over.

Here are some strategies for coping with IVF failure:

  1. Join a support group. Talking to others who’ve been through similar experiences can be comforting. The National Infertility Organization has a list of peer- and professionally-led groups you could join.
  2. Seek therapy. A professional therapist can help you navigate the emotional complexity of IVF failure and help you develop healthy coping skills. You can search for infertility therapists online.
  3. Lean on your support system. Friends and family can be a vital source of comfort. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed.
  4. Practice self-care. Make time for activities that help you relax, whether that’s exercising, meditating or just taking time for yourself.

It’s important to take the time you need to heal. Sometimes quitting IVF opens the door to other possibilities that may be better suited for your situation. The road may look different now, but it’s not the end of your journey — just a new chapter.

Affording Surrogacy After Quitting IVF

Are you considering surrogacy after deciding to stop IVF? The process can be expensive, but there are several ways to make it more affordable.

Here are some options to consider:

  • Employer Benefits: Check with your human resources department to see if your employer offers fertility benefits that cover surrogacy expenses.
  • Savings: If you’ve been setting money aside for IVF but are now considering surrogacy, reallocating those funds could help reduce the financial burden.
  • Grants: Look for grants specifically designed for individuals pursuing fertility treatments or surrogacy. You may need to demonstrate financial need or have an infertility diagnosis to be eligible for some grants.
  • Surrogacy Loans: Some lenders offer specialized loans for fertility treatments. They may have flexible terms to meet your needs.
  • Home Equity Line of Credit: If you own a home and have built equity, a home equity line of credit may provide a low-interest way to finance surrogacy.
  • Payment Plans: Many agencies offer structured payment plans, allowing you to pay for services in installments instead of a lump sum.
  • Crowdfunding: Platforms like GoFundMe can help you gather financial support from friends, family and your community.

Take the First Step Toward Surrogacy After Failed IVF                                                                       

You have options beyond IVF, and your journey to parenthood isn’t over—it’s just taking a new direction. Our specialists can help you explore surrogacy.

 Contact us today to take the next step with confidence.

Best IVF Apps for Surrogacy in 2025

From tracking cycles and managing medication to reducing stress with meditation tools, these apps offer practical solutions for staying organized and informed. Discover the best options to make your IVF and surrogacy experience more manageable.

For those on a surrogacy journey, IVF apps can help you stay organized, reduce stress and save time throughout the process.

Whether you’re tracking medication or managing emotions, these apps for IVF can help you stay on top of the many different aspects of your journey.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates, helpful resources and a community of intended parents just like you.

In this article, we’ll explore the best IVF apps available in 2025, including their key features, pricing, and how they can enhance your IVF experience.

What Are the Best Apps for IVF and Surrogacy in 2025?

IVF apps can save time, reduce stress and help you stay organized.

Their utility can improve your experience by:

  • Tracking your cycle and medication schedules
  • Reducing emotional stress with journaling and meditation features
  • Scheduling medication or appointment reminders

While IVF apps can help you stay organized and on top of your surrogacy process, an agency like ours offers expert guidance and tailored solutions to ensure every detail is managed with care and precision. Contact us today to get the support you need.

Whether it’s an IVF meditation app or an IVF calendar app there’s an app for your needs.

#1. Alife Health

Alfie IVF is an IVF tracker app that makes it easy to stay organized and informed throughout your IVF and surrogacy journey. Alife uses AI-powered software to optimize IVF treatment.

  • Key features: Create a timeline,  calendar, reminders, appointment recaps, record medications, track symptoms
  • Platform: IOS
  • Cost: Free
  • Rating: 4.9/5
  • Data security: Encrypted using TLS/SSL, data is stored with Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Learn more.

#2. Medisafe

Primarily a medication management service, Medisafe can be used as an IVF tracker app for your medications. It integrates with your calendar and can sync with other health apps.

  • Key Features: Reminders, syncs with your HealthKit app, report sharing with your doctor
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Rating: 4.5/5
  • Data security: Data is stored on private servers

Learn more.

#4. Embie

Embie is an IVF calendar app and IVF tracker app that provides tools to help you understand and manage your IVF treatment plan.

  • Key features: Calendar for IVF medications and appointments, reminders, track your cycles’ results, community features
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: Free with premium member/subscriber paid plans
  • Rating: 3.8/5
  • Data Security: Encrypted through https, Chino.io Security Platform

Learn more.

#3. Mindful IVF

Mindful IVF is an IVF meditation app designed for each phase of your IVF cycle. Different programs address different phases of the cycle and in 2024 they began offering classes to prepare you for IVF.

  • Type: IVF meditation app
  • Key features: Guided meditations for each stage, miscarriage support, two-week wait support
  • Platform: iOS/Android
  • Cost: 7 day free trial, monthly and lifetime subscription plans
  • Rating: 4.3/5

Learn more.

#5. Naula IVF

Naula IVF is an IVF calendar app and IVF journal app that was designed so that you can keep track of your IVF medications and appointments all in one place.

  • Key features: Medication and appointment reminders, add notes to appointments or medications, share treatment with your partner
  • Platform: iOS
  • Cost: Free
  • Rating: 2.5/5
  • Data security: SSL encryption for data and NSA-level ASE encryption of personal info

Learn more.

How to Choose the Right IVF App for Your Journey

With so many IVF apps available, it’s important to find the one that best suits your needs.

Here’s how to choose:

  1. Identify your needs: Determine what you need help with most—whether it’s tracking medications, managing appointments or emotional support. For tracking, apps like Naula IVF or Embie are great. For emotional well-being, consider Mindful IVF.
  2. Privacy and security: Look for apps with strong encryption, anonymous tracking and data deletion features to protect your sensitive health information.
  3. Ease of use: Choose an app that’s intuitive and easy to navigate. Read reviews or test the app to ensure it fits your needs without being complex.
  4. Cost vs. features: Free apps may offer basic features, while premium apps can provide advanced tools. Consider what’s worth paying for, like personalized features in apps like Mindful IVF.
  5. Look for community support: Some apps, like Embie, offer community features where you can connect with others on the same journey for advice and emotional support.

Privacy and Security of Apps for IVF: What You Need to Know

When using apps for IVF, privacy and security are critical concerns.

These apps often store sensitive health information, including medication schedules, cycle tracking data and personal medical histories.

Ensuring that your data is protected is essential. Here’s what you should look for in terms of privacy features:

  • Data encryption: Many IVF apps use end-to-end encryption to protect your personal information. This means that only you (or those you choose to share with) can access your data, preventing unauthorized access.
  • Anonymous mode: Some apps offer an anonymous mode, allowing you to track your journey without revealing your identity. This feature is particularly useful if you’re concerned about your privacy or don’t want to disclose personal information unnecessarily.
  • Data Deletion: Be sure to check if the app allows you to delete your data once your IVF cycle or surrogacy journey is complete. For example, apps like Naula IVF ensure that your data is permanently removed once your account is terminated.
  • Third-party access: Understand who has access to your data. Does the app share your information with third parties, or is it used solely for your benefit? Always review the app’s privacy policy to ensure your data is handled appropriately.

By choosing IVF apps that prioritize privacy and security, you can feel confident that your sensitive health information is protected throughout your journey to parenthood.

Getting Started

IVF apps can simplify your surrogacy journey by keeping track of appointments, medication and timelines. But with an agency like ours, you’ll also get personalized support every step of the way—making your journey even smoother.

Reach out today to start your surrogacy journey.

How to Prepare to Be a Surrogate Mother in 2025

With these tips and guidance, you’ll be well on your way to preparing for a successful surrogacy journey in 2025. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Not only do you help a family grow, but you also earn meaningful compensation and experience the unique bond that comes with giving the gift of life.

We’ve got everything you need to know, from the initial steps to navigating the surrogacy process, so you can confidently start your surrogacy journey today.

Ready to make a difference? Start your surrogacy application now to see if you’re a good fit!

How to Prepare to Be a Surrogate Mother

Step 1: Meet the Surrogacy Requirements

The first step to preparing to become a surrogate is ensuring you meet the necessary requirements. These may vary slightly depending on the agency, but typically include:

  • Age range 21-40 years old
  • A healthy BMI and good physical health are essential.
  • You need to have had at least one healthy pregnancy
  • Currently raising a child
  • No major complications from previous pregnancies

Additionally, avoid getting tattoos at least 12 months prior to the surrogacy process and refrain from antidepressants for a year before starting.

Step 2: Commit to the Time Frame

Surrogacy is a long-term commitment, often taking 12-18 months from start to finish.

This includes the time spent on medical screenings, fertility treatments, the pregnancy itself and recovery. It’s important to evaluate your personal and professional life to ensure you can make this commitment.

Make arrangements with your job, family and social obligations and ensure you’ll be able to stay in the same geographical area during this period.

Planning for the long haul? Start making arrangements for the coming months by speaking with a surrogacy specialist today.

Step 3: Make the Appropriate Work Arrangements

As you prepare for this incredible journey, you’ll need to consider your work situation.

Some employers offer maternity leave, but if yours doesn’t or if you expect to lose wages during your pregnancy, you can negotiate this into your surrogate compensation package.

Make sure to check with your human resources department or boss to understand their maternity leave policy and inform them of your plans.

We can help make sure your surrogate compensation package covers these potential losses.

Step 4: Talk to Your Family

Becoming a surrogate is a team effort, and your family’s support is crucial for a smooth and positive experience.

Sit down with your spouse, children and other family members to discuss the journey. Open communication helps everyone understand the process and the emotions that may come up.

This step is an important part of creating a positive experience for everyone involved.

Step 5: Cultivate Healthy Habits

Taking care of your body is one of the best ways to ensure you meet the requirements to become a surrogate and to achieve and sustain a healthy pregnancy.

Preparing physically and mentally will not only help you feel your best but also ensure that you’re giving your intended parents the best chance for success.

Here are some tips to get you ready:

  • Start taking prenatal vitamins
  • Cut back on alcohol and caffeine
  • Get moving with light exercise, such as walking or yoga
  • Prioritize a balanced, nutritious diet
  • Speak with a mental health counselor to ensure emotional readiness
  • Connect with a surrogacy specialist to guide you through the process

These healthy habits will help you stay strong, both physically and mentally, throughout the surrogacy process.

Step 6: Legal and Financial Considerations

You’ll earn surrogate compensation starting anywhere in the range of $50,000-$110,000 depending on your experience and the cost of living in your area.

You are compensated for your time and energy that you’re dedicating toward helping someone else have a family. Your compensation will also include reimbursements for medical expenses and any other costs associated with the surrogacy process.

We will also guide you through the legal process, which includes contracts outlining the responsibilities and rights of all parties.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of what to expect and feel confident in the arrangements you’re making.

Questions about surrogate compensation? Contact us today to learn how much you can earn as a surrogate.

Why Surrogacy is Worth It

Becoming a surrogate allows you to bring joy to families who might otherwise never have the chance to experience parenthood while earning compensation to support your family’s future.

It’s a beautiful journey that requires preparation, but the experience is worth every step.

Are you ready to begin your surrogacy journey in 2025? Contact us now to get started, and let’s make your surrogacy dream a reality.

Surrogacy for Gay Parents: Celebrating Pride and Parenthood

Through the stories of surrogacy for gay parents that we’ve worked with, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy and the essence of family.

Family is more than just a biological connection. In today’s diverse and evolving society, stories of gay surrogacy demonstrate the power of love and determination in creating families. These heartfelt journeys of gay intended parents we’ve helped have the family of their dreams highlight the path through the surrogacy process to the joy of parenthood.

Each narrative is a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment and resilience, demonstrating how surrogacy turns dreams of parenthood into reality. Through these stories, we witness the profound impact of surrogacy, fostering acceptance, equality and the true essence of family.

Connect with LGBTQ intended parents on our Instagram.

To learn more about the process of surrogacy for gay parents, fill out our simple form.

Gay Surrogacy Stories from American Surrogacy

Michael and Viet’s Story

For Michael and Viet, becoming parents was the next step in their journey together as a couple. As they considered their family-building options, surrogacy stood out as a way to share a biological connection to their child.

“Surrogacy just gave us an opportunity to complete our family and it completely changed our lives,” says Viet. “We looked at adoption and at the time there was a two year waiting process and the fees were just about the same so we thought why don’t we just go through surrogacy and have someone that is part of me in our family which was something we also really wanted.”

After meeting their surrogate, Alissandra, Michael knew she was the person who they wanted to help grow their family.

“The first meeting with our surrogacy Alissandra I definitely felt like it was an instant connection and it was an amazing match because the reasons why she wanted to this were very heartfelt,” says Michael.

It was as if their family grew by two through surrogacy. “After we started the whole process we just got really close and we were a family I felt,” Viet says.

The birth of Michael and Viet’s son through surrogacy fulfilled them in ways they never could have imagined. Viet recalls the first time he held his son.

“The birth of our son was amazing. Alissandra had just given birth and the nurses handed him to me and I just couldn’t believe after all the years and everything we went through that he was finally here.  I was holding my little boy in my arms and he was perfect.”

“My son has filled a part of my existence and should and heart with a love that I just never knew existed,” Michael adds.

Watch more of their story here.

Nicholas’s Story

Surrogacy for gay parents isn’t limited to couples. Nicholas, a single gay man, wanted to have a family. Having a genetic connection to his child was important to him, but he worried that surrogacy wouldn’t be an option on his own.

“You first say, ‘Forget it; it’s too complicated, it’s too risky,” Nicholas says. “And then you start to talking to some people and understanding that it is possible to do so if you really want to, so then you have to sleep on it — and then one day realize this is not just an option, but you can do it.”

After finding American Surrogacy, Nicholas’s surrogacy specialist presented him with Nichole’s surrogate profile. Within moments of getting to know her, he knew she was the perfect fit. “We talked to each other, and it seemed really natural,” he remembers. “But what made me sure that Nichole was perfect was because she came across really genuine, and she wasn’t doing it for the money but truly to help.”

The day Julian, Nicholas’s son was born, was the day his life changed forever.

“I had been waiting for so long that… when I saw Julian, I was just completely overwhelmed,” Nicholas remembers. “It was such a wonderful experience to see Julian coming into our world.”

Read more of his story here.

How American Surrogacy Facilitates Surrogacy for Gay Parents

 For all of our intended parents, we work tirelessly to help them find the perfect surrogate match as soon as possible.

“Within a few weeks of making first contact, American Surrogacy told us we have a very, very strong match for you,” Michael remembers. “It was a really wonderful match. I wish all intended parents to have such a wonderful match like that.”

We help you find the right surrogate for you by showing you profiles of surrogates who possess the qualities you want in the person who will carry your child. We put the best interests of you and your future child at the forefront.

 “You need someone that you’re going to trust to choose a surrogate for you, and American Surrogacy was the only agency I felt comfortable with and was genuine enough for me to choose over the other agencies,” Nicholas remembers. “I spoke to many surrogacy agencies — small and big — and none of them made me feel the way American Surrogacy made me feel.”

We’re here for you every step of the way throughout your surrogacy journey.

“The staff at American Surrogacy made our experience really good. We spoke to [our surrogacy specialist] and she was just comfortable to talk to,” says Viet. “She reassured us when we needed it. Every time we called her, she always answered the phone. They’re very supportive and invested in our process.”

“The whole thing is to truly find people like [my surrogacy specialist], who have experience, patience and care for what you go through,” says Nicholas. “This is such a wonderful journey because you realize you’re not alone, and it gets easier than you think.”

Whether you’re an LGBT couple or individual, parenthood is just in reach through our agency. If you’re ready to begin your journey or have questions about surrogacy for gay parents, contact us today.

Celebrating Mother’s Day On Your Surrogacy Journey

As an intended mother, celebrating Mother’s Day is a way to honor the love and determination you’ve dedicated to growing your family. But if you’re struggling with infertility or in the middle of your journey, there can be complicated emotions that surface. We’re here to help.

Mother’s Day is a day of celebration, but it can also be emotionally challenging for those who have not yet achieved their motherhood goals. Whether you’re experiencing infertility, in the middle of a surrogacy process or have had a child through surrogacy, your experience will be unique.

We celebrate mothers in all stages of their parenting journey. If you’re coping with infertility or in the middle of your journey and struggling with difficult emotions, you can contact us today for support.

 Here’s how to make Mother’s Day positive, no matter where you are:

If You’re Struggling with Infertility

Women who are not yet mothers can find Mother’s Day particularly difficult. The images of happy mothers and children can be emotionally devastating when you desperately want to be a mom. Remember that your emotional well-being is essential. Here are some approaches:

  • Take a Break: If celebrating Mother’s Day feels too painful, it’s okay to sit it out. Do an activity unrelated to the holiday that brings you joy. Use your coping mechanisms to address your emotions.
  • Focus on Loved Ones: Shift the attention away from yourself by celebrating with your own mother and other family members. Sometimes, being around loved ones can help you forget your sadness and enjoy the day.

If You’re in the Surrogacy Process

Being in the middle of a surrogacy journey on Mother’s Day can bring conflicting feelings. Here’s how to navigate them:

  • Include Your Surrogate: If your surrogate is pregnant, you’re likely excited about the little bundle of joy arriving soon. Consider including your surrogate in your Mother’s Day celebrations. A token of appreciation like flowers or a small gift can go a long way.
  • Acknowledge Your Feelings: Recognize that this Mother’s Day might be bittersweet. Allow yourself to feel both excitement and longing. It’s okay to have mixed emotions.
  • Look Ahead: Imagine next year’s Mother’s Day when you’ll finally hold your baby. Let that anticipation fill your heart with hope and joy.
  • Talk to your surrogacy specialist: Your surrogacy specialist can provide a shoulder for you to lean on, help talk you through your emotions or provide helpful resources and coping skills.

If You’ve Had a Child Through Surrogacy

Congratulations! You’ve experienced the miracle of surrogacy. Now, Mother’s Day is about celebrating your journey. Here’s how:

  • Reflect on Your Journey: Take a moment to appreciate the path that led you to motherhood. Remember the courage, patience and love it took to get here.
  • Create Keepsakes: Consider framed ultrasound images, recordings of the baby’s heartbeat, pictures of you with your surrogate. These sentimental items will remind you of this special time.
  • Call or text your surrogate: Call your surrogate and catch up. Update her on how the baby is doing and express your gratitude for her role in helping you have the family of your dreams.
  • Send a card: Send your surrogate a card thanking her for helping you be able to celebrate your first Mother’s Day with your baby.
  • Have Lunch Together: Share a meal with your surrogate, if possible. Celebrate the bond you’ve formed and the beautiful life you’re bringing into the world.

Remember, every stage of the surrogacy journey is significant. Whether you’re waiting, anticipating, or celebrating, Mother’s Day is a day to honor the love and commitment that make motherhood possible. 

Wherever you are in the process, you aren’t alone. Plenty of surrogates, intended mothers, and mothers through surrogacy are ready support you and share their insight. Connect with them online through our Instagram community.

If you’re considering growing your family through surrogacy, contact us today to get started.

The Best Surrogate Apps in 2025

Learn how you can keep track of your surrogate journey with some of the best surrogate apps of 2024.

Becoming a surrogate involves a lot of moving parts, from managing your fertility medications to keeping track of your doctor’s appointments. Staying organized during your journey creates a smoother experience and can help you confidently move through the process.

If you have any questions about how you can become a surrogate, fill out our form to connect with us today.

You can also follow us on Instagram for additional insight from experienced surrogates about their life-changing journey.

With the advancement of technology, several surrogate apps can help you manage all aspects of your journey with the touch of a button.  From calendar apps to fertility apps for surrogates, this guide has you covered.

Here are some of the top-rated surrogate apps of 2024 that can make your path to surrogacy that much easier:

1. Fertility Friend

Fertility Friend is a comprehensive surrogate mother app designed to help you track their menstrual cycles, ovulation and fertility windows. By inputting daily information, such as basal body temperature and cervical mucus observations, surrogates can enhance their understanding of their reproductive health.

Download Fertility Friend on the App Store

Get Fertility Friend on Google Play

2. My Calendar

My Calendar is not just a period app but an overall tool that can be customized to suit your specific needs. It’s an easy-to-use tracker that helps you take control of different aspects of your menstrual cycle like ovulation, fertility, moods and other symptoms associated with your surrogate pregnancy.

Download My Calendar on the App Store

Get My Calendar on Google Play

3. Embie

Managing fertility treatments are a crucial aspect of the surrogacy process. Embie is a surrogate app that simplifies this by sending reminders for medication doses, tracking your medication protocol by cycle and providing educational resources to ensure you stay on top of your medication schedule.

Download the Embie on the App Store

Get Embie on Google Play

4. BabyCenter Pregnancy Tracker

BabyCenter is a widely used app that offers a supportive community and a wealth of information about fertility, pregnancy and parenting. It provides an ovulation calculator and a kick counter to help you track the baby.  You can connect with other surrogates and intended parents, sharing experiences, pregnancy tips and stories to gain insights into your unique journey.

Download BabyCenter on the App Store

Get BabyCenter on Google Play

5. Calm

Managing stress and maintaining mental well-being is crucial during the surrogacy process. Calm is the #1 app for meditation and sleep helping you discover a happy, healthier you during your surrogate journey. Calm is for everyone, whether you’re brand new to meditation or are a seasoned expert. It’ll help give you a mental break during your journey to help keep stress at a minimum.

Download Calm on the App Store

Get Calm on Google Play

Remember, the surrogacy journey is a unique experience, and these surrogate apps are here to support you every step of the way. Tailor these apps based on your preferences and needs, and feel empowered as you become the hero in your own story.

If you want to learn more about how to become a surrogate, check out this article or fill out our form to connect with a specialist today.

What is a Career Surrogate?

What is a career surrogate? We break down the benefits to becoming an experience surrogate mother.

Have you heard of a career surrogate? If you’ve been looking into surrogacy, you’ve likely come across this term. In the world of surrogacy, we love to work with career surrogates. Today, we break down what it means to become a career surrogate, the benefits and how you can get started.

Ready to begin your surrogacy journey? Contact a surrogacy specialist to get started.

You can also check us out on Instagram to hear more from surrogates about their experience with the process and why they decided to become a surrogate.

What is a Career Surrogate?

A career surrogate is essentially an experienced surrogate. For many women, this experience is enjoyable and something they want to repeat as they are able to. There are a number of surrogate requirements you have to meet to continue as a surrogate, but once you’ve met them once and gone through the process, you will likely continue to meet these standards. This allows for a smoother process each time you go through the surrogate process.

Surrogacy can be a calling for many women who want to help others. This can create a positive and quality experience for everyone involved. If you find you want to continue being a surrogate and continue meeting the requirements, you can be a surrogate.

Benefits of Becoming a Career Surrogate

One of the main benefits of becoming a career surrogate is the experienced surrogate pay you receive. This can be a life-changing amount for many women and their families. Our experienced surrogate pay ranges from $50,000 - $110,000+. Where you live and how many times you’ve been a surrogate factor into this amount. For those career surrogates who are on their third or even fourth experience as a surrogate, this can be on the higher end. Surrogate pay often helps with:

  • Paying off debt
  • Purchasing a car
  • Purchasing a home
  • Paying for college
  • Putting money away for kids
  • Creating once-in-a-lifetime memories

Another benefit to being a career surrogate is your ability to understand the process. Because you have been through the entire surrogacy journey before, you understand the physical and emotional demands of the process. This goes a long way when working with parents who want a trusted surrogate to carry their baby. There’s nothing better to many parents than having a trusted individual to carry their child.

Get Started as a Surrogate

When you start your journey as a career surrogate you are not only helping to build families, but you are helping to sustain your own. Through continued experience as a surrogate your service can be beneficial to everyone. With the compensation, you earn as a surrogate, you can do so much for yourself and your family. We acknowledge that what you do as a career surrogate is offering incredible and insurmountable change for others.

We love working with experienced surrogates and would love to work with you. Whether you’re looking to start your first or third surrogacy journey, our surrogacy specialists are ready to assist you. We will walk you through the process from beginning to end, offering a competitive surrogate compensation package to help you feel financially secure

Contact us to get started today!

7 Tips for a Healthy Surrogate Pregnancy

Maintaining a healthy surrogate pregnancy helps ensure the well-being of yourself and the precious life you carry. As a surrogate, the responsibility of nurturing a developing baby requires special attention to physical, emotional and lifestyle factors to promote a safe and thriving pregnancy.

As a surrogate, you’ve been given one of the most important tasks out there: to grow and protect another person’s unborn baby. By prioritizing a healthy and safe lifestyle, you’ll provide a nurturing environment for the unborn child and will offer hope for individuals or couples who are unable to conceive naturally.

Maintaining a healthy and safe lifestyle is crucial as it directly impacts the well-being of the developing child. A commitment to good physical and mental health, regular prenatal care and proper nutrition ensures the optimal growth and development of the baby.

If you have any questions about how to live a healthy lifestyle as a surrogate, then contact us online or call 1-800-875-2229 to connect with a specialist.

In the meantime, here are seven surrogate pregnancy tips to help you have a safe, healthy experience:

1. Attend All Your OBGYN Appointments

Once your pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll need to check in with your OBGYN more frequently than you would for a standard pregnancy. Although you may be tired of going to the doctor so many times, these frequent visits help ensure that there are no complications in your surrogate pregnancy journey. Each appointment tracks your health along with your baby’s health as well.

To help make these appointments more bearable, you can invite the intended parents. Even if they’re unavailable, sending them a quick update, photo or video chatting with them after each appointment can help you feel excited as you navigate your surrogate pregnancy.

2. Stay on Top of Eating Healthy Meals and Hydrating

If you live a busier life, it can be easy to resort to fast food to satisfy your cravings. But, you’ll want to make sure that you (and the baby) have plenty of protein, fresh fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. Your health and the baby’s health are of utmost importance, so make sure you’re thinking about ways to eat healthier.

Dehydration is one of the leading causes of premature labor and can cause harm to both you and your baby. Drinking enough water can also provide the essential vitamins and minerals the baby needs. It’s important for both you and the baby that you drink plenty of water to avoid any complications in your surrogate pregnancy.

You’ll also want sure you know what food and drinks to avoid when pregnant and check in with your doctor if you need any tips for eating healthier and staying hydrated.

3. Take your Vitamins

As a surrogate, one of the last things you want to do is add more medications to your routine. But prenatal vitamins are an integral part in your surrogate pregnancy that ensures you and the baby are both getting what you need. Even though vitamins can help contribute to a healthy surrogate pregnancy, you need to make sure to stay on top of your diet at the same time.

Setting a daily alarm to take your vitamins and any other OB-approved medication can be helpful in case you forget.

4. Get Plenty of Rest

Your body is working overtime right now, so it’s important to get at least eight hours of sleep at night and take naps when you can. After the first trimester, try to sleep on your side as sleeping on your back can limit blood supply to the baby and may leave you feeling lightheaded or dizzy.

If you have a hard time sleeping comfortably as your surrogate pregnancy progresses, you can always try a pregnancy pillow or prenatal massages (with your doctors approval) if you’re feeling sore.

5. Try Keeping Stress Levels Low

When you make the decision to pursue a surrogate pregnancy, the link between your cortisol levels and its effect on the baby is pretty strong. Your own physical health is tied to how you’re feeling emotionally, so you’ll want to focus on your emotional health to help keep you and the baby healthy.

Pregnancy often comes with many complex emotions and mood swings that are hard to control. With the added pressures of a surrogate pregnancy, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Make sure to talk with your specialist or another qualified counselor if you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed. Remember to take plenty of time to recharge, breathe and relax.

6. Journal or Scrapbook your Surrogate Pregnancy

Someday, this child may want to learn about the time you spent together and his or her parents won’t be able to tell that part of the story. It can be fun to write about your surrogate pregnancy experience in letters or a journal. If you want to get more creative, you can create a scrapbook with pictures throughout your pregnancy.

This can be a fun way to tell the child about your time together, your time with their parents and how excited you are to meet them and see them grow up with their family.

7. Involve the Intended Parents as Much as you Can

If you’re unsure when the intended parents should be involved, you can always talk with your surrogate specialist for advice. Generally, most intended parents are eager and excited to be included in your surrogate pregnancy experience to whatever extent you’re comfortable with. Many intended parents would love to see sonograms and pictures of your growing belly.

Most communication involves text messages about how you’re feeling and can include invitations to your doctor appointments. If you live nearby the intended parents, having them stop by for a quick visit can be a nice way for you to get to know each other and build a lasting relationship. Having a strong relationship with the intended parents can make the process a beautiful journey for all involved. For help navigating this, or any other aspect of your surrogacy, you can reach out to other experienced surrogates through our social media.

If you need any more advice on how to have a healthy surrogate pregnancy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your American Surrogacy specialist. You can always contact us online or call us at 1-800-875-2229 (BABY).