Becoming a surrogate is bigger than a paycheck. You’re helping someone become a parent, and you deserve care that matches the weight of that decision.

If you’ve been asking what benefits do surrogacy agencies provide beyond base pay, here’s the plain answer: the right agency protects your time, health, rights, and peace of mind from the first call to the last follow-up.

If you’re curious whether you qualify, you can start a short, no-pressure pre-screen with American Surrogacy.Start your application.

What Benefits Do Surrogacy Agencies Provide Beyond Base Pay for Surrogates?

Think of a full-service agency as your coordinated support system. Instead of juggling payments, forms, appointments, insurance, and legal language on your own, you get a comprehensive plan and a single point of contact who keeps things moving.

The outcome we aim for is simple: a safe, smooth, respectful journey for you.

The right agency supports your journey by providing comprehensive help with:

• Financial Security: Secure and on-time compensation, with all payments and reimbursements managed by a trusted third party.
• Expert Guidance: A dedicated Case Manager who handles all coordination, logistics, and unforeseen issues from day one.
• Values-Based Matching: Careful screening and matching with intended parents based on shared values and communication style.
• Independent Legal Protection: Your own attorney (paid for by the intended parents) to draft and negotiate a secure, enforceable contract.
• Logistical Relief: Organized medical scheduling, complete travel coordination, and expert insurance navigation.
• Emotional Wellness: Counseling support, access to peer communities, and true 24/7 staff availability.

Financial Peace of Mind Through Payment and Reimbursement Handling

Money shouldn’t add stress to something this meaningful. Agencies coordinate your compensation through a trusted escrow service or manage disbursements directly when intended parents have opted for this option.

Your timeline is clear, and reimbursements are processed promptly; questions are handled by staff—not by you. You focus on your health while we handle the paperwork and tracking.

Want a clear breakdown of allowances and reimbursements? See what support you can receive beyond base pay.

Personalized Support From a Surrogacy Case Manager

You won’t be passed around. A dedicated case manager learns your story, answers questions, and coordinates next steps.

They flag insurance forms before they become urgent, confirm childcare timing around appointments, and make sure you’re never left guessing about what comes next.

When something changes, you text or call the person who already knows you.

Safe and Compatible Intended Parent Matching

A good match sets the tone for the entire journey. Agencies screen and prepare intended parents, then match based on values, communication style, expectations for contact, and logistics like clinic preferences and travel.

Starting aligned reduces friction and builds trust, so your relationship feels collaborative instead of transactional.

Legal Protection and Advocacy for Surrogates

Clear contracts prevent hard conversations later. Your agency connects you with your own attorney—paid for by the intended parents—who explains every clause and negotiates terms that protect you.

Agreements cover compensation, medical decision-making, risks and contingencies, insurance, privacy, and parentage orders.

With enforceable terms and plain-language explanations, you know how decisions will be made and how costs are covered if plans change.

Medical Screening and Coordination Handled for You

Surrogacy involves many appointments—screenings, monitoring, transfer, prenatal care, and delivery. Agencies coordinate schedules with your clinic and OB, send reminders, and handle travel when you need to go out of town.

That includes the timeline around a frozen embryo transfer. Flights, hotels, rides, and per-diems are booked and documented. You receive an itinerary and real help if anything shifts.

Learn more about about what you can expect from the surrogate medical process.

What Can Go Wrong Without an Agency: The Risks of Going Independent

Independent journeys can work for some, but they often require you to be the case manager, accountant, and mediator all at once—while you’re pregnant. It’s an emotionally and logistically demanding role that most surrogates do not want to take on.

The most common pain points without professional agency support include:

• Financial Uncertainty: Unclear payment timelines, missing compensation, or reimbursements that you have to chase down yourself.
• Legal Vulnerability: Gaps in legal protection or a contract that hasn’t been properly negotiated to protect your rights in every contingency.
• Relationship Strain: Mismatched expectations around communication or boundaries with the intended parents, turning a deeply personal journey into a stressful transaction.
• Logistical Headaches: Scheduling conflicts for medical appointments, dealing with insurance surprises, and handling travel bookings yourself.

Professional coordination and clear contracts prevent most of these issues. You deserve to focus solely on your health and the pregnancy.

Why Working With a Surrogacy Agency Is Worth It

When you zoom out, the benefits of surrogacy agencies beyond base pay come down to safety and support.

You’re protected by professionals who know the process, guided by someone who knows you, and free to focus on your well-being and the family you’re helping.

Many surrogates choose an agency for their first journey and return for their second because that peace of mind is hard to replace.

Experience the Full Benefits of Surrogacy—With a Team Who Has Your Back

You’ve read about the safety, the financial protection, and the dedicated guidance that an agency provides.

When you choose American Surrogacy, the benefits beyond base pay translate into one simple thing: peace of mind. Your mission is helping a family; our mission is protecting you every step of the way.

Reach out today to learn more about the full benefits available when you become a surrogate.

You usually can’t be a surrogate while on Medicaid. Most surrogacy agencies — including American Surrogacy — require private insurance that covers pregnancy-related care. But that doesn’t mean this path is off the table.

With the right guidance, you can transition to a qualifying plan and move forward with confidence — helping a hopeful family experience parenthood while improving your own family’s financial future.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how you can still become a surrogate, even if you’re currently on Medicaid.  

We’ll explain why Medicaid typically disqualifies you, what insurance options are available, how to make the switch, and how American Surrogacy can support you every step of the way.

Can You Be a Surrogate on Medicaid?

In most cases, no—you can’t be a surrogate on Medicaid getting Medicaid coverage. Nearly every surrogacy agency, including us, requires surrogates to have private health insurance that covers pregnancy and childbirth.

Here’s the deal: Medicaid has income limits. When you get paid as a surrogate (we’re talking $65,000 or more), that money usually pushes you over Medicaid’s income threshold.

If you stay on Medicaid while getting paid, you could face serious problems, more on that in a second.

Plus, Medicaid wasn’t designed to cover surrogacy pregnancies.

You’re carrying someone else’s baby, and Medicaid sees that as outside what they’re supposed to pay for. Using Medicaid for a surrogacy pregnancy breaks program rules and creates legal and financial risks for you and the intended parents.

Why Medicaid Usually Disqualifies Surrogates

Most surrogacy agencies won’t work with surrogates on Medicaid for three big reasons:

Your income changes everything

Medicaid eligibility depends on how much money your household makes. When you earn surrogate compensation, your income will likely jump above Medicaid limits.

That means you’d lose coverage halfway through your pregnancy, leaving you stuck without insurance when you need it most.

Insurance fraud is a real risk

If you keep getting Medicaid benefits while earning money that makes you ineligible, you could get accused of not reporting your income.

The consequences are serious—you might have to pay back benefits and face legal trouble.

Medicaid doesn’t cover surrogacy

Federal Medicaid rules don’t allow coverage for pregnancies where you’re carrying a baby for someone else.

Even if your income technically keeps you eligible, using Medicaid for surrogacy breaks the rules and puts everyone at risk.

Do I Need Insurance to Become a Surrogate?

No, you don’t need insurance before you apply.

If you already have coverage through work, your spouse, or somewhere else, we will look at your plan and figure out what it covers for surrogacy.

If your current insurance doesn’t fully cover a surrogate pregnancy, or specifically excludes surrogacy, we’ll work with the intended parents to fill those gaps.

Usually, intended parents buy extra insurance or set up complete coverage to make sure you’re protected.

Here’s how it works

Once you match with intended parents, they pay for any pregnancy-related medical costs your insurance doesn’t cover.

That includes deductibles, co-pays, and any special care you need. You won’t pay anything out of pocket for surrogacy healthcare.

Sometimes intended parents buy a separate surrogacy insurance policy just for you. These plans cover everything about a surrogate pregnancy, giving you full protection from start to finish.

What If You’re Currently on Medicaid?

If you’re on Medicaid now and want to become a surrogate, you’ll need to switch to private insurance first.

It might sound like a roadblock, but American Surrogacy helps women through this transition all the time. Your main options:

• Work insurance. If you or your spouse have a job that offers health benefits, you can sign up during open enrollment or after a life event. Many employer plans cover pregnancy, making them perfect for surrogacy.
• Marketplace plans. You can buy private insurance through healthcare.gov. These plans are available during open enrollment or after qualifying life events. Some are affordable and cover everything you need for maternity care.
• Insurance paid by intended parents. Sometimes intended parents will buy a private policy for you to make sure you have the right coverage. This removes the financial barrier completely.

American Surrogacy works with you to figure out which path fits your situation. We’ll explain timelines, costs, and what’s covered so you can make the switch confidently.

Once you have qualifying insurance, you can start the screening and matching process.

Can My Kids Receive Medicaid if I’m a Surrogate?

Probably not once you start getting surrogate pay.

Medicaid looks at your entire household income, and the money you earn as a surrogate counts toward that—which could determine whether or not your kids can receive Medicaid if you’re a surrogate .

But your children won’t go without healthcare. Here’s how you can keep them covered:

• Family plans through work often cover dependents at a reasonable price. If you or your spouse have employer insurance, you can add your kids to that plan.
• CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) gives low-cost coverage to kids whose families make too much for Medicaid but still need affordable options. CHIP eligibility varies by state and might work depending on your total household income.
• Private insurance through the Marketplace lets you buy family coverage that includes your children. Based on your income and family size, you might qualify for help that lowers your monthly payments.

American Surrogacy gets how important your whole family’s healthcare is. We’ll help you look at coverage options for your kids and connect you with resources to make everything easier.

Reach out, and we’ll guide you through getting coverage for everyone.

Transitioning from Medicaid: How to Become a Surrogate with Confidence

Switching from Medicaid to private insurance might feel overwhelming, but you’re not doing this alone. American Surrogacy helps women in your exact situation every single day.

Whether you’re looking at work plans, considering Marketplace options, or need help with intended parent-paid insurance, we’re here for each step.

Schedule a consultation today—because somewhere out there, a family is waiting, and your surrogacy journey begins with just one conversation.

We’ll explain enrollment timelines, what needs to be covered, and how to protect your family’s healthcare during your surrogacy journey.

Feeling nervous about post placement contact with the birth family is one of the most common concerns adoptive parents share—and these worries are completely valid.

Surrogates typically take medication before embryo transfer for 3 to 6 weeks, though individual timelines may vary based on your body’s response and cycle synchronization needs.

Get answers about the medical process timeline for surrogates today when you fill out our form.

Understanding what to expect during this medication phase helps you feel confident and prepared for your surrogacy journey.

Disclaimer:This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

How Long Are Surrogates on Medications Before Embryo Transfer?

How long you’ll be on medication before embryo transfer depends on several factors specific to your situation. Most surrogates begin their medication protocol 3 to 6 weeks before the scheduled transfer date.

Your fertility clinic creates a personalized medication schedule based on your menstrual cycle, how your body responds to hormones, and the intended parents’ timeline.

Some surrogates may need a shorter preparation period if their body responds quickly, while others might require additional time to achieve optimal uterine lining thickness.

The medication before embryo transfer serves a vital purpose: preparing your uterus for a successful embryo transfer.

This careful timing coordination ensures the best possible environment for pregnancy.

Essential Medications Surrogates Take Before Transfer

Birth control pills often start your medication protocol, helping synchronize your cycle with the intended parents’ timeline. This synchronization is fundamental to the entire process and typically begins several weeks before other medications.

Lupron

Lupron suppresses your natural ovarian function, allowing doctors to control your hormone levels precisely.

You might experience mild menopausal symptoms like hot flashes or headaches, but these side effects are temporary and manageable.

Estrogen

Estrogen medications build up your uterine lining and come in various forms including pills, patches, or injections. Your doctor monitors your estrogen levels through regular blood tests and adjusts dosages as needed to achieve optimal lining thickness.

Progesterone

Progesterone supports embryo implantation and early pregnancy maintenance.

This medication before embryo transfer comes as intramuscular injections, vaginal suppositories, or gel applications. If pregnancy occurs, progesterone continues through the first trimester.

Concerned about needles? Learn pain management techniques for before, during and after injections for surrogacy.

Monitoring and Adjustments During the Medication Phase

Regular blood tests monitor your hormone levels to ensure medication before embryo transfer is working effectively. These tests help your medical team adjust dosages and timing for optimal results.

Transvaginal ultrasounds measure your uterine lining thickness, with the goal of achieving at least 8-10 millimeters before transfer. Your doctor tracks this measurement throughout your medication cycle to determine transfer readiness.

Medication adjustments are common and expected during this process. Your fertility team may modify dosages, timing, or medication types based on your body’s response. These changes optimize your preparation and improve transfer success rates.

American Surrogacy coordinates with your clinic to ensure seamless communication throughout this process.

Learn more about the surrogacy medical process.

What If the Transfer Timeline Changes?

Transfer timelines sometimes change due to various factors, and this flexibility often improves success rates. Your uterine lining might need additional time to reach optimal thickness, or the intended parents may need schedule adjustments.

Medical teams prioritize giving embryos the best chance for successful implantation, even if it means extending your medication before embryo transfer period.

These delays typically occur for important medical reasons and don’t negatively impact pregnancy outcomes.

Many successful surrogates have experienced timeline changes without affecting their journey’s success. Trust that your medical team’s decisions prioritize both your health and the pregnancy’s viability.

Common Questions Surrogates Ask About Medications

“Are the shots going to hurt?”

Progesterone injections are often surrogates’ biggest concern, but they become manageable with practice.

Many partners learn to administer these shots, and techniques like ice application before injection or heat afterward can minimize discomfort.

“What happens if I forget to take something?”

If you forget to take medication before embryo transfer, contact your clinic immediately. Medical teams handle missed doses regularly and will provide specific instructions for your situation.

Don’t panic—they’re prepared to help you get back on track.

“What kind of side effects should I expect?”

Side effects typically resemble PMS symptoms including mood changes, bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue. These effects are temporary and resolve once your medication protocol ends.

“Can I still work out?”

Exercise guidelines vary by clinic, but most surrogates can continue light to moderate physical activity during their medication phase.

Follow your specific clinic’s recommendations for the safest approach.

How American Surrogacy Supports You Through the Process

Here’s what sets us apart: we get that this whole medication thing can feel overwhelming, so we’re with you every single step of the way.

• We Handle the Coordination: We stay in constant contact with your fertility clinic so you don’t have to worry about miscommunications or feeling lost in the shuffle.
• You Get Paid What You Deserve: We believe surrogates should get top-dollar compensation because what you’re doing is priceless. All the time you spend on meds, appointments, and everything else—it’s all valued.
• Expert Support: Our team knows this process inside and out. We’re here for questions, reassurance, celebration—whatever you need.
• Great Matches: We take our time helping you find intended parents who truly appreciate what you’re doing. These relationships often turn into lifelong friendships.

With our support, you can feel confident that you’re making someone’s dream come true while getting the respect and compensation you absolutely deserve.

Ready to start your surrogacy journey with expert support? Fill out our form today to hear from a specialist who understands the medication process and can answer all your questions.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All medical decisions should be made in consultation with a licensed healthcare provider or reproductive specialist familiar with your personal medical history.