Category: Surrogates

Whether you are considering the life-changing gift of becoming a surrogate or have already started this amazing journey, these articles are for you.

How Do I Become a Surrogate with High BMI?

Meet surrogacy BMI requirements by using our calculation guide and wellness program to reach ASRM health standards for a safe pregnancy.

Finding out there is a BMI limit for surrogacy can feel like a sudden roadblock, especially when your heart is set on helping a family.

It’s important to know that these requirements aren’t a judgment of your worth or your ability to be a great mother; they are clinical safeguards designed to protect your health and the dreams of the intended parents.

If you’re ready to see if you meet the requirements to become a surrogate, fill out our form today.

How Do I Become a Surrogate with a High BMI?

BMI requirements are not arbitrary numbers set by agencies; they are based on clinical guidance from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

Fertility clinics follow strict medical guidelines; generally, you cannot proceed as a surrogate if your BMI is significantly over the limit.

The most effective way to move forward is to focus on physical health to meet the specific benchmarks that clinics rely on to clear surrogates for a safe pregnancy.

Is weight your only question? View our list of surrogate requirements to see how your health history and lifestyle align with our program standards.

Why Do Fertility Clinics Have BMI Requirements?

It is common to feel discouraged by a weight cutoff, but these rules prioritize medical safety and pregnancy success, not personal value.

The ASRM provides evidence-based recommendations that most fertility clinics in the U.S. adopt as strict protocols.

According to these medical standards, a higher BMI is linked to specific hurdles that agencies and intended parents work to mitigate:

  • Gestational Diabetes & Preeclampsia: Higher BMI levels increase the risk of these conditions, which can impact your long-term health.
  • Medication Efficacy: Some IVF medications are absorbed differently in women with higher body fat percentages, which can lead to cycle cancellations.
  • Lower Success Rates: IVF data shows that embryos are statistically less likely to result in a successful live birth when the surrogate’s BMI is over the clinic’s limit.

What’s the Ideal BMI for Surrogacy—and Where’s the Flexibility?

The standard BMI range for a surrogate is typically 19 to 32. Most fertility clinics use 32 as a strict cutoff for medical clearance.

Occasionally, a clinic may accept a BMI of 34 or 35 if you have a history of uncomplicated pregnancies and perfect health markers.

How to Calculate Your BMI for Surrogacy

To determine if you meet clinic requirements, you can calculate your BMI using a simple math formula. Fertility clinics in the U.S. use the standard Body Mass Index (BMI) formula, which is a calculation of your weight in relation to your height.

The surrogacy BMI formula:

  1. Multiply your weight in pounds by 703.
  2. Divide that number by your height in inches.
  3. Divide that result by your height in inches again.

Example Calculation: If you are 5’4” (64 inches) and weigh 180 pounds:

  • 180 x 703 = 126,540
  • 126,540 ÷ 64 = 1,977.18
  • 1,977.18 ÷ 64 = 30.8 BMI

In this example, your BMI of 30.8 falls under the standard industry limit of 32, meaning you would likely be medically cleared to move forward with most surrogacy programs.

Can I Get Paid to Lose Weight for Surrogacy?

Most agencies see a high BMI as a “No.” We see it as a “Not Yet.”

We can connect you with a health and wellness coaching program through Biointelligent Wellness.

We cover the costs of this nutrition program to ensure you are the healthiest, strongest version of yourself for the baby and the intended parents

We know it’s frustrating to feel like your journey is on hold because of a single number. While we can’t bypass medical safety standards, we can help you meet them.

Your Journey Doesn’t Have to Wait

At American Surrogacy, we don’t believe a number on a scale should end your dream of helping others.

Unlike agencies that dismiss applicants based on BMI alone, we invest in your success by covering the costs of professional health coaching.

If you are motivated to reach the clinical benchmarks for a safe, life-changing pregnancy, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Ready to partner with an agency that invests in your health? Contact a surrogacy specialist today.

What Pelvic Rest During Pregnancy Means for Surrogates

Pelvic rest is a protective step to safeguard your health and the baby’s. Learn what to expect and how your specialist supports you.

Pelvic rest is a temporary, protective step your medical team may recommend to safeguard your health and the health of the intended parents’ baby.

Following these clinical instructions provides the best possible environment for the intended parents’ baby to thrive while giving you peace of mind.

Ready to start the surrogacy process? Fill out our form to get free information and connect with a surrogacy specialist today.

What Does it Mean to Be on Pelvic Rest During Your Surrogate Pregnancy?

The term pelvic rest is a clinical directive from your doctor, usually a Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE) or your Obstetrician (OB), that restricts activities that cause stimulation or increased blood flow to the pelvic area.

Unlike full bed rest, which requires you to limit most physical activity, pelvic rest is specific. It focuses on limiting anything that could stimulate the cervix or uterus. This restriction is almost always temporary and is considered a proactive measure.

Surrogates typically encounter these restrictions during the embryo transfer phase or if responsive medical needs arise later in the pregnancy. Common restrictions include:

  • Sexual intercourse or vaginal penetration
  • Inserting anything into the vagina (including tampons, douches, or menstrual cups)
  • Orgasms, which cause uterine contractions
  • Sometimes, specific types of exercise or heavy lifting

This medical guidance is always given with the goal of protecting the pregnancy. Your medical team will provide clear, specific instructions tailored to your unique situation.

Proactive vs. Responsive Pelvic Rest

If your doctor advises you to be on pelvic rest, it is not a sign of failure or that you have done anything wrong. It is simply a precaution used to reduce the risk of complications.

The reasons a surrogate would be placed on pelvic rest generally fall into two categories: proactive precautions related to the medical process and responsive measures due to a potential complication during the pregnancy.

  • Proactive Pelvic Rest: This is a standard part of the surrogacy medication timeline. REs prescribe rest 2–3 weeks before and immediately following an embryo transfer to ensure optimal implantation conditions.
  • Responsive Pelvic Rest: This occurs later in the pregnancy if an OB identifies specific conditions. Common triggers include vaginal spotting, placenta previa (where the placenta covers the cervix), or signs of a shortened cervix that could lead to preterm labor.

Who Decides Pelvic Rest – and Who Supports You?

When you are a surrogate, many individuals are involved in your medical and contractual well-being, but the lines of authority for medical decisions are clear.

The Role of the Medical Clinic

Your Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE) and, later, your OB/GYN are the only parties who will advise or mandate pelvic rest. You should always follow your clinic’s recommendations above all else. They are the medical professionals guiding the pregnancy. Here’s how they support you:

  • The RE manages the protocol leading up to and immediately after the embryo transfer.
  • The OB takes over once the pregnancy is confirmed and manages your health for the remainder of the pregnancy.

The Role of the Surrogacy Contract

While the medical decision is always the doctor’s, your surrogacy contract is the document that legally binds you to following that medical guidance.

American Surrogacy works with reputable attorneys to draft contracts that protect all parties. The contract will not typically require pelvic rest during the entire pregnancy but will include wording about following the clinic’s guidance, which is legally enforceable.

The Role of Your Surrogacy Specialist

Your specialist at American Surrogacy serves as your medical advocate and emotional support system.

If you receive a pelvic rest order, your specialist can help you clarify the doctor’s instructions, communicate the news to the intended parents, and ensure everyone is aligned. This means we will:

  • Act as the primary communicator between you and the intended parents (IPs), ensuring the IPs receive timely, sensitive updates without overwhelming you.
  • Clarify medical terminology and logistics, helping you understand exactlywhat restrictions are in place so you can follow them confidently.
  • Confirm contractual obligations are being met, especially concerning expense reimbursement if the rest order impacts your work or childcare needs.
  • Provide emotional support to help manage any anxiety or frustration that comes with physical limitations.

What’s Not Allowed on Pelvic Rest During Pregnancy – and Why It Matters

Pelvic rest is a focused restriction meant to keep the uterus and cervix calm. The restrictions are in place to reduce the risk of irritation, infection, or uterine contractions. The restrictions typically include:

  • No Sexual Intercourse: The primary goal is to prevent penetration and the associated risk of infection or cervical irritation.
  • No Orgasms: Orgasms cause involuntary contractions of the uterus, which can irritate the cervix or, in a high-risk situation, potentially trigger premature labor.
  • No Vaginal Insertion: This includes tampons, or any medical exam that is not strictly necessary and approved by your doctor.

How Pelvic Rest differs from Full Bed Rest

Full bed rest is a much more intensive and less common restriction that limits most activities, requiring you to remain in your bed for most of the day.

Pelvic rest is often a partial restriction, meaning you can typically continue light activities, work (if not physically demanding), and carry out daily tasks.

Unless your doctor specifically restricts it, you may still be able to:

  • Walk and perform light chores
  • Engage in non-strenuous, non-pelvic exercises (like arm stretches)
  • Go to work or school
  • Drive and run errands

Generally, high-impact activities, heavy weightlifting, or exercises that significantly jar the pelvis are restricted. Always confirm with your medical provider what activities are safe.

When Can You Have Sex While Being a Surrogate? Intimacy During Surrogacy

Concerns about intimacy are completely natural for a surrogate and her partner. These questions often center around three stages: before embryo transfer, immediately after transfer, and during the confirmed pregnancy.

Guidelines around intimacy will be driven by the RE’s specific protocol, and this protocol will be incorporated into your surrogacy contract.

When Should My Partner and I Stop Having Sex Before the Embryo Transfer?

The general recommendation is to abstain from sexual activity in the weeks leading up to the embryo transfer. The main reason is to eliminate any risk of infection or potential uterine irritation during the preparation phase.

The specific date you stop having sex before the embryo transfer will depend on your clinic and the contract, but it is typically advised to stop sexual activity approximately 2–3 weeks before the scheduled transfer or from the start of the preparation medications.

The RE is priming your body for the best chance of pregnancy, and following this advice ensures that your uterus is in the optimal condition.

When Can You Have Sex After the Embryo Transfer?

This is a time of high anticipation, and the rule is simple: be on pelvic rest until otherwise advised by the clinic. You will likely be instructed to remain on pelvic rest until the clinic confirms a positive pregnancy test, or sometimes until they release you to your OB/GYN (around 8–10 weeks).

Waiting until confirmation ensures that any potential irritation or contractions that sexual activity can cause do not interfere with the embryo’s ability to successfully implant and grow.

Sex During Confirmed Pregnancy

Once the RE releases you to your OB, the guidelines typically follow those of any healthy, low-risk pregnancy. If the pregnancy is uncomplicated, most doctors lift the pelvic rest restriction after the first few weeks, allowing you to return to normal intimacy.

However, if your OB identifies any of the responsive reasons mentioned above (like spotting or placenta previa), they will re-issue the pelvic rest order. The golden rule is always to communicate with and follow your OB’s advice throughout the medical process.

How Pelvic Rest Can Affect a Surrogate’s Emotional Wellbeing

Physical restrictions can impact your emotional health, and it is completely normal to feel frustrated, isolated, or anxious if you are placed on pelvic rest.

  • Normalize Emotional Responses: Whether you are restricted for a few days after the transfer or a few weeks later in the pregnancy, it is natural to feel limitations. You may feel bored, miss your regular routine, or feel pressure to be perfectly still.
  • Stay Engaged: Although your body is resting, your mind does not have to be. Use this time to read, catch up on movies, listen to podcasts, or engage in non-physical hobbies. Staying mentally active helps manage feelings of confinement.
  • Focus on the Purpose: Remind yourself that this limitation is a direct sign of your commitment and care for the intended parents and their baby. It is a temporary sacrifice for an eternal gift.
  • Our Support: Your specialist understands the emotional complexity of these limitations. We are here to check in, listen, and connect you with resources if you feel your emotional health is struggling.

Navigating Pelvic Rest With a Partner or Spouse

When a surrogate is placed on pelvic rest, it impacts the entire household, especially the spouse or partner.

Physical restrictions on intimacy are a temporary sacrifice to help a family grow. Maintaining a strong connection with your spouse or partner during this time requires clear communication and a reframing of intimacy.

Partners can support the journey by taking over strenuous household tasks or childcare duties involving lifting.

To maintain closeness without physical stimulation, many surrogates focus on “non-pelvic” intimacy, such as shared hobbies, movies, or focused conversation.

If physical limitations cause friction at home, your agency specialist can provide resources to help you and your partner navigate this stage as a team.

How Pelvic Rest Fits into the Bigger Picture of a Healthy Surrogacy

Pelvic rest is not a contractual red flag or a sign that the entire surrogacy is at risk. It is a standard medical precaution that reinforces the protective nature of your journey.

Legal and Contractual Clarity

Your surrogacy contract will detail how lost wages or unexpected costs are handled. If a doctor’s order for pelvic rest causes you to miss work, the contract ensures you are appropriately reimbursed for your time, just as you would be for any other medical inconvenience.

The contract, the medical guidance, and the agency support all work toward the single shared goal: a safe, healthy pregnancy and a successful delivery. When you are on pelvic rest, everyone involved is doing their part to support that goal.

Get Support from Surrogacy Specialists

Choosing to be a surrogate is an incredible act of compassion, and it deserves an agency partner that prioritizes your health, support, and clarity at every turn.

When medical instructions like pelvic rest come up, you deserve to have an expert who can advocate for you, communicate with the intended parents, and ensure your contract protections are honored.

If you have questions about the surrogacy journey, how our specialists handle medical protocols, or what support is available to you, fill out our contact form to get free information.

What Are the Medical and Lifestyle Requirements to Become a Surrogate with Leading Agencies?

Reputable agencies have surrogate requirements and screening processes to prioritize your safety and ensure your eligibility.

If you’ve been researching the requirements to become a surrogate, you may have noticed how different agencies have different expectations.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what the medical and lifestyle requirements are to become a surrogate with leading agencies, why these standards matter and how agencies like American Surrogacy support you at every stage.

When you’re ready, you can get free information and see if you qualify.

What Are the Medical and Lifestyle Requirements to Become a Surrogate With Leading Agencies?

Reputable agencies have clear eligibility standards that focus on giving you and the baby the healthiest, safest experience possible. Here are the general medical and lifestyle requirements you’ll need to meet:

  • Between 21 and 40 years old
  • At least one previous full-term pregnancy and delivery
  • Currently raising a child
  • Good physical and mental health
  • Reliable transportation and stable housing

These expectations help confirm that you’re prepared for the journey ahead.

Why Agencies Have Surrogate Medical Requirements

Agencies have requirements in place to protect everyone involved. Pregnancy is physically and emotionally demanding, and surrogacy adds a new level of responsibility.

These standards aren’t designed to exclude you. Rather, they protect your health throughout the process and help intended parents feel confident moving forward.

Your agency should focus on your well-being. When these expectations are clear from the start, it shows that your safety is a priority and helps you feel confident moving into the screening steps ahead.

How Our Surrogate Medical Screening Process Works at American Surrogacy

Once you meet our initial requirements, you can begin the surrogate medical screening. This process confirms that you’re ready for the resulting experience.

At American Surrogacy, there are two health tests required to become a surrogate:

  1. Medical Screening: This preliminary test occurs before you’re fully approved. You’ll need to fill out a detailed medical history form, provide your previous pregnancy records and complete a psychological evaluation. Our team will review these materials to assess whether you’re ready.
  2. Medical Clearance: After you match with intended parents, we’ll send your medical records to their fertility doctor’s office. You’ll need to travel to their clinic for an in-person physical exam and additional lab testing.

You can explore the full process in our online guide.

How Your Surrogate Psychological Evaluation Assesses Emotional Readiness

Your surrogate psychological evaluation confirms that you feel emotionally ready. During this conversation with a licensed mental health professional, you’ll talk about your emotional health, your family’s mental health history, what inspires you to become a surrogate and how you handle stress.

This evaluation also gives you space to discuss the support you have in your life.

Meeting Medical Clearance for Surrogacy

Medical clearance is the final approval step completed by the intended parents’ fertility doctor’s office.

Even after you meet agency standards, the clinic will conduct its own evaluation to ensure you’re ready for a safe embryo transfer.

During this stage, you go to the clinic for a full physical assessment, and the team takes one last look at your medical history to make sure nothing was missed.

This usually includes bloodwork, routine infection testing, a closer look at your uterus to confirm it can support a pregnancy, and a full exam with a fertility doctor.

Together, these steps confirm that you meet all surrogate medical requirements and are ready for embryo transfer.

You can learn more about what to expect from medical clearance at this link: How long does medical clearance take?

Lifestyle Expectations for Surrogates

Lifestyle choices can impact surrogacy eligibility. While every agency is different, most expect you to:

  • Avoid all tobacco, nicotine and recreational drug use
  • Be off antidepressants for at least 12 months under your doctor’s supervision
  • Follow medical advice from your OB-GYN and fertility specialist
  • Maintain a balanced diet and moderate exercise routine
  • Ensure you can meet BMI guidelines for pregnancy safety
  • Avoid high-risk activities, including certain jobs or strenuous sports

Some intended parents may request additional preferences regarding lifestyle or prenatal decisions. Your attorney will help you review and negotiate these during the contract phase.

Qualify with American Surrogacy and Get the Compensation Package You Deserve

As a top-tier national agency, we ensure you receive a comprehensive and competitive compensation package for your service and commitment.

American Surrogacy offers a compensation package of $50,000 - $110,000+ that includes:

  • Base pay
  • Signing and screening bonuses
  • Embryo transfer
  • Legal fees
  • Insurance copays
  • Travel and lodging
  • Lost wages
  • And more

This financial support confirms that your health and comfort are prioritized at every step, allowing you to focus completely on the journey.

For a detailed, personalized breakdown, fill out our form to speak with a specialist.

What Disqualifies You From Being a Surrogate?

Not everyone who wants to become a surrogate will qualify. Disqualifications are based on safety, not judgment.

Common reasons include:

  • Previous serious pregnancy or delivery complications
  • Unmanaged mental health conditions
  • Uncontrolled medical issues (such as hypertension or diabetes)
  • Current use of tobacco or recreational drugs
  • Lack of reliable transportation
  • Inconsistent housing
  • Little to no support system

If you’re unsure, the best next step is to talk with a surrogacy specialist who can evaluate your specific situation.

Ready to Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Surrogate?

Do you feel called to help someone grow their family? You deserve a team that supports your health, your well-being and your journey.

You can get started by filling out our form to see if you qualify. Your next step could change a family’s life.

Let’s Talk Surrogacy: A Surrogate’s Story of How her Agency Protected Her Financially

Former surrogate, Allison, reveals the intense reality of her high-risk surrogacy, the financial safety net of American Surrogacy, and why she plans to carry again.

The decision to become a gestational carrier is life-changing, and you deserve a reliable support system.

When you partner with American Surrogacy, you gain a dedicated support system and financial security.

On the latest episode of Let’s Talk Surrogacy, former surrogate, Allison, shares the unfiltered truth about her experience and the unique value of agency support.

Listen now on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. New episodes drop the first Tuesday of every month.

Episode Highlights: What You’ll Learn

Allison’s story demonstrates the value of choosing an agency dedicated to your well-being. Here are 5 points from the episode that you won’t want to miss.

  • The physical toll of preparation. Hear Allison describe the 60-day, daily intramuscular shot cycle and the detailed medical procedures required before her pregnancy, including the mock cycle.
  • The true value of financial support. Discover how her American Surrogacy coordinator managed all financial logistics, handling conversations with the intended parents about compensation and expenses. .
  • A safety net when it matter most. Allison provides an exclusive account of the industry-wide SEAM escrow failure and how American Surrogacy immediately covered her full compensation.
  • The hardest conversation. Allison details the unexpected high-risk status of her pregnancy and the deep, pre-journey conversations she had with the IPs about worst-case scenarios.
  • From Carrier to “Aunt Allison.”Learn about the lasting friendship she has built with the intended parents and why she plans to carry again for the same family.

Start Your Own Supported Journey

Whether you have the drive to carry a child or the hope of bringing one home, we provide the structure and support to make your journey safe and secure, just like Allison’s.

Fill out our simple form to learn more about how we ensure secure journeys for surrogates and intended parents alike.

Allison’s story shows that an experienced agency provides financial security and valuable support in addition to a successful match.

Follow us on Instagram @american_surrogacy for more stories, helpful info, and community support.


Can You Be a Surrogate With Chronic Cervicitis Squamous Metaplasia?

Got a CCSM diagnosis and want to be a surrogate? Our specialists offer clear, honest answers on medical eligibility so you can start your journey.

Seeing chronic cervicitis with squamous metaplasia on a Pap smear or biopsy report can stop you in your tracks, especially when you’re considering becoming a gestational surrogate.

If you’re exploring surrogacy, you deserve clear answers — not confusing medical terminology or worst-case scenarios.

In this guide, you’ll learn what this diagnosis means, whether you can still qualify as a surrogate and how American Surrogacy evaluates cervical health during screening.

When you’re ready, you can get free information about your next steps.

Can You Be a Surrogate With Chronic Cervicitis With Squamous Metaplasia?

Chronic cervicitis doesn’t automatically disqualify you from surrogacy.  Many women are relieved to learn that these cervical changes don’t usually cause long-term issues or affect their surrogacy goals.

What matters most is whether your cervix is healthy and working the way it should — not just one diagnosis.

If your OB-GYN has treated any underlying causes and your Pap results are stable, you may still be a strong candidate.

What Is Chronic Cervicitis With Squamous Metaplasia?

Chronic cervicitis is long-term inflammation of the cervix. Many people never feel symptoms, and it’s often discovered during routine checkups.

Some of the most frequent causes of cervicitis include mild infections, pH changes, hormone shifts or irritation from everyday activities.

Squamous metaplasia of the cervix is a benign and incredibly common cellular change.

It happens when the softer cells near your cervical opening are naturally replaced with stronger, protective cells. On its own, this is considered a normal protective response, not a precancerous condition.

These two findings often appear together because inflammation can cause the cervix’s cells to shift.

In most cases, squamous metaplasia isn’t dangerous during pregnancy. It does not affect fertility or your ability to carry a pregnancy.

Medical Screening at American Surrogacy: What We Look For

At American Surrogacy, we look at your overall reproductive health. Our team takes a human-centered, case-by-case approach because every body is different.

Here’s how the review process works:

  • We request your medical records, including Pap smear history and OB-GYN notes.
  • A nurse or medical consultant reviews your reproductive history and past pregnancies.
  • If needed, we may ask for updated testing.

You’re never expected to navigate this alone. If you have questions, your surrogacy specialist is here to support you through every step. They can explain how the screening process works, what the clinic typically reviews and what you can expect next.

How Cervical Health Affects Surrogacy Eligibility

Cervical health matters in surrogacy because the embryo transfer process relies on a healthy uterus and cervix. This foundation gives the embryo its best chance to succeed.

Cervical squamous metaplasia is considered a normal variation. It does not interfere with conception, doesn’t increase pregnancy risk and rarely requires treatment.

Other medical conditions that make you ineligible for surrogacy — such as severe uterine abnormalities, untreated infections or high-risk pregnancy complications — are far more concerning to clinics than benign cervical findings.

What intended parents’ clinics care most about is your overall reproductive function:

  • Have you had healthy pregnancies?
  • Are your Pap smears up to date and within normal limits?
  • Are any infections treated and resolved?

If the answer to these questions is yes, your diagnosis may not be a barrier at all.

What to Expect From the Surrogacy Medical Clearance Process

Once you’re matched with intended parents, your records are sent to their fertility clinic for review. This step allows the clinic to make an informed decision about your medical readiness.

If everything looks good, the next step is an in-person screening. This can include:

  • A full physical exam
  • A transvaginal ultrasound to check cervical and uterine health
  • Bloodwork and infectious disease testing
  • A review of recent Pap smear and HPV results

Every fertility clinic is different, so each one may review chronic cervicitis and squamous metaplasia in its own way. Some clinicians simply confirm that your most recent tests are normal or that any inflammation has been treated. Others may ask for a repeat Pap or a brief follow-up exam.

Regardless of the clinic’s approach, your surrogacy specialist will walk with you through every step.

Can You Treat Cervicitis Before Becoming a Surrogate?

Yes. Many women treat cervicitis successfully before beginning the screening process.

Common treatments include:

  • Antibiotics (if an infection is present)
  • pH-balancing care recommended by your provider
  • Avoiding irritants such as certain soaps or products
  • Routine follow-up exams or Pap testing

In some cases, chronic cervicitis is simply monitored over time rather than treated.

If your screening shows abnormal Pap smears, or if your provider recommends repeat testing, it’s important to follow their guidance. Your OB-GYN may or may not clear you for surrogacy with cervix issues, depending on what your test results show.

Ready to Find Out If You Qualify? Let’s Talk

If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic cervicitis with squamous metaplasia, it doesn’t mean your surrogacy journey is over before it begins. Many women with this diagnosis go on to become gestational carriers.

If you’re ready to find out whether you qualify, we’re here to help you take the next step. Fill out our form to get free information and connect with a surrogacy specialist.

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

The best surrogacy agencies offer far more than base pay: legal protection, financial security, and 24/7 personalized case management.


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.

Are There Surrogacy Agencies That Provide Legal Coordination Across State Lines?

Surrogacy across state lines is possible with agencies that handle legal coordination to protect both surrogates and intended parents.

American Surrogacy provides legal coordination across state lines by connecting intended parents and surrogates with qualified attorneys in both parties’ states.

Our coordinated approach helps every journey move forward smoothly, avoiding the legal complications and delays that can occur when working with less experienced agencies.

Our specialists can guide you through cross-state legal coordination and connect you with trusted attorneys. Fill out our form today.

The Role Surrogacy Attorneys Play in Interstate Surrogacy

Surrogacy attorneys are the foundation of a legally secure journey. They protect the rights of intended parents and surrogates, draft and review gestational carrier agreements, and establish legal parentage while navigating the specific laws of each state involved.

In cross-state surrogacy, legal coordination becomes even more important. Your attorney needs to understand your state’s laws, while your surrogate’s attorney must know her state’s requirements.

These attorneys work together to ensure the contract complies with both jurisdictions.

While attorneys handle the legal work, we facilitate the connections. We maintain a nationwide network of trusted surrogacy attorneys in both states. Our coordination prevents mismatched legal advice and keeps your journey on track.

Understanding Surrogacy Laws in Different States

Surrogacy laws vary widely from state to state. Some states are considered “surrogacy-friendly,” with clear legal pathways for establishing parental rights before or immediately after birth.

Others have restrictive laws or no specific surrogacy legislation at all.

For example:

When you and your surrogate live in different states, you’ll need attorneys who understand both states’ laws. This is where working with us makes all the difference.

We’ve spent years building relationships with legal professionals across the country who understand the nuances of interstate surrogacy.

Learn more about surrogacy laws in your state.

What Happens If Your State Has Restrictive Surrogacy Laws?

If you live in a state with restrictive or unclear surrogacy laws, don’t worry, you still have options.

Our team specializes in helping intended parents and surrogates navigate these situations, making sure every match is both legally sound and emotionally rewarding.

States Where We Cannot Match Surrogates

There are a few states where compensated surrogacy is either prohibited or so heavily restricted that we’re unable to work directly with surrogates who reside there.

  • Louisiana: Compensated surrogacy is illegal.
  • Nebraska: Nebraska’s surrogacy laws are unusually complex, and any compensated surrogacy contract is considered invalid under state law.

In both states, intended parents may still work with us and match with surrogates in more legally supportive states, ensuring their journey remains secure and compliant.

States Where We Can Work, But Not Match Within the State

There are also states where we can work with both surrogates and intended parents, but not match them with one another within that same state.

Both of these states have laws that make compensated surrogacy contracts unenforceable.

This doesn’t make surrogacy impossible, it just means we take extra care to protect everyone by coordinating matches across state lines in surrogacy-friendly jurisdictions.

What Is a Gestational Carrier Agreement—and Why It’s Essential

A gestational carrier agreement (GCA) is the legal foundation of every surrogacy journey.

It’s a detailed contract that outlines each party’s rights, responsibilities, expectations, and decisions throughout the process, including compensation, medical choices, and what happens before, during, and after pregnancy.

Why This Agreement Matters

For intended parents, the GCA ensures your parental rights are clearly defined and legally protected. It establishes how medical and financial decisions will be handled and gives you confidence that your family-building process is secure from start to finish.

For surrogates, the agreement guarantees fair compensation, outlines medical expectations, and protects your rights and well-being throughout the pregnancy. It also ensures you have a clear understanding of your role and support at every step.

How Cross-State Laws Affect Your Agreement

When an intended parent and surrogate live in different states, the GCA must meet the legal requirements of both. For example, some states require post-birth parentage orders or additional legal steps before parentage can be confirmed.

Your attorney will make sure your agreement reflects both states’ laws so that your parental rights are recognized everywhere they need to be — and your surrogate’s protections remain strong and enforceable.

How We Help Both Sides Find the Right Attorney

At American Surrogacy, we’ve worked alongside reputable surrogacy attorneys nationwide who specialize in these cross-state arrangements.

While we don’t have official partnerships, we can share names of trusted attorneys in your state so that both the intended parents and surrogate can independently select their legal representation.

Once each party has an attorney, those professionals collaborate to draft and finalize the GCA. Our team stays involved throughout the process — helping coordinate communication, track progress, and ensure everything moves forward smoothly and transparently.

How American Surrogacy Can Help You Find an Attorney for Surrogacy Across State Lines

At American Surrogacy, we’ve spent years working alongside reputable surrogacy attorneys across the country.

Our experience with cross-state arrangements means we understand how complex the legal side can feel and we’re here to make it easier.

While we don’t maintain official partnerships, we can connect you with trusted legal professionals in your state so you can research and choose the attorney who’s the best fit for you.

1. Guidance to Qualified Surrogacy Attorneys

We’ll share names of experienced surrogacy attorneys in both your state and your surrogate’s state.

These professionals understand the ins and outs of interstate surrogacy laws and can make sure your contract is fully compliant and protective of everyone involved.

2. Coordination That Keeps Things Moving

Your attorney handles the legal details, but our team stays in the loop — communicating with both attorneys and your medical team to keep everything organized and on schedule.

3. A Legally Prepared, Low-Stress Journey

Connecting you with experienced attorneys from the start helps you avoid unnecessary delays and protect your rights. Our process is designed to keep your surrogacy journey legally sound and emotionally smooth.

When you work with American Surrogacy, you don’t have to navigate the legal side alone, you’ll have a team that believes in preparation, transparency, and helping families move forward with confidence.

Ready for Legal Clarity? Let Us Help You Start Your Journey

Legal coordination across state lines doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right partner, you’ll have access to experienced attorneys, clear guidance, and a team that keeps your journey moving forward.

Your family’s future is waiting. Fill out our contact form today to get personalized support and take the first step toward your surrogacy journey with confidence.

My Wife Wants to Be a Surrogate – What Does This Mean for Me?

What to expect when your wife wants to become a surrogate: compensation, requirements, your role, and how to decide if it’s right for you.

When your wife tells you she wants to be a surrogate, it’s natural to have questions and concerns. What will this mean for your family? What role will you play? And what if you’re not sure you’re okay with it?

With the right information and support, you can work through these feelings together and make a decision that honors both of your needs.

Fill out our contact form to speak with a surrogacy specialist who can answer your specific questions and help you both determine if surrogacy is right for your family.

At American Surrogacy, we understand that surrogacy doesn’t just affect the surrogate. It impacts the entire family.

Why Would Someone Choose to Be a Surrogate?

Understanding your wife’s motivation can help ease some of your concerns and open the door to meaningful conversation.

Many women choose surrogacy because they genuinely want to help someone else experience the joy of parenthood.

For some, it’s about using their ability to carry a child to change another family’s life forever. For others, it’s about empowerment: taking control of their body and their choices in a deeply meaningful way.

She Already Knows What It Means to Be a Parent

One requirement to become a surrogate is having already given birth to at least one child.

If your wife has experienced pregnancy before, maybe carrying and delivering your own children together, she already knows what those moments feel like. The weight of new life in her arms.

The overwhelming love that changes everything. The incredible privilege of bringing a person into the world.

Because you’ve built your family together, she understands exactly how life-changing parenthood is. And now she wants to give that same profound gift to someone who can’t experience it on their own.

Surrogacy Compensation: Supporting Your Family Too

Financial compensation matters. Surrogates can earn up to $50,000 - $110,000+. This significant compensation can be used to help:

  • Pay off debt
  • Save for a home
  • Fund education

The compensation doesn’t diminish the selfless act, it reflects what surrogacy actually requires. Your wife will dedicate nearly a year of her life to this journey.

She’ll attend countless medical appointments, take medications, adjust her lifestyle, and carry another family’s child with the same care she gave your own children.

That deserves recognition and fair compensation.

Whatever her reasons, they’re valid. Understanding them is the first step toward navigating this decision together.

Learn more about how much your wife could earn and the support she’ll receive.

Feeling Unsure? That’s Normal—Here’s How to Work Through It Together

If you’re feeling hesitant about your wife becoming a surrogate, you’re not alone.

Many partners experience worry about the physical and emotional demands of surrogacy, the time commitment, or how it might affect their relationship.

The key is communication. Here’s how to start:

  • Express your feelings honestly. Share what’s on your mind without judgment. Use “I” statements like, “I feel worried about…” rather than “You shouldn’t…”
  • Listen to her perspective.  Ask questions to understand her motivations and what this journey means to her.
  • Educate yourselves together. Learning about the surrogate screening process, the medical aspects, and the support available can ease many concerns.
  • Set boundaries as a couple. Discuss what you’re comfortable with—like how much contact with intended parents feels right for your family.
  • Consider counseling. Many surrogacy agencies, including American Surrogacy, offer access to counselors who specialize in helping families navigate these conversations.

You don’t have to have all the answers right now. What matters is that you’re approaching this as a team.

Your Role in the Surrogacy Process as a Spouse

Your involvement in surrogacy matters. It’s important not just to your wife, but to the intended parents and the surrogacy agency as well.

Here’s what your role typically involves:

  • During Screening: You’ll likely participate in interviews and background checks. Agencies want to ensure that surrogacy is a decision the entire household supports.
  • Throughout the Pregnancy: Your support will be important. This might mean attending medical appointments, helping with childcare or household responsibilities, or simply being emotionally present.
  • Communication with Intended Parents: The level of contact varies based on everyone’s preferences. You may meet the intended parents, attend ultrasounds together, or be present at the birth.
  • After the Birth: Once the baby is born and placed with the intended parents, you’ll both transition back to your normal routine. Some surrogates and their partners stay in touch with the family they helped, others choose not to.

Understanding your role can help you feel more prepared and confident as your wife moves through the surrogacy journey.

Learn more about our full-service surrogacy programs and how we avoid long wait times to support both surrogates and their families.

“I Don’t Want My Wife to Be a Surrogate”: What to Do With That Feeling

Maybe you’ve realized that surrogacy doesn’t feel right for your family. That’s okay, and it’s important to communicate that.

Here’s how to approach the conversation:

  • Be honest, but kind. Explain your concerns without dismissing her desire to help another family.
  • Explore compromises. Could she wait a year? Would more information change your mind? Sometimes, time and education ease initial resistance.
  • Respect her autonomy—and yours. Ultimately, this is a decision that requires both partners to be on board. If you genuinely can’t support it, that needs to be honored.
  • Seek professional guidance. A counselor can help you both process your feelings and find a path forward that respects both perspectives.

Surrogacy is a big commitment. It’s better to work through these feelings now than to move forward with unresolved tension.

How Surrogacy Can Affect a Relationship—And How to Stay Connected

Surrogacy can strengthen a relationship, but it can also create stress if you’re not prepared. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Physical changes: Pregnancy affects energy levels, intimacy, and daily routines. Talk openly about expectations and adjustments you’ll need to make.
  • Emotional demands: Your wife may experience hormonal shifts, attachment to the pregnancy, or stress from balancing surrogacy with family life. Your patience and support will matter.
  • Time commitment: Medical appointments, agency communication, and preparation for the birth take time. Planning ahead helps minimize disruption.
  • Financial considerations: While surrogates receive compensation, there are logistics to manage. Understanding the surrogacy costs and timeline upfront prevents surprises. Many families also explore surrogacy financing options to make the journey more manageable.

Staying connected throughout the process means checking in regularly, celebrating milestones together, and making time for your relationship outside of surrogacy.

Talk to Someone Who’s Been There: Support from Surrogacy Specialists

You don’t have to figure this out alone. At American Surrogacy, we’ve helped thousands of families navigate the surrogacy journey.

That includes partners who started out unsure but found clarity and confidence through education and support.

Our surrogacy specialists understand the emotional complexities of this decision.

Have questions about the surrogacy journey? Call us at 1-800-875-2229 or fill out our contact form to learn everything you need to know about your wife becoming a surrogate.

Using an Auto-Injector for Surrogacy: A Practical Approach to Injections

Discover how auto-injectors simplify surrogacy injections with less pain and more control.

The shots are one of the first things people ask about when they’re considering surrogacy. It makes sense—even if you’re fine with needles at the doctor’s office, giving them to yourself at home feels different. Add in the fact that you’ll be doing this regularly for a few weeks, and it’s natural to wonder if you can handle it.

Auto-injectors could be a helpful way to manage uncertainty. These devices take a lot of the stress out of the process – and you have more options than you might think.

Speak with a Specialist Today

What Is an Auto-Injector and How Does It Work?

An auto-injector is a device that delivers medication through a needle with one button press. You position it against your skin, click, and it handles everything. From start to finish, it takes a couple of seconds.

They’re designed to minimize user error and make self-administration more straightforward. With a traditional syringe, you’re manually controlling the needle angle, insertion speed, and push rate.

By removing those variables, auto-injectors reduce the worry. It’s a bit like any assisted technology—sometimes less manual control means less mental load.

Key advantages of auto-injectors include:

  • Consistent needle depth and angle every time
  • Faster process (1-2 seconds)
  • No need to watch the needle enter your skin
  • Built-in safety features that prevent accidental needlesticks
  • Reduced room for user error

Using an Auto-Injector for Surrogacy

Can you use an auto-injector during surrogacy? Often, yes—but it depends on which medication we’re talking about. Most hormonal prescriptions in the early surrogacy stages are given subcutaneously, meaning just under the skin. Auto-injectors handle these well.

Progesterone in oil—or PIO—is given as an intramuscular injection—deeper, into the muscle. PIO is oil-based and noticeably thicker than water-based medications. Why does that matter? Not every auto-injector handles it well.

That said, some auto-injectors are built specifically for intramuscular use and work with PIO. Talking to your doctor early is the important step. They’ll clarify which medications you’ll be taking, which administration methods are medically appropriate, and whether an auto-injector makes sense for your situation.

Understanding the Difference Between Subcutaneous and Intramuscular Injections

Two types of injections are used during surrogacy, and the technique and tools differ for each. Understanding which is which helps you prepare appropriately.

Subcutaneous injections go into the layer of fat just beneath your skin. You’ll give these in your abdomen or thigh area, using a shorter, thinner needle.

Most fertility hormones—Lupron, certain estrogens—fall into this category. They tend to be less uncomfortable and easier to self-administer, which makes them good candidates for auto-injectors.

Intramuscular injections go deeper, directly into muscle tissue. For surrogacy, that mainly means progesterone in oil. You’ll give these in the upper buttock or hip area with a longer needle.

Because of its oil base, the liquid is thicker and makes the shot feel more substantial. Some women have their partner help with these, though plenty manage them solo without issue.

Both techniques have their place in the surrogacy medication protocol, and knowing what to expect with each makes the process less daunting.

What’s the Best Auto-Injector for PIO?

Most standard auto-injectors weren’t designed for progesterone in oil because of the thickness and the intramuscular depth required. But specialized devices exist that handle these challenges.

Union Medico’s Super Grip is one of the more commonly mentioned options among women using surrogacy and IVF patients. It’s specifically built for intramuscular shots and accommodates PIO’s thicker consistency.

Availability varies by location, and you’ll likely need a prescription or your clinic’s approval. What works well for one person might not suit another—individual response to these tools varies more than you’d think.

If an auto-injector isn’t feasible for your PIO shots, other strategies make the process more manageable. Talk directly with your medical team about what’s available and realistic for your circumstances.

Can You Still Be a Surrogate If You Have a Fear of Needles?

Yes. A needle phobia doesn’t automatically rule you out—it just means you’ll benefit from some concrete strategies and possibly additional guidance during the medication phase.

First, this portion of the process is temporary. You’ll use injectable medications for several weeks before embryo transfer and a short period after. Once pregnancy is confirmed and progressing normally, you’ll switch to other forms or taper off certain hormones entirely. It’s not a permanent situation, even if it feels daunting at the start.

Second, familiarity reduces fear. Most women report the first one is the hardest, and each one after gets progressively easier. The more you do it, the less intimidating it becomes. Your fertility clinic will provide hands-on training, and your surrogacy agency will offer ongoing assistance throughout the process.

Infertility Impacts Countless Couples; You Can Make A Difference

Effective Ways to Reduce Injection Discomfort

Women have found these concrete methods helpful for managing discomfort and anxiety:

Before:

  • Apply numbing cream like lidocaine to the site about 20–30 minutes beforehand
  • Use a shot-blocker—a small plastic device that confuses your nerve receptors and dulls the needle sensation
  • Apply an ice pack to numb the area, particularly for subcutaneous shots
  • Try a vibrating ice pack—the vibration distracts your nerves from registering the needle prick

During:

  • Take slow, measured breaths to stay relaxed
  • Use distraction—music, a video, conversation with a friend or partner

After:

  • Apply a heating pad to relax the muscle (especially useful after PIO)
  • Use a massage ball to gently work the area and help the oil disperse, preventing lumps or tenderness
  • Move around a little—light walking helps the medication distribute evenly

Making these adjustments meaningfully improves how you feel during the process. If you discover something that works part

icularly well, others will want to hear about it. The community tends to share what helps—why reinvent the wheel when someone’s already figured out the trick?

For more tips from women who’ve been through this, their experiences can provide additional strategies you might not have considered.

Getting Help During Your Medication Phase

During this phase, you don’t have to figure things out alone. Most surrogacy agencies offer resources (both practical guidance and emotional backup when you need it). If you’re feeling anxious about the shots, talk to your agency team.

They connect you with experienced women who’ve been through it. These women can share what actually worked: which products helped, which techniques made it easier.

Resources typically available through surrogacy agencies include:

  • Peer connections for advice and shared experiences
  • Product recommendations based on what’s helped others
  • Someone to talk through your concerns with
  • Help knowing what questions to ask your medical team
  • Regular check-ins during this phase

Your fertility clinic will provide thorough training on safe, correct administration for each prescription. And you’re not the first to navigate this—many women before you have managed these same medications and hormones, and their experiences provide both reassurance and hands-on guidance.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Becoming a surrogate is a meaningful choice, and the shots are just one component of a much larger process. With the right tools, reliable guidance, and some adjustment time, this is quite manageable—even if needles aren’t your strong suit. Manageable, doable, and worth it.

If you have more questions about surrogacy or what the process actually looks like, feel free to reach out.

Speak with a Specialist Today

Can You Be a Surrogate on Medicaid?

You usually can’t be a surrogate on Medicaid, but with the right help, you can switch insurance and still qualify to change a family’s life.

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.