Many families struggle to find a surrogate—but it doesn’t have to be that way. See how better screening and balance speed up your match.
Here’s the thing: finding the right surrogate
doesn’t have to feel impossible. When you work with the right agency and
understand how matching really works, you can connect with a qualified
surrogate in 1-4 months. It’s about knowing what slows things down—and avoiding
those pitfalls.
Schedule a consultation today to learn how our pre-screened surrogates and balanced waitlists can help you become a parent faster
Let’s talk about why it is so hard to find a surrogate, what actually makes the difference between a quick match and a painfully long wait, and how we help families skip the frustrating parts.
Why is it So Hard to
Match with a Surrogate?
There’s no single answer to why it is so hard to find a surrogate. The challenges of finding a surrogate really depend on which agency you choose and how they run things.
The biggest issue? Simple math. There are way more
intended parents looking for surrogates than there are surrogates available.
At a lot of agencies, you’re joining a crowded
waitlist where you’re competing with dozens of other hopeful families for the
same small group of women.
But here’s what makes it worse: some agencies let you browse and pick surrogates who haven’t even finished screening yet. You might think you’re making progress, but then weeks later you find out she doesn’t qualify—and you’re back to square one after getting your hopes up.
Surrogates are in high demand, but the real question isn’t whether surrogates exist—it’s whether the ones you’re seeing are actually ready to go.
The Surrogate Screening Process—and Why Timing Matters
Understanding the surrogate screening process helps explain why timing matters so much when you’re trying to match with a surrogate. Here’s what real screening looks like:
Step 1:
Initial Basic Screening (ASRM Guidelines): Making sure she meets the basic
health, age, and pregnancy history requirements.
Step 2:
Social Questionnaire, Interviews, and Home Assessment: Deep-dive
conversations about her life, support system, and why she wants to do this. We
visit her home to make sure everything’s stable.
Step 3:
Past Pregnancy Medical Records Review: We look at records from her previous
pregnancies to catch any red flags.
Step 4:
Criminal and Background Checks: Everyone’s safety matters—we do thorough
background screening.
Step 5:
Psychological Testing and Counseling: A licensed professional makes sure
she’s emotionally ready and understands what’s ahead.
Step 6:
Intended Parents’ Clinic Review: Your fertility doctor does their own final
medical check based on their specific requirements.
Here’s where
other agencies mess up: they let you pick someone after just Step 1, then
do the rest of the screening after you’ve already chosen her. Imagine
connecting with someone perfect, only to learn weeks later she doesn’t actually
qualify. Talk about heartbreaking.
We do things differently. Our surrogates finish
Steps 1-5 before you ever see them. So when you’re looking at potential
matches, you know she’s truly qualified and ready.
Why Matches Fall Through
Even when you think you’ve found her, things can
still fall apart. Here’s why.
Bad screening is usually the culprit. When agencies
don’t properly vet surrogates upfront, problems pop up later—medical issues,
psych concerns, background problems that should’ve been caught from the start.
Every failed match means starting over and losing
months.
Sometimes surrogates drop out, especially if they
weren’t really ready to begin with.
Some women start the process without fully understanding
how demanding it is. Others have unexpected life stuff come up. When the
screening isn’t thorough enough to spot low commitment, more people bail.
And if you try finding a surrogate on your own without an agency? You’re risking scams. Some people actually pretend to be surrogates just to take money from desperate families. An agency protects you from that nightmare.
Not all agencies handle waitlists the same way, and this makes a huge difference in how long it takes to find a surrogate.
Some agencies pack their intended parent lists way
too full. You’re waiting behind dozens of other families for just a handful of
available surrogates. Even if you’re perfect candidates, you could wait months
or years simply because others got there first.
We don’t do that. We keep a 1:1
intended parent to surrogate ratio—meaning we’re not bringing in more
families than we can actually match. No massive waitlist. No brutal
competition.
Our marketing
and outreach also sets us apart. We actively recruit qualified surrogates
nationwide, which means way more potential matches for you.
This whole system is why intended parents experience the shortest wait times with us. We built everything around cutting out unnecessary delays without sacrificing quality.
How Long Does it Take to Find a Surrogate?
Families find a match within an average of 1–4 months when they work with us. That’s because we maintain a large pool of pre-screened, qualified surrogates and keep our intended parent and surrogate lists balanced.
You’re not competing with hundreds of other families—or wasting time reviewing profiles of women who might not even qualify. Every surrogate you see has already passed medical and psychological screening and is ready to match.
Other agencies often skip pre-screening or overload their waitlists. The result? Long delays, broken matches, and months (or even years) of waiting. Those setbacks can be emotionally exhausting and completely avoidable.
The difference between a 2-month match and a 12-month wait often comes down to one thing—choosing an agency with the right system. At American Surrogacy, that system is already working for families like yours.
How American Surrogacy Supports Intended Parents
You deserve a partner who gets what’s at stake. We
know every month of waiting feels eternal when you’re ready for your family.
We help you create a profile that really connects
with surrogates—showing who you are, what you value, what makes your family
special. A strong profile leads to better, faster matches.
We also offer unlimited matching at no extra cost
through our full-service
programs. If a match doesn’t work out for any reason, you won’t pay again.
That peace of mind matters.
What if finding a surrogate didn’t have to be the
hardest part? With the right support, pre-screening, and approach, it doesn’t
have to be.
Schedule a consultation today and let us show you exactly how we’ll help you match with a qualified surrogate faster than you thought possible.
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.
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.
Understand the surrogacy contract timeline, what can delay it, and how the right agency and attorneys keep your journey on track.
The surrogacy
contract timeline typically ranges about 1–2 months, but with the right
legal team and agency support, it moves faster and feels easier than most
people expect
At American Surrogacy, we partner with trusted surrogacy
attorneys who know how to keep your contract timeline on track and your journey
protected from start to finish.
Schedule a
consultation today to get connected with experienced legal professionals
who will guide you through every detail.
Because the legal process isn’t just paperwork — it’s what safeguards everyone involved and ensures that every expectation, decision, and right is clearly defined. Here’s what really happens during this stage.
How Long Does the Surrogacy Legal Process Typically Take?
Most contracts go from first draft to signed and done
in about 1-2 months. But here’s the thing: your journey is unique, and your
situation might speed that up or stretch it out a bit.
A few things affect how long it takes:
Your state’s laws – Some states
make surrogacy contracts pretty straightforward. Others? Not so much.
Getting attorneys scheduled – You
and your surrogate both need your own lawyers, and coordinating everyone’s
calendars takes time.
How much back-and-forth happens –
If either side wants to tweak the terms, you’ll need extra rounds of
review.
Pre-birth order stuff – Depending
on where you live, getting your parental rights sorted before birth adds
another layer.
When you work with an experienced agency like American Surrogacy, we keep everything moving so you don’t get stuck waiting.
So what actually happens during those 1-2 months? Those
circumstances we mentioned above will dictate how it will actually play out but
here’s how
it could go:
Step 1:
Contact Your Attorney: You and your surrogate each get your own lawyer who
specializes in reproductive law. This keeps everything fair—each side has
someone looking out for their best interests.
Step 2:
Draft a Surrogacy Contract: Your attorney writes up the first version. It
covers everything from compensation to medical expectations to who makes what
decisions during pregnancy.
Step 3:
Negotiate (If Needed): Your surrogate’s attorney reviews it and might ask
for changes. Most contracts need 2-3 rounds of edits before everyone’s happy
with the terms.
Step 4:
Sign the Contract: Once it’s perfect, everyone signs. Now you’ve got a
legally binding agreement that protects you both.
Step 5:
Complete a Pre-Birth Order (If Possible): In surrogacy-friendly states,
your lawyer can file paperwork that establishes you as the legal parents before
your baby’s even born. Pretty huge.
What Happens During Legal Contract Negotiation?
Negotiation might sound intimidating — but it’s actually a
straightforward, supportive process. Here’s how it works:
1. Everyone Has Their Own Attorney
You’ll have your attorney, and your surrogate will have hers. This separation protects both of you by keeping things fair and avoiding any conflicts of interest.
2. You’ll Cover the Important Topics
Most of the discussion focuses on three key areas:
Money and expenses: Your surrogate’s
compensation, monthly allowances, and all pregnancy-related costs.
Medical expectations: Procedures,
prenatal care, and delivery preferences.
Rights and responsibilities: Who makes
decisions during pregnancy, how often you’ll communicate, and whether you’ll
stay in touch after birth.
3. Your Agency Keeps Everything Moving
American Surrogacy coordinates communication between you, your surrogate, and both legal teams. We help clarify details, resolve confusion, and make sure every step feels smooth and collaborative.
The goal isn’t just to sign an agreement — it’s to make sure
everyone
feels confident, protected, and ready to move forward together.
What Can Affect the Speed of the Surrogacy Contract Timeline?
Even with a great team, some factors can stretch your
surrogacy contract timeline a bit. Here’s what to expect — and why it’s all
worth taking the time to get right.
1. More Negotiation Than Expected
If one side wants bigger adjustments or has concerns about certain contract terms, there may be extra back-and-forth.
It can add a few weeks, but that careful review ensures everyone feels comfortable and protected before moving forward.
2. State-Specific Legal Requirements
Where you live matters. Surrogacy-friendly states like California usually move faster, while states with newer or less defined surrogacy laws might require additional paperwork or even court filings.
Knowing your state’s legal process helps you plan ahead.
3. Attorney Availability
Each legal team needs time to review documents, meet with their clients, and coordinate with one another.
When attorneys are managing multiple cases, timelines can slow slightly — but your agency helps keep communication on track.
4. Complex Situations
If your journey involves egg or sperm donors, nontraditional parental rights, or international arrangements, your contract will need additional legal provisions to make sure everything is airtight.
No matter what your situation looks like, the key is working
with professionals who’ve seen it all — and know how to keep your surrogacy
contract moving smoothly toward embryo transfer.
How Your Surrogacy Agency Supports the Legal Process
Here’s what makes American
Surrogacy different: you never do this alone. We’ve walked thousands of
intended parents through this, and we know exactly how to make it work.
From day one of the contract process, we:
Connect
you with top reproductive attorneys who know surrogacy law inside and out
Coordinate
between everyone so you, your surrogate, and both legal teams stay in sync
Make sure
you get it so there’s zero confusion about your rights, responsibilities,
and protections
Stay
available whenever you’ve got questions or concerns
Connect With Surrogacy Legal Experts Through Our Agency Today
The contract phase isn’t just another step — it’s what makes
the rest of your surrogacy journey possible.
With experienced attorneys and an agency that knows how to
guide the process, these 1–2 months protect everyone involved and lay the
foundation for a smooth path toward embryo transfer and parenthood.
American Surrogacy partners with trusted legal professionals, including firms like Foster + Bloom, to connect you with attorneys who understand the unique details of surrogacy law.
Start your surrogacy journey with confidence
Fill out our simple form today to begin building your family with a team that supports you every step of the way.
You can pursue surrogacy even if your state has restrictions—agencies help coordinate safe, legal journeys across state lines.
Even if surrogacy isn’t allowed where you live, you can still grow your family by working with a surrogate in another state.
With the help of an experienced agency, the legal process, medical coordination, and emotional support are all handled for you, no matter where you live.
Ready to explore your options? Fill out our simple formto take the first step toward matching with a surrogate quickly.
Yes, You Can Work with a Surrogate in Another State
Living in a state with restrictive or unclear surrogacy laws doesn’t mean you can’t grow your family through surrogacy.
Surrogacy agencies like ours work with surrogates across the country and help intended parents find a match in a state where surrogacy is permitted and legally supported.
When surrogacy takes place across state lines, each party will have their own attorney familiar with the surrogacy laws in their respective states. This helps ensure everyone’s rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected throughout the process.
With the right legal guidance and agency support, working with a surrogate in another state can be a smooth and secure experience.
In What States is Surrogacy Illegal or Restricted?
Knowing which states make surrogacy difficult helps you understand why finding an out of state surrogate might be your best move.
There are a few states that either ban or restrict compensated surrogacy:
States Where Surrogacy is Banned
Louisiana is the on only state the legally bans compensated surrogacy. Entering into a paid surrogacy contract can result in criminal penalties.
Because of this, we do not work with surrogates in Louisiana, but we can match you with surrogates in a surrogacy-friendly state.
States That are Not Surrogacy-Friendly
In some states, surrogacy is not illegal, but compensated surrogacy contracts are void and enforceable.
Nebraska: Due to Nebraska’s complex surrogacy laws, we don’t work with surrogates in this state.
Arizona and Indiana: We do not match surrogates and intended parents in these states with each other.
For intended parents in these states, we usually match you with surrogates in states that allow compensated surrogacy where your rights are protected from day one.
If you’re in any of these states, finding a surrogate in another state isn’t just an option, it’s often the smartest path forward.
How We Can Help You Find a Surrogate in Another State
Connecting intended parents with qualified
surrogates is what agencies do—and it matters even more when you’re looking
across state lines.
We have a nationwide network of pre-screened
surrogates in surrogacy-friendly states. You won’t have to figure out how
to find a surrogate on your own in a different state with different laws.
Here’s what we offer:
Personalized matching: We take the time to understand your values, background, and family goals, then match you with a surrogate who truly aligns with your preferences.
Comprehensive screening: Every surrogate in our program has already completed medical, psychological, and background evaluations, so you can move forward with confidence.
Full coordination and support: From clinic communication to legal steps and surrogate compensation, our team helps manage every part of the process to keep your journey organized and stress-free.
What if the most important decision you make this year started with just one conversation? Contact us online and see how we can match you with the right surrogate.
Best States for Surrogacy (and Why They Matter)
Not every state approaches surrogacy the same way. While surrogacy is permitted in most states, some have clearer laws that outline the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved.
These include:
California: Widely considered the national standard for surrogacy. Allows pre-birth orders, recognizes all types of parents (including LGBTQ+ couples and single parents), and has long-standing laws that support surrogacy.
Illinois: Offers strong legal protections. Parents can obtain pre-birth orders, and parentage is recognized even when there’s no genetic connection to the child.
Nevada, Colorado, and Washington: Known for clear, inclusive surrogacy laws and straightforward legal processes that protect everyone involved.
When your surrogate lives in a state with well-defined surrogacy laws, the legal process tends to be more predictable and your parental rights are better protected.
You’ll also work with attorneys familiar with that state’s system, and in many cases, you can secure legal parentage before your baby is born — offering valuable peace of mind.
How the Legal Process Works Across State Lines
One of the biggest questions people have about working with an out of state surrogate is: how does the legal side even work?
You’ll work with attorneys experienced in surrogacy law to create a contract that reflects everyone’s rights and responsibilities.
In many surrogacy-friendly states, the legal process includes a court order (often called a parentage order) that establishes you as the baby’s legal parents — sometimes even before birth.
Your surrogacy specialist and attorney will coordinate with professionals in both states to make sure the process complies with all applicable laws and that your parental rights are properly recognized.
Bottom line: Even if your home state’s surrogacy laws are restrictive or unclear, it’s often possible to move forward safely by working with qualified professionals who understand interstate surrogacy.
Why Working with an Agency Matters Even More in This Situation
Surrogacy is complicated—medical coordination,
legal contracts, finances, emotional support. Add in crossing state lines and
it gets even more complex. That’s why working
with an experienced agency is so valuable.
Here’s what we do:
Fast
matching: We can help you find a qualified surrogate
in another state in just a few months instead of you spending
years searching alone.
Legal
help: We connect you with lawyers who specialize in your surrogate’s state
laws, so your contracts work and your rights are protected.
Financial
protection: Our escrow services and transparent processes protect both you
and your surrogate.
Day-to-day
coordination: From medical appointments to keeping communication flowing,
we handle the logistics that can get overwhelming when you’re managing
everything across state lines.
Peace of
mind: Our team has helped thousands of families in your exact situation.
Next Steps: Find an Out-of-State Surrogate Today
If surrogacy isn’t legal where you live, you have options, and they’re more doable than you might think.
Working with a surrogate in another state is a real path to parenthood for people living in states with tough surrogacy laws. Your dream of becoming parents doesn’t have to wait.
Surrogacy costs what it does for a reason. Learn how to invest smartly, avoid risky “cheap” options, and protect your journey and budget.
There are ways to spend less on surrogacy—but here’s the thing: cutting corners on the important stuff can actually put your whole journey at risk.
The real trick isn’t finding the cheapest option out
there. It’s knowing where to invest smartly so you don’t waste time, money, or
your peace of mind.
Speak with a
specialist who can show you the smartest path forward—not just the cheapest
one.
Let’s talk about what surrogacy actually costs, the sneaky expenses that come with “bargain” options, and how the right financing can make this way more doable than you think.
Are There Cheaper Ways
to Do Surrogacy?
Sure, there are cheaper ways to do surrogacy. But cheaper doesn’t always mean better—or even less expensive when everything’s said and done.
Surrogacy costs what it does for a reason. Every
dollar goes toward things that actually matter: making sure your surrogate
is healthy and ready, protecting you legally, keeping everything organized, and
supporting you through what’s honestly one of the most complicated things
you’ll ever do.
When you see agencies advertising way lower prices, it usually means they’ve cut out some of these services.
That might save you money at first, but it often leads to longer waits, matches that fall through, surprise legal bills, or medical issues—and all of that ends up costing you more than what you saved.
So the real question isn’t “How do I make surrogacy cheaper?” It’s “How do I do this smartly so I don’t end up paying twice?”
The Real Costs You Can’t Cut — and Why They Matter
IVF and
Creating Embryos: You need IVF to create embryos for gestational surrogacy.
This includes medications, egg retrieval, sperm collection (or donor sperm),
and transferring embryos to your surrogate.
Egg or
Sperm Donation (If You Need It): If you’re using donor eggs or sperm,
you’ll pay for donor compensation, medical screening, and the legal paperwork.
Paying
Your Surrogate: Your surrogate deserves fair compensation for carrying your
baby, plus all her pregnancy-related medical care, maternity clothes, travel to
appointments, and lost wages if complications come up.
Legal
Fees: You absolutely need a lawyer to write up contracts, establish your
parental rights, and handle your state’s specific laws. Skip this and you could
end up in a custody nightmare.
Insurance:
Your surrogate needs insurance that covers surrogacy. Pregnancy complications
can get expensive fast, and without the right coverage, you could be on the
hook for hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Travel and
Baby Costs: You’ll travel for the birth and might need to stay for weeks
while you establish parental rights. Plus, you need all the newborn basics—car
seat, clothes, doctor visits.
These aren’t extras. They’re the foundation. Trying
to save money here can mess up your whole journey.
Why “Cheaper” Surrogacy Can End Up Costing More
Lower prices look great when you’re already stressed
about money. But “affordable” surrogacy usually comes with costs that
pop up later—sometimes when it’s too late to fix them.
Here’s what you’re really risking:
Why Low-Cost Surrogacy Agencies Can Cost You More
Some agencies advertise “no upfront costs”
or super low fees. Sounds great, right? Until you realize what you’re not
getting.
When that match fails, you start over. You pay for marketing, screening, and legal work all over again.
Many low cost surrogacy agency options also give you minimal support, so you’re mostly on your own coordinating appointments, legal stuff, and communication.
Then there are the surprise fees. Some agencies don’t tell you about certain costs upfront.
Suddenly you’re hit with legal bills, insurance
gaps, or surrogate expenses that weren’t in your original contract. What looked
cheap at the start ends up costing more—plus you’ve lost months of time.
Surrogacy Without an Agency: How the Costs Add Up
Going independent—doing it yourself—can seem like a money-saver. If you already know someone who’ll carry your baby, why pay an agency?
Here’s why:
DIY surrogacy removes
all the safety nets. Without professional screening, you don’t really know
if your surrogate is ready.
Without legal help from day one, you’re wide open to
custody fights or money disputes. And without case management, you’re juggling
every appointment, legal step, and insurance detail yourself.
Independent surrogacy usually takes way longer
because you don’t have an agency’s marketing and matching help. A lot of
intended parents spend months—even years—trying to find and vet someone on
their own.
If you do have a surrogate already, we can help. Our
independent surrogacy program lets you bring her in and we’ll handle
screening, legal support, and case management. We even do a free initial
screening to make sure your match is set up right.
What You Actually Get When You Invest in a Full-Service Agency
When you work with a full-service agency, you’re not just paying for a service, you’re paying for a whole system that makes your journey safer, faster, and way more likely to succeed.
Here’s what you’re really getting:
Surrogate
Screening: Good
agencies screen thoroughly—medical history, psychological readiness,
finances, legal stuff—before a surrogate even gets to you. This cuts down on
failed matches, medical problems, and legal drama.
Finding
Your Match: Finding a qualified surrogate takes time and know-how. Agencies
recruit, vet, and present matches based on what you want and need—something
you’d have to do totally alone otherwise.
Legal
Protection: Professional legal teams write contracts, establish your
parental rights, and handle your state’s laws. This isn’t just paperwork. It’s
what keeps you safe from custody battles and financial fights.
Case
Management: Someone coordinates medical appointments, manages surrogate
expenses, and fixes problems when they come up. They’re your advocates and
guides through every step.
These aren’t “extras.” They’re what makes the difference between a smooth journey and one full of expensive delays and heartbreak.
How Full-Service Agencies Protect Your Finances
The right agency doesn’t just spend your money—they
protect it.
At American Surrogacy, we screen every surrogate hard before we ever introduce her to you.
That means you’re only matching with people who’ve already passed medical, psychological, and legal checks. Fewer failed matches mean fewer do-overs.
Fewer do-overs mean you’re not paying twice.
Our Limited Risk Program gives you financial protection. If a match falls through for covered reasons, we’ll match you again at no extra cost. That eliminates one of the scariest parts: starting over and losing everything you already paid.
Think about it this way—you’re not just paying for a
surrogate. You’re paying for confidence that your journey won’t blow up halfway
through.
Surrogacy Financing Options that Support Your Budget
Fertility Loans: We partner with Sunfish, a company that does loans specifically for surrogacy and IVF. They offer payment plans based on your situation.
Grants: Some organizations give grants to intended parents pursuing surrogacy. You don’t have to pay these back.
Employer Benefits: More companies are covering fertility stuff, including surrogacy. Check with HR.
Personal Loans: Some families use personal loans or credit lines for upfront costs, then pay them back over time.
401(k) Money: If you have retirement savings, you might be able to borrow from your 401(k) or take a hardship withdrawal.
Make Surrogacy Secure and Successful with American Surrogacy’s Full-Service
Approach
There are always cheaper ways to do surrogacy—but the real value comes from doing it safely and confidently. With American Surrogacy, your investment goes toward protection, not risk.
Two families, two journeys—how one perfect surrogacy match grew into a lasting international bond built on trust, gratitude, and love.
In this heartfelt episode of Let’s Talk Surrogacy, we sit down with Brittany—a two-time surrogate from Missouri—and Anja and Christian, the intended parents from Switzerland she carried for.
What began as one match turned into two beautiful journeys, ultimately completing Anja and Christian’s family.
If you’re considering surrogacy, this conversation shows how purpose, communication and the right team can make dreams a reality.
New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of each month!
Episode Highlights
“What we hoped to find in a match.”Anja & Christian share the one non-negotiable they looked for: a spark—passion for something that lights a person up.
The questions that matter: How early conversations about medical decisions, birth preferences, and “what-ifs” made everything smoother later.
International surrogacy, demystified: Why they chose the U.S., what felt different about the American system, and how a Swiss legal strategy + U.S. documents made going home possible.
Trust through consistent connection: Weekly check-ins, group chats, and appointment video calls kept IPs involved—and deepened the bond from pregnancy to delivery .
The sibling journey: saying “yes” over a Christmas Skype, navigating COVID travel and timelines, and the new logistics of welcoming baby #2 with a toddler in tow.
Join the Conversation!
Have questions about your own surrogacy journey? Fill out our quick form to connect directly with our surrogacy specialists.
Want more heartwarming stories and real-life moments? Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes clips, family updates, and surrogacy insights.
Learn why surrogates typically get pregnant within 1-3 transfers and how American Surrogacy’s screening process maximizes success rates.
Most surrogates get pregnant within 1-3 embryo transfers. Many
achieve success on the first attempt.
If you’ve been through multiple IVF failures, this news
probably feels too good to be true. But here’s what’s different: surrogacy
bypasses many of the issues that made your IVF attempts unsuccessful.
At American Surrogacy, our thoroughly screened surrogates
and comprehensive support give your embryos the best possible environment to
succeed. You can finally move forward knowing each transfer has genuine
potential to work.
Contact us today to learn how our screening process maximizes your chances and gets you matched with a surrogate in 1 - 4 months.null
How Many Embryo Transfers Does It Take for a Surrogate to Get Pregnant?
Most surrogates become pregnant within 1–3 embryo transfers, and many succeed on the very first attempt.
That’s because surrogates are thoroughly screened for proven fertility and optimal uterine health, giving your embryos the best possible environment to succeed.
Surrogate Embryo Transfer Success Rates: What You Can Actually Expect
Here’s the encouraging news: your odds get better with each
transfer. Families with three genetically tested embryos have about a 95%
chance of achieving pregnancy.
Most intended parents don’t need three transfers. Because
our surrogates are so thoroughly screened, many families succeed on their first
or second attempt.
Why Surrogacy Success Rates Stay High
You’re working with someone whose body has already proven it can achieve and maintain pregnancy, traditional IVF often requires multiple attempts, while surrogacy typically succeeds faster.
How Many Embryos Do You Actually Need?
You don’t need a huge stockpile of embryos to succeed with
surrogacy.
Three Embryos Give You Excellent Odds
While there’s no strict requirement, having three quality
embryos gives you strong assurance of success. This accounts for the reality
that not every embryo will result in pregnancy, even under optimal conditions.
With three embryos and surrogacy’s higher success rates,
your chances of achieving pregnancy are excellent.
Options When You Have Fewer Embryos
If you have fewer than three embryos, you still have several
paths forward:
Create additional embryos through another IVF
cycle before starting surrogacy
Use donor embryos for your surrogacy journey
Consider double donor IVF to create fresh
embryos
Our team helps you evaluate which approach makes the most sense for your situation and timeline. Our embryo planning guide walks you through these options.
Only One Embryo Left? How American Surrogacy Supports You
Most agencies won’t work with families who have just one
embryo. We do.
We understand the emotional weight of feeling like this
might be your “last chance.” Your single embryo deserves the absolute
best opportunity for success.
Enhanced Support for Single-Embryo
Families
When you have one
embryo, every detail matters more. We provide additional surrogate
screening, optimized medical protocols, and intensified emotional support
throughout your journey.
Our experience with single-embryo transfers helps us maximize success even when you have limited resources.
We understand the emotional and financial pressure that comes with having one embryo left, which is why we offer unique safeguards through our Limited Risk Program.
If any of the following happens, we apply your fees to your
next match:
If the surrogate is no longer eligible for
medical reasons
Surrogate is not approved by your fertility
clinic
Unforeseen personal circumstances that cause the
surrogate to back out
If you’re facing this situation, contact us today to speak with someone who understands exactly what you’re going through.
What Actually Determines If a Surrogate Gets Pregnant?
The success of your embryo transfer depends on factors you can finally
control through surrogacy.
Your Surrogate’s Proven Track Record
Every surrogate we work with has successfully carried
pregnancies before. Their bodies have already proven they can get pregnant,
stay pregnant, and deliver healthy babies.
This is completely different from using your own body after
multiple IVF failures. You’re working with someone whose reproductive system
works exactly as it should.
A Uterine Environment That Works
Your surrogate’s uterus is optimally prepared for pregnancy.
Her hormone levels, uterine lining, and overall reproductive health create the
ideal conditions for your embryo to implant and thrive.
No more wondering if your uterine lining is thick enough or
if your hormone levels are preventing implantation.
The Same Quality Embryos, Better
Environment
Your embryos aren’t the problem. Leading fertility clinics
use advanced techniques to assess and prepare embryos for transfer, giving each
one the best chance of success.
The difference is where they’re being transferred. Your
healthy embryos finally get the healthy environment they need.
What Happens When the First Transfer Doesn’t Work?
First transfers don’t always succeed, and that’s completely
normal. Here’s what happens next.
An unsuccessful first transfer doesn’t mean failure. It’s
part of the natural process, and successful pregnancy often happens on the
second attempt.
Your surrogate remains ready for pregnancy, unlike
situations where you might need months of recovery between IVF cycles.
Getting the Emotional Support You Need
An unsuccessful transfer can bring disappointment, but the difference with surrogacy is having a support system designed specifically for your journey.
Unlike going through IVF alone, surrogacy connects you with professionals who understand fertility challenges and can help you process each step.
What makes surrogacy support different:
Professional counselors who specialize in
fertility treatments understand that each transfer carries emotional investment
and provide practical coping strategies
Support groups connect you with other intended
parents who’ve walked this path, sharing stories of success after multiple
transfers
Experienced agencies acknowledge the emotional
aspects while helping you stay focused on your goal, treating you as a whole
person rather than just a medical case
Ongoing guidance throughout the process so
you’re never navigating this experience in isolation
Having this comprehensive support network helps you maintain
perspective and makes the entire experience more manageable, regardless of how
many transfers your journey requires.
Quick Turnaround for Your Next Attempt
If you have additional frozen embryos, your next transfer
can usually be scheduled quickly. You don’t need extended recovery time, and
you can move forward when you’re emotionally and physically ready.
Fertility specialists may make small adjustments to
protocols, but often the second transfer succeeds simply because the process
has been optimized.
Why Surrogacy Works When IVF Doesn’t
Surrogacy solves the specific problems that made your IVF
attempts unsuccessful.
Bypassing Your Body’s Challenges
Many IVF failures happen because of uterine factors, implantation issues, or reproductive health problems that persist despite medical intervention.
Surrogacy completely solves these challenges. You’re working with a surrogate who has a track record of successful pregnancies.
Better Medical Oversight
Surrogacy involves enhanced medical monitoring specifically
designed for surrogate transfers. Every aspect of the process is optimized for
success.
The screening process ensures you work with someone whose
body provides the ideal environment for implantation and development. This goes
far beyond what’s possible when using your own body after multiple IVF
failures.
Proven Results
Research
consistently shows that embryo transfers with surrogates have higher
success rates than traditional IVF, especially for intended parents who’ve experienced
multiple failures.
This isn’t just hope. It’s medical reality backed by data
and experience.
How American Surrogacy Supports You Through Each Transfer
Your success is our primary focus. We’ve developed support
systems that maximize your chances with each attempt.
Before Your Transfer
We coordinate closely with your fertility clinic to ensure
perfect timing and preparation. Every detail gets reviewed: your surrogate’s
readiness, medication protocols, and legal protections.
You have direct access to our support team throughout the
entire process. We manage communication between you, your surrogate, and the
medical team so everyone stays informed and supported.
We maintain close contact during those crucial two weeks
after transfer. We coordinate follow-up appointments, manage communication
about results, and provide emotional support regardless of the outcome.
Financial Protection That Actually
Protects You
We offer financial protection that reduces your risk if
transfers don’t succeed as planned. Our programs include guarantees like
unlimited matching with new surrogates and refunds if pregnancy isn’t achieved
within certain timeframes.
Our different
program structures offer varying levels of support and financial security.
Some include multiple transfer attempts in the base cost, while others offer
insurance-style protection against unsuccessful outcomes.
We also work with families to explore payment
options like installment plans and fertility-specific loans to spread costs
over time. Understanding the full picture upfront helps you choose the
protection level that makes sense for your situation.
We’re With You Until You Bring Your Baby
Home
Whether you succeed on your first transfer or need multiple
attempts, we’re committed to supporting you throughout the entire journey. We
offer both full-service
and independent program options to meet your specific needs.
For families concerned about costs, we partner with Sunfish to
provide financing solutions and help you understand total costs upfront.
Contact our team today to speak with a surrogacy specialist who can provide personalized guidance for your situation.
You’ve already proven your dedication to becoming parents.
Now let us help you find the path that finally leads to your baby.
Even strong embryos may fail in IVF. Discover hidden reasons why and how surrogacy can provide renewed hope for your path to parenthood.
After multiple IVF cycles, you’ve heard all the hopeful
phrases. “These embryos look promising.” “Your numbers are good
this time.” “We’re optimistic about this transfer.”
You might be wondering: if the embryos are supposedly fine,
why isn’t this working?
You’re not alone in asking this question. Even with
high-quality embryos, IVF can fail for reasons that have nothing to do with the
embryos themselves. Understanding why can help you make informed decisions
about your next steps, including whether surrogacy might offer the path to
parenthood you’ve been searching for.
We’re here to help you understand what might be happening and explore how surrogacy after failed IVF can offer renewed hope. Contact us today to speak with a specialist about your options.
Why Does IVF Fail Even With Good Embryos?
When fertility specialists talk about “good”
embryos, they’re typically referring to embryos that look healthy under a
microscope and may have passed genetic testing. But how an embryo looks represents
only one piece of a complex puzzle.
The frustration you’re feeling is completely understandable.
When you’ve invested so much hope, time, and resources into creating these
embryos, it can be heartbreaking to learn that other factors may be preventing
success.
IVF success depends on many different things working
together perfectly:
How healthy the embryo is
Whether your uterus is ready to accept it
Your hormone levels
Countless other factors that happen inside your
body
Even if an embryo appears perfect in the lab, it still needs
the right environment to attach, get a blood supply, and continue growing.
Many intended parents don’t realize that repeated implantation failure affects up to 10% of couples undergoing IVF. You may feel isolated in your experience, but medical professionals regularly see cases where excellent embryos fail to implant despite multiple attempts.
“Good Embryos”
in IVF: What That Really Means And Why It’s Not the Whole Story
When lab specialists evaluate embryos, they assess various
factors to determine quality grades. These evaluations help determine which
embryos are most likely to result in successful pregnancy.
However, even embryos that appear perfect under the
microscope and pass genetic screening may not result in pregnancy. Current
assessment methods examine only what’s visible or testable with today’s
technology.
Many factors that affect embryo success remain invisible to
current testing methods. Even the most sophisticated genetic screening examines
only a small sample of cells, which may not represent the entire embryo.
This is why even embryos that receive excellent grades and
pass all available testing may not result in pregnancy. The assessment tools we
have today, while helpful, don’t capture every aspect of what makes an embryo
successful.
Uterine Factors That Can Undermine IVF Success
When high-quality embryos repeatedly fail to implant, the
focus often shifts to your uterine environment. Your uterine lining must be
perfectly timed and ready for the embryo to attach.
Endometrial Receptivity Issues
There’s a narrow window when your uterine lining is ready to
accept an embryo. If this timing is off by even a day or two, implantation may
fail. Some women have different timing that doesn’t match standard IVF
protocols.
Structural
abnormalities include:
Uterine fibroids
Polyps
A condition called adenomyosis
Uterine shape differences you were born with
These conditions can interfere with implantation or early
pregnancy development. Even small fibroids or polyps that don’t cause symptoms
in daily life can significantly impact IVF success rates.
Chronic Endometritis
Low-grade inflammation of the uterine lining often goes
unnoticed because it doesn’t cause obvious symptoms. However, it can create an
environment that’s hostile to implantation. Studies suggest this affects 15-25%
of women with repeated implantation failure.
Blood Flow and Vascular Issues
Good blood flow to the uterine lining is essential for
supporting an implanting embryo. Conditions affecting blood flow to the uterus,
including certain autoimmune conditions or clotting disorders, can prevent
successful implantation even with perfect embryos.
Hormonal Imbalances
Subtle hormone issues that don’t prevent embryo development
in the lab can still interfere with the complex hormone coordination required
for implantation and early pregnancy.
Beyond the Lab: The Immune and Genetic Reasons IVF Fails Again and Again
Reproductive
immunology is an emerging field that explores how your immune system might
be preventing pregnancy. Think of your immune system as your body’s security
team. During pregnancy, it faces a unique challenge.
Your immune system needs to:
Welcome and protect the embryo (which is
genetically half from your partner)
Continue fighting off infections and other
threats
When this delicate balance goes wrong, it can prevent
embryos from implanting or cause early pregnancy loss.
HLA
Compatibility: Sometimes partners can be too genetically
similar in certain ways, which can prevent successful pregnancy. This is rare
but may require special treatment approaches.
Thrombophilia:
Mild blood clotting problems that don’t affect your daily life can prevent
proper blood flow during early pregnancy, causing implantation to fail.
Complement
System Dysfunction: Your immune system might be working too
hard during pregnancy attempts, inadvertently attacking the developing
pregnancy.
Many doctors don’t routinely test for these immune-related
issues during fertility evaluations. They may explain why some couples
experience repeated failures despite having good embryos and no obvious fertility problems.
Issues that are often missed include:
Overactive immune cells in the uterus
Hidden autoimmune problems
Mild blood clotting tendencies
Immune system imbalances
When To Stop Trying IVF and Start Considering Surrogacy
Deciding when to transition from IVF to surrogacy is deeply
personal, but certain medical and emotional signs can help guide this difficult
decision. Remember, considering surrogacy isn’t giving up. It’s opening a door
to new possibilities.
Medical Indicators
Most fertility specialists suggest considering other
approaches after 3-4
failed transfers with good-quality embryos, particularly if you’ve
experienced repeated implantation failure. If comprehensive testing has
revealed uterine problems that can’t be successfully treated, or if multiple
interventions haven’t improved outcomes, surrogacy may offer better chances of
success.
When Embryo Quality Isn’t the Issue
If you’re consistently producing good embryos but experiencing implantation
failure, this often indicates that your embryos are healthy but your uterine
environment may not be optimal for pregnancy.
Take heart in knowing that this is actually an ideal
situation for surrogacy, where your genetic material can be carried by someone
with a proven ability to achieve and maintain pregnancy.
Emotional Readiness
The
emotional toll of repeated IVF attempts can’t be underestimated. When the
physical and emotional stress of continued attempts begins outweighing the
potential benefits, it may be time to explore surrogacy as a path that offers
renewed hope and energy for your family-building journey.
What Surrogacy Is
Surrogacy uses your own eggs and your partner’s sperm (or
donor sperm) to create embryos through IVF, then transfers those embryos to a
woman who will carry the pregnancy for you. The baby is 100% genetically yours.
The surrogate provides only the uterine environment.
Can I Use Embryos from Previous IVF Cycles
in Surrogacy?
Yes, in most cases, frozen embryos from previous IVF cycles
can be used in surrogacy. This means your IVF investment hasn’t been lost. It
becomes the foundation for your surrogacy journey. Your previous efforts
weren’t in vain.
Benefits of using existing embryos:
No additional egg retrieval cycles needed
Faster timeline to transfer
Lower overall treatment costs
Familiar genetic material
Your existing embryos can be thawed and transferred to your
surrogate, potentially saving you from additional egg retrieval cycles and
allowing you to move forward more quickly.
The process of using frozen embryos in surrogacy is
typically straightforward. Your fertility clinic will coordinate with your
surrogacy agency to ensure proper handling and transfer of your embryos to the
clinic where your surrogate will receive care.
How Surrogacy Bypasses Uterine Challenges
and Restores Hope
Surrogacy can get around virtually all uterine-related
causes of IVF failure. When your embryos are transferred to a surrogate who has
been thoroughly screened for optimal uterine health, you eliminate concerns
about:
Timing issues with your uterine lining
Physical problems in your uterus
Hidden inflammation or infection
Blood flow problems
Immune dysfunction specific to your uterine
environment
Surrogate
screening advantages:
Proven track record of successful pregnancies
Optimal reproductive health confirmed
More extensive evaluation than typical fertility
patients
What Happens When You Pursue Surrogacy: A Step-By-Step Look
Understanding the surrogacy process can help demystify this
path and show you how achievable parenthood through surrogacy can be.
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation where
you’ll discuss your fertility history, previous IVF attempts, and goals for
surrogacy. This is your opportunity to ask questions, understand timelines, and
learn about different program options that might fit your needs.
Step 2: Matching Process
Once you’re ready to move forward, you’ll be presented with
profiles of potential surrogates who match your preferences and medical
requirements. Our surrogate
screening process ensures you’ll only see candidates who have been
thoroughly vetted medically, psychologically, and legally.
Step 3: Legal Process
After you’ve connected with a surrogate and decided to move
forward together, legal contracts are created to protect everyone involved.
These contracts cover medical decisions, financial arrangements, communication
expectations, and all other aspects of your journey together.
Step 4: Medical Coordination
Your fertility clinic will coordinate with your surrogate’s
medical care to prepare for embryo transfer. This includes timing cycles,
preparing the surrogate’s uterus, and scheduling the transfer procedure.
Step 5: Transfer and Pregnancy
Embryo transfer to your surrogate follows the same basic
process as IVF transfer, but with the advantage of a uterine environment that’s
been proven capable of achieving and maintaining pregnancy. Throughout the
pregnancy, you’ll have the opportunity to be as involved as you want to be
while your surrogate carries your genetic child.
Step 6: Birth and Beyond
When your baby is born, legal processes ensure you’re
recognized as the legal parents from the moment of birth. Most intended parents
find the experience of meeting their child for the first time incredibly
emotional and rewarding after their journey to parenthood.
Why Intended Parents Trust American Surrogacy After IVF Failure
When you’ve experienced the heartbreak of failed IVF cycles,
choosing the right surrogacy agency becomes essential for rebuilding confidence
in your path to parenthood.
Short Wait Times
We understand that time feels critical after IVF setbacks. Our process for becoming parents faster typically allows intended parents to be matched with a pre-screened surrogate in an average of months rather than years. We maintain relationships with surrogates across the country, giving you options and reducing wait times.
Thoroughly Screened Surrogates
Our comprehensive
surrogate screening goes far beyond basic health checks. We evaluate
medical history, psychological readiness, social support, lifestyle factors,
and motivation. You’ll only be presented with candidates who have demonstrated
the commitment and capability to help you succeed.
Financial Protection Through Our Limited
Risk Program
After investing significantly in IVF attempts, financial protection becomes a priority. Our Limited Risk Program includes provisions for unlimited matching opportunities if your first match doesn’t work out, and refund options if your journey doesn’t result in a baby and you have no embryos remaining.
This protection allows you to move forward with confidence rather than fear about additional financial loss.
Experience With Complex Cases
We regularly work with intended parents who have navigated multiple
fertility challenges. Our team understands the unique emotional and medical
considerations involved in transitioning from IVF to surrogacy, and we’re
equipped to support you through this process.
Transparent Communication
After experiencing the uncertainty of failed IVF cycles,
clear communication becomes essential. We provide regular updates throughout
your journey and ensure you understand each step of the process. You’ll have
dedicated support staff who understand your history and are committed to your
success.
Ready to Explore Surrogacy? Here’s How to Take the Next Step
Your journey through IVF hasn’t been a failure. It’s been
preparation. The embryos you’ve created, the medical knowledge you’ve gained,
and the resilience you’ve developed through this process all become valuable
assets in a surrogacy journey.
The decision to pursue surrogacy after IVF can actually feel
empowering. You’re taking control of your journey and choosing a path that
addresses the specific challenges you’ve faced.
From screening to refunds: How American Surrogacy shields intended parents from surrogacy’s unexpected challenges.
The surrogacy journey represents hope, dreams, and the
promise of finally holding your baby. But for many intended parents, excitement
comes with worry: “What if something goes wrong? What if our surrogate
changes her mind? What if we run out of embryos?”
These concerns are natural, and they’re exactly why choosing
the right surrogacy agency matters more than you might realize.
Our structured programs mean you don’t have to navigate
these uncertainties alone. We’ve designed our Foundation
and Limited Risk Programs to protect your investment, your timeline, and
your peace of mind through comprehensive screening, unlimited re-matching, and
built-in refund protections.
Get
the support and protection you deserve. Fill out our form today to learn how American Surrogacy
safeguards your family-building journey.
Is There Surrogacy
Agency Support for Unexpected Journey Complications?
Yes there is! This support can make the difference between a
successful journey and a devastating financial loss.
Many intended parents assume that surrogacy complications
are rare enough that they don’t need to worry about protection. The reality is
that while serious complications aren’t common, they do happen.
Failed embryo transfers, surrogates who can’t continue their
journey, medical complications, and legal challenges can all derail an
unprotected surrogacy arrangement.
That’s where our experience makes all the difference. With
decades of expertise, proven protocols, and comprehensive financial
protections, we ensure you never have to navigate complications on your own.
What Are Unexpected
Complications that Might Occur During Surrogacy?
Understanding potential complications helps you prepare and
shows you why professional agency support matters.
Embryo
Transfer Challenges: Not every embryo transfer results in
pregnancy. While IVF success rates continue to improve, some intended parents
face multiple failed transfers, depleting their embryo supply faster than
expected.
Surrogate-Related
Issues: Sometimes a surrogate who seemed perfect during initial
meetings realizes she can’t continue the journey. This might happen due to
medical complications discovered during screening, family circumstances, or
simply changing her mind about moving forward.
Medical
Complications During Pregnancy: Pregnancy complications can
affect both the baby’s health and the surrogate’s ability to continue. While
these situations are carefully managed by medical professionals, they can
impact timelines and require additional support.
Legal
and Contractual Challenges: Surrogacy laws vary by state, and
navigating surrogacy
contracts and legal requirements can become complex if unexpected
situations arise.
These complications, while challenging, are not impossible when
you have the right support system. At American Surrogacy, we have successfully
helped thousands of families navigate unexpected challenges over our years of
experience.
How Pre-Screening Protects Intended Parents
The best way to handle surrogacy complications is to prevent them. That’s
where comprehensive pre-screening becomes your most valuable protection.
At American Surrogacy, we maintain rigorous screening
standards for potential surrogates. Our multi-step process evaluates
medical history, psychological readiness, financial stability, and personal
circumstances long before any matching occurs.
We
only work with highly-qualified surrogates who have
demonstrated their commitment to the surrogacy process. We make sure that every
surrogate who enters our program is prepared for the journey ahead.
How Pre-Screening Protects Your Time
Time matters when you’re building your family. Every delayed
match, every failed arrangement, every restart adds months to your wait.
Our comprehensive surrogate screening process allows for quick, confident matching because the hard work of verification happens upfront.
Instead of spending weeks or months getting to know a potential surrogate only to discover she isn’t ready, you’re matched with women who have already proven their readiness.
This pre-screening approach significantly reduces failed
matching attempts, helping you become
a parent faster than you might with agencies that skip thorough vetting.
How Pre-Screening Protects Your Money
Every failed match costs money, sometimes significant
amounts. When a surrogate arrangement falls through after contracts are signed,
legal fees are paid, and medical preparations have begun, those costs add up
quickly.
By ensuring surrogates are fully screened before matching,
American Surrogacy dramatically reduces the likelihood of costly false starts.
You’re not paying for legal work, medical procedures, and administrative costs
multiple times due to inadequate screening.
Our pre-screening investment protects your financial investment throughout your entire journey.
Reddit Discussion: How Timely Matching Protects Your Journey
At American Surrogacy, we offer two programs specifically
designed with built-in financial protection: our Foundation Program and Limited
Risk Program. Both programs are built around protecting intended parents from
the unexpected.
Unlimited Matching: Your Journey Won’t End If a Match Falls Through
Our Limited Risk Program includes unlimited matching at no
extra cost if a surrogate backs out or can’t move forward with the arrangement.
Think about what this means: If your first match doesn’t
work out for any reason, you don’t start over financially. You don’t pay
additional matching fees. You don’t worry about whether you can afford to try
again. Our
full-service programs ensure that a single setback doesn’t end your journey
to parenthood.
This unlimited matching protection provides peace of mind knowing that you’re covered no matter how many attempts it takes to find the right surrogate for your family.
Refund Protections: What Happens If You Run Out of Embryos
Both our Limited Risk Program and Foundation Program include
refund protections if your journey is unsuccessful and you have no embryos
remaining.
This protection acknowledges a difficult reality: sometimes,
despite everyone’s best efforts, a surrogacy journey doesn’t result in a baby.
While this outcome is rare, it happens. When it does, you shouldn’t face
complete financial loss on top of emotional disappointment.
Our refund protections ensure that if you’ve exhausted your embryos without achieving pregnancy, you’ll receive a significant portion of your program fees back. This financial protection can help you explore other family-building options or restart your surrogacy journey when you’re ready.
Our commitment to protecting intended parents extends beyond
our standard program protections. When the SEAM breach occurred affecting trust
account funds across multiple agencies, we went above and beyond contractual
obligations.
We safeguard our clients’ funds by paying from our own
reserves, ensuring that intended parents don’t suffer financial losses due to
circumstances outside their control. We are committed to protecting the
families we serve.
Why Working With an Agency is Safer Than Going Independent
The protections offered by professional agencies like ours
simply don’t exist in independent surrogacy arrangements, and the financial
risks can be devastating.
Independent surrogacy might seem more affordable upfront,
but consider what you’re risking:
No
professional screening: You’re responsible for evaluating a
surrogate’s medical, psychological, and financial readiness entirely on your
own.
No
backup plans: If your arrangement falls through, you start
completely over with no support system.
No
financial protection: Every dollar spent is at risk if
complications arise.
Legal
vulnerability: Without professional guidance, you might miss
critical legal protections.
Even if you’ve already found a potential surrogate independently, our Independent Program allows you to continue your journey with professional guidance and safety measures in place.
The question isn’t whether you can handle surrogacy
independently. It’s whether you should take on unnecessary risks when
professional protection is available.
Finding Hope After IVF Failures
Many intended parents considering surrogacy have already
experienced the heartbreak of failed IVF cycles. You might wonder whether
surrogacy will just lead to more disappointment.
Here’s what you need to know: surrogacy often succeeds where traditional IVF has failed because it removes many of the factors that contributed to your previous challenges.
Gestational surrogacy allows you to use your own genetic material while bypassing potential uterine factors that may have prevented successful implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
Working with American Surrogacy means your embryos will be transferred to a thoroughly screened surrogate who has demonstrated her ability to carry pregnancies successfully.
Combined with our program protections, this significantly improves your chances of finally achieving the pregnancy you’ve been working toward.
Your IVF struggles don’t predict your surrogacy success,
especially when you have professional support guiding your journey.
Taking the Next Step with American Surrogacy
The surrogacy journey doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when
you have the right support and protection. Our Foundation
and Limited Risk Programs are designed specifically to address the
“what if” concerns that keep intended parents awake at night.
Our comprehensive approach includes:
Rigorous pre-screening that protects your time
and money
Unlimited matching to ensure setbacks don’t end
your journey
Refund protections if your journey doesn’t
result in pregnancy
Decades of experience managing complex
situations
Financial stability proven through industry
challenges
You’ve already shown incredible strength and determination
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American Surrogacy accepts shipped frozen embryos from any clinic. Learn how we coordinate the process, costs, and safety of embryo transport.
Yes, American Surrogacy routinely works with embryos shipped from fertility clinics across the United States and internationally.
This support eliminates one of the biggest concerns intended
parents face when moving from IVF to surrogacy. You don’t need to start over,
create new embryos, or abandon the investment you’ve already made in your
fertility journey.
Get
the support you need for your embryo shipping process. Contact
us today to
speak with a surrogacy specialist about coordinating your existing embryos with
a qualified surrogate.
Why You May Not Even Need to Ship Your Frozen Embryos
Before diving into the shipping process, it’s worth noting that many intended parents can avoid embryo shipping altogether.
Most surrogates working with American Surrogacy are willing and able to travel to your fertility clinic for the embryo transfer procedure.
Benefits of Surrogate Travel to Your Clinic
This approach often proves easier, safer, and less stressful
than shipping frozen embryos.
When your surrogate travels to your clinic, you eliminate logistical concerns
about temperature control, transit time, and coordinating between multiple
facilities.
Your embryos stay exactly where they are, in the storage
facility you already trust.
Travel arrangements are typically coordinated by our team,
and many intended parents find this creates a meaningful bonding opportunity
with their surrogate. The transfer takes place in familiar surroundings with
your established medical team, providing additional peace of mind during this
crucial step.
When Embryo Shipping Becomes Necessary
However, we understand that surrogate travel isn’t always practical due to medical protocols, clinic preferences, or other circumstances.
When shipping becomes necessary, we have extensive experience coordinating successful embryo transfers using shipped embryos through our comprehensive embryo shipping guides.
Do I Need to Create New Embryos for Surrogacy? Or Can I Use the Ones I
Have?
You can absolutely use your existing frozen embryos for surrogacy. This is one
of the most common questions we hear from intended parents, and the answer
provides significant relief both emotionally and financially.
Many of our intended parents come to surrogacy after
experiencing multiple
IVF failures or pregnancy complications. The embryos you’ve already created
represent a substantial investment of time, money, and emotional energy.
Surrogacy
embryo transfer success rates range from 60-70% per transfer, compared to
traditional IVF rates of 40-50% for women under 35, declining to just 10-15%
for women over 40.
Surrogacy’s higher success comes from rigorous surrogate
screening that ensures optimal uterine health, proven pregnancy history, and
carefully controlled hormonal environments.
Timeline Benefits of Using Existing Embryos
Using existing embryos can also accelerate your surrogacy
timeline. Instead of beginning with ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and
fertilization, you can move directly to matching with a surrogate and preparing
for transfer. This can potentially cut months off your
journey to parenthood.
Your fertility clinic will need to release your embryos
along with detailed documentation, including:
Embryo quality grades and development stages
Genetic testing results (if applicable)
Storage requirements and freezing protocols
Complete medical history and lab work
Our team coordinates with both your original clinic and your
surrogate’s clinic to ensure all documentation and medical records are properly
transferred along with your embryos.
Is Embryo Shipping Safe?
Embryo shipping has an excellent safety record when
performed by specialized cryogenic transport companies. Your embryos are stored
in specialized tanks called cryoshippers or dry shippers that maintain
consistent ultra-low temperatures without requiring external power sources.
How Embryos Stay Protected During Transport
These specialized containers offer multiple layers of
protection:
Liquid nitrogen maintains temperatures at -196°C
(-320°F) throughout transport
Containers maintain temperature for 7-10 days,
providing significant safety margins
Professional companies provide detailed chain of
custody documentation
Real-time temperature monitoring and tracking
systems ensure constant oversight
Insurance coverage specifically protects
reproductive tissue during transport
Properly shipped
embryos maintain the same
survival rates as those that never leave their original storage facility.
Your embryos are treated as critical medical cargo throughout transport, with
freezing and thawing having far more impact on viability than shipping.
We always recommend discussing the shipping process with your fertility clinic and reproductive endocrinologist for guidance specific to your embryos’ characteristics.
If you’re considering how many embryos to use for surrogacy or exploring surrogacy with only one embryo left, our specialists can help you develop the best strategy.
From Clinic to Surrogate: How the Embryo Shipping Process Works
The embryo
shipping process involves careful coordination between multiple parties,
but at American Surrogacy, we manage these logistics so you don’t have to
navigate them alone.
Step 1: Documentation and Release
Your original fertility clinic prepares release forms and
detailed embryo information, including quality grades, genetic testing results,
and storage requirements. You’ll sign consent forms authorizing the transfer
and release of your embryos.
Step 2: Receiving Clinic Coordination
Your surrogate’s fertility clinic provides specific shipping
instructions, including preferred shipping companies, arrival timing, and any
special requirements. We coordinate between both clinics to ensure
compatibility and proper preparation.
Step 3: Professional Shipping Arrangement
A specialized reproductive tissue transport company picks up
your embryos in a temperature-controlled cryogenic container. These companies
are specifically licensed and insured for embryo transport, not general medical
courier services.
Step 4: Real-Time Tracking
Throughout transport, the shipping company provides tracking
information and temperature monitoring. Many services offer real-time alerts
and updates so all parties know exactly where embryos are located.
Step 5: Safe Arrival and Verification
The receiving clinic confirms embryo arrival, verifies the integrity
of the shipment, and places embryos in their storage facility. Both clinics
document the successful transfer for your records.
This entire process typically takes 1-3 days for domestic
shipments and 2-10 days for international transport, depending on the origin
and destination countries. Our coordination team
manages communications between all parties and keeps you informed throughout
the process.
Embryo Shipping
Costs and Logistics: What Intended Parents Should Expect
Embryo
shipping costs typically range from $1,000
to $3,000 for domestic shipments within the United States, depending on
distance, urgency, and specific transport requirements.
International shipping costs are significantly higher,
generally ranging from $3,000-$8,000
or more depending on the origin country and service level.
For more detailed information about embryo shipping costs,
our specialists can provide specific estimates based on your situation.
These costs cover specialized cryogenic containers, professional handling, insurance coverage, and documentation services.
While it represents an additional expense, most intended parents find the cost manageable compared to creating new embryos or repeating IVF cycles.
Additional Fees to Consider
Beyond shipping costs, you may encounter:
Documentation fees from your original clinic
(typically $200-500)
Receiving fees from your surrogate’s clinic
(usually $300-600)
Storage fees if embryos arrive before your
surrogate is ready for transfer
Rush shipping surcharges for expedited services
Timing coordination is essential for cost management. Rush
shipping or expedited services significantly increase expenses, so planning
ahead when possible helps control costs.
Our team works with you to identify the optimal shipping
window based on your surrogate’s cycle and clinic availability.
Many intended parents find it helpful to factor shipping
costs into their overall surrogacy budget. We offer three comprehensive program
options to fit different needs and
financial situations:
Foundation Program: If your journey ends without a baby and you have no embryos left, some fees will be refunded.
Limited Risk Program: In addition to available refunds if a journey doesn’t work out, you also have access to comprehensive services, including unlimited matching at no extra cost.
For those seeking additional financing support, companies
like Sunfish
offer fertility loans that can cover embryo shipping and related expenses as part of comprehensive
surrogacy financing packages.
How American Surrogacy Supports Intended Parents Through This Process
We bring years of experience coordinating embryo shipments for intended parents from around the world.
Our team understands the emotional weight of entrusting your embryos to a shipping process and provides comprehensive support throughout, including our detailed guide to shipping frozen embryos.
Clinic Coordination Expertise
We maintain relationships with fertility clinics nationwide and understand their specific requirements for embryo receipt and storage.
This experience helps us identify potential logistical issues early and resolve them before they impact your timeline.
Vendor Network Management
Our team works with proven embryo shipping companies and can recommend services based on your specific needs, location, and budget.
You won’t need to research and vet shipping companies yourself because we handle all vendor coordination.
Communication Bridge
Throughout the shipping process, we serve as a central
communication hub between you, your original clinic, your surrogate’s clinic,
and the shipping company. You’ll receive regular updates without needing to
manage multiple points of contact.
If Unexpected Issues Come Up
If unexpected issues arise during shipping, our team
provides immediate problem-solving support. Weather delays, documentation
problems, clinic scheduling conflicts—we’ve handled various shipping challenges
and know how to resolve them quickly.
Beyond logistics, we understand the anxiety many intended
parents feel about shipping embryos. Our team provides emotional support and
reassurance throughout the process, helping you feel confident in your
decision.
Program Options and Financial Protection
Our programs include full-service
support and independent program options with embryo shipping coordination as part of our
comprehensive services.
Whichever program you select, we’ll manage all embryo shipping logistics so you can focus on your approaching parenthood. Our financial protection programs safeguard your investment from the moment your embryos leave storage until they arrive at your surrogate’s clinic.
Contact us today to discuss your shipping coordination needs and take the next step toward your journey to parenthood.
Your existing embryos represent the foundation of your future family, and we’re here to ensure they reach your surrogate safely and efficiently.
