If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to become a surrogate, you’re not alone. Most women considering this incredible journey have lots of questions about how the process works.
It’s not as overwhelming as you might think — especially when you have an experienced agency guiding you at every step.
Here’s a clear, compassionate look at what you can expect from the surrogacy journey, from your first application to delivery day (and beyond).
The process begins with an online application where you’ll share info like your age, location, health & pregnancy history, and lifestyle. This helps the agency make sure you meet the general requirements for surrogacy.
If you qualify, you’ll be invited to a phone or video consultation to learn more, ask questions, and talk about your motivations.
"I was nervous to apply, but once I talked to the recruitment & intake manager Kaci, I felt totally at ease. She explained everything in a way that felt real and supportive."
Once you’re ready to move forward, you’ll complete four important tasks:
Collection and review of medical records to ensure you’re in great general health and have had uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries.
A medical screening with an OBGYN and Maternal Fetal Health specialist to check your overall health and reproductive history.
These evaluations are 100% confidential and fully paid for by the agency.
After screening, your agency will help you identify intended parents who align with your preferences, values, and vision for the journey.
You’ll be able to review the family’s profile and even meet them before moving forward.
If everyone feels it’s a good fit, your journey can officially begin together!
You’ll each have your own legal representation to review and negotiate the surrogacy contract — which clearly outlines:
Compensation
Medical decisions
Expectations during pregnancy
Delivery plans
Post-birth communication (if agreed upon)
Nothing moves forward until both sides feel confident and supported. All legal fees are covered by our agency.
Once contracts are signed, surrogates begin taking medications (oral pills, injections, and patches) to prepare your body for pregnancy.
You’ll then undergo an embryo transfer at the intended parents’ fertility clinic — a painless, non-surgical procedure similar to a pap smear.
After transfer, you’ll wait about 10–12 days before taking a pregnancy test — one of the most exciting milestones of the journey!
Once pregnancy is confirmed, you’ll begin seeing your OB for regular prenatal care — just like any other pregnancy. Most surrogates say this part of the journey feels very natural, since they’ve already been pregnant before.
Your agency should check in with you regularly and make sure you have everything you need — including:
Emotional support
Travel and childcare reimbursements
Ensuring medical bills are properly paid for via insurance
Coordination of communication with the intended parents
"My case manager Teisa checked on me weekly, and the intended parents sent me the sweetest care packages. I never felt alone."
The birth is a beautiful, emotional experience — and one that’s carefully planned in advance. You’ll give birth at the hospital of your choice (based on medical needs, insurance coverage, and the parents’ location), with support from your OB team.
Depending on your comfort level, the intended parents may be in the room — or nearby to meet their baby right away.
“Seeing the look on their faces when their baby arrived… there’s just no feeling like it. I was so proud of what we created together.”
After delivery, you’ll have time to rest, recover, and transition back to your normal routine.
Your agency will continue checking in with you — emotionally, physically, and logistically. Some surrogates stay in touch with the intended family, while others prefer privacy. Both options are valid and respected.
You’ll also receive your final compensation installment and any final reimbursements.
That’s exactly why choosing an experienced, hands-on agency like Chesapeake Surrogacy matters.
You’ll always have:
A dedicated case manager
Access to mental health professionals
24/7 support for medical or emotional needs
Guidance through every appointment and milestone
Surrogacy is a big decision — but you’re never doing it alone. With the right team and support, it becomes one of the most rewarding and empowering things a woman can do.
If you’ve ever felt the call to help someone build a family, we’d love to talk to you — no pressure, no commitment.
Take our quick 2-minute pre-screening quiz to see if you qualify.
Every family begins with someone who says yes. Could that someone be you?
Hawaii Surrogacy Center
Serving Hawaii & the Pacific Northwest
Surrogacy Center of Philadelphia
Serving Pennsylvania, New Jersey & Delaware
