Becoming a Surrogate with an Agency: How the Process Works
Do you want be a surrogate mother? Would you consider working with a surrogacy agency?
As an alternative, it is one of the best decisions you can make.
Working with a reputable, full-service surrogacy agency can make the process easier and less stressful. In addition to being an expert in matching surrogates and intended parents, full service agencies coordinate every aspect of the surrogacy process, connect you with trusted professionals, and provide round-the-clock support.
But how do you actually start working at an agency? And how can you make this process as smooth as possible? Read on to find out.
How do I decide if surrogacy is right for me?
Becomes a surrogate mother is one of the most selfless and rewarding decisions a person can make. But of course, this is not a decision taken lightly. It is important to be sure that surrogacy is the right choice for you and your family … and to be physically and emotionally ready to make this commitment.
Before you begin the process of becoming a surrogate mother, be sure to ask yourself these questions:
- Am I physically and emotionally healthy enough to be a surrogate?
- Are my motivations coming from the right place?
- Do I meet the requirements of the surrogacy agency?
- Do I want to be pregnant?
- Am I ready to commit to the process?
- Am I financially stable?
- Am I an organized person?
- Do I have the support I will need?
To learn more about the requirements for becoming a surrogate, follow this link.
How does a surrogacy agency find a surrogate?
Usually, prospective candidates will contact an agency, and they will pre-screen him. (You can find more about the process at Surrogate Parenting Services below.)
Many of the SPS surrogates are personal referrals from current or past surrogates in our program. They had a incredibly unforgettable experienceand they want to help others experience the joy of surrogacy.
How are surrogate mothers evaluated?
In SPS, there are several steps involved in selection process.
First, we conduct a telephone interview to determine if there is anything to do immediately disqualify himsuch as his age, the number of deliveries to him, or where he is located.
If there are no issues, we invite her to complete her profile and sign medical releases, so we can review her pregnancy and birth records.
Then, there is a video interview, a psychological screening, and finally, the potential successor meets with Cristie Montgomery, our founder and president.
Can I be a surrogate if I don’t have a child yet?
Unfortunately not.
Most clinics require surrogates to bring to term at least one child they are currently fostering. This allows clinics to review prenatal and delivery records of potential surrogates and confirm that there are no health complications for the surrogate or her children. If there have been issues with previous pregnancies or deliveries, it may indicate that similar problems may occur with subsequent pregnancies.
Clinicians also want to make sure potential surrogates know what to expect in general and will be better prepared for the challenges of pregnancy.
As a surrogate mother, who pays for your medical expenses?
Your medical expenses will be fully covered by insurance.
At SPS, we have a third party insurance specialist who reviews the surrogate’s personal insurance policy. If it is not surrogacy friendly, the intended parents will be given options for surrogacy friendly travel coverage. If the surrogate can use her personal insurance, she will be paid more for that.
Learn More About Surrogacy at Surrogacy Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate more than 30 years of helping make dreams come true! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We are passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both parties and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.