Finding a Surrogate: How Agencies Vet Gestational Carriers

How Agencies Recruit Surrogates

Reputable surrogacy agencies maintain an active pool of pre-screened gestational carriers. Agencies recruit surrogates through:

• Referrals from previous surrogates
• Online outreach and advertising
• Community events and surrogacy support groups
• Partnerships with fertility clinics

Most agencies receive many more surrogate applications than they accept. Only a small percentage pass the full screening process.

The Screening Process

Surrogate screening is rigorous and typically takes 4–8 weeks. It includes:

Medical screening

• Full physical examination
• Review of obstetric history (must have had at least one healthy pregnancy)
• Blood work and infectious disease testing
• Uterine evaluation
• BMI and overall health assessment

Psychological screening

• Psychological evaluation by a licensed therapist
• Assessment of motivations and expectations
• Evaluation of support system
• Discussion of potential emotional challenges

Background checks

• Criminal background check
• Financial stability review
• Home environment assessment
• Interview with partner/spouse (if applicable)

What You See in Surrogate Profiles

Once a surrogate passes screening, your agency will create a profile that typically includes:

• Age, location, and family information
• Obstetric history (number of pregnancies, deliveries)
• Motivations for becoming a surrogate
• Lifestyle and health habits
• Communication preferences and expectations
• Whether she's comfortable working with LGBT+ intended parents

The Selection Process

Your agency will present profiles that align with your preferences. The typical process:

1. Review 1–3 surrogate profiles from your agency
2. Discuss any questions with your case coordinator
3. Schedule an introduction call or video meeting
4. Both parties confirm they want to proceed
5. The agency formalizes the pairing

If either party doesn't feel it's the right fit, the agency will present additional profiles. There's no pressure to proceed with someone you're not comfortable with.

Building a Relationship with Your Surrogate

The relationship between intended parents and their surrogate varies. Some prefer regular communication and attendance at appointments, while others prefer a more professional relationship with periodic updates.

Your agency will help facilitate communication and set expectations early on. Many families and surrogates maintain a connection long after the birth.

How Long It Takes

The surrogate selection process typically takes 1 to 3 months from the time you begin reviewing profiles. Factors that can affect the timeline:

• Your specific preferences (location, experience level, etc.)
• Current surrogate availability at your agency
• Time of year (demand fluctuates seasonally)
• Whether additional screening is needed