Surrogacy Timeline: A Month-by-Month Guide

Timeline Overview

The total surrogacy timeline from your first consultation to bringing your baby home typically spans 13 to 18 months. The process moves through distinct phases, each with its own milestones.

Here's what a typical journey looks like, month by month.

Months 1–2: Agency Selection

Your journey begins with choosing a surrogacy agency. During this phase you'll:

• Research and consult with 2–3 agencies
• Review contracts and fee structures
• Sign with your chosen agency
• Complete your intended parent profile
• Begin your home study (if required by your agency)

Months 2–4: Surrogate Selection

Your agency will present you with pre-screened surrogate profiles based on your preferences. This phase includes:

• Reviewing surrogate profiles
• Video or in-person introduction meetings
• Confirming mutual compatibility
• Surrogate medical and psychological clearance

Some intended parents connect with a surrogate within weeks; for others it may take 2–3 months depending on preferences and availability.

Months 4–5: Legal Contracts

Once you've confirmed your surrogate, both parties work with independent attorneys to draft and sign the gestational surrogacy agreement. This typically takes 4–6 weeks and covers:

• Compensation and payment schedule
• Medical decisions and expectations
• Communication preferences
• What happens in various scenarios (multiples, complications, etc.)

In Texas, the agreement is then submitted for court validation.

Months 5–7: Medical Process & IVF

With legal clearance, the medical process begins:

• Egg donor cycle (if applicable): egg stimulation and retrieval
• Embryo creation via IVF
• Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), if desired
• Surrogate cycle synchronization
• Embryo transfer
• Two-week wait, then pregnancy confirmation via blood test

If the first transfer doesn't result in pregnancy, additional cycles may add 1–3 months to your timeline.

Months 7–16: Pregnancy

A standard pregnancy lasts approximately 40 weeks (9 months). During this time:

• Your agency coordinates regular updates and check-ins
• You may attend key ultrasound appointments
• Your attorney files for a pre-birth order (around 7 months gestation)
• You prepare for the birth: travel plans, hospital registration, pediatrician

Month 16+: Birth & Beyond

When your baby arrives:

• You're present for the birth (in most arrangements)
• The hospital follows your pre-birth order: you're named on the birth certificate
• You take your baby home
• Final payments to the surrogate are processed through escrow
• Your agency provides post-birth support

What Can Affect Your Timeline

• Surrogate availability: High demand can extend wait times
• Multiple IVF cycles: Each additional cycle adds 1–3 months
• Egg donor selection: Finding the right donor can take time
• Legal complexity: Unmarried or out-of-state parents may need extra steps
• Medical complications: Bed rest or early delivery can shift plans