Surrogacy as a Single Parent

Surrogacy for Single Parents: An Overview

The number of single individuals pursuing surrogacy has grown significantly in recent years. Whether you're a single man or woman, surrogacy offers a path to parenthood with a biological connection to your child.

While the process is largely the same as for couples, single intended parents have some unique considerations around legal protections, donor selection, and support systems.

For Single Men

Single men pursuing surrogacy will need both an egg donor and a gestational carrier. The process includes:

• Selecting an egg donor (agency, bank, or known donor)
• Creating embryos with your sperm via IVF
• Finding a gestational carrier through an agency
• Legal agreements and pre-birth orders

Many agencies are experienced in working with single men and can guide you through every step.

For Single Women

Single women typically pursue surrogacy when they cannot carry a pregnancy themselves. In this case, you can use your own eggs (if viable) combined with donor sperm, or use both an egg donor and sperm donor.

Using your own eggs provides a genetic connection to your child and may reduce overall costs.

Legal Considerations in Texas

Texas surrogacy law (Family Code Chapter 160) was written for married couples, which means single intended parents may face additional legal steps. Working with an experienced surrogacy attorney is essential.

Common legal approaches for single parents include:

• Establishing parentage through genetic testing
• Court orders to be named on the birth certificate
• Post-birth adoption proceedings (in some cases)

Cost and Financing

Costs for single parents are comparable to those for couples: $100,000 to $150,000+ in Texas. Single men may have additional egg donor costs. Financing options and grants are available — some specifically for single intended parents.

Building Your Support Network

Going through surrogacy as a single person doesn't mean doing it alone. Consider:

• Support groups for single parents by choice (online and local)
• Your surrogacy agency's support services
• Friends and family who can provide practical and emotional support
• Professional counseling during the process