What are the processes involved in being a surrogate mother in the United States from start to finish

1.Stage analysis of surrogacy process

1.1 Pre screening and matching (3-6 months)

• Qualification of surrogate mother:

You must have given birth to at least one child naturally and have no criminal record.

O Conduct psychological tests (such as MMPI scales) and drug and alcohol testing.

O Medical institutions need to check their pregnancy history and exclude high-risk diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.

• Matching mechanism:

Intended parents can browse the surrogate mother's profile (including health records and family background) through intermediary agencies.

Cultural differences are significant: Chinese clients often require confidentiality agreements, while American institutions encourage the establishment of "personal relationships".

1.2 Legal proceedings (2-4 months)

Contract signing:

Clarify the type of surrogacy (pregnancy surrogacy/traditional surrogacy), compensation amount (55000-85000), and division of medical responsibilities.

Agree on the number of embryos to be implanted (usually 1-2) and the terms for reducing pregnancy.

• Court authentication:

Submit medical certificates and psychological assessment reports to the court, and designate a litigation guardian to represent the interests of the fetus.

California and other states allow online hearings, while New York state requires on-site attendance.

1.3 Medical Process (12-14 Months)

• IVF cycle:

Using eggs/sperm from the commissioning party or donor for fertilization through ICSI technology.

Perform genetic testing (PGD/PGS) before embryo implantation to screen for healthy embryos.

• Pregnancy management:

Surrogates need to undergo regular prenatal check ups (ultrasound examination every 2 weeks) and receive high-risk pregnancy monitoring.

The insurance company bears all medical expenses (including premature birth and treatment of complications).

1.4 Delivery and Follow up Procedures

• Delivery schedule:

The client may choose a delivery hospital (such as Hogwarts Hospital in California, which provides Chinese services) and participate in the decision-making process for the delivery room.

Immediately conduct DNA testing on newborns after birth to confirm their biological relationship.

Legal documents:

The court issued a "Birth Order" confirming that the client is a legal parent.

Apply for a US passport and a Chinese travel document (if returning to China).

2. Economic Costs and Compensation Structure

2.1 Total Cost Composition (2025 Benchmark)

Project,---Cost Range (USD)---Description

Institutional service fee: 20000-40000; Including matching, legal, and psychological assessment

Medical expenses: 30000 to 50000; Including in vitro fertilization, prenatal examination, and delivery

Compensation for surrogate mothers: 55000-85000; Basic remuneration+subsidy for multiple births/cesarean section

Insurance and Emergency Fund: 15000-25000; Covering complications and legal disputes

Total: 120000-200000; Including additional service fees for Chinese customers (such as translation and visa)

2.2 Payment Nodes

When signing the contract: Pay 30% (including institutional deposit and legal document drafting).

Successful embryo transfer: 40% payment (initiation of medical procedures).

After delivery: 30% of the final payment (including the issuance of a birth certificate) shall be paid.

3. Suggestion

The surrogacy industry in the United States has formed a highly specialized service system, but legal complexity, cultural differences, and ethical disputes still need to be handled with caution. Suggested Parents:

3.1 Priority should be given to areas with well-established laws such as California and Nevada to reduce policy risks.

3.2 Sign a detailed contract, specifying compensation terms, medical responsibilities, and termination conditions.

3.3 Reserve 10% -15% emergency funds to deal with complications or legal disputes.