Why Choose an Agency for Your Surrogacy Vs. Going Independent

So, you’ve decided that you might be a great candidate to become a surrogate and assist some lucky Intended Parents with having the family they’ve been dreaming of. You are wondering- should I just put an ad out on the Internet or should I sign up with an agency? Which will be easier? Which will allow me to make the best choice for me and my family? In this blog post, I am going to give you some food for thought. I’m speaking to the first-time surrogate here but honestly, anyone considering surrogacy can benefit from having a team supporting them the way an agency does.

·       A surrogacy agency knows all the steps it takes BEFORE a match with IPs is even possible

·       The agency can educate you and manage your expectations so you can make the best decision for yourself and your family

·       The agency only works with Intended parents that they have vetted, educated, and know are financially stable in order to complete the entire process

·       An agency offers guidance each step of the surrogacy process and there are many steps. From your first application and interview to collecting your past medical records, reviewing your insurance coverage, to finding out the best Intended Parents for you. The agency is responsible for keeping you and all potential intended parents on track. (Without an agency this would all be up to you!)

·       Once you are matched the agency helps you with finding the psychologist, the satellite clinic if needed and assists with everything from making sure your OB is surrogacy friendly, the hospital has the proper grade NICU, and that your attorney is knowledgeable in his or her field of reproductive law. 

·        An agency makes sure any funds are deposited into a reliable escrow account in a timely manner

·       Throughout the surrogacy pregnancy the agency makes sure that the lines of communication stay open with all parties. They are there to mediate in the case of any minor disagreements and are also there to make sure any major issues are resolved using the professionals who are deemed best to assist with resolution.

There are many more reasons why signing up with an agency can make the surrogacy journey easier. These are just a few bullet points. A surrogacy match can last over 18 months and having a team of professionals on your side can certainly make your experience one to remember. 

If you are considering going the independent route then it would be best if the Intended Parents at least hired a consultant. Some agencies also offer this type of service. The important message here is that it is a lot of work and red tape to do this by yourself especially for the first time. Having someone to guide and support you and your IPs along the way can make this journey less stressful while leaving more time to concentrate on the most important part of surrogacy; pregnancy and birth!

Are you ready to become a surrogate?