The cost of surrogacy often catches people off guard. Most families expect the big numbers, but it’s the unexpected surrogacy costs that can create stress during the journey. While the average range in 2025 is between $100,000 and $200,000, there are less obvious expenses that don’t always show up in agency brochures. At EDSI, we believe in helping you prepare for everything, not just the basics.
Mock Cycle Compensation
Some clinics require your surrogate to undergo a mock cycle to ensure her body responds to medications before the actual embryo transfer. This is often compensated.
Estimated cost: $500 to $1,000
Lost Wages for the Surrogate
If your surrogate works, she may need time off for monitoring, transfer, or postpartum recovery — especially after a C-section.
Estimated cost: $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on job and location
C-Section Recovery Fee
C-sections come with added recovery time and risks, and most contracts include a C-section fee.
Estimated cost: $2,500 to $5,000
Multiples Fee (Twins or More)
If your surrogate is pregnant with twins, she’ll likely receive an additional compensation amount for the physical toll and higher medical risk.
Estimated cost: $5,000 to $15,000
Maternity Clothing Allowance
Once pregnant, your surrogate will need maternity clothes. This is often a flat stipend written into the agreement.
Estimated cost: $500 to $1,000
Childcare and Housekeeping Help
If your surrogate needs bed rest or time off her feet, she may require childcare or cleaning support covered by you.
Estimated cost: $1,000 to $3,000+
Bed Rest or Modified Activity
Extended rest means she might need extra accommodations — or help managing her home — which becomes your responsibility to cover.
Estimated cost: $500 to $2,000 or more
Insurance Policy Gaps
Even with maternity coverage, not all policies cover every cost. Some require supplemental coverage or may deny claims mid-pregnancy.
Potential extra cost: $8,000 to $25,000
Travel and Overnight Stays
Even local surrogates may need to travel for screening, embryo transfer, or delivery — and you’ll cover flights, hotels, and meals.
Estimated cost: $1,500 to $5,000
Contract Changes or Legal Updates
Life happens — sometimes agreements need to be updated due to new insurance needs, transfers, or changes in delivery plans.
Legal updates: $500 to $2,500
How to Plan Your Surrogacy Budget the Smart Way
Knowing what to expect helps you prepare financially and emotionally. The total cost of surrogacy includes more than the headlines — it includes moments, decisions, and protections that matter.
At EDSI, we help you build a complete surrogacy budget with clarity from day one.
Ready to start building your surrogacy plan?
Book a free consultation with our expert team. We’ll walk you through the real numbers and show you how to prepare.
Book Your Free Consultation
Call: 310-209-1898
Email: edsi@eggdonorandsurrogacy.com
