When families begin exploring surrogacy, the first step is often asking what questions to ask when looking for a surrogate. Intended parents want clarity on timing, costs, legal steps, and the kind of support they will receive. At Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI), we hear these concerns every day, and providing clear answers is the foundation of our guidance. Below are the ten most common questions and what you need to know before starting your journey.
How long will it take to be matched with a surrogate?
At EDSI, most intended parents are matched within 4 to 6 weeks. This is significantly faster than the industry average of 2 to 3 months. Our Matching Compass™ system and continuous surrogate screening allow us to present qualified profiles quickly.
What is the total cost of surrogacy?
The average surrogacy journey costs between 100,000 and 200,000 dollars in the United States. This includes agency fees, surrogate compensation, medical expenses, IVF procedures, insurance, and legal representation. California surrogacy can be on the higher end due to stronger legal protections and higher surrogate demand, but many families find the peace of mind worth the investment.
At EDSI, we also offer an all-inclusive surrogacy package that helps reduce costs by bundling agency fees, surrogate benefits, Egg Donor fees, and legal services, IVF and support into a single structured program. This approach creates more predictability, prevents unexpected add-ons, and often makes the overall journey more cost-effective.
How are surrogates screened?
Every surrogate who works with EDSI goes through a thorough medical, psychological, and background screening process. This includes review of medical records, OB clearance, psychological evaluations, infectious disease testing, lifestyle assessment, and criminal background checks. We only present surrogates who meet strict health and reliability criteria.
Can we choose our surrogate?
Yes. Intended parents review detailed surrogate profiles and meet potential matches before making a decision. Our process emphasizes shared values, comfort levels, and communication style. With the Matching Compass™, we go beyond surface criteria to ensure long-term compatibility.
What legal steps are required to secure parental rights?
In California and other surrogacy-friendly states, pre-birth orders secure your parental rights before delivery. In less supportive states, families may need a post-birth order or adoption. EDSI works with specialized reproductive law attorneys to make sure your parental rights are recognized and protected.
Where will the surrogate give birth?
Surrogates deliver at hospitals near their home, provided those hospitals meet insurance requirements and have NICU facilities available if needed. Intended parents are typically are present at the delivery. This detail is confirmed in your surrogacy agreement so that everyone knows what to expect.
What if complications arise during pregnancy?
All sensitive issues, such as selective reduction or termination for medical reasons, are discussed and agreed upon before the match. This ensures everyone is aligned and no one is surprised if difficult decisions arise later. EDSI supports both surrogates and parents with medical guidance and counseling in these scenarios.
What if the first embryo transfer does not work?
Not every embryo transfer results in pregnancy, and this is a common concern for intended parents. At EDSI, we include up to three embryo transfers with the same surrogate as part of our program. If the surrogate is determined not to be a fit before any embryo transfer occurs, we also provide one rematch at no additional agency cost. This ensures families have both security and flexibility built into their journey.
Can we use our own fertility clinic and embryos?
Yes. Many families come to us with embryos already created through their own clinic. We coordinate directly with your doctor to ensure the surrogate is approved and cleared for transfer. If you do not yet have a clinic, we can recommend trusted fertility specialists. EDSI also works closely with many leading fertility clinics across the country, which allows us to streamline the process and provide you with more options if needed.
What emotional and logistical support is available?
Surrogacy is both a legal and medical journey, but it is also emotional. At EDSI, we provide ongoing support through counseling resources, personalized connection from our leading team, and guidance through every milestone from match to birth. Our team is available to consult at all times so families never feel left alone with questions or concerns. Whether it is during the screening stage, throughout pregnancy, or after delivery, you will always have direct access to expert support.
Asking the right questions helps families begin their surrogacy journey with confidence. At EDSI, we believe in providing not just answers, but reassurance and guidance every step of the way. With faster matching, rigorous screening, and California’s surrogacy-friendly laws, we help you move from hope to parenthood.
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CALL: 310-209-1898
EMAIL: edsi@eggdonorandsurrogacy.com
