What Is the Surrogacy Process for Intended Parents in the United States
How Does the Surrogacy Process Work Step by Step
The surrogacy process for intended parents follows a structured sequence that begins with consultation and screening, continues through surrogate matching and legal and medical preparation, and concludes with pregnancy, birth, and legal parentage.
Intended parents begin by meeting with Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) to review timelines, legal considerations, medical steps, and expected costs. EDSI provides guidance from the initial consultation through matching, pregnancy support, and the moment parents take their baby home, ensuring clarity and confidence at every stage.
The surrogacy process typically takes twelve to eighteen months from initial consultation to birth, depending on surrogate matching timelines, medical preparation, and legal requirements. Legal parentage is established through court approved processes that vary by state and may occur before or after birth depending on jurisdiction, with coordination handled alongside experienced reproductive legal professionals.
PHASE 1 Initial Consultation
What happens at the initial surrogacy consultation
Your surrogacy journey begins with a personal consultation where we learn about your family goals and explain the complete surrogacy process. Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) reviews the medical timeline, legal requirements, and surrogacy costs so you understand each part of the journey. This meeting gives you clarity and a plan that reflects your unique needs.
PHASE 2 Matching with a Surrogate
How do intended parents match with the right surrogate
Your Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) professional presents carefully screened surrogate profiles based on your values, preferences, and medical requirements. You will have the opportunity to meet potential surrogates in a setting that encourages natural conversation and comfort. When both sides agree to move forward, the surrogate completes full medical screening at your fertility clinic to confirm readiness for the transfer.
PHASE 3 Legal Preparation
What legal steps do intended parents complete in surrogacy
You will meet with a reproductive attorney who explains your rights, responsibilities, and parentage steps. The attorney prepares a surrogacy agreement that protects everyone by outlining expectations, communication plans, and financial terms. Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) coordinates communication with all parties to ensure everything stays organized and clear.
PHASE 4 Medical Process
What is the medical process for intended parents and their surrogate
Your surrogate begins medical evaluations and cycle coordination at your fertility clinic. Your dedicated EDSI case manager helps organize appointments and keeps you informed at every step. Embryos created through IVF are transferred to your surrogate in a hopeful and meaningful moment. Pregnancy is then confirmed through blood tests and ultrasounds.
PHASE 5 Pregnancy and Monitoring
What do intended parents experience during the surrogate’s pregnancy
Your EDSI case manager coordinates your surrogate’s ongoing medical appointments and shares regular updates so you feel connected to the pregnancy. Parents and surrogates receive emotional support and guidance throughout the journey. You may attend appointments when possible and maintain communication that feels respectful and comfortable for everyone.
PHASE 6 Prepare for Birth
How do intended parents prepare for the birth of their baby
Your EDSI case manager creates a birth plan with you, your surrogate, and the healthcare team to ensure the delivery experience feels smooth and supported. Legal documents are finalized before the birth so everything is in place for a seamless transition. You will be guided on where to be, what to expect, and how to stay involved.
PHASE 7 Delivery and Post Birth Steps
What should intended parents expect at delivery and after birth
You attend the delivery and meet your baby for the first time in a moment of joy and fulfillment. Legal parentage steps are completed so your rights are fully recognized. Your new baby is placed in your care, and Egg Donor & Surrogacy Institute (EDSI) helps coordinate any final paperwork so you can focus on bonding and creating your first memories.
PHASE 8 Post Birth Support
What support do intended parents receive after birth
After delivery, both parents and surrogates may receive emotional support to help with the transition. If everyone agrees, you may stay in touch with your surrogate and share updates as your baby grows. EDSI remains available to assist with final questions and ensure a positive and respectful closure to the journey.
The Concierge Care Standard
The Concierge Care Standard is EDSI’s structured service framework that provides coordinated case management, consistent communication, and experienced guidance throughout the surrogacy process. It includes ongoing support across medical, legal, and logistical milestones, with additional coordination for international families who require assistance with travel planning, documentation, and cross border legal processes.
What Services Does EDSI Provide to Support the Surrogacy Process
