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Surrogate FAQ
We know that choosing to become a surrogate is a big decision—and with it often comes a lot of important questions. To help you feel more confident, informed, and supported, we’ve put together this set of FAQ to address the most common questions we receive from women considering this incredible journey.
From how to get started, to compensation details, to medical and emotional considerations—everything here is designed to give you honest, clear answers in one place.
If you don’t see your specific question or need more personalized guidance, we’re always here for you.
Medical & Physical Requirements
IVF clinics set Body Mass Index (BMI) limits primarily to protect the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby. A healthy BMI supports a smoother IVF process, reduces the risk of complications during pregnancy, and increases the likelihood of a successful embryo transfer.
At Giving Tree Surrogacy, we accept surrogates with a BMI of 32 or lower in accordance with medical guidelines. That’s why it’s so important to provide honest and accurate information in your application—because these details impact far more than eligibility; they help ensure the safest and healthiest journey possible for everyone involved.
The age limits are guided by recommendations from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, which IVF clinics and physicians use to promote safe, healthy pregnancies. As we age, hormone levels can fluctuate and certain medical risks may increase, which can affect both the surrogate and the baby.
At Giving Tree Surrogacy, we welcome surrogate candidates who are between 21 and 38 years old. If you’ve recently completed a successful surrogacy journey and are just beyond this age range, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to talk through your individual situation and see what might be possible.
According to most guidelines set by fertility clinics, there should be a wait period of 6 months after a vaginal delivery and 12 months if by C-section before an embryo transfer can take place.
However, there are still many important steps that can be taken during this time—such as collecting your medical records, completing the application process, and preparing for matching with intended parents. Starting early helps ensure you're ready to move forward as soon as you're medically cleared.
Of course. Having your tubes tied will not affect the ability to become a surrogate.
Bed rest after embryo transfer depends on the specific IVF clinic you’re working with. Some clinics may recommend resting for 24–36 hours, while others may suggest returning to light activity sooner. Always follow the guidance of your clinic for the best results.
Yes. Every clinic is different in medications assigned, but usually you can expect prenatal vitamins, birth control pills, and fetility enhancing hormones. You may experience some symptoms such as mood swings while taking those medication since your hormones will be changing, but they are similar to those happening during any regular pregnancy.
Surrogacy pregnancies generally feel the same as traditional pregnancies, and you may experience common symptoms like morning sickness, mild headaches, or some swelling in your feet and hands. These are all normal parts of the journey and nothing to be alarmed about.
In some cases, if you're carrying twins and it's your first time doing so, your doctor may recommend more frequent checkups to make sure everything stays on track. Throughout it all, you’ll have caring professionals supporting you every step of the way, making sure you feel comfortable, confident, and cared for.
Travel may be required and depends on the intended parents and the location of their IVF clinic. We ensure all travel costs are covered on your behalf — the right match is worth the travel.
Of course. During your pre-screening, your surrogate consultant will discuss with you regarding your comfort level in carrying one or multiple children.
Compensation, Insurance & Financials
At Giving Tree Surrogacy, we offer one of the most generous and thoughtful compensation packages in the field, with base compensation typically ranging from $50,000 to $90,000—and total packages reaching up to $115,000 for experienced surrogates.
We understand that every surrogate’s journey is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to building your benefits package. From your location and level of experience to special milestones throughout your journey, we tailor your compensation to reflect the full value of your time, care, and commitment.
You’ll also have access to generous bonuses, including our referral rewards, because we believe your impact should be honored in every possible way.
Your monthly base compensation typically begins once the baby’s heartbeat is confirmed, usually around weeks 6 to 8 of pregnancy. In addition to your base compensation, you’ll receive bonuses and allowances that may begin even before pregnancy—such as payments for medical screening, medication start, and embryo transfer.
If you're carrying twins or more, an additional payment—called a multiples fee—is provided around week 20. All of these details will be reviewed with you during the screening process, so you’ll know exactly what to expect at every stage.
The intended parents will provide health insurance to cover most medical expenses related to your pregnancy and delivery. If there are any unexpected or additional costs, they will take care of those as well. All IVF procedures, medical appointments, copayments, and deductibles connected to your surrogacy journey will also be fully covered by the Intended Parents.
You don’t need to have surrogacy coverage in your insurance to apply. Our team will review your current plan and guide you through your options. If it doesn’t cover the journey, we’ll work with the intended parents to arrange any additional coverage needed—so you can still move forward and help make a family’s dream of parenthood come true.
Emotional Support & Relationship Dynamics
Throughout the process, Intended Parents may reach out by phone, text, email, or other ways to check in on how things are going—like asking about appointments, ultrasounds, or just seeing how you’re feeling. We encourage open communication and connection whenever possible, but it’s never required.
Most relationships grow naturally over time, and how often you stay in touch really depends on what feels right and comfortable for everyone involved.
Throughout the journey, you may receive updates by phone, email, or WeChat about your clinic visits and ultrasounds. We encourage intended parents to stay in touch along the way, but how often you connect is totally up to everyone’s comfort. After the baby is born, many surrogates and families choose to stay in contact and continue the bond—but again, that’s completely personal and develops naturally over time.
We strongly encourage all surrogates to have the full support of their partner throughout the journey. If you’re not married, it’s still important to have someone close to you—a trusted friend or family member—who can be there to support and share the experience with you. Having that emotional support can make a big difference along the way.
Unexpected Situations & Legal Concerns
At Giving Tree, we take great care in screening both our surrogates and Intended Parents to ensure a strong foundation for the journey. In the rare event that the Intended Parents separate or divorce, any custody decisions will be handled solely by them. You can feel completely at ease knowing that you will never be asked to take on responsibility for the baby. Your role is honored and protected, every step of the way.
We strongly encourage all surrogates to have the full support of their partner throughout the journey. If you’re not married, it’s still important to have someone close to you—a trusted friend or family member—who can be there to support and share the experience with you. Having that emotional support can make a big difference along the way.
Throughout the process, Intended Parents may reach out by phone, text, email, or other ways to check in on how things are going—like asking about appointments, ultrasounds, or just seeing how you’re feeling. We encourage open communication and connection whenever possible, but it’s never required.
Most relationships grow naturally over time, and how often you stay in touch really depends on what feels right and comfortable for everyone involved.
Throughout the journey, you may receive updates by phone, email, or WeChat about your clinic visits and ultrasounds. We encourage intended parents to stay in touch along the way, but how often you connect is totally up to everyone’s comfort. After the baby is born, many surrogates and families choose to stay in contact and continue the bond—but again, that’s completely personal and develops naturally over time.
If a loss or miscarriage occurs, it can be an emotional and difficult time. Please know that you won’t face it alone. The Intended Parents will still take responsibility for all related matters, and our team will be here to support you with care, compassion, and the resources you need to heal—physically and emotionally. Your well-being will always remain our priority.
Getting Started & Application
At Giving Tree Surrogacy & Egg Donation, you’re more than just a surrogate — you’re family. As a full-service agency that is internationally recognized and locally trusted, we’re proud to offer deeply personalized, concierge-style care throughout every stage of your journey. From the moment you apply, our experienced team — made up of former surrogates, egg donors, and intended parents — is here to provide compassionate, knowledgeable support you can rely on.
Based in Orange County, California, we understand the emotional and physical investment surrogacy requires, and we’re committed to walking alongside you with care, respect, and heartfelt gratitude. Plus, we offer one of the most generous compensation packages in the industry — because we believe your dedication and kindness deserve to be recognized and celebrated every step of the way.
If you're ready to explore becoming a surrogate, your first step is to complete our initial application here. Before applying, we kindly ask that you review our basic requirements to ensure you're eligible for this meaningful journey. These guidelines help protect your health and the success of the process. If you’re unsure about anything, we’re always here to help—your safety and well-being come first.
If you meet our basic requirements and move forward after pre-screening, one of our compassionate surrogate consultants will reach out to schedule your evaluation consultation. During this conversation, they’ll gently walk through your pregnancy history, general health, and support system to ensure you're fully prepared and supported for this special journey.
While surrogacy is one of the most rewarding experiences, pursuing it independently can quickly become overwhelming without the right support. When you become part of the Giving Tree family, you’re never on your own. We take care of everything—from legal steps and finding the right match, to scheduling screenings and managing medical appointments.
And if any bumps arise along the way, our experienced and caring team is here to handle them with compassion and professionalism. That way, you can stay focused on what truly matters: a healthy, peaceful pregnancy and the incredible joy of helping to build a family.
Begin your journey.
We’re here for you at every step.
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