There is A LOT to learn when you first start researching surrogacy. We get it! Let start with some frequently asked questions!

What is surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an incredible journey where a compassionate person, like you, carries and delivers a baby for someone who cannot do so on their own. It’s a beautiful way to help intended parents grow their family while forming meaningful connections along the way. As a surrogate, you’re giving the ultimate gift—hope, love, and a brand-new beginning for a family. Surrogates are compensated for their time and incredible generosity.

Is the baby related to me?

In most cases, no, the baby is not biologically related to you. The majority of surrogacies are gestational surrogacies, meaning the embryo is created using the intended parents' or donors' egg and sperm, and you are simply the amazing person who carries and nurtures the baby until birth. You’re not providing your own egg, so there’s no genetic connection to the baby.

Are surrogates compensated?

Yes! We recognize what a huge gift this is and what it takes to grow a human!!! Surrogates are highly compensated with Roots. We value what you are doing and so do our Intended Parents. Compensation is varied based on how many times who have been a surrogate but for our first time surrogates, base compensation starts at $60,000 and there are also bonuses along the way. Carriers are paid monthly over the course of 8 months of pregnancy for their base compensation and are given bonuses for timed events like signing your legal agreement or starting medication. You can learn all about compensation on our Process and Compensation page!

What are the requirements to be a surrogate with Roots?

• Have delivered a child of their own and have at least 50% custody.

• Are between the ages of 22-39 years of age

• Do not participate in certain government aid programs including cash assistance, welfare, public housing or section 8

• Typically have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of no higher than 30. (In some instances, BMI between 31-33 is acceptable.) Calculate My BMI.

• Live in a surrogate-friendly state in the United States (We do not accept surrogates in Texas, Louisiana, Nebraska,  Indiana or Arizona)

• Have the support of family and friends and partner (should one exist) 

• Do not use illegal drugs, smoke cigarettes, or abuse alcohol

• Are not currently using any medications for mental health issues

• No serious complications in pregnancy such as preeclampsia, hypertension, hemorrhage, IUGR, etc.

Do I have a relationship with the Intended Parents?

Yes, in most cases, surrogates do build a relationship with the intended parents. The level of connection depends on everyone’s preferences, but at Roots Surrogacy, we encourage open communication and meaningful relationships throughout the journey. Many surrogates and intended parents form strong bonds, sharing updates, milestones, and even lifelong friendships. We’re here to support and guide both parties to ensure the relationship feels natural and comfortable for everyone involved.

How is the baby (embryo) put in me?

The baby is placed in you through a medical procedure called an embryo transfer. This process happens at a fertility clinic, where a doctor uses a tiny catheter to gently place the embryo into your uterus. The embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ egg and sperm, so you’re not biologically connected to the baby. The procedure is quick, painless for most people, and carefully monitored to ensure the best chance for a healthy pregnancy.

How long does the whole process take?

The surrogacy process typically takes about 18-24 months from start to finish. This timeline includes:

1. Agency Screening: 2-4 months to gather medical records, educate, background checks and psychological evaluations.

2. Matching and Preparation for Pregnancy: 3-5 months to match with the perfect parent(s), medical evaluations, and legal contracts

3. Medications and Embryo Transfer: 1 to 2 months to begin medications to prepare your body for transfer

4. Pregnancy: 10 months for the pregnancy itself.

Each journey is unique, so the exact timeline may vary depending on factors like medical protocols, the matching process, or unforeseen delays. Roots will be there at every step to mae sure that you know what is happening, what are next steps and to provide guidance and support.

I heard that the medications are shots!?

It’s completely normal to feel nervous about the idea of shots—many surrogates feel the same way at first! The medications used to prepare your body for the embryo transfer often include injections, but don’t worry—our team and your clinic will provide detailed instructions and plenty of support to make it as easy as possible.

Most surrogates find that the process is manageable, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Many women even say the excitement of the journey outweighs the fear of the shots! You’ve got this, and we’re here to cheer you on. 💕

Do I have to be willing to terminate a pregnancy?

While there is so much testing and monitoring of pregnancies in surrogacy that it makes terminations rare, they do happen on occasion. Not all agencies require that surrogates are willing to terminate but at Roots, we do not partner with surrogates who are not comfortable terminating. We strongly feel that this decision should be left up to the parents of the baby. This decision is never an easy one and is always carefully considered by parents, it is their decision to make.

What does the diet and lifestyle of a surrogate look like?

As a surrogate, your diet and lifestyle play an important role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both you and the baby you’re carrying. Here’s what it typically looks like:

Diet

A surrogate’s diet is similar to that of any healthy pregnancy:

• Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

• Avoid certain foods like raw fish, unpasteurized dairy, deli meats, and excessive caffeine to ensure the baby’s safety.

Lifestyle

Surrogates are encouraged to maintain a healthy and low-stress lifestyle:

• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs.

• Exercise regularly with safe, moderate activities like walking, yoga, or swimming.

• Get plenty of rest and prioritize self-care.

• Follow your doctor’s guidance on prenatal vitamins and any additional supplements.

At Roots Surrogacy, we provide resources and guidance to help you maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout your journey. On occasion, Intended Parents will ask that surrogates alter from some of their normal habits like requesting that the surrogate eats organic foods or changes out her cleaning products or self care products. These changes are paid for by the Intended Parents and are discussed in the match call.

What are the risk in surrogacy?

While surrogacy is a safe and rewarding experience for most women, like any medical process, it does come with potential risks. It’s important to be informed and supported throughout the journey. Here are some of the risks to consider:

Physical Risks

• Pregnancy and Delivery Risks: As with any pregnancy, there are risks such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm labor, or complications during delivery.

• Medications: The fertility medications used to prepare your body for the embryo transfer may cause temporary side effects such as headaches, mood swings, or bloating.

• Embryo Transfer Procedure: While typically simple and painless, there is a small risk of infection or other complications.

Emotional Risks

• Emotional Challenges: Carrying a baby for someone else can be emotionally complex, and saying goodbye to the baby after delivery may bring mixed feelings.

• Failed Transfers: Embryo transfers do not always work and failed transfers can cause feelings of disappointment and confusion.

• Relationship Strain: The journey can sometimes add stress to your personal relationships, requiring open communication with your loved ones.

Support

At Roots Surrogacy, we prioritize your health, safety, and your emotional well-being. You’ll have access to a comprehensive support system, including medical experts, mental health professionals, and our team, to guide you every step of the way. This is a journey we walk together 💕