A Step-by-Step Surrogacy Timeline
If you are considering surrogacy, one of the first questions you likely have is simple and important: What does the process actually look like?
At Over the Rainbow, we believe that education creates empowerment. When the surrogacy process is explained clearly, families and surrogates can move forward with calm expectations instead of guesswork.
Below is a comprehensive step-by-step look at what a surrogacy journey typically involves.
Initial Consultation and Education
Estimated timeframe: 2 to 4 weeks
Every journey begins with a conversation.
For intended parents, this stage involves:
Reviewing medical history and fertility background
Discussing goals and expectations
Understanding financial considerations
Learning about state laws and eligibility
For potential surrogates, this includes:
Reviewing basic qualifications
Discussing prior pregnancy history
Exploring motivations
Learning about commitment requirements
Professional guidelines from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine outline important considerations for third-party reproduction arrangements, including eligibility and informed consent.
At Over the Rainbow, we take time during this phase to answer every question thoroughly. There is no rush. The foundation of a healthy surrogacy journey is clarity from the start.
Application and Screening
Estimated timeframe: 1 to 3 months
Once both parties decide to move forward, screening begins.
For Surrogates
Screening includes:
Detailed medical records review
OB clearance
Psychological evaluation
Background checks
Home assessment
Insurance review
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides maternal health guidelines that inform best practices in pregnancy safety and risk awareness.
Psychological readiness is equally important. The American Psychological Association highlights the value of emotional assessment in major reproductive decisions.
For Intended Parents
Intended parents may also complete:
Medical consultations with a fertility clinic
Psychological consultation if required
Financial planning and escrow setup
Legal education sessions
Thorough screening protects everyone and sets the stage for a smooth match.
Matching
Estimated timeframe: 1 to 6 months
Matching is one of the most meaningful milestones in the surrogacy timeline.
This stage includes:
Reviewing profiles
Virtual or in-person meetings
Discussing expectations around communication
Aligning on medical preferences
Confirming comfort with key topics
At Over the Rainbow, we do not match quickly for the sake of speed. We match thoughtfully. Compatibility matters more than timelines.
Once both parties feel confident and excited, the match is officially confirmed.
Legal Contracts
Estimated timeframe: 4 to 8 weeks
Before any medical procedures begin, legal contracts must be finalized.
Each party works with independent reproductive law attorneys to draft and review the surrogacy agreement. The contract covers:
Compensation and reimbursements
Medical decision-making terms
Parental rights
Insurance coverage
Contingency planning
The American Bar Association provides guidance on ethical family law practices, emphasizing independent representation and clarity in agreements.
No medical steps move forward until contracts are fully signed. This protects both intended parents and the surrogate.
Medical Preparation and IVF Cycle
Estimated timeframe: 1 to 3 months
Once contracts are complete, the fertility clinic begins the medical phase.
This typically includes:
Cycle synchronization
Hormone medications for the surrogate
Embryo transfer procedure
Bloodwork to confirm pregnancy
If the first transfer is not successful, additional transfers may be needed. This is a normal possibility and one we prepare families for ahead of time.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provides information about assisted reproductive technology and IVF procedures that help families understand what to expect medically.
When pregnancy is confirmed, the journey enters a new and exciting stage.
Pregnancy
Estimated timeframe: 9 months
The pregnancy phase is the longest portion of the surrogacy process.
During this time:
Regular OB appointments take place
Ultrasounds monitor development
Communication between surrogate and intended parents continues
Agency case management provides ongoing support
We help coordinate expectations around:
Appointment attendance
Updates and milestone sharing
Travel arrangements if needed
Delivery planning
Emotional check-ins are also important during this phase. Postpartum Support International offers resources related to emotional health before and after pregnancy, which we often share proactively.
Pregnancy is both joyful and vulnerable. Support makes the difference.
Delivery Planning
Estimated timeframe: Final trimester
As the due date approaches, we help families prepare for delivery.
Planning includes:
Hospital coordination
Birth plan discussions
Legal documentation review
Immediate postpartum expectations
Visitor guidelines
Clear communication ensures that everyone understands their role and feels comfortable heading into delivery day.
Birth and Hospital Stay
Timeframe: Delivery and 1 to 3 days postpartum
Birth day is emotional and unforgettable.
Hospital processes vary by state, but typically include:
Immediate placement of baby with intended parents
Medical recovery care for the surrogate
Final documentation
Emotional support for everyone involved
Because legal groundwork was completed earlier, intended parents are able to step confidently into their new role.
This moment represents years of hope for many families.
Postpartum Recovery and Transition
Estimated timeframe: 6 to 12 weeks postpartum
After delivery, the surrogacy timeline continues.
For the surrogate:
Physical recovery monitoring
OB follow-up appointments
Emotional check-ins
For intended parents:
Adjustment to newborn care
Follow-up pediatric visits
Processing the emotional completion of the journey
The American Academy of Pediatrics provides trusted guidance for newborn health and early development, which we frequently share with new parents.
Post-birth support ensures everyone transitions with care.
Long-Term Communication and Closure
Each surrogacy relationship evolves differently after birth.
Some maintain frequent updates. Others settle into occasional milestone sharing.
We guide expectations early and remain available if either party needs support navigating post-birth communication.
A thoughtful ending supports long-term wellbeing.
How Long Does the Entire Surrogacy Timeline Take?
On average, a surrogacy journey from initial consultation to birth can take 15 to 24 months.
Several factors influence timing:
How quickly a match is found
Legal review timelines
IVF success rates
State-specific regulations
While timelines matter, the quality of the journey matters more.
At Over the Rainbow, we focus on building a strong foundation rather than rushing milestones.
Why Understanding the Surrogacy Process Matters
When the surrogacy process is explained clearly:
Anxiety decreases
Expectations align
Decisions feel grounded
Communication improves
Education is one of the greatest forms of support we offer.
FAQs About the Surrogacy Timeline
How long does it take to find a surrogate?
It varies. Some families match within a few months, while others may take longer depending on preferences and compatibility.
What happens if an embryo transfer fails?
Additional transfers can be attempted depending on available embryos and medical guidance.
Can intended parents attend doctor appointments?
Yes, depending on location and mutual agreement. Many appointments can also be attended virtually.
Is legal work required before pregnancy?
Absolutely. Contracts must be fully executed before any embryo transfer occurs.
What if complications arise during pregnancy?
Medical professionals guide care decisions, and the legal agreement outlines protocols for various scenarios.
Walking the Journey With Confidence
A surrogacy journey is detailed and layered, but it is also deeply human and filled with hope.
When you understand the surrogacy timeline, the path becomes less intimidating and more empowering. Each step builds on the one before it, creating a structured and supportive process that protects everyone involved.
At Over the Rainbow, we are committed to guiding families and surrogates through every phase with clarity, compassion, and integrity.
If you are ready to explore surrogacy or want to understand how this journey could look for you, we invite you to connect with our team.