A surrogacy agency plays an integral role in fostering safe and positive experiences for both surrogates and intended parents.  Sure, it’s true that they’re responsible for making the connection between the surrogate, intended parents, and relevant medical professionals, but their responsibilities shouldn’t end there!

From the initial interview process through the payment of the final medical bills, a surrogacy agency provides guidance and support for the surrogate and intended parent(s) throughout this incredibly unique and complex journey.

How to Choose the Right Surrogacy Agency

Unfortunately, not all agencies are equal in the service and care they offer to surrogates or intended parents – potentially resulting in unnecessary challenges and burdens.  Fortunately, there are reputable agencies who are committed to the highest standards – resulting in consistently positive journeys and countless happy families.  That’s why it’s so important to choose the right agency for you and your family.

As you begin conducting your research and interviewing agencies (yes, you should be interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you), you have two basic goals:

  1. To find the reputable agencies that work in your area.
  2. To identify which surrogacy agency is best-suited for your unique needs.

To help you navigate that process, the team at Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) has compiled our list of The Five Most Important Questions You Should Ask – to ensure you’re making the best decisions possible.

1. What’s the Agency’s History and/or Level of Experience?

While there’s no guarantee that a long-established surrogacy agency will provide the superior service you deserve, you want to choose an agency that has a proven record of successful journeys.  Ask questions like: how long has the company been in business, how many families have they helped to create, and how has their reputation evolved (or remained consistent) over the years.

At SPS, we’re one of the oldest and most established surrogacy agencies in California.  Since 1990, we’ve helped to bring more than 780 babies into the world, and we’re honored to have so many of our new parents, surrogates, and medical professional partners refer their friends, family, and patients to us.

2. Can Prospective Surrogates Speak to Former Surrogates?

Internet searches can give you some insight into the experience of working with a particular surrogacy agency, but there’s nothing better than getting a first-hand account from a former surrogate.  Don’t be afraid to ask to speak with someone who has worked with the agency before.

At SPS, nearly 50% of our surrogates have such a positive experience with their first journeys that they choose to work with us again on a second journey (or more!).  We genuinely want you to choose the agency that’s best-suited for your needs, so we do everything we can to help you make an educated decision.

3. Are Both Parties Required (or Encouraged) to Have Legal Representation?

A full-service and reputable surrogacy agency should be looking out for your best interests.  Surrogacy is complex and requires comprehensive surrogacy contracts.  Before you sign any legal document, it’s essential that you fully understand the details.  Therefore, it’s essential that you have legal representation.

At SPS, we believe it’s important that surrogates and intended parents each have their own legal representation.  So, we arrange for you to meet with an attorney (at no cost to you), who will explain what the contract means and how the contract affects and protects you.

4. What Type of Support Does the Surrogacy Agency Provide for Surrogates?

As we mentioned above, not all surrogacy agencies offer the same level of service and care to their surrogates, so you should ask for details on the interaction you can expect from the agency and/or your case manager.

At SPS, we take a surrogate-centric approach to our work with case workers who are available 24/7.  The personal attention you experience at the beginning of your journey doesn’t end once you’ve been matched with intended parents.  Your case manager will be by your side during all fertility appointments and pregnancy milestone appointments.  You’ll also attend monthly support meetings led by a mental health professional, which helps you build a sense of community into your journey.

5. Is the Surrogacy Agency Upfront About Surrogate Compensation?

Financial compensation shouldn’t be the primary reason you’re interested in surrogacy, but it is one of the many benefits of becoming a surrogate.  A reputable surrogacy agency will be able to speak directly and professionally about compensation and other financial benefits, as well as answering all of your questions about medical bills and related costs.

To learn more about the surrogate compensation packages SPS Surrogates receive, we invite you to visit our website.  Not only do our surrogates receive base compensation and full coverage of medical bills, but we also include special additions, such as a housekeeper for the length of your pregnancy and four Exclusive Pamper Packages to make you feel special.

Learn More About California’s Leading Surrogacy Agency

Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship.  We’re passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both sides and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.

Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.