Report – SurrogateFirst https://surrogatefirst.com Helping families, one blessing at a time Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:11:00 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.4 https://surrogatefirst.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/surrogatefirst_favicon_2_32x32.webp Report – SurrogateFirst https://surrogatefirst.com 32 32 Agency vs. Independent Surrogacy in the US https://surrogatefirst.com/report/agency-vs-independent-surrogacy-in-the-us-survey-results/ Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:09:19 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=6547
  • Report

Agency vs. Independent Surrogacy in the US

Share this article:

Overview - Top 3 trends from SurrogateFirst

icon magnify white
#1: Higher pay, different trade-offs
icon increase white
#2 Match times vary dramatically
icon faces white
#3 Support shapes the journey

About this survey

Methodology

  • All data and insights captured via online survey
  • 2023 survey completion captured from January 18, 2023 to February 24, 2023
  • Overall sample size / n = 168 completions
  • Please note that we ran a similar survey from December 6 to December 30, 2019 that had a sample size / n = 193 completions.
  • We will at times compare 2023 results with 2019 results if they are applicable and provide trending insights.

Contents

01.
Executive Summary

Surrogate Happiness

  • Agency managed surrogates “overall” had the most satisfied journeys and the most likely to embark on a repeat journey. 88% reported
    having a “satisfied” journey and 85% stating they would consider becoming a repeat surrogate. Those stating that they would “definitely consider”
    was very high, 68%, reflecting the positive experience they had with the most recent journey.
  • Agency surrogates have better surrogacy experiences over independent journeys. In almost all aspects of the journey agency surrogates reported
    higher satisfaction especially in the steps of legal, medical clinic dealings and IP interactions. This is no surprise as this is where agency services play the most
    important role and value in supporting a smooth journey.

Surrogate Preferences & Trends

  • Agency Surrogates exhibit strongest motivations to help start a family. Although all surrogates exhibit strong motivation to help start families, agency surrogate
    motivations are much stronger compared to independent surrogates.
  • Independent journeys on the rise. More than ½ of independent journeys led by IPs were first time surrogates compared to only 23% for agency led surrogacies.
  • Independent journeys lack critical family support. Only 15% of independent journeys led by IPs had “very supportive” family compared to 66% for agency
    surrogates. Furthermore, independent journeys led by IPs reported 30% had “unsupportive” family raising serious red flags for mental health issues and post pregnancy challenges.
  • Surrogates managed by an agency were more likely to have “Termination at IP discretion” stance. Independent IP led journeys reported a 90% termination
    stance based on “doctor recommended only”, so it seems this may have been more a requirement for independent IP led journeys.
  • Agency match times are fastest with 47% matched in first 3 months, and 78% within 6 months. In contrast, 40% of independent surrogates had to wait over 6
    months or longer to be matched. Agencies usually have many qualified IPs ready to be matched while independent surrogates rely on own resources to find IPs.
  • Agency surrogacy transfer pregnancy rates have higher rates of success, 69% vs 41%-45% compared to independent journeys. This could be attributed to higher rate of egg donor cycles with higher embryo quality with agency journeys, or could be due to the increased support of the agency and more stringent requirements to become a surrogate leading to better outcomes.
  • Independent surrogates prefer to carry for US based and non-same sex IPs. Only 3%-5% independent surrogates actually carried for same-se IPs, however they reported at a much higher rate of 25%-31% a willingness to carry for same-sex reflecting the challenges that they face in finding same-sex IPs. The same can be said for challenges faced with matching with international IPs.

Surrogate Compensation & Benefits

  • Independent surrogates most satisfied with their compensation but at a huge cost. Independent surrogates were paid the most on average, up to 25% more, and were slightly more satisfied than agency managed surrogates at 94%-95%. However, they received substantially less benefits both cash and non-cash, and suffer from much higher rates of mental health challenges – up to 10x more compared to agency managed surrogates.
  • Independent surrogates are paid more but at the expense of unbalanced compensation ranges. Independent surrogates were compensated up to 25% more with a broad range of compensation – 15% below $30K and 30% over $60K. In contrast, agency managed surrogate compensation ranges are narrow with 70% between $30K-$50K based on clear expectations.
  • Agency managed surrogate receive additional benefits and services worth $20K-$30K+. Agency managed surrogates received more benefits in all categories of
    cash benefits (mainly bonuses and allowances), as well as non-

Surrogate Post Pregnancy & Postpartum Health

  • Post Pregnancy Crisis Among All Independent Surrogates. 74%-80% of independent surrogates reported post-pregnancy struggles. The rates of occurrence is alarmingly high as they are 3x (mental health issues) to 7x (physical health issues) more prevalent than experienced by agency managed surrogates.
  • Independent surrogates suffer from higher rates of postpartum blues. They have the highest occurrence of 36% of postpartum challenges with the highest rates of anxiety (34%) and depression (31%). This is in stark contrast to agency managed surrogate rates of anxiety (3%) and depression (9%), respectively.

02.
Methodology

  • All data and insights captured via online survey
  • 2023 survey completion captured from January 18, 2023 to February 24, 2023
  • Overall sample size / n = 168 completions
  • Please note that we ran a similar survey from December 6 to December 30, 2019 that had a sample size / n = 193 completions.
  • We will at times compare 2023 results with 2019 results if they are applicable and provide trending insights.

03.
Surrogate Pre Journey: Motivations & Preferences

How important were each of the following factors in terms of choosing to be a surrogate: The desire to help a couple have a family

Surrogates, who had an agency manage their journey, were60% more likely to cite “The desire to help a couple have a family” as Very important versus Independents.
Agency was at 88% versus 53% for Independent and 55% for Independent with IP in lead.

1.Surrogate desire to help couple have family

How important were each of the following factors in terms of choosing to be a surrogate: The compensation for being a surrogate

Compensation for being a surrogate was Very important 52% of the time. This was 148% more than Agency and 246% more than Independent with IP in lead.
Adding Important and Very Important equals:

  • 93% for Independent
  • 80% for Independent with IP in lead
  • 71% for Agency
2.Compensation for being a surrogate

How important were each of the following factors in terms of choosing to be a surrogate: The desire to bear a child

On average, the desire to bear a child was Important 82% of the time.

  • 95% for Independent with IP in lead
  • 81% for Agency
  • 79% for Independent
3.Surrogate desire to bear child

How important were each of the following factors in terms of choosing to be a surrogate: Personal experience with infertility in my personal network

Personal experience with infertility in my personal network Important 80% of the time for Independent with IP in the lead.
This drops to 64% for Independents and 63% for Agency.

4.Surrogate personal experience with infertility in network

How important were each of the following factors in terms of choosing to be a surrogate: Calling to help others in need

Agency surrogates cited 74% of the time the Calling to help others in need as Very important. This was 35% higher than Independent with IP in lead.
The lowest was Independent at 36%, which is 51% lower than Agency.

5.Surrogate calling to help

During your most recent journey, what best describes the area you lived?

Surrogates managed by agencies tend to live less in cities and more in the suburbs and rural settings compared to independent surrogates.
Independent with IP in lead were overwhelming City dwellers 4 out of 5 times.

6.Surrogate area vs independent or agency

Have you ever been a surrogate?

Upward trend of independent journeys with IPs in the lead.
In the last year, there is a growing number of surrogates who managed their surrogacy independently with the IPs in lead.

7.Even been a surrogate

How supportive was your immediate family initially?

Surrogates managed by an agency felt that their immediate family was at least 40% more supportive than Independents.
Most agencies require a strong family network to qualify as a surrogate.
Independent with IP in lead journeys had 30% of family that were unsupportive, which is concerning. Independent journeys also reported 11% as unsupportive.

8.Surrogate immediate family support

What is your termination stance?

90% of Independent with IP in the lead cite Termination for major life threatening medical reasons, doctor recommended only, which is about 2x the rate of Agency and Independent.
Surrogates managed by an agency were more likely to have “Termination at IP discretion” stance at 44%.

9.Surrogate termination stance

What is your outlook on COVID-19 vaccination?

Independent with IP in lead are most likely to be vaccinated at 75%.
Surrogates in general are vaccinated at a lower rate than the adult US population at 67% versus 79.1% of the US population adult population who completed the primary series*.

10.Surrogate outlook covid vaccination

04.
The surrogacy journey

How long was it from the time you decided to become a surrogate until you were matched with a family?

Agency managed journey match times were the fastest (Less than 3 months). Agency was 38% faster than Independent and 88% faster than Independent with IP in lead.
Matches for Agency were completed 78% of the time within 6 months.
In contrast, it was 58% for Independent and 60% for Independent with IP in lead for matches completed within 6 months.

11.Surrogate matching time

How many attempts were required before you successfully became pregnant?

Agency managed journeys had the highest single transfer success rate of 69%.
The success rate jumps to 91% after two attempts.
This could be attributed to the fact that egg donation is more prevalent in agency journeys, which have higher embryo quality.

12.Surrogate attemps numbers to get pregnant

What types of intended parents (IPs) were you willing to work with?

Surrogates who managed their journey with an Agency, are the most open-minded when it comes to types of IPs they would work with.
In particular, Agency is 113% and 164% more willing to work with a Same sex couple than Independent and Independent with IP in lead, respectively.

13.What type of IP for surrogate

What type of intended parents (IPs) did you work with?

Agency managed surrogates are 5x to 10x more likely to have worked with same sex couples.
On the other hand, independent surrogates worked more often with Single parents.

14.Surrogate final choice IP

Were the intended parent(s) living in the United States or outside the United States?

Independent IPs overwhelmingly carried for Domestic US IPs.
In contrast, close to half, 44%, agency managed surrogates worked with international IPs.
Besides independent surrogate preferences, language and culture barrier may impede the ability to match with international IPs.

15.Surrogate IP national vs international

How satisfied were you with your most recent surrogacy experience (overall)?

Surrogates who used an Agency were the most satisfied with their experience than those who managed their surrogacy independently.
Satisfaction by journey management:

  • Agency: 89%
  • Independent: 81%
  • Independent with IP in lead: 65%

Independent surrogate journey led by IP were the least satisfied by a wide margin.

16.Surrogate overall satisfaction

How satisfied were you with each of the following aspects of your most recent surrogacy experience?

Surrogates managed by an agency were more satisfied with most aspects of the experience, particularly with the legal aspects, clinic dealings, and IP interactions.
Independent beat out Agency for The birth experience preparation and at time delivery and The post birth and postpartum experience.
Independent with IP in the lead never ranked first in any category.

17.Surrogate satisfaction aspects

How satisfied were you with: Dealing with the intended parents for whom you were a surrogate?

Large majority, 86%, of surrogates managed by an agency were
satisfied with dealing with their IPs. This is much higher than those
who managed their surrogacy independently.
Only 55% of independent surrogates led by IP had satisfied dealings with IP.
Surprisingly, 10%-15% of independent surrogates reported being unsatisfied with their dealings with IP. This can result in stress, anxietym and burden to the surrogacy journey.

18.Surrogate satisfaction with IP relationship

How satisfied were you with: Dealing with the clinic for medical clearance and transfer?

Surrogates managed by an agency were 3x more “Very satisfied” with dealing with the clinic than those who managed their surrogacy independently.
This may be attributed to the fact that agency’s responsibilities include managing all travel and medical appointment arrangements, including dealing with the clinic for medical clearance and transfer.

19.Surrogate satisfaction with clinic

How satisfied were you with: The legal aspects of surrogacy?

Surrogates managed by an agency were 168% more “Very satisfied” with dealing with the legal aspects than those who managed their surrogacy independently.
If one does not have a legal background, it can be extremely challenging drafting and redrafting legal documents between parties and with lawyers. For Agency surrogates, this is part of the accountabilities of the company.

20.Surrogate satisfaction with legal

How satisfied were you with: The birth experience preparation and at time delivery?

Independent were most Satisfied 81% of the time with the birth experience preparation and at time of deliver.
This was followed by Agency 78% of the time and Independent with IP in lead 75% of the time.

21.Surrogate satisfaction with delivery process

How satisfied were you with: The post birth and postpartum experience?

Independent surrogates were slightly more satisfied with the post birth and postpartum experience 75% of the time.
Independent with IP in lead was at 65% of the time, and Agency was at 62% of the time.

22.Surrogate satisfaction with postpartum experience

05.
SurrogateTotal Fees:
Compensation and Benefits

How satisfied were you with the compensation for being a surrogate?

Overall all Surrogates were satisfied with their compensation.
Those managed by an agency were more 46% more “Very
satisfied” with their compensation than other Independent and Independent with IP in lead.
However, when you add in Satisfied, Independent with IP in the lead goes up to 95% versus 94% for Independent and 85% for Agency.

23.Surrogate satisfaction with compensation

Approximately how much base compensation did you receive for being a surrogate?

Independent surrogates reported the highest base compensation at $57,000.
This was followed by Independent with IP in lead at $51,000 and Agency at $45,000 in base compensation.

24.Surrogate base compensation

Besides the base pay, what types of surrogacy benefits did you receive?

Surrogates managed by an agency received substantially more benefits.
Surrogates managed by agency received more in ALL categories of additional cash benefits: all bonus instances, maternity clothing, gifts, massage therapy.
Surrogates managed by agency received more non-cash benefits as well in travel expenses, legal services, life insurance.

25. Surrogate benefits received

If you were a surrogate this year, what would be your base compensation expectation?

All surrogates are expecting substantial increases in base compensation ranging from 11% to 31%.
Agency managed surrogates expect the biggest increase, whereas independent surrogates expect a lower increases.
Overall, expected compensations are now more comparable regardless of who manages the surrogacy.

  • Overall: +22%
  • Agency: +31%
  • Independent: +11%
  • Independent with IP in lead: +18%
26. Surrogate base compensation expectation

05.
SurrogateTotal Fees:
Compensation and Benefits

What types of struggles did you experience post-pregnancy?

Independent surrogates struggled 2x as much as agency surrogates with post-pregnancy.
Of those that experienced post-pregnancy struggles independent surrogates reported substantially higher rate of challenges on all accounts compared to their agency counterparts.

Of those that reported struggles, 40% of independent surrogates experienced mental health struggles post-pregnancy. Way above the national average of 10%- 20%.

28.Surrogate postpartum complications

Did you experience postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or other emotional issues as a result of your pregnancy?

Postpartum depression and anxiety is exceptionally high among Independent surrogates.
Independent surrogates experienced postpartum anxiety 10x and depression 3x more often than their agency surrogate counterparts, respectively.
Independent surrogacy led by IP had the highest % of participants reporting no emotional experiences at 85%.

27. Surrogate postpartum mental health

Did you receive treatment for the emotional issues that were a result of your pregnancy?

More than half of Independent surrogates suffered from emotional issues as a result of surrogacy pregnancy.
Independent with IP in lead was the lowest at 31% followed by Agency at 39%.

29.Surrogate postpartum mental treatment

If the opportunity arises will you consider being a surrogate again?

Surrogates managed by agencies would Definitely consider becoming a surrogate again at 2x to 3.5x higher than independent managed journeys.
But if you add in Probably consider it, then overall all surrogates had a high level of interest in becoming a surrogate again at a 80%+ rate.

30.Surrogate willingness to repeat

06.
Conclusions and future perspectives

  • Independent Surrogates are compensated higher, but at a huge cost to physical and mental health.
  • Independent Surrogacy journeys are on the rise.
  • Surrogates working with agencies receive additional $20K-$30K+ in benefits and services.
  • Surrogates working with agencies have significantly higher rates of success at transfer – 69% vs 45%.
  • Post pregnancy crisis among independent surrogates with 80% reporting post pregnancy struggles.
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> Infertility Benefits at Work: 2025 Survey Trends https://surrogatefirst.com/report/infertility-benefits-in-the-job-market-key-2025-survey-trends/ Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:00:14 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=5084
  • Report

Infertility Benefits at Work: 2025 Survey Trends

Share this article:

Overview - Top 3 trends from SurrogateFirst

icon increase white
#1: Benefits Equality is Mainstreamed as a topic
icon magnify white
#2 Offering Infertility Benefits Matters
icon faces white
#3 Employer Policies are Under Delivering on Employee Expectations

About this survey

Methodology

  • All data and insights captured via online survey.
  • Intended parents were recruited via SurrogateFirst email list. 10 respondents completed the survey between March 17, 2025 and March 25, 2025.
  • Respondents without surrogacy background were recruited via a third party service. 183 respondents completed the survey between March 17, 2025 and March 25, 2025.
  • Overall sample size / N = 193 completions.

Contents

01.
Executive Summary

Benefits Equality is Mainstreamed

Offering Infertility Benefits is Important to Meet Employee Expectations & Satisfaction

  • Fertility benefits are increasingly common and expected among IPs. 4 out of 10 IPs said their companies provide insurance benefits that cover infertility treatment (5% for general public). On average, those benefits provide $11,000 in coverage. 83% of intended parents are willing to pay a higher premium for additional benefits.
  • 70% of IPs and 15% of general public find it very or extremely important for their employers to offer inclusive infertility benefits as part of job satisfaction and company loyalty.

Employer Policies are Under Delivering on Employee Expectations

  • 40% of intended parents rated their company policies as “poor” or “very poor” in helping employees seeking support to a become parent via IVF, surrogacy and adoption; and they strongly agree or agree (80%) that more support should be offered.

Infertility Benefits & Employee Retention

  • Job Retention: 90% of intended parents (87% in 2923) and  29% of general public (42% in 2023) would be inclined to stay with a company that offered comprehensive infertility benefits.
  • Switching Jobs: 70% of intended parents (79% in 2023) and  29% of general public (33% in 2023) would consider switching jobs that offer substantially more comprehensive infertility benefits.

02.
Benefits Equality

How aware is the general public on surrogacy?

In 2023, 11% of respondents from the general audience reported knowing a friend or family member who had successfully completed a surrogacy journey. By 2025, 17% said they knew someone who had used surrogacy.

How aware is the general public on surrogacy​

What is your annual household income?

Intended Parents pursuing surrogacy tend to have higher incomes ($235,000) compared to the broader population. Placing them in the upper middle class of American wage earners.

The total cost of surrogacy creates a financial barrier and limits access to the services needed to pursue family building to those who don’t have financial support.

2023 vs 2025: The average household income increased for both categories, with the trend of higher incomes among IPs remaining consistent.

Ip annual household income

2025: Does your organization's insurance plan cover IVF, infertility, surrogacy costs?

40% of IPs and 5% of general public respondents have their IVF, infertility, or surrogacy expenses covered by their employer.

This reflects the recognition of the importance infertility benefits have become to employee satisfaction and expectations.

2023 vs 2025: In 2025, 40% of surveyed IPs said their organisations insurance plan covers IVF, infertility, surrogacy costs compared to 32% in 2023.

Company insurance covering infertility graph

How much coverage does your employer provide?

On average, employers are providing $11,000 in health insurance coverage and benefits to their employees for infertility related services.

Intended parents receive slightly higher coverage ($11,250) for IVF, infertility, or surrogacy costs compared to individuals who are not engaged in surrogacy.

2023 vs 2025: The average health insurance coverage for infertility remained consistent. The gap in coverage between IPs and the general public in 2025 is less pronounced compared to 2023.

Employer coverage of infertility graph

Would you be willing to pay a higher premium for a health insurance plan that covers surrogacy?

Intended parents would pay a higher premium for a health insurance plan to cover surrogacy, while people who do not intend to have a child through surrogacy would rather not.

Companies should consider offering additional health coverage plans to employees to manage their future family building plans.

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years, although the willingness to pay more has declined for both groups since 2023. Read the 2023 results here.

Health insurance premium including infertility graph

Do you support legislation that requires companies to provide health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility services, including surrogacy?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

Most respondents (90% of IPs and 51% of general population), support legislation that requires companies to provide health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility services.

Particularly, intended parents are 76% more likely to support such legislation compared to the general population.

In favor of additional fertility benefits graph

03.
Infertility Benefits & Employee Satisfaction

How important is it for your employer to provide inclusive benefits, such as infertility & surrogacy coverage, in terms of your job satisfaction and loyalty?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

Intended parents believe it is very or extremely important (70%) for their employers to provide infertility & surrogacy coverage in terms of their job satisfaction and loyalty.

In contrast, for those who do not plan to have a child through surrogacy, this benefit is 367% less important, being rated as “not at all important” or “slightly important” (52%).

Importance of fertility benefits employee satisfaction graph

How would you rate your employer's current policies and support for employees seeking to become parents through IVF, surrogacy and adoption?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

IPs are not satisfied with policies and support for infertility benefits to employees, with 40% saying current support policies and support are “poor” or “very poor.”

Intended parents were 208% more likely to rate their employer’s policies as “poor” or “very poor” compared to others.

Rating employer infertility policy graph

Do you agree employers should offer additional support or benefits to employees pursuing IVF, surrogacy and adoption?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

Intended parents also agree that employers should offer additional support or benefits to employees pursuing IVF, surrogacy and adoption, expressing this opinion 95% more frequently than people from the general population.

General audience is often not decided (neither agree nor disagree, 43%) that employers should offer additional support.

In favor of additional fertility benefits graph

Do you agree employers should offer additional support or benefits to employees pursuing IVF, surrogacy and adoption?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

Intended parents also agree that employers should offer additional support or benefits to employees pursuing IVF, surrogacy and adoption, expressing this opinion 95% more frequently than people from the general population.

General audience is often not decided (neither agree nor disagree, 43%) that employers should offer additional support.

In favor of additional fertility benefits graph

04.
Infertility Benefits & Employee Retention

Would you be more inclined to stay with a company that offers comprehensive coverage for IVF, surrogacy and adoption?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

90% of IPs would be inclined to stay with a company that provided comprehensive infertility benefits.

Intended parents are more likely to stay with a company that provides coverage for IVF, surrogacy, and adoption, while individuals from the general population were 550% more frequently neutral on this matter.

Employee retention vs infertility benefit graphj

Would you consider switching jobs if new employer offered substantially more comprehensive coverage for infertility & surrogacy?

2023 vs 2025: The trend remains consistent across years.

In 2025, intended parents would be 133% more inclined to change jobs if a new employer offered significantly more extensive coverage for infertility and surrogacy.

Companies need to be aware and proactive in retaining key talent that are likely to experience infertility and family creation challenges with strong health coverage plan options.

Employee loyalty vs fertility benefit graph
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> Public Opinion in 2025: Surrogacy, IVF & Family-Building Policies https://surrogatefirst.com/report/public-opinion-in-2025-surrogacy-ivf-family-building-policies/ Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:12:47 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=5103
  • Report

Public Opinion in 2025: Surrogacy, IVF & Family-Building Policies

Share this article:

Key Insights from 2025 SurrogateFirst Survey: Perspectives on Surrogacy, IVF, and Family-Building Policies:

icon family
#1: What does the public think about building family through surrogacy?
Surrogatefirst traditional surrogacy
#2 What are the outlooks on IVF, abortion and embryo protection?
#3 What do people think about current Surrogacy Regulations and possible changes to come?

About this survey

Research Context

The landscape of surrogacy and family-building policies in the United States is undergoing significant transformation, driven by evolving legal, economic, and social factors. With the recent 2024 election, new regulatory shifts and state-specific policies have introduced heightened uncertainty for both surrogates and intended parents. These changes have influenced everything from surrogate availability and contractual agreements to the financial feasibility of surrogacy, prompting a reassessment of best practices within the industry.

As these developments unfold, understanding the perspectives of surrogates, intended parents, and the broader public is crucial for navigating this complex environment. This research examines public perceptions, policy impacts, and financial factors shaping surrogacy in the U.S.

All data and insights in this report come from an online survey conducted from March 17 to March 25, 2025, with 224 respondents: 31 surrogates, 10 intended parents, and 183 others (all U.S. citizens aged 18–65).

Contents

01.
Public Perspectives on Surrogacy and Family-Building

Sf graph showing by gender support to surrogacy to build family

Support for surrogacy as a family-building option is exceptionally strong among direct stakeholders — surrogates and intended parents, with 100% expressing strong agreement. The majority of the general population is also supportive, though with less intensity: 31% strongly agree, 37% agree, while nearly a quarter (24%) remain neutral.

Sf graph showing by age support to surrogacy to build family

Support for surrogacy as a family-building option is exceptionally strong among direct stakeholders — surrogates and intended parents, with 100% expressing strong agreement. The majority of the general population is also supportive, though with less intensity: 31% strongly agree, 37% agree, while nearly a quarter (24%) remain neutral.

Sf graph showing support to surrogacy to build family

Women are more likely than men to strongly support surrogacy (38% vs. 22%), while men are more often undecided, with nearly one-third selecting “neither agree nor disagree.”

When asked if they would consider surrogacy as a path to parenthood in case of infertility, surrogates and intended parents showed strong support, with 90% of IPs and 80% of surrogates agreeing or strongly agreeing. Among the general public, a majority (58%) would also consider this option; however, uncertainty remains higher in this group, with 22% undecided and 19% expressing disagreement.

Sf graph would i consider surrogacy for medical reason
Sf 2025 report part 1 surrogate

Support for the legality of surrogacy is strong and consistent. Among surrogates and intended parents, opposition to outlawing surrogacy is unanimous, while 75% of the general public also disagree with a ban. Only 5% of the general public explicitly support outlawing surrogacy, with the remaining 20% undecided. Most people, even outside of direct involvement, lean toward support or remain open to the practice.

Sf graph should surrogacy be outlawed

While support for the legality of surrogacy is undoubtful, views on whether it should be limited to medical reasons, such as infertility, rather than for convenience, are more divided. Among surrogates and intended parents, 36% strongly disagree or disagree with this limitation, while 39% strongly agree or agree that surrogacy should only be allowed for medical reasons. In the general public, the opinions are similarly mixed, with 37% strongly disagree or disagree and 35% strongly agreeing or agreeing that surrogacy should be allowed for medical reasons. While support for surrogacy is clear, there is no consensus on restricting its use to medical necessity.

Sf graph should same sex couples have the same parental rights

90% of surveyed surrogates and IPs agree or strongly agree that same-sex couples should have equal legal protection and automatic parental rights in surrogacy agreements as heterosexual couples. However, the general public shows more divided views, with 63% in favor, but 16% believing that same-sex couples should not have the same legal protections and parental rights as heterosexual couples.

Surrogates and intended parents demonstrate overwhelming support for the idea that surrogacy should be legally accessible to all individuals, including LGBTQ+ parents and single parents, with 93% strongly agreeing or agreeing. In contrast, the general public shows more mixed views, with 61% expressing agreement and 17% strongly disagreeing or disagreeing.

Sf graph should surrogacy be available to all
Sf graph should the surrogate be able to decide to terminate pregnancy

Views on whether a surrogate should have the final say in continuing or terminating a pregnancy, even if it conflicts with the intended parents’ wishes, are similarly divided between surrogates and intended parents and the general public. Among surrogates and IPs, 46% disagree or strongly disagree, while 29% agree or strongly agree. The general public shows similar split, with 31% in agreement and 31% in disagreement, while a large share — 37% — remain neutral.

02.
Perspectives on IVF, abortion, and legal protections for embryos

Sf graph should ivf be outlawed in the us
Sf graph should ivf be affordable to all

A majority of surrogates and intended parents (68%) oppose outlawing abortion in the U.S., with 51% strongly disagreeing. The general public shows a similar trend, with 59% opposed and 42% strongly disagreeing. Support for banning abortion remains relatively low across both groups—just 14% of surrogates and IPs and 22% of the general public agree or strongly agree—though that still represents a significant portion of respondents.

Sf graph should abortion be outlawed in the us

There is strong consensus that IVF should not be outlawed. An overwhelming 97% of surrogates and IPs and 78% of the general public disagree or strongly disagree with banning IVF. Support also runs high for making IVF more affordable and accessible: 98% of surrogates and IPs agree, including 76% who strongly agree, while 65% of the general public also agree or strongly agree, signaling broad recognition of the importance of IVF as a family-building option.

Sf graph opinion about ivf embryo legal protection

Views on whether embryos created through IVF should have the same legal protections as living children are divided. Among surrogates and intended parents, 36% disagree or strongly disagree with this idea, while 51% agree or strongly agree. The general public shows a slightly more moderate stance, with 26% disagreeing, 50% agreeing, and 25% remaining neutral. There is no clear consensus on granting embryos full legal status equivalent to living children.

Intended parents — those directly involved in pursuing fertility services — were the most likely to report that inflation and rising costs have negatively impacted their ability to access treatments like IVF and surrogacy. Nearly 90% of intended parents agreed or strongly agreed with this statement, with 67% strongly agreeing. In comparison, only 39% of the general public and 39% of surrogates expressed the same concern, with a significant portion in both groups remaining neutral.

Sf graph impact of inflation on access to fertility treatment

03.
Attitudes toward surrogacy regulation and policy changes

Support for requiring health insurance to cover surrogacy-related medical expenses is significantly higher among surrogates and intended parents compared to the general public. A strong majority of surrogates and IPs (88%) agreed or strongly agreed with this policy, with 59% expressing strong agreement. In contrast, views among the general public are more mixed—only 51% agreed or strongly agreed, while 24% disagreed, and a notable 25% remained neutral. This gap highlights the difference in perspective between those directly involved in surrogacy and those who are not.

Sf graph health insurance cover surrogacy

Support for birthright citizenship is relatively strong across both groups. Among surrogates and intended parents, 59% agreed or strongly agreed that anyone born in the U.S. should automatically receive citizenship, while 20% remained neutral. The general public showed a similar pattern, with 60% in agreement and 19% neutral. Only a small minority in either group opposed the policy.

Sf graph support to birthright citizenship

Surrogates and intended parents show less support for government intervention in surrogacy compared to the general public, where opinions are more mixed. Among surrogates and intended parents, 56% either strongly disagree or disagree with government regulation of surrogacy, while only 5% strongly agree. In contrast, the general public is more divided, with 33% remaining neutral, 30% supporting regulation, and 37% opposing it.

Sf graph should surrogacy be regulated by the us governement

Under the new administration, multiple policies have been signed that could influence the landscape of surrogacy. Surrogates and intended parents show a higher level of concern compared to the general public regarding these policies. 41% of surrogates and intended parents express varying degrees of concern, with 27% being very concerned and 15% extremely concerned. In contrast, only 28% of the general public share similar concerns, with a significant portion, 33%, expressing no concern at all.

Sf graph concerns about restrictions on surrogacy new administration
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report https://surrogatefirst.com/report/benefits-equality-employee-retention-2023/ Fri, 22 Nov 2024 10:13:41 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=3476
  • Report

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report

Share this article:

Executive Summary

Benefits Equality is Mainstreamed

● Knowledge of infertility & surrogacy issues are becoming mainstream.
○ 60% know someone who has experienced infertility
○ 30% know someone who has contemplated surrogacy to start a family
○ 11% know a family that has pursued a surrogacy journey.

● Surrogacy affordability is mainly limited to the upper middle class. Those able to afford surrogacy have an average annual household income of $176,000, creating a barrier to fair and equal access to treatment.

● 58% of employees support legislation that requires companies to provide health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility services, including surrogacy.


Offering Infertility Benefits is Important to Meet Employee Expectations & Satisfaction


● Fertility benefits are increasingly common and expected. Approximately 1 in 3 surveyed said their companies provide insurance benefits that cover infertility treatment. On average, those benefits provide $11,000 in coverage. 91% of intended parents are willing to pay a higher premium for additional benefits.
● 65% of employees find it important for their employers to offer inclusive infertility benefits as part of job satisfaction and company loyalty.

Employer Policies are Under-Delivering on Employee Expectations

● 60% of intended parents rated their company policies as “poor” or “very poor” in helping
employees seeking support to a become parent via IVF, surrogacy and adoption; and they
strongly agree (78%) that more support should be offered.


Infertility Benefits & Employee Retention

● Job Retention: 61% of overall employees would be inclined to stay with a company that offered comprehensive infertility benefits. This inclination increases to 87% for employees who plan to be intended parents.
● Switching Jobs: 79% of employees that plan to be intended parents via surrogacy would
consider switching jobs that offer substantially more comprehensive infertility benefits.

Contents

01.
Benefits Equality

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 1

Intended Parents pursuing surrogacy tend to have higher incomes ($176,000) compared to the broader population. Placing them in the upper middle class of American wage earners.

The total cost of surrogacy creates a financial barrier and limits access to the services needed to pursue family building to those who don’t have financial support. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 2

Approximately 30% of people we surveyed, whether they are involved in surrogacy or not, have their IVF, infertility, or surrogacy expenses covered by their employer.

This reflects the recognition of the importance infertility benefits have become to employee satisfaction and expectations.

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 3

On average, employers are providing $11,000 in health insurance coverage and benefits to their employees for infertility related services.

Intended parents receive greater coverage ($14,500) for IVF, infertility, or surrogacy costs compared to individuals who are not engaged in surrogacy. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 4

Intended parents would pay a higher premium for a health insurance plan to cover surrogacy, while people who do not intend to have a child through surrogacy would rather not. 

Companies should consider offering additional health coverage plans to employees to manage their future family building plans. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 5

Most respondents we surveyed (60%), support legislation that requires companies to provide health insurance coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of infertility and fertility services.

Particularly, intended parents are 46% more likely to support such legislation compared to the general population.

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 6

02.
Infertility Benefits & Employee Satisfaction

Intended parents believe it is important (41%) for their employers to provide infertility & surrogacy coverage in terms of their job satisfaction and loyalty. 

In contrast, for those who do not plan to have a child through surrogacy, this benefit is 267% less important, being rated as “not at all important.”

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 7

Overall, employees are not satisfied with policies and support for infertility benefits to employees, with 46% saying current support policies and support are “poor” or “very poor.”

Furthermore, intended parents were 82% more likely to rate their employer’s policies as “poor” or “very poor” compared to others. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 8

Intended parents also agree that employers should offer additional support or benefits to employees pursuing IVF, surrogacy and adoption, expressing this opinion 70% more frequently than people from the general population. 

Note there is broad support (57%), from overall respondents who “agree” or “strongly agree” that more benefits should be offered. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 9

03.
Infertility Benefits & Employee Retention

61% of all respondents would be inclined to stay with a company that provided comprehensive infertility benefits. 

Intended parents are more likely to stay with a company that provides coverage for IVF, surrogacy, and adoption, while individuals from the general population were 391% more frequently neutral on this matter.

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 10

Intended parents would be 79% more inclined to change jobs if a new employer offered significantly more extensive coverage for infertility and surrogacy. 

Companies need to be aware and proactive in retaining key talent that are likely to experience infertility and family creation challenges with strong health coverage plan options. 

Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report Graph 11

Although compensation and benefits continue to rise sharply, surrogate satisfaction towards their compensation has decreased. Most surrogates, 69%, were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their compensation, a decrease from 96% in 2020. If we look deeper, the disparity in compensation satisfaction stems from those answering “Neutral” or “Unsatisfied”, which has substantially increased from 4% to 31%; while at the same time “Very Satisfied” increased from 35% in 2020 to 44% in 2023.

benefits-equality-employee-retention-report-graph-12

Key Findings

  • Surrogacy is becoming mainstream (11% know someone that pursued surrogacy. 

  • Providing comprehensive infertility benefits retains employees (61% inclined to remain) & attracts new talent (79% consider switching jobs).

  • Current employer policies concerning infertility services are under delivering (60% rated Poor or Very Poor).

NEXT STEPS

  • Schedule a time to speak to a surrogacy expert. 
  • View most recent survey: State of Surrogacy 2023 – results from over 200 experienced surrogates. 
  • Request access to upcoming survey.
Benefits Equality & Employee Retention 2023 Report
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> LGBTQ+ Couples on Their Right to IVF and Surrogacy Report https://surrogatefirst.com/report/lgbtq-couples-on-their-right-to-ivf-and-surrogacy-report/ Tue, 25 Jun 2024 09:23:59 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=2936
  • Report

LGBTQ+ Couples on Their Right to IVF and Surrogacy Report

Share this article:

Report Overview

icon family
51% surrogates & 68% IPs feel new rulings and bills will impact same-sex couples more
same sex couple
75% same-sex IPs are concerned about the new bills
icon faces white
67% same-sex IPs surveyed are extremely concerned that IVF and surrogacy can be negatively impacted

01.
Personhood Bills Impact Same-sex Couples More

LGBTQ+ couples and individuals are likely to be disproportionately affected if IVF treatments become inaccessible. Both surrogates (51%) and intended parents (68%) surveyed agree that the new rulings and bills will have a significantly negative impact on intended parents, especially same-sex couples. With fewer options for having children than straight couples, many same-sex couples rely on IVF and surrogacy as their only options for starting a family.

surrogatefirst reproductive rights-family-building-legislation-survey-graph-1

As a young woman, I’d like to have children someday, if for no other reason than to pass on love & give my parents a grandchild.”

LGBTQ+ Intended Parent
Future Trends in Surrogacy 2024

02.
Same-Sex Couples Planning Families Are Deeply Concerned

Same-sex couples are the most concerned about personhood bills, with 50% expressing they are “Extremely Concerned” about the negative impact of these bills, compared to 41% of those in traditional relationships. 

 

"Anyone who has struggled to conceive understands how mentally draining the process can be. These rulings have only added more mental distress for intended parents looking to have a child.”

Jeff Hu, CEO of SurrogateFirst

Additionally, 67% of same-sex couples are “Extremely concerned” about the impact on IVF treatments and surrogacy, compared to 29% of traditional couples.

surrogatefirst-reproductive-rights-family-building-legislation-survey-graph-2
surrogatefirst-reproductive-rights-family-building-legislation-survey-graph-3

03.
Surrogate Openness to Help LGBTQ+ Intended Parents

Surrogates are open to carrying a baby for same-sex couples.

73% of surrogates working with agencies and 41% of independent surrogates are willing to work with LGBTQ+ intended parents.

Surrogates are increasingly open to carrying for all types of intended parents, especially same sex intended parents. The number of surrogates open to carrying for same sex intended parents increased from 32% in 2020 to 75% in 2023. This increase also reflects the increase in same sex couples pursuing surrogacy from the US and around the world.

surrogatefirst-reproductive-rights-family-building-legislation-survey-graph-5
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> PERSONHOOD LEGISLATION INSIGHTS AND IMPACT ON FAMILY equality https://surrogatefirst.com/report/2024-personhood-legislation-impact/ Tue, 25 Jun 2024 08:27:13 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.com/?p=2910
  • Report

PERSONHOOD LEGISLATION INSIGHTS AND IMPACT ON FAMILY equality

Share this article:

Overall Impact of Personhood Legislation on Family Equality

icon deal
98% of intended parents report concerns over legislation hindering family building efforts
same sex couple
67% of same-sex intended parents are 2x more concerned about IVF and surrogacy impacts
icon family
55% of surrogates are deeply troubled by legislative effects on IVF
interdiction icon
38% of intended parents
delaying their family building dreams
due to recent legislative changes
icon like
68% of surrogates remain resolute in their decision to assist families
icon increase white
43% stated their motivation increased to help a family in need

About this survey

The Alabama Supreme Court’s recent decision regarding frozen embryos has sent shockwaves through the medical community, raising complex legal questions and causing disruption in IVF services. With the ruling equating frozen embryos to legally recognized children and imposing liability for their destruction, several clinics in Alabama have opted to temporarily suspend certain IVF procedures, citing legal uncertainties as their primary concern. Several other states are considering fetal personhood legislation, adding to the uncertainty of what IVF and surrogacy will look like in the future.

SurrogateFirst’s survey provides unique insights on the topic that serve the surrogacy community of intended parents and surrogates alike. SurrogateFirst strives to be the knowledge leader in the surrogacy community and to assist in safer and more successful journeys for all.

All data and insights were captured via an online survey that was active from April 8, 2024, to April 12, 2024 with an overall sample size / n = 145 completions. The respondents self identified as the following: 33 surrogates, 46 intended parents, and 66 neither surrogates or intended parents.

Contents

01.
Family Equality Legislation Concerns

Several states are considering fetal personhood bills that would define an embryo as a person and would include penalties for the death of an “unborn person.”

Intended parents are the most concerned about fetal personhood bills with 54% “Extremely Concerned”. Furthermore, 98% of those who responded had some level of concern, clearly indicating significant apprehension about the potential consequences of such legislation.

graph showing concern of surrogates and intended parents about bill changes
Future Trends in Surrogacy 2024

Surrogates and intended parents are the most negatively impacted by fetal personhood bills on IVF treatments and surrogacy reflecting the heightened stakes for those directly involved in these processes.

Surrogates express the highest level of concern, with 55% being “Extremely Concerned,” which is 3.6X more than the “Neither” group who are less directly impacted.

"They don’t affect me, so it’s not that concerning”

Neither surrogate nor intended parent
graphs how concerned ivf treatments-surrogacy impacted bills

PERSONHOOD BILLS IMPACT SAME SEX COUPLES MORE

Same sex couples are the most concerned about personhood bills, with 50% expressing they are “Extremely Concerned” about the negative impact of personhood bills, compared to 41% of those in traditional relationships.

graphs how concerned about bills

Additionally, 67% of same sex couples are “Extremely Concerned” about the impact on IVF treatments and surrogacy compared to 29% of traditional couples. Many same sex couples rely on IVF and surrogacy as the only option to start a family.

graphs how concerned ivf treatments-surrogacy impacted bills

02. IVF Legislations: Surrogates Perspective

Among surrogates surveyed, the majority remain resolute in their decision to pursue surrogacy, despite the existence of recent rulings and bills.

A significant 68% of surrogates express unwavering determination to assist in starting a family regardless of any obstacles encountered, while only a minority (4%) indicate that they are proceeding with caution.

Notably, none report temporarily or permanently delaying their decision due to these rulings, highlighting a steadfast commitment to their intended path.

Blogs Graphs (9)

The recent rulings heightened surrogates desire to carry a child for others with the majority, 54%, reporting “No Impact” on their motivation to become a surrogate, suggesting a resilient commitment to their decision regardless of external factors. Additionally, 36% of surrogates note that new legislation has “Strongly Increased” their motivation to become surrogates

Blogs Graphs (10)

The majority (91%) have not encountered any challenges or barriers in the surrogacy process due to the new rulings and bills. This indicates a relatively smooth progression in their surrogacy journey despite the legislative landscape. Surrogates are concerned and worried but not particularly impacted. However, 9% of surrogates have faced challenges.

Blogs Graphs (6)
Blogs Graphs (11)

Surrogates agree that the new rulings and bills will have a significant negative impact on intended parents, especially same-sex couples.

The majority (57%) express negative sentiments, with 36% indicating a “Strongly negative impact” and 21% reporting a “Somewhat negative impact”. Additionally, a majority, 51%, feel same sex intended couples will be impacted the most.

Blogs Graphs (12)
Jeff Hu director of SurrogateFirst

It’s not surprising that surrogates have not experienced challenges yet from the new ruling. I believe it’s because legislators, prosecutors, doctors, surrogates, and intended parents are still sifting through the impact of the bills. The bullwhip effect on surrogates will likely be felt more fully later this year.

Jeff Hu, CEO of SurrogateFirst

03. IVF Legislations: Intended Parents Perspective

Blogs Graphs (13)

Recent legislation has influenced intended parent’s decisions regarding IVF treatment, with 18% opting to delay and 24% proceeding with caution. However, a majority, 57%, are either moving forward as planned or are determined to start a family despite potential hurdles.

Similarly, the new rulings and bills have influenced intended parents on their decision to pursue surrogacy to start a family, with 43% reporting some form of impact. 20% of intended parents report temporarily or permanently delaying their plans or say they are proceeding with caution.

Blogs Graphs (13)

30% of all intended parents we surveyed said they had encountered challenges or barriers in the IVF and/or surrogacy process due to the new rulings and bills.

Particularly, the new ruling brought additional financial burden (50%) and mental stress (67%) to intended parent’s pursuit of starting a family.

Blogs Graphs (15)

The majority of intended parents believe that new rulings and bills will disproportionately affect same- sex intended parents.

Specifically, 39% “Strongly Agree”, while 29% “Agree”. Only a small percentage disagree, with 10% “Disagree” and 7% “Strongly disagree”.

Blogs Graphs (16)

Anyone who has struggled to conceive understands how mentally draining the process can be. These rulings have only added more mental distress for intended parents looking to have a child.

- Jeff Hu, CEO of SurrogateFirst
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> Future Trends in Surrogacy 2024 & Beyond – SurrogateFirst https://surrogatefirst.com/report/future-trends-in-surrogacy-2024-beyond/ https://surrogatefirst.com/report/future-trends-in-surrogacy-2024-beyond/#respond Wed, 17 Jan 2024 02:46:28 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.wpenginepowered.com/?p=1345
  • Report

Future Trends in Surrogacy 2024 & Beyond – SurrogateFirst

Share this article:

Overview - Top 6 trends impacting surrogacy Today

icon growth
#1 Diversity: Latina & Black Surrogates Increase 400%
icon calendar white
#2 Faster Match Times @ 2.5 Months vs. 6.8 Months Pre-Covid
icon family
#3 Intended Parents Play Increasingly “Very” Important Role 46% to 75%
icon womanheart white
#4 Improving Surrogate Mental Health Outcomes 35% Less Postpartum Instances
icon magnify
#5 Surrogate Future Compensation Expectations Rise by 20% to $61K
icon faces white
#6 Surrogate Satisfaction Plummets 60%

About this survey

SurrogateFirst’s surveys provide unique trending insights from 2020 to 2023 that serve the surrogacy community of intended parents and surrogates alike. Our data driven findings point to many interesting new developments, why they are occurring, and what to expect moving into 2024 and beyond. SurrogateFirst strives to be the knowledge leader in the surrogacy community and to assist in safer and more successful journeys for all. All data and insights were captured via online survey. The 2023 survey data was captured from January 18, 2023 to February 24, 2023 with an overall sample size / n = 168 completions. The 2019 survey data was captured from December 6 to December 30, 2019 with a sample size / n = 193 completions. We compared 2023 and 2019 results if they were applicable to provide trending insights.

Contents

01.
Surrogate Demographics: Diversity, Single Parents & Family Support

Diversity in surrogate ethnicity is increasing rapidly within Black and Latina surrogate communities. Both groups have grown since 2020 from only 3%-4% to 13% in 2023, reflecting a 4-fold increase. Caucasian surrogates remain the predominant ethnicity of surrogates at 69%. The number of surrogates from Asia has also increased, from 1% in 2020 to 6% in 2023. This reflects the increased awareness of infertility amongst the general population and the willingness of all ethnicities to learn of surrogacy as a means to help others in need.

Ethnicity for surrogates
Future Trends in Surrogacy 2024
Jeff Hu director of SurrogateFirst

"The Hispanic community is the fastest growing ethnic group in the US and in major states of CA, TX and FL – all major hubs of surrogacy. The community’s increasing openness and acceptance of surrogacy is also growing and thriving.”

Jeff Hu, Owner SurrogateFirst

There has also been an increase of 50% of single parent surrogates. The percentage of surrogates that were “Not Married” grew from 30% in 2020 to 44% in 2023. This trend, paired with the increasing importance and availability of family support, allows for a successful journey regardless of being married or not.

"I take pride in being a single mother AND a surrogate, I am a role model to my children helping others and couldn’t do it without my family’s firm support.”

Surrogate Ashley
Marital status of surrogates

As noted above “Family” is the single most important group that surrogates rely on for support and has increased in importance over time from 31% in 2020 to a whopping 81% in 2023. Lifestyle stability has become a qualifying requirement by most surrogate agency screening processes; therefore, the frequency of “Unsupportive” families has been eliminated to 0% in 2023. A strong support network is necessary to lean on when surrogates need an extra hand, such as childcare; and for emotional wellbeing as well.

How supportive family

During the last three years surrogate preferences around termination stance have changed dramatically. Previously surrogates favored termination only for “major life-threatening medical reasons”, 61% in 2020 to only 31% in 2023 reflecting a 50% decrease. Instead, surrogate preferences have leaned heavily towards allowing “termination at intended parent discretion” increasing from 23% in 2020 to 63% in 2023.

Increase termination

I trust and respect my intended parents; I knew they would do what was best for the child I was carrying so I chose to let them determine under what circumstances to terminate the pregnancy.

Surrogate Karina

Vaccination rates since 2020 remain similar at 63%, well below the national average of 79.1% as reported by the CDC1. However, the willingness to become vaccinated if requested by intended parents has plummeted from 20% to only 6% in 2023. The unwillingness reflects the majority of surrogates preference not to be covid vaccinated. This trend of unwillingness to be covid vaccinated continues into 2024 and beyond.

Covid19 calculation

02.
Expect Higher Rates of IVF Success & Faster Match Times

First time succes rate
0 %

First time transfer success rates of 88% for surrogates are considerably higher than the national US average of 45.5% for women under 35 years old. The disparity can be contributed to increased screening and improved medical protocols, and the higher usage of egg donors that result in intended parents having higher quality embryos leading to better transfer outcomes.

How many attempts ivf

"Intended parents that use egg donation tend to have higher first-time success rates in IVF. Therefore, our patients that use a combination of donor eggs and a qualified surrogate have high rates of success. ”

Lina Li, Owner SurrogateFirst
Lina Li

In 2023 we have seen match times shorten to 2.5 months from a high of 6.8 months in 2020.  Although the demand for surrogates remains high post-covid, we have seen an increased number of qualified surrogates which substantially shortens the match times. 

First time succes rate
0 months
How long wait surrogate

03.
Intended Parents Take a Leading Role & More Broadly Served

In recent years, surrogates have placed a “very important” role on the support of intended parents in having a successful experience, from 46% in 2020 to 75% in 2023. The matching process is now a  two-way street, where surrogates are also screening and becoming more selective with what  intended parent profiles they choose. Previously, surrogates relied more on the agency or IVF clinic for support, but this has changed over time. Surrogacy is a long and complicated journey, so it is important to have a healthy relationship and strong support between the surrogate and future intended parents

How important ip support

The #1 reason to become a surrogate was to help a family in need, therefore the intended parents that I carried for was also a top priority. Their support was key to having a fulfilling and successful journey.

Surrogate Elizabeth

Surrogates are increasingly open to carrying for all types of intended parents, especially same sex intended parents. The number of surrogates open to carrying for same sex intended parents increased from 32% in 2020 to 75% in 2023. This increase also reflects the increase in same sex couples pursuing surrogacy from the US and around the world.

What type ip

04.
Improving Surrogacy Pregnancy, Birth & Postpartum Outcomes

Pregnancy complications

The mental and emotional health of surrogates continues to improve. Most surrogates, 69%, did not experience any pregnancy complications in 2023. This is a positive trend compared to 53% in 2021. 

Treatment emotional issues
% 0
2023
% 0
2019

Another positive trend is the frequency of surrogates suffering from postpartum depression (28% vs. 14%) and anxiety (23% vs. 10%) is way down from 2020 results. 

In addition, 94% of surrogates didn’t experience any postpartum issues in 2023, compared to 69% in 2020.

Post partum depression
Struggles postpartum

There are increasingly more support channels for surrogates from their peers and professional resources. Often, agency-led journeys have funds allocated for therapy included in the compensation benefits package. Case managers that check in with their surrogates on a weekly basis are also a strong support pillar. Surrogates also often join online groups with other experienced surrogates that act as a sounding board and mentors for advice. Finally, as noted above “Family” is the single most important group that surrogates rely on for support and that has increased in importance over time, from 31% in 2020 to a whopping 81% in 2023. All these factors play a role in providing mental health and emotional stability for surrogates for a healthier journey.

I really appreciated my case manager who was always there for me, I felt cared for and like a real person, not just a number.

Surrogate Stephanie

Traditionally, the birth and postpartum have been lowest due to the end of a long tiring journey or potential physical or mental issues during the pregnancy. However, the increase in dissatisfaction could be attributed to less personalized care with providers (physicians, agencies, etc.) as surrogacy journey volumes increase and become more commercialized.

Satisfied birth experience preparation and delivery
How satisfied post partum

05.
Surrogate Total Compensation Set to Increase 20%

$ 0
2019
$ 0
2023
$ 0
2024 (expectation)

Surrogate total compensation (base payment plus non-cash benefits) in 2024 is on the rise. Base compensation has modestly increased (11%) from 2019 to 2023 from an average of $45,000 to $50,000. However, when surrogates were asked what they expect to be paid for future journeys, the average response was $61,000, reflecting a 20% increase for 2023 and beyond.

How much base compensation

Surrogate benefits (non-cash benefits, excluding travel) have also been steadily increasing since 2020, from total estimated value of $11,800 to $13,600 in 2023. Almost all benefit categories have increased in frequency, with many previous “benefits” becoming basic requirements. Some examples include maternity clothing, legal services, life insurance and milestone bonuses. It is important to understand these benefits in order to meet surrogate journey expectations and norms to ensure a smooth journey. We expect benefits to continue to rise in 2024 and beyond.

What type surrogacy benefits

Although compensation and benefits continue to rise sharply, surrogate satisfaction towards their compensation has decreased. Most surrogates, 69%, were “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their compensation, a decrease from 96% in 2020. If we look deeper, the disparity in compensation satisfaction stems from those answering “Neutral” or “Unsatisfied”, which has substantially increased from 4% to 31%; while at the same time “Very Satisfied” increased from 35% in 2020 to 44% in 2023.

benefits-equality-employee-retention-report-graph-12

06.
Surrogate Overall Journey Satisfaction Dramatically Decreases

Overall surrogate journey satisfaction remains high at 76%. The proportion staying “Very Satisfied” has dramatically decreased from 61% in 2022 to 38% in 2023. There are many positive trends for surrogates, such as increased family support, faster match times, and the decreasing rates of pregnancy complications and mental health issues. 94% of surrogates reported no postpartum depression, anxiety or emotional issues, the lowest rates ever. Despite this, journey satisfaction has plummeted.

How satisfied most recent experience overall

One main reason for this decrease in satisfaction is the gap between current and expected base compensation. Surrogates are requesting, on average, a 20% increase in base compensation from just one year ago at $61,000. In the previous four years, from 2020 to 2023, the increase was only 11%, from $45,000 to $50,000. Like others, surrogates are expecting a higher compensation to maintain their standard of living during a time where there is an increased cost of living due to high inflation and low unemployment rates.

Base compensation expecation

Furthermore, the unprecedented COVID-19 irregularities severely negatively impacted journeys between 2021-2022, which may skew the satisfaction ratings specific to that timeframe. Here is a list of issues our surrogates experienced during the height of the pandemic:

  • Sporadic IVF clinic and hospital closures and limitations delaying medical screening & transfers.
  • Limited visitors allowed at the transfer and birth arena that limited support and potentially impacted mental health.
  • Differing covid vaccination stances between the surrogate, intended parents and clinics leading to broken matches.
  • Travel bans, especially for international intended parents, that led to surrogate babies being cared for by surrogates for months post-birth.
  • Additional restrictions imposed by intended parents related to vaccination, travel limits, and seeking to limit certain types of activities with large crowds.
In 2024 and beyond we expect the overall satisfaction ratings to improve as we move past the post-covid environment with more stability and where we expect to see the compensation gap bridged.
Share this article:

Ready to start your journey?

Get Started as Parent(s)
Apply as a Surrogate

Continue exploring

More surrogacy reports

More Posts

Surroblog
Reports
Press
Podcast
Webinars
Events
Search

Source

]]> https://surrogatefirst.com/report/future-trends-in-surrogacy-2024-beyond/feed/ 0 Intended Parent Survey 2023 https://surrogatefirst.com/report/intended-parent-survey-2023-2/ Fri, 22 Sep 2023 01:36:01 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.wpenginepowered.com/?p=741

SurrogateFirst’s Intended Parent Survey 2023 shares the results from experienced intended parents that started their families via surrogacy and those that are considering surrogacy. Our goal is to share data driven findings based on real surrogacy experiences that will bring key learnings for future intended parents, to help further educate society about the needed support intended parents need to start a family and to support the surrogacy community as a whole. Please review the executive summary below or follow this link: qrco.de/IP2023_Overall

  • Surrogacy Awareness – Intended parents initial awareness and research on surrogacy is increasingly conducted online, specifically Google, and social media. Traditional channels such as word of mouth and professional referrals remain strong sources of awareness as well. 
  • Infertility “Heavy Toll” on Intended Parents – Infertility exacts a heavy toll on intended parents in lost time (3.6 years of trying to conceive), financial and physical burdens (3.8 rounds of IVF) as well as experiencing a negative impact on their mental health (74%). 
  • Infertility Strengthens Relationships – Respondents who experienced infertility and decided to use surrogacy to have a child mentioned that infertility has strengthened or significantly strengthened their relationship with a partner (77%). 
  • Smooth Surrogate Selection – Intended parents cared most about a surrogate’s pregnancy history, age and location in the surrogate selection process. On average, intended parents reviewed 4.2 profiles and took 4.3 months before a successful match. 
  • Rocky Road Ahead – 53% of surrogacy journeys experienced a broken match, however, once matched, 80% became pregnant after the first IVF transfer. 
  • Positive Experiences – Upon finishing their surrogacy journeys, 94% of intended parents expressed satisfaction with their overall surrogacy journey. Intended parents were most satisfied with their surrogates and least satisfied with the delivery experience. 
  • 3 Biggest Concerns – #1 Cost – financial burden of surrogacy, #2 Unsuccessful Conception – the fear and anguish of not able to start a family, #3 Trust – entrusting someone else to be responsible for the fetus’s health.  
  • Best Words of Advice – Experienced intended parents share their advice for a smooth journey: #1. Be knowledgeable – carefully research the process, #2. Be Patient – it’s a long and complicated journey so don’t rush, #3. Surrogate Relationship – build a strong relationship with your surrogate from the very beginning. 
  • Intended Parent Financial Challenges 
    • #1 Intended Parent Concern – Financial Burden. The majority of intended parents considering surrogacy (76%), report financial hardship impact as a moderate to significant burden. 
    • Surrogacy is mainly self-funded, (87%), due to lack of access to bank loans, scholarships and company provided benefits; which is the main driver of the financial burden to intended parents. 
    • Intended Parents are under budgeting the total cost of surrogacy by 23% on average;  furthermore, 60% of journeys cost $150,000 or more while only 27% budgeted for this range. 
    • Intended parent compensation to surrogates is increasing by 13%, from $43,000 to $49,000. On average, current surrogates expect to be paid $60,000, reflecting a 21% compensation expectation gap. 

Source

]]> 2023 State of Surrogacy Survey – Overall – SurrogateFirst https://surrogatefirst.com/report/2023-state-of-surrogacy-survey-overall-2/ Wed, 24 May 2023 16:55:48 +0000 https://surrogatefirst.wpenginepowered.com/?p=738

SurrogateFirst State of Surrogacy 2023 survey results are now available! The survey goal is to help bring to light the challenges and trends in surrogacy to help all parties involved to have a safer, smoother and successful journey.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Surrogates are truly special. The#1 and #2 most important factorto choosing to become a surrogate is “The desire to help a couple have a family” and “Calling to help others in need.”Furthermore, they are more educated and have a higher household income than theaverage American woman.

Surrogates are HAPPY!How Happy? 8 out of 10 surrogates stated to be “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their overall journey; witha large majority, 83% of surrogates, statingthey wouldconsider being a repeat surrogate.

Key to Surrogacy Success? Strong family support.The most important source of support for surrogates duringtheir journey wasfamily, 93% stating family as “important” or “very important”.

Surrogacy benefits andbase compensation both jumped.Surrogacy benefits rose35% from$9,100 in 2019 to$12,300 in 2023. Base compensation rose slower, but new base compensation expectations havealso climbed from$50,000 in 2023 to$61,000 for futurejourneys a 22% increase.

Supermajority of surrogates did not experience postpartum depression and would consider surrogacy again.75% of surrogatesdid not experiencepostpartum depression or emotional challenges. 83% wouldconsider surrogacy again, which ismost likelybecause 80%+ had satisfactory journeys.

Strict stance on termination.Only 3%allow for termination for cosmetic reasons –missing limb, minor deformity. 13%adheretono termination at all with 50%allowing termination for major life threatening medical reasons, doctorrecommendation only.

Surrogates remain in high demand.Consistent short surrogate match times, 30%within 3 months and 69% within 6 months; recent spike of 22% in basecompensation expectations for future journeys and high first time transfer success rates reflect theon-going demand of qualified surrogates.

Surrogacy is a multi-year undertaking.It takes an average of 12.6 monthsto go from consideration to being matched with anIP(intended parent). The average time fromconsideration to commitment is7.1 months, and the average timefromcommitmentto being matched is 5.5 months. Thisdoesn’teven take into account the attempts toget pregnant and theactualpregnancy andpost-pregnancyrecovery.

Majority of surrogates choose to work with an agency.54% of surrogate journeysused an agency versus35% whomanageditthemselves and the remaining12%were managed mainly by theIP.

1 in 2 surrogateswilling to work with LQBTQ IPs.49% werewilling to work with a samesex couple. In actuality,only 17% didso; which is likely due to the inability of independent surrogates to find such IPs.

Surrogates not seeking help formental health issues.Large majority of surrogates experienced no emotionalissues, 75% and the frequency ofpostpartum depression is similar to that of the national average of 1 of 7 (14%) at (15%-17%). However, issuesarise at the low ratereceiving treatment, less than half at 46%.It isno wonder that the postpartum journey is the leastsatisfied part of thejourney. 

#1 Surrogate Pet Peeve.Getting Back to Pre-Pregnancy Weight –39% of surrogates stated that they struggled with getting backto pre-pregnancy weight.Surrogate post journey support in this area is need and lacking attnetion.

Contact Jeff.Hu@surrogatefirst.com for inquiries.

Source

]]>