Step 1. Surrogate Interview
First, we make sure each surrogate fullfils the following strict requirements to ensure a successful pregnancy.
When a surrogate applies with SurrogateFirst, she will fill out an informational questionnaire to determine whether she meets the requirements them.
Additionally, we get to know our surrogates; we ask detailed questions to learn their personalities, family circumstances and why they are choosing surrogacy.
Step 2. Medical Records Collection
We meticulously collect all surrogate medical records and make sure they have OB’s approval to complete a successful surrogate journey.
Step 3. Background Check
We check all members of her household over age 18 and proceed to a Drug Screening.
"Repeat surrogates will seek higher compensation on their next journey mainly because the demand of surrogates change over time and usually surrogates are in high demand and over time compensation increases every year.”
“I have decided to do another surrogacy journey because of the way I felt when I finished my first journey. It's a feeling hard to explain, it’s like an accomplishment and feeling like I was the greatest opportunity for a family to grow. Also my oldest daughter asked me if it was possible to help another family grow. The joy that my heart feels when I hear thank you for making my dream come true is just something hard to explain, but incredible to feel.”
Yes, surrogates can experience postpartum depression. Just like any woman who gives birth, surrogates go through significant hormonal changes, physical recovery, and emotional adjustment after delivery. However, recent data shows encouraging progress in how surrogates are supported through pregnancy, birth and recovery. According to SurrogateFirst’s previously published report, 94% of surrogates reported no postpartum emotional issues, compared to 69% in 2020. Rates of postpartum depression dropped from 28% in earlier years to 14%, while postpartum anxiety declined from 23% to 10%. Postpartum recovery and support have also improved significantly at 53% compared to 2021 as 69% of surrogates did not experience any pregnancy complications.
These improvements reflect a more rigid screening process, better education, and increased access to mental health support. While postpartum depression in surrogacy is possible, these findings highlight that with the right care and resources, most surrogates recover well both physically and mentally.
Definition: Escrow is a safe way to hold money during an agreement between two parties.
Instead of paying someone directly, the money is placed with a neutral third party (called an escrow service). The funds are only released when agreed conditions are met—for example, when a step in the process is completed.
Zarah and Her LGBTQ+ Intended Parents’ Journey comes full circle in the most meaningful way. What began as an international match with two dads hoping to start a family through SurrogateFirst and Men Having Babies, evolved into a lasting connection that they both still cherish today.
After delivery, Zarah and her intended parents didn’t drift apart. Instead, they have continued to reunite when possible to celebrate milestones, and stay present in each other’s lives. From staying involved during pregnancy to remaining connected up until this day, their story shows what’s possible when surrogacy is rooted not just in medical care, but also in genuine relationship and respect for each other.
Zarah’s journey captures the heart of surrogacy beyond birth. Watch as she reconnects with her intended parents and the blessing she helped bring into this world. Her journey is a reminder that some surrogacy journeys grow into lifelong bonds, built on mutual respect, communication and genuine care.
According to SurrogateFirst’s 2025 Infertility Benefits in The Job Market Report, fertility benefits are becoming a deciding factor for employees at 70 percent,
while our Public Opinion Report on Surrogacy, IVF, and Family-Building Policies showed growing public support for assisted reproduction despite political and legal uncertainties.
Why SurrogateFirst?
At SurrogateFirst, we’re more than a matching agency—we’re your support system.
- Compassionate, personalized matching
- 24/7 access to dedicated case managers
- Legal and medical coordination
- Transparent pricing
- Emotional support for surrogates and for intended parents alike
About SurrogateFirst
SurrogateFirst is a boutique surrogate agency specializing in quickly matching intended parents around the world with our fully-vetted, exceptional surrogates.
We help individuals and couples, regardless of race or sexual orientation, build their families through the miracle of surrogacy.
Every team member at SurrogateFirst is either a former intended parent or an experienced surrogate herself. We also have first-hand knowledge of what it takes to have an incredible, successful surrogate journey.
