Become A Surrogate in California
Receive Up to $85,000+
“Helping Others Achieve Their Dreams”
Becoming a Surrogate in California
Founded by two highly experienced women, who together bring 30+ years of combined expertise in surrogacy, both from professional and personal perspectives, Abundant Beginnings Co. stands as a beacon of guidance and support for those embarking on the journey of surrogacy in California.
Our independent and privately-operated agency prides itself on a team of devoted staff members, all committed to assisting and navigating you through every stage of the surrogacy journey.
Whether you’re just beginning your research or ready to take the next steps, with the right information, you can navigate the process smoothly and help intended parents fulfill their dream of having a baby in a secure, legally validated way.
“In spite of the challenges I faced, this was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done…If you are considering surrogacy, I truly believe you are a special person… This was one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.”
Why Be A Surrogate?
Becoming a surrogate involves big commitment, but ultimately brings the reward of helping create new families.
Compensation & Costs
The average base compensation for first-time surrogates is $50,000-$70,000 in California. For experienced surrogates, it can reach $85,000 or higher.
Additional compensation is provided for expenses like maternity clothes, medical copays, childcare, etc. Total can surpass $100,000. Payment is disbursed in installments throughout the pregnancy and post-delivery period.
Intended parents are required to maintain a health insurance policy for the surrogate that covers prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care. Surrogates do not pay costs related to pregnancy and childbirth. Deductibles, copays, etc. are reimbursed by the intended parents if a policy is not in place by employer.
California Surrogate Requirements
Surrogates must be between 21-37 years old have a BMI under 32 to qualify under California law.
These age and weight restrictions provide assurance of informed consent and minimize medical risks.
Having carried at least one pregnancy to full term demonstrates a surrogate's ability to tolerate pregnancy and delivery.
Surrogates must have had at least one live, healthy birth.
Surrogates must be United States citizens or lawful permanent residents of the US.
Extensive medical and psychological screening is done to verify surrogates are fully healthy with no disqualifying conditions or risks that could complicate pregnancy and delivery.
Background checks look for any concerning criminal history that could put the process at risk or suggest unethical behavior on you and your partner if applicable.
Surrogates must have their own lawyer to review contracts.
This ensures they understand all legal rights, risks, and implications before signing.
Screening Process for Potential Surrogates in California
The screening process for becoming a surrogate in California is generally considered more rigorous and comprehensive compared to many other states.
Required Screenings
Surrogates must pass all phases of screening before being matched with Intended Parents. Surrogacy agencies make this process easy and will walk surrogates through the process.
California requires an extensive medical screening by a Reproductive Endocrinologist.
Medical records are reviewed and an in person physical evaluation is completed, along with screening labs for the surrogate and partner (if applicable.)
Psychological Evaluation and Personality Testing
Surrogates and partner/spouse (if applicable) must undergo a complete psychological evaluation by a licensed mental health professional, assessing emotional stability and suitability. A personality inventory will be administered to the surrogate to be included in the report.
Criminal background checks
Background checks are completed on all adults living in the household.
The Surrogacy Process
Every surrogacy agency has the liberty to set its own surrogate qualifications. Our agency follows the guidelines set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Professionals in the assisted reproduction field have joined together to set standards that assist a woman’s success in the surrogate journey.
Matching and Contracting
The surrogacy agency will facilitate your introduction and pairing with prospective intended parents based on mutual preferences and suitability factors.
You will participate in independent counseling to ensure clear expectations and alignment prior to formal matching. Lawyers will provide legal consultation to review key terms of the contract and ensure your rights are protected.
Upon alignment with the intended parents, you will sign a comprehensive surrogacy contract outlining all aspects of the arrangement and responsibilities.
Medications and Pregnancy
You will then begin your medication to prepare your body for an embryo transfer.
During pregnancy, you will adhere to all medical guidelines from your OB/GYN as well as reasonable requests from the intended parents. This includes attending regular prenatal checkups and provide updates to the intended parents.
The agency at around 15 weeks will notify the attorneys that you are pregnant, and they will initiate processing the birth certificate paperwork and the court order for the intended parents.
Delivery and Post-Birth
Qualifying as a surrogate is more than just meeting medical requirements. Before starting the surrogacy process, you need to be aware of the emotional and psychological effects it can have on you and your family.
For example, as a surrogate you commit a great deal of your time before and during your pregnancy at doctor’s appointments and having ongoing meetings and calls with your intended parents. Being a surrogate is comparable to having a part-time job. It is important to be prepared for the extra work and demands it may place on your everyday life for you and your family.
In addition, you will be dealing with the hormonal changes of being pregnant, so, it’s normal to feel some contrasting emotions during your pregnancy. It is very important that you have an active support system in place to help you when needed. This can include your partner, extended family and friends.
In conclusion, being in a stable mental and emotional place before starting surrogacy will help prepare you for any pregnancy challenges in the future.
While we have discussed some useful information regarding the qualifications, the best way to learn more about surrogacy is to give us a call at (323) 207-5762 with no commitment required. We are here to answer all your questions.
Give the Gift of Life
Ready to make dreams a reality?
Complete our application form and launch the process to become a surrogate.
Join our community of amazing surrogates helping build families.
Take the first step to becoming a surrogate.
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(323) 207-5762
