The benefits of using a surrogate agency vs. an independent surrogate

The desire to have children can be so strong that a couple will go to great lengths. Unfortunately, there are people in the world who are willing to take advantage of these hopeful couples, and leave them with hollow wishes and a lighter bank account.

Recently in Columbia, S.C., a woman was accused and charged for promising six different couples that she would be their surrogate mother in exchange for $14,000 each.

Stories like this sadden me. I do not like to hear of people being preyed upon during such a vulnerable state. However, it does solidify and reinforce my reasoning for starting a surrogacy agency.

Using a surrogate agency over an independent surrogate can eliminate risks to the intended parents and to the surrogate. Here are some of the benefits:

1. Finances – Your agency is a neutral third party or “middle man”. All financial matters are discussed ahead of time and thus eliminate the need for intended parents and the surrogate to have to discuss personal issues. Funds for the surrogate process are held in a trust account managed by attorneys that specialize in reproductive law. If any financial issues arise, the agency is there for guidance and support, allowing the focus to be on the relationship between the intended parents and the surrogate.


2. Screening of Surrogates – All surrogates are interviewed extensively by the agency. The surrogates undergo a full screening, including medical, psychological and background checks facilitated and monitored by the agency. This screening process helps the intended parents take comfort knowing that their baby will be in the best of hands.


3. Legal Representation – Both the surrogate and the intended parents have legal representation. The attorney will be there to draw up the contracts and clarify any issues that you may have. Your agency directs and ensures that parental rights are established prior to the birth of the baby.


4. Legal Contracts – You have a legally bound contract. All important topics regarding surrogacy (terms of the pregnancy, relationship, moral and ethical issues related to the process) are discussed before the surrogate becomes pregnant to ensure that all parties are in agreement on decisions that may need to be made during the process. This will make sure that everyone is clear about schedules, fees, payments, baby’s welfare, etc. You will have peace of mind knowing that your contract is there to protect all of you.


5. Support – Your agency will provide support through the entire process and help manage any worries or feelings of being overwhelmed. For example, if the intended parent’s are not available to attend appointments with the surrogate, a representative from the agency will go in their place. Also, many agencies have a psychologist on staff that is available by phone whenever you need someone to talk with. Monthly group support meetings are also provided to the surrogate when using an agency. This is an invaluable resource, because the surrogate will get the chance to talk with and meet other surrogates that are going through very similar experiences. For the intended parents, you have the security of knowing that your surrogate has ongoing support with a trained professional.