Surrogacy: Considerations When Selecting a Matching Program or Agency

Surrogacy is a deeply personal and life-changing experience for intended parents and surrogates alike. One of the most significant decisions at the start of the journey is choosing the matching program or agency. There are many matching programs and agencies to choose from and selecting one can feel overwhelming. Program quality varies; therefore, it is incumbent on intended parents and surrogates to research programs thoroughly and decide which program is the best fit for them.

The following are some tips on how to navigate through the options when it comes to surrogacy matching programs and agencies:

1. Understand the Extent of the Matching Program or Agency Involvement: A matching program or agency often acts as a central point of coordination for intended parents and surrogates. Responsibilities the program or agency take on may include matching intended parents with a surrogate, coordinating medical and mental health screenings, facilitating legal processes and referrals, managing communication among clinics, lawyers, insurance experts, and other professionals in the process, and providing emotional and logistical support. How much or how little involvement is provided depends on the matching program or agency.
2. Research Credentials: Matching programs or agencies in many states are not formally licensed, therefore, intended parents and surrogates should take the time to research each program’s credentials. What experience does the program or agency have? How long has it been in operation? How many successful matches has it facilitated? How does it define a successful surrogacy journey? Is the program or agency transparent about its practices? A credible program or agency should be transparent about its staff, procedures, and history.
3. Evaluate the Screening and Matching Process: A reputable matching program or agency should thoroughly screen both intended parents and surrogates. This includes medical assessments, background checks, confirm citizenship or residency status, mental health assessments, and sometimes home visits. When it comes to how a program or agency matches intended parents with a surrogate, ask the question directly. What criteria does the matching program or agency use to ensure compatibility between the parties? How much input do the intended parents or the surrogate have in the selection process?
4. Evaluate Financial Transparency: Surrogacy is a significant financial commitment. Reputable programs and agencies should provide a comprehensive breakdown and explanation of all expected fees, including the surrogate compensation package, health and life insurance costs, and agency administration fees. There should be clarity about refund policies, potential additional costs, and what happens if parties must be re-matched. Additionally, escrow management of the surrogate’s compensation should be by an independent third party.
5. Support and Communication: Surrogacy is an emotional journey that may require ongoing guidance and support. Parties should evaluate how the matching program or agency supports intended parents and surrogates throughout the journey, start to finish.
6. Read Reviews: First-hand testimonials can provide valuable insight into the matching program or agency’s professionalism and reliability. Ask for references and look for independent reviews online. When possible, speak directly with former intended parents or surrogates about their experiences, both positive and challenging.
7. Trust Your Gut: Trust your intuition. Quality matching programs and agencies should make intended parents and surrogates feel respected, informed, and supported from the first interaction. If a party ever feels pressured, dismissed, or uncomfortable, it may be a sign to look elsewhere.

Special Note: Independent Surrogacy Journeys
An independent surrogacy journey, sometimes referred to as “private surrogacy,” means that intended parents and surrogates coordinate the process on their own without the services of a matching program or agency. They work directly with medical professionals, attorneys, insurance experts, and mental health counselors. While these journeys are less typical, especially when the surrogate is not a friend or family member, depending on the party’s circumstances, it may be the preferred path. The benefits of an independent journey can include lower costs, greater control and flexibility, and potentially faster matching.

There are challenges as well. There is increased responsibility with independent journeys. Managing the medical, legal, financial, and logistical details can be time-consuming, complex, and overwhelming. There are screening and compatibility risks. Independently managing these steps requires finding qualified professionals and ensuring all parties are properly vetted. Additionally, there is limited emotional and conflict support. Matching programs and agencies can provide counseling, both informal and formal, and other assistance throughout the journey. Without them, resolving disagreements or emotional challenges may be more difficult for both the surrogate and the intended parents.

Ultimately, whether to go down the path of an independent journey depends on the needs and comfort level of the parties involved.

Finding the Right Fit
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to surrogacy. Selecting the right matching program or agency is a highly individualized decision that deserves careful thought and thorough research. By taking the time to explore options, intended parents and surrogates can find a matching program or agency that not only helps coordinate the surrogacy journey, but will also provide compassionate guidance through this meaningful and transformative experience.