What is
Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a partnership between intended parents and a gestational surrogate who carries a pregnancy created through in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Unlike traditional surrogacy, a gestational surrogate has no genetic relationship to the baby she carries. Instead, an embryo created using the intended parents' and/or donor genetic material is transferred to the surrogate through IVF.
Throughout the journey, Kindred coordinates the process, provides guidance, and supports both intended parents and surrogates every step of the way.
TYPES OF SURROGACY
Understanding the Difference
There are two types of surrogacy. Here's a simple comparison to help you understand which path is right for your family.
Gestational Surrogacy
The surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended parents' or a donor's genetic material. She has no biological relationship to the baby, and parental rights are established through the legal process rather than adoption.
This is the kind of surrogacy Kindred facilitates.
Traditional Surrogacy
The surrogate’s own egg is used, making her the biological mother and requiring adoption after birth. It’s uncommon because of added legal complexity and emotional weight for everyone involved.
Kindred does not facilitate traditional surrogacy.
WHAT HAPPENS STEP BY STEP
The Surrogacy Journey
Most journeys take about 18 to 24 months, including 2–3 months for application and screening, 1–2 months for matching and medical screening, and 2–3 months for the legal phase. Transfer and pregnancy timing can vary, especially if more than one transfer is needed.
1. Application & Screening
We start with a simple conversation, then an application when you’re ready. From there, every prospective surrogate completes thorough screening, including background checks, a home visit, and an insurance review.
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4. Legal Phase
With screening complete and a match agreed, everything gets put in writing. You and your surrogate each work with your own attorney to negotiate the agreement including roles, compensation, communication, etc.
2. Intentional Matching
Before the match meeting, the IVF clinic reviews the surrogate’s medical records to help ensure she meets its criteria. Then, we thoughtfully consider communication styles, expectations, and what matters most to both sides as we look for the right fit.
5. Transfer & Pregnancy
Your clinic coordinates the embryo transfer, and from there it's appointments, milestones, and updates. Your case manager stays close to both of you throughout, so you're never left wondering what's happening.
3. Medical Clearance
After matching, your surrogate completes the clinic’s medical screening, including bloodwork, testing, an exam, and a uterine evaluation. If applicable, her partner also completes required labs. Once cleared, you’ll move into the legal phase.
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6. Delivery & Beyond
Your baby arrives, and our team is there to support you both through delivery and the transition that follows. When the journey ends, the relationship doesn’t. You’ll both remain part of the Kindred community, with continued connection and support.
Where Your Surrogate
Lives Matters
Where your surrogate lives determines jurisdiction for laws and regulations for your surrogacy arrangement.
Why Choose a California Surrogate?
California is often considered the gold standard for surrogacy. Its legal process is well developed and well tested, and it protects intended parents and surrogates alike.
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It's also where most of our team is based, which means for California journeys we're often able to be there in person, at appointments, at the hospital, or over coffee when someone just needs to talk.
Why Choose a Surrogate in Another Surrogacy-Friendly State?
Many states have well-established surrogacy laws that protect everyone involved, and we work with surrogates across them.
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Others place restrictions on surrogacy agreements, and in a few, compensated surrogacy isn’t permitted. That’s why where your surrogate lives is one of the first things we consider.
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
Frequently Asked Questions
Every family's journey begins with questions. We've answered a few of the most common ones to help you better understand the surrogacy process and what to expect.
Is the baby genetically related to the surrogate?
No. In gestational surrogacy the embryo is created from the intended parents' genetic material or a donor's. Your surrogate carries your baby; she isn't the genetic parent.
How long does the whole process take?
Generally around 18 to 24 months, though it varies with clinic schedules and how quickly the right match comes together.
What if a transfer doesn't work?
Sometimes transfers fail, and when they do, it isn’t anyone’s fault. We know that can be an emotional and disappointing moment for everyone involved. If the clinic considers it safe and everyone wants to continue, you can try again. Your contract will set out how many attempts are planned for.
Does the surrogate have her own attorney?
Yes, always. You and your surrogate each have separate legal representation. It's standard practice, and it means everyone's interests are genuinely protected.
Do we get to choose our surrogate?
Yes. We propose matches based on compatibility, then you meet. Both sides are asked separately whether they want to move forward, and both have to say yes.
We're Here When You're Ready.
Whether you're comparing your options, gathering information, or ready to begin your surrogacy journey, you'll always have a compassionate team to turn to.
Call 559-388-4479 or email hello@kindredsurrogacy.com