The Surrogate Journey
Your Six-Step Path to Building a Family with Heart
At CSE Family, we recognize that becoming a gestational surrogate is a profound act of generosity—one that requires strength, compassion, and trust. That’s why we’ve designed a clear, compassionate, and medically sound journey where you are supported at every stage, from your first inquiry to life after delivery.
Our process follows a structured seven-phase timeline, grounded in industry best practices and California surrogacy law, ensuring safety, transparency, and mutual respect for both you and the intended parents.
Phase 1:
Application & Pre-Screening
(Timeline: 1–2 Weeks)
“Is surrogacy right for me?”
- Complete online prescreener
- Speak with a CSE Family coordinator for a no-pressure qualification call
- Submit your full application, authorization forms
- Medical records pre-screen and sign surrogate benefit package
No cost. No obligation. Just honest guidance.
Phase 2:
Matching with Intended Parents
(Timeline: 1–2 Weeks)
“Finding your perfect family match”
- Your profile is shared with the compatible intended parents
- Video match call with the intended parents
- If both sides feel aligned, matched!
- You always retain the right to decline—this is a relationship built on mutual trust
Great matches aren’t just about logistics—they’re about shared values and respect.
Phase 3:
Psychological & Medical Screening
(Timeline: 1–2 Months)
“Ensuring you’re physically and emotionally ready”
- Background check and Psychological evaluation
- (required by CA law and IVF clinics)
- Medical screening at the intended parents’ chosen fertility clinic, including:
· Uterine cavity assessment (e.g., saline sonogram or hysteroscopy)
· Hormone panel, infectious disease screening, and general health exam
All screening costs are covered by the intended parents— $ 0 out of pocket for you. These safeguards protect your health, the baby’s well-being, and the success of the journey.
Phase 4:
Legal Contract & Cycle Preparation
(Timeline: 1–2 Months)
“Clarity, fairness, and peace of mind”
- The intended parents’ attorney drafts a Gestational Carrier Agreement
- You are assigned your own independent attorney (paid for by the intended parents) to review and negotiate terms
- Finalize details on compensation, medical decisions, travel, bed rest, delivery preferences, and more
- Once signed, begin your medication protocol to prepare your uterus for embryo transfer.
Phase 5:
Embryo Transfer & Pregnancy Confirmation
(Timeline: 1-2 Months)
“A new life begins”
- Follow your medication protocol (Lupron & Estradiol Valerate & Progesterone)
- Attend monitoring appointments at the IVF clinic
- Undergo a quick, painless embryo transfer procedure
- Approximately 10–14 days later, take the hCG blood test to confirm pregnancy
- Heartbeat confirmation via Ultrasound
Every attempt is honored—your courage matters, regardless of outcome.
Phase 6:
Pregnancy & Prenatal Care
(Timeline: ～9 Months)
“Nurturing life, with full support”
- At 10 weeks pregnant, graduated from the IVF clinic to OB care
- Attend routine OB appointments and Ultrasounds, share updates with your intended parents.
- Delivery day！
You are not a “carrier”—you are a vital partner in creating a family.
Your Support Team Is
Always With You
Dedicated Case Manager
Available 7 days a week
Independent Attorney
Represents only your interests
Licensed Therapist
Provides ongoing emotional wellness support
Medical Coordinator
Helps navigate appointments, medications, and emergencies
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Take the first step toward making someone’s dream of parenthood come true—while being fully supported, fairly compensated, and genuinely appreciated.