Timeline in California: From Intake to Birth—How Long Does Surrogacy Take?

Embarking on a surrogacy journey in California is exciting, but understanding the timeline is essential. Knowing each step helps intended parents and surrogates prepare mentally, financially, and legally. California’s surrogacy-friendly laws and supportive agencies make the process smoother, but it still requires careful planning.

Overall Surrogacy Timeline

The average surrogacy in California spans 12 to 18 months. This timeline includes intake, matching, medical procedures, pregnancy, and birth. While some cases may take slightly longer, having a general roadmap helps everyone involved stay on track.

1. Initial Consultation and Intake (1–2 Months)

The journey begins with choosing a surrogacy agency. During the intake:

• Intended parents discuss their goals, preferences, and expectations.
  
• Surrogates provide medical history and background information.
  
• Agencies explain the process, costs, and legal requirements.
  

This phase sets the foundation for a successful surrogacy agency experience. Clear communication during intake helps prevent misunderstandings later.

2. Matching with a Surrogate (2–6 Months)

Matching is a critical step. Agencies connect intended parents with a surrogate who meets their medical, personal, and lifestyle requirements.

• Agencies consider personality, communication style, and medical history.
  
• Pre-screened surrogates are often ready to start sooner, shortening the timeline.
  
• Compatibility ensures a positive relationship between intended parents and surrogates.
  

Some agencies have large surrogate databases, which can reduce matching time to 1–2 months.

3. Medical and Psychological Screening (1–2 Months)

Before the pregnancy begins, both surrogates and intended parents undergo evaluations:

• Medical Screening: Fertility tests, hormone assessments, and general health checks.
  
• Psychological Screening: Ensures emotional readiness for surrogacy.
  

These screenings are crucial to minimize risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Surrogates are guided on lifestyle, diet, and prenatal care.

4. Legal Agreements and Pre-Birth Orders (1 Month)

Legal steps are essential in California. Agencies connect parties with experienced surrogacy attorneys.

• Surrogacy contracts outline the rights and responsibilities of surrogates and intended parents.
  
• Pre-birth orders establish legal parentage before the baby is born.
  
• Contracts cover surrogate compensation, medical expenses, and contingencies.
  

Completing legal steps early prevents disputes and ensures smooth hospital procedures.

5. Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy (1–2 Months)

Once contracts are signed and medical checks completed:

• IVF Surrogacy or embryo transfer is performed.
  
• Early pregnancy is closely monitored.
  
• Surrogates attend regular doctor appointments for prenatal care.
  

Some intended parents may need multiple embryo transfer attempts, which can slightly extend the timeline.

Pregnancy and Birth (9 Months)

The pregnancy phase lasts approximately nine months. Agencies coordinate:

• Regular check-ups with OB-GYNs
  
• Nutritional guidance and lifestyle monitoring
  
• Psychological support for surrogates and intended parents
  

Pre-birth orders ensure intended parents are legally recognized at delivery. The agency supports hospital coordination, ensuring a smooth handover.

Factors Affecting the Timeline

• Medical Complications: IVF cycles may fail, or surrogates may face health issues.
  
• Legal Delays: Contract finalization or court approvals can extend the timeline.
  
• Surrogate Availability: Waiting for the right surrogate can affect matching time.

Agencies often provide contingency plans and support to minimize delays.

Tips for a Smooth Surrogacy Timeline

• Start with an experienced, licensed California agency.
  
• Maintain regular communication with your surrogate and agency case manager.
  
• Schedule medical appointments and legal meetings promptly.
  
• Keep all documents, contracts, and insurance information organized.

Related Links

• Find a Surrogate in the USA
• Find a Surrogate in Canada
• Become a Surrogate
• Egg Donor Options in the USA
• Indian Egg Donors
• Patients Medical – Wellness & Fertility

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. How long does surrogacy take in California?

Ans : The entire process typically spans 12 to 18 months, from intake to birth. Timelines can vary depending on medical and legal factors.

Q2. Can the timeline be shortened?

Ans : Some steps, like matching, can be expedited. However, IVF cycles, pregnancy, and legal processes have fixed durations that cannot be rushed.

Q3. What factors can delay the surrogacy timeline?

Ans : Delays may arise from failed IVF cycles, legal issues, or surrogate availability. Agencies plan for contingencies to minimize delays.

Q4. What happens if the first embryo transfer is unsuccessful?

Ans : Intended parents may proceed with additional IVF cycles. Each cycle adds 1–2 months to the timeline, depending on medical readiness.

Final Words

For those considering surrogacy, California offers one of the most supportive environments in the United States. By understanding the requirements, process, and laws, you can prepare for a successful and fulfilling surrogacy experience. Every journey is unique, but with the right agency, guidance, and communication, the process can be smooth and rewarding. 

Surrogacy4All provides expert assistance throughout the surrogacy timeline — for any questions, call (212) 661-7673.