Gestational Surrogacy Program
When the body cannot carry — love and science still make parenthood possible
What Is Gestational Surrogacy?
In gestational surrogacy, a surrogate carries the pregnancy but has no genetic connection to the baby. An embryo created from the intended parents' (or donor) eggs and sperm through IVF is transferred to the surrogate's uterus. Upon birth, the child's legal parentage belongs to the intended parents.
Important: Gestational surrogacy is legal and legally protected in certain U.S. states, including California. HRC has extensive surrogacy experience in California, one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the U.S.
Who Should Consider Surrogacy?
The Surrogacy Journey
Initial Consultation & Evaluation
HRC physician reviews your medical situation, confirms surrogacy is the right path, and explains the full process
Surrogate Matching
HRC works with licensed surrogacy agencies to help you find a rigorously screened (physical, psychological, legal) surrogate
Legal Contract
With reproductive attorneys, intended parents and the surrogate sign a legally binding surrogacy agreement
IVF Embryo Creation
IVF is performed using the intended parents' gametes (or donor eggs/sperm) to create embryos; PGT screening as needed
Embryo Transfer to Surrogate
The best-quality embryo is transferred to the surrogate's uterus, with close monitoring of early pregnancy
Pregnancy & Delivery
The surrogate's OB handles prenatal care. After birth, legal parentage immediately belongs to the intended parents
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the surrogate have a genetic connection to the baby?
No. HRC uses gestational surrogacy — the embryo is created from the intended parents' (or donor) eggs and sperm via IVF, then transferred to the surrogate's uterus. The surrogate carries the pregnancy but has no genetic link to the child. The biological parents are the egg and sperm providers.
How much does surrogacy cost overall?
Total surrogacy costs typically range from $80,000 to $150,000, covering: surrogate compensation ($30,000–$50,000), medical costs ($30,000–$40,000 for IVF and prenatal care), legal fees ($10,000–$20,000), and agency fees ($20,000–$30,000). HRC's coordinators can provide a detailed cost breakdown at your consultation.
Is surrogacy legal in the US? What are California's advantages?
Surrogacy legality varies by state in the US. California is one of the most surrogacy-friendly states, with surrogacy contracts explicitly protected by law. Intended parents can obtain a Pre-Birth Order establishing legal parentage before the baby is born, avoiding a post-birth adoption process. HRC has an extensive surrogacy network and legal resources in California.
How long does it take to find a surrogate?
Matching timeframes depend on the agency's resources and your criteria, typically 2–6 months. HRC works with reputable agencies whose surrogates undergo rigorous physical and psychological evaluation, criminal background checks, and legal review. The overall timeline from start to delivery averages 12–18 months.
Can I consider surrogacy if my IVF cycles have failed?
Yes. IVF failure in your case is not about embryo quality or IVF capability — it is about your uterus's inability to safely carry a pregnancy. Surrogacy lets you use embryos created from your own eggs and your partner's sperm, carried by a surrogate. The child is genetically yours. If ovarian function is also a concern, combining surrogacy with donor eggs is also an option.
Related Topics
Discuss the Surrogacy Program with Us
Our international patient consultants are ready to provide personalized guidance across time zones