If you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate, you probably have a list of questions, like how long will it take, how much is the compensation, what are the actual steps to becoming a surrogate, and what’s the difference between the compensation package and base compensation? While these are all great questions, another question that often gets overlooked is, What are some items that should be paid for during the surrogacy journey?
Many items are compensated for throughout a surrogacy journey, some are concret, and others may vary and depend on certain factors. No matter what, these items and amounts will need to be clearly spelled out in your gestational surrogacy agreement. Variable costs range from clothing allowance, lost wages, and compensation for pumping breastmilk, to a wellness package to aid in your health and wellbeing throughout the pregnancy. All Families Surrogacy is run by previous Surrogates and Egg Donors, and as such, we know the time, effort, and love it takes to create a family with assisted reproductive technology. That’s why we have created a robust compensation package for our surrogates. We believe in holistic support and offer many unique benefits.
Top Ten Items that Should be Paid for During the Surrogacy Process
Clothing Allowance: Your body is doing some serious work, so treat it right with comfy, stretchy clothes. But hey, if you want to splurge on a tiara and call yourself the Queen – go for it!
Monthly Stipend: This often unaccounted for monthly payment is used for any and all things pregnancy-related. This includes, but is not limited to, vitamins, classes, short travel, and special snacks. Keep that baby bump happy vitamin E oil to keep away the stretchmarks and yummy snacks – pickles and ice cream are totally acceptable cravings, no judgment here!
All Travel: Whether it’s gas money for driving to appointments or jet setting to your transfer, you are covered and treated like the VIP you are.
Lost Wages: Since every pregnancy is a wild roller coaster ride, you might find yourself needing to take some time off work. For those days when your doctor prescribes ginger ale and crackers as your main course, or when you’re MIA for those big belly check-ups, rest assured, you’re covered. Let’s face it, growing a tiny human is a full-time job, and if the unexpected occurs, you deserve to know you and your family will maintain the income you would have earned if you hadn’t given the doctor’s order to do otherwise.
Insurance & Medical Bills: Insurance deductibles, copays, and bills as a result of the surrogate pregnancy are covered. Should you need a surrogate friendly insurance policy, those monthly premiums will be paid for as well.. In addition, we monitor all of the payments and bills for you so you don’t have to stress. . There won’t be any surprises like , “Hey, remember that epidural? That’ll be $1,000, please.” when you are a surrogate with us!
Life Insurance: Now, we’re getting serious… well, kind of. While there’s nothing particularly hilarious about needing life insurance, as a surrogate, it’s important to ensure that not only are you protected, but your loved ones are too. Think of it as a backup plan in case your little passenger decides to throw a curveball. Plus, it’s a great way to show your family that you’ve got their backs, even if your front is sporting a baby bump!
Childcare: If you’ve got kiddos of your own, you might need some help wrangling them while you’re off being a surrogate superhero. Cue the grandparents or that neighbor who owes you a favor!
Self-Care: Growing a tiny human is no joke, so you’ll get to treat yourself. A spa day, a good book, or that new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try—whatever helps you relax and recharge. As long as it’s not sushi.
Birth Support & Alternative Care: Ah, the customizable pregnancy experience—like a Choose Your Own Adventure book, but with fewer dragons and more epidurals! Some surrogates opt for the classic OB and hospital combo, with an epidural on speed dial. Others prefer a more holistic approach, with acupuncture, chiropractic care, and the guiding hand of a birth doula, all in preparation for a natural birth. It’s like being the director of your own baby-making blockbuster—action, drama, and a few plot twists along the way!
Mental Health Support: Last but definitely not least (cue the dramatic music), we offer a mental health support group that is as strong and supportive as a bodybuilder doing yoga! At All Families Surrogacy, we go above and beyond with monthly support groups where you can laugh, cry, or maybe just show up in your pajamas (we won’t judge). It’s all about our surrogates knowing they’ve got a massive support network at their fingertips, ready to cheer them on through the highs, lows, and everything in between.
These are just a few of the perks that come with the surrogate package! Oh, and did we mention that surrogates are compensated for providing breast milk to their Intended Parents, if everyone is on board with that plan? It’s just another way that appreciation is shown for the amazing gift of surrogacy. Rest assured, we’ve got your back (and your front, and your bump) every step of the way!
At All Families Surrogacy, we’re not just about surrogacy; we’re about surrogacy done right! We’re proud advocates, and we believe in full transparency every step of the way. Want to know all the nitty-gritty details about variable costs? Check out our website for a variable costs breakdown that’s more thorough than a DIY home improvement project. Ready to take the plunge and start your surrogacy journey? Fill out our Application today, and let’s make some baby dreams come true together!