For individuals and couples dreaming of expanding their family, surrogacy can be a beacon of hope. However, navigating the world of surrogacy involves understanding not only the process but also the significant financial investment required. So, How Much Is A Surrogate Mother? The answer isn’t straightforward, as the total cost can vary widely depending on numerous factors.
Destiny Blackmon, a parent who pursued surrogacy, shared with TODAY.com, “I would say about $100,000 in total… To date, we’ve spent $80,000. The eggs themselves were $20,000, and the lawyer, travel, clinic, insurance all were separate costs each time. Once the baby is born, I’d say we will have spent about $100,000 in total for both of our surrogacy journeys.” Despite the substantial expense, Blackmon emphasizes the immeasurable value of fulfilling their dream of parenthood.
Experts estimate that the “all-in average” cost of surrogacy, encompassing surrogate compensation, agency fees, legal fees, and insurance, typically ranges from $125,000 to $175,000. Stephanie Levich, founder and president of Family Match Consulting, emphasizes that the specific amount depends on several variables unique to each family’s situation. Let’s break down these costs to provide a clearer picture.
Understanding the Costs of Surrogacy
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the various expenses you can anticipate when considering surrogacy:
Agency Fees: $15,000 to $30,000
Many intended parents opt to work with surrogacy agencies to connect with potential surrogates. These agencies provide a range of services, including medical screenings for surrogates, egg and sperm donors, counseling services for all parties involved, assistance in understanding insurance policies, and negotiation of surrogacy terms and legal agreements. The cost of agency fees varies significantly based on the services offered and the agency’s location.
A surrogacy agency assists intended parents by providing available surrogates who meet their specific criteria, although wait times for a match may occur.
Levich highlights that a common challenge for intended parents is the potential for long waitlists due to an agency’s limited availability of surrogates matching their specific requirements.
Surrogate Fees: $30,000-$60,000
These fees represent compensation for the surrogate’s medical testing, screenings, the physical and emotional commitment of carrying and delivering the child. A surrogate’s fee is influenced by her location and whether she has prior experience as a surrogate. The compensation may also increase if the surrogate is carrying multiples (twins or triplets) or requires a cesarean delivery.
Legal Fees: $5,000-$15,000
Legal representation is crucial for both intended parents and the surrogate to ensure that everyone’s rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected. The total cost of legal services will vary based on the location and the attorneys involved.
Embryo Creation: $20,000-$30,000
For gestational surrogacy, embryo creation is a necessary step. This process typically involves In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), where an embryo is created in a laboratory and then implanted into the surrogate’s uterus.
Egg Donation: $20,000-$30,000
Egg donation may be required during surrogacy due to varying factors, influencing the overall price of the procedure.
In cases where intended parents are unable to use their own eggs, donor eggs are used. The price of donor eggs can vary depending on factors such as the donor’s background, ethnicity, and the clinic’s fees.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): $10,000-$15,000
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a common procedure used in surrogacy to create an embryo. The average cost for one IVF cycle is typically more than $12,000, however, this can vary by location and clinic.
Insurance Costs: $10,000-$30,000
Most health insurance plans do not cover surrogate pregnancies, so intended parents are generally responsible for covering the surrogate’s insurance premiums and deductibles or for obtaining a separate medical insurance policy for the surrogate.
Additional Costs: Varies
It’s essential to factor in potential unexpected expenses when budgeting for surrogacy. These may include maternity clothes for the surrogate, additional medical expenses that arise during the pregnancy, travel and lodging expenses if the surrogate lives in a different location, and the standard costs associated with preparing for a new baby.
Navigating the Financial Aspects of Surrogacy
Given the significant financial investment, intended parents often explore various options to fund their surrogacy journey.
- Savings: Utilizing personal savings is a common approach.
- Family and Friends: Seeking financial assistance from family and friends can provide valuable support.
- Surrogacy Grants and Loans: Numerous organizations and financial institutions offer grants and loans specifically for surrogacy. Your surrogacy agency can often provide guidance on available resources.
Levich emphasizes the importance of selecting a reputable agency that can provide financial planning assistance. She advises prospective parents to carefully consider their options and make informed decisions about the best path forward for their individual circumstances.
Surrogacy vs. IVF: A Cost Comparison
It’s important to understand that surrogacy is generally not cheaper than IVF. In fact, IVF is often a necessary component of surrogacy, meaning that the overall cost of surrogacy will include the cost of IVF in addition to other expenses. Levich advises intended parents to factor in the cost of IVF medications, which can range from $3,000 to $5,000, when estimating the total cost of surrogacy.
Insurance Coverage for Surrogacy
Unfortunately, most insurance policies do not cover all stages of surrogacy. Levich notes that procedures such as screening, embryo transfer, and monitoring performed by a reproductive endocrinologist are often not covered. Once the surrogate is under the care of an OB (typically around 12 weeks of pregnancy), her personal insurance may be used. In this case, the intended parents will either cover the surrogate’s insurance costs or purchase a separate policy for her.
Given the complexities of insurance coverage, it’s crucial to consult with insurance professionals specializing in surrogacy to identify the most appropriate and cost-effective plan.
The Bottom Line
While the cost of surrogacy in the United States can be substantial, often exceeding six figures, it represents a life-changing opportunity for individuals and couples to realize their dream of parenthood. Despite the challenges and expenses, many intended parents, like Blackmon, find the journey to be ultimately rewarding.
Blackmon emphasizes the importance of support and encouragement for those considering surrogacy. “My husband and I are so thankful that there are people out there willing to help families who just want to have a baby to raise in love. It’s absolutely possible. Be encouraged.”
