Being a Surrogate in a Different State

Unfortunately, gestational surrogacy agreements are not valid in all 50 states. Lawyers and agencies will only agree to work with a surrogate if she lives in a surrogacy-safe state to ensure her own safety, legally and physically. The intended parents do not have to live in a state that allows surrogacy. Both parties’ surrogacy attorneys can go into detail about what laws specifically apply to the intended parents and surrogate’s journey. Here is what to expect as a surrogate living in a different state than your intended parents.
Travel to An Out Of State Clinic
A surrogate can expect to travel out of state twice to the intended parents’ preferred IVF clinic—the first time for medical screening (if you are in a committed relationship you will also have to bring your partner) and the second time for embryo transfer. 10-12 weeks after a successful IVF procedure, a surrogate can transfer to her own OB and continue her appointments there. Intended parents may want to travel with their surrogate to attend ultrasound milestones. In most cases, additional appointments and tests during the IVF process can be done at a local lab or facility closer to the surrogate. While this is very common, it cannot be guaranteed for every case so please be sure you are comfortable with the distance to the IVF clinic.
Scheduled Virtual Communication
Throughout surrogacy, most communication will be through emails, phone calls, and video chats. This is not special to interstate surrogacy. When you work with GSHC Surrogacy, we will have a dedicated caseworker help you and your intended parents establish a contact schedule that considers both parties’ schedules and timezones.
Hospital Plan
A surrogate typically gives birth in a hospital close to her. In fact, the hospital may even be the one where she delivered her other children. Your GSHC case manager will help you create a hospital plan that includes what types of procedures and aids you will have during the birthing process, who is allowed in the delivery room, and specifics about your intended parents’ lodging accommodations and hospital visitations.
Prepare For Baby Coming Early
However, all parties involved should be prepared for anything. Usually, the intended parents will arrive in the surrogate’s home state a few days before the due date to be present for the birth. In the event that the baby comes early, the intended parents may not be able to make it as soon as the baby arrives. So you, your GHSC representative, and your surrogacy lawyers may also need to prepare for that possibility.
Being a surrogate living in a different state than your intended parents is not impossible. The two parties must be mindful of state laws, communication, and additional travel requirements when navigating their surrogacy. If you’re ready to begin your surrogacy journey, please contact us at GSHC Surrogacy to apply!
About GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation
GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation is a comprehensive international egg donation and surrogacy agency based in Los Angeles, California. Our surrogacy specialists carefully listen to your needs and provide the most professional and reliable guidance tailored to your situation. With advanced technology, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and an outstanding medical team, we are dedicated to helping more HIV-positive intended parents achieve their dream of building a family.
You are welcome to communicate your needs with us at any time so we can help you prepare in advance. Throughout the entire surrogacy process, GSHC is supported by experienced legal counsel. We will do our utmost to help you choose the most suitable surrogacy plan in terms of cost, timeline, and legal protection.
How to Learn more about Surrogacy in the United States?
If you are interested in U.S. surrogacy, IVF, or egg donation, the following resources can help you access authoritative insights and real-life stories:
Follow the GSHC Official Website Blog
We regularly publish professional articles covering comprehensive knowledge and the latest updates on surrogacy, IVF, and egg donation.
Subscribe to the GSHC YouTube Channel
Our channel provides in-depth explanations of the entire IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy process—packed with valuable information.
Follow GSHC on Social Media (TikTok, Facebook, Instagram)
We share daily interactions between GSHC and surrogate mothers, documenting medical check-ups, embryo transfers, and delivery journeys—engaging and heartwarming.
Contact GSHC and Dr. Shen Now
WhatsApp: +1 (949) 738-1070
Phone: +1 (310) 953-0173
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