The Surrogacy Journey in Pennsylvania

Your Guide to Finding or Becoming a Surrogate in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Scranton, and Throughout Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is internationally renowned for its first-rate hospitals, fertility specialists, and surrogacy agencies, making it a top-level regional hub for those pursuing surrogacy. Whether you’re interested in becoming a surrogate to help others grow their families or are looking for a surrogate to help you realize your dreams of parenthood, this can be an ideal location to begin your journey. At GSHC Surrogacy and Egg Donation, we’ve had the honor to work with people of all backgrounds throughout Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, Scranton, and all of Pennsylvania.

Who Uses a Surrogate?

Intended parents who want to grow their family may work with a surrogate for various reasons. People of all backgrounds and situations may turn to surrogacy, including:

  • Anyone experiencing infertility
  • Women with pregnancy risk factors
  • People with medical conditions or situations that make it risky, difficult, or impossible to conceive or give birth
  • LGBTQ+ individuals and couples
  • Single individuals who want to expand their family

Who Are Surrogates?

Surrogates, above all, want to help others create a family. Surrogates come from all backgrounds and are motivated to help others fulfill their dreams of parenthood. To ensure

their own well-being as well as that of the baby, surrogacy candidates must meet certain requirements around age, mental and physical health, and more.

There are two types of surrogacy: gestational and traditional. At GSHC, we work only with gestational surrogates. With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate does not use her own eggs (instead using an intended parent’s egg or a donor egg) and therefore is not genetically linked to the baby. Less common is traditional surrogacy, in which the surrogate’s own eggs are used to create the embryo. This tends to be more legally and emotionally complex and is not usually recommended.

Become a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania more than lives up to its warm reputation within the surrogate community. With convenient transit hubs and proximity to international airports, world-class medical facilities and providers, and a diverse, thriving network of surrogates, this is an ideal location to embark on this unique, rewarding experience. The team at GSHC is proud to have worked with a diverse pool of surrogates throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton.

The Benefits of Becoming a Surrogate: How Much Are Surrogates Paid?

Helping others expand their families and realize their dreams of parenthood can bring a great sense of fulfillment and joy. Many surrogates find this to be extremely enriching on its own. Others love being pregnant and seek to experience that again through surrogacy. In addition to the emotional rewards, surrogates can earn generous financial compensation for dedication, time, and energy.

While surrogacy can be very physically and emotionally demanding, the team at GSHC understands the need for competitive compensation that reflects the deep commitment involved. Many of our coordinators have been surrogates themselves and are passionate about guiding others through their journey, building lasting relationships over a unique experience. Many surrogates return to GSHC for their second or third journeys, and also refer their friends to become surrogates in our network.

Surrogate Compensation in Pennsylvania: How Much Are Surrogates Paid?

Typical compensation for a surrogate in Pennsylvania is between $50,000 and $80,000, with the potential to earn $100,000 or more depending on prior surrogacy experience.

Aside from prior surrogacy experience, total compensation will depend upon a range of factors, including the specifics of the surrogacy contract, any special or unexpected medical needs, and unique circumstances (e.g., a pregnancy resulting in twins).

Total compensation will include:

  • Base pay
  • Allowances for major milestones (e.g., fetal heartbeat confirmation) and necessities like maternity wear
  • Reimbursements for lost wages, childcare, and more as needed

Surrogate Payment Schedule

Surrogates typically receive base pay in 10 equal installments, paid on the 1st of every month following confirmation of pregnancy. About 15 days after delivery, the remaining pay will be provided as a lump sum.

Learn More About Surrogate Compensation

Surrogate Requirements in Pennsylvania

At GSHC, we have strict requirements in place for all surrogates to ensure they are emotionally and physically prepared for the journey ahead. To be eligible for surrogacy, you must:

  • Be between 21 and 38 years old
  • Have had at least one successful pregnancy
  • Have a healthy BMI and be in good physical health
  • Be mentally stable
  • Be a non-smoker and have no history of drug abuse
  • Have a stable living and financial situation
  • Be a U.S. citizen with no criminal record

Learn More About Surrogate Requirements

Become a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Decide what agency you want to work with, and fill out the application to become a surrogate. Be sure to be completely truthful about your expectations, experience, and medical history. Carefully consider whether you are ready to commit to the process fully.

Start Your Surrogacy Journey in Pennsylvania Today!

GC Contact

Find a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

If you’re considering working with a surrogate in Pennsylvania, you’ve come to the right place. GSHC Surrogacy & Egg Donation is proud to have worked with many intended parents throughout Pennsylvania, including Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Scranton. All surrogates are pre-screened, and we work with top professionals in the medical, mental health, and legal communities in our region to ensure as smooth and stress-free an experience as possible.

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost in Pennsylvania?

The cost of surrogacy in Pennsylvania will encompass:

  • Base compensation and allowances for the surrogate throughout the process
  • Agency fees
  • Insurance fees
  • Medical expenses
  • Legal fees
  • Surrogate reimbursements for lost wages, medical insurance, and more
  • Specifics of the surrogacy contract

In general, most intended parents can expect to pay at least $1550,000 in total for surrogacy. We understand this is a significant financial commitment, and will work closely with you to go over all anticipated costs and ensure you’re comfortable with what’s ahead.

Learn More About Surrogacy Costs

How to Find a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Factors to Consider

When seeking a surrogate to work with, you will likely want to consider first her physical, psychological, personal, and family health history. Also important are her lifestyle preferences and habits, her communication skills and style, and her interests and expectations in terms of the surrogacy process. Does she have a good support system in her home community? Do your values and expectations align?

Surrogate Matching

GSHC is one of the best places to find fully pre-screened, vetted potential surrogate candidates. Once intended parents have decided on a prospective surrogate, a meeting will be arranged to confirm the match. If everyone is happy with the pairing, this marks the beginning of a commitment to the collaboration of creating a family. From there, the intended parents will work with their attorney to draft a comprehensive surrogacy contract that outlines the terms each party brings to the agreement, while the surrogate will begin medical processes.

Using an Egg Donor and Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Some intended parents use an egg donor as well as a surrogate to help them achieve their dreams of a growing family. In Pennsylvania, this is legally allowed as there are no laws prohibiting it, and Pennsylvania courts recognize surrogacy agreements using egg donors. Intended parents may choose to work with an egg donor for several different reasons. For example, male individuals and same-sex couples, women who cannot use their own eggs, and women who have undergone hysterectomies may all turn to egg donors in combination with surrogacy.

At GSHC, we’re proud to offer both egg donor and surrogacy services to hopeful parents in Pennsylvania, from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, Scranton, and beyond. As a leading egg donor agency, we have a diverse pool of healthy donors to choose from, and our all-inclusive approach makes it easy to coordinate all processes in one place.

Searching for an egg donor? Register for access to our egg donor database.

LGBTQ+ Surrogacy in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a welcoming and established landing place for LGBTQ+ families seeking an inclusive environment in which to build a family. Pennsylvania laws recognize and uphold surrogacy agreements for LGBTQ+ couples and individuals, and do not discriminate based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. You also do not need to be genetically related to the baby to pursue surrogacy in Pennsylvania, though legal processes may be more complex in these cases. At GSHC, we’re proud to work with both intended parents and surrogates of all backgrounds, including those in the LGBTQ+ community.

Find a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Decide on a surrogacy agency and fill out a detailed profile outlining your expectations, preferences, and requirements for a surrogate.

Start Your Surrogacy Journey in Pennsylvania

Contact

Become a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Step 1: Decide what agency you want to work with, and fill out the application to become a surrogate. Be sure to be completely truthful about your expectations, experience, and medical history. Carefully consider whether you are ready to fully commit to the process.

Start Your Surrogacy Journey in Pennsylvania Today!

Contact

Surrogacy Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania does not have specific surrogacy laws, meaning there are no laws prohibiting it. State courts have recognized surrogacy through case law (i.e., law based on decisions made in court rather than law based on statutes or regulations).

In Pennsylvania, gestational surrogacy allows compensation for the surrogate, while traditional surrogacy does not. Both intended parents and potential surrogates are strongly advised to have ongoing legal representation. The components of surrogacy are complex, and protecting all involved parties is extremely important.

A detailed surrogacy contract should be drawn up, clearly outlining all surrogate compensation and allowances, legal parental rights, lifestyle or dietary restrictions during pregnancy, modes and frequency of communication, and more. It is also essential to secure a professional surrogacy agency to advise and support all parties through each step in the surrogacy journey.

The Surrogacy Process in Pennsylvania

GC Step 1. Application & Screening

Prospective surrogates will apply to GSHC to confirm their readiness for the process and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements for surrogacy.

IP Step 1. Initial Consultation

Intended parents will work with GSHC to understand their options for surrogacy and what the process will entail. Our caring team will provide expert advice and support.

GC Step 2. Create a Profile

Any candidates who pass our comprehensive screening process will be asked to create a profile describing their background, interests, values, preferences, and motivations for becoming a surrogate.

IP Step 2. Review Candidates

Intended parents will work with their case managers to review surrogate profiles and find a match that aligns with their preferences and objectives.

GC Step 3. Meet with Intended Parents

The surrogate will meet with the intended parents so everyone can get to know one another and ensure a harmonious pairing.

IP Step 3. Confirm a Match

After meeting with the surrogate candidate, intended parents will decide whether to move forward and confirm the match.

Together Surrogacy: Step 4. Agree to Move Forward

Once all parties are happy with a match, intended parents and surrogates will agree to collaborate on the terms of the legal agreement and to support one another on the unique journey ahead.

Together Surrogacy: Step 5. Legal Contracts

Intended parents will meet with their attorney to create a legal contract outlining all parties’ rights, responsibilities, and expectations. The surrogate will review this with her own attorney and have the chance to request changes.

Together Surrogacy: Step 6. Medical Procedures

Once all parties have agreed on and signed the surrogacy contract, the surrogate will begin medical procedures and fertility treatments designed to facilitate the best possible outcome for embryo creation, implantation, and a successful pregnancy.

Together Surrogacy: Step 7. Prenatal Care

Regular prenatal appointments will monitor the progress of the pregnancy and the health of both the baby and the surrogate. Specific dietary and lifestyle guidelines for the surrogate, as agreed upon in the surrogacy contract, will help ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Together Surrogacy: Step 8. Delivery

The surrogate is admitted to the delivery hospital she’s selected, and the intended parents will typically be there to support her and welcome the baby.
Become a Surrogate in Pennsylvania Find a Surrogate in Pennsylvania

Surrogacy in Pennsylvania FAQs

  • Yes, surrogacy is legal and well-supported in the state of Pennsylvania. There are no specific surrogacy laws in place, and agreements made between intended parents and surrogates are recognized in courts.

  • Your first step is to partner with a professional surrogacy agency whose experience and resources will provide guidance and support throughout the process. Reach out to GSHC today to discuss your options.

  • Yes! Pennsylvania welcomes people from all communities to consider surrogacy, and there are no laws prohibiting LGBTQ+ couples or individuals from working with a surrogate to grow their family. At GSHC, we work with people of all backgrounds and take pride in creating an inclusive environment sensitive to your unique needs.

  • The cost of surrogacy will depend on several factors, including the terms agreed upon in the surrogacy contract. Total costs will encompass base pay, allowances, legal fees, agency fees, medical expenses, surrogate reimbursements (e.g., surrogacy-related travel), and more. In general, most intended parents pay at least $155,000.

  • Depending on the specifics of the case, Pennsylvania judges will grant a pre-birth or post-birth order (or both) to establish parentage for intended parents. Parental rights will also be laid out in detail within the surrogacy contract.

  • In most cases, insurance does not cover surrogacy costs for intended parents, though some insurance plans may offer partial coverage. Some aspects, such as the surrogate’s prenatal care, may also be covered by the surrogate’s insurance. The surrogate will not need to cover her own costs; these will be provided by the intended parents or her own insurance.

  • Your surrogacy agency will pre-screen all potential surrogates. All candidates will provide complete profiles for you to review until you find a good fit. In most cases, a match will be made within a matter of weeks, but this may vary depending on any special requirements or preferences.

  • In vitro fertilization (IVF) involves the creation of an embryo outside the body for transfer to a woman’s uterus, while surrogacy focuses on the carrying of a pregnancy for aspiring parents by another woman.

  • There are certain requirements you must meet to be considered for surrogacy. Some of these criteria include age limitations, mental and physical health, and financial stability.

  • Yes, once the intended parents and agency have determined you to be a good match, an introductory meeting will be arranged to ensure everyone feels comfortable to move forward.

  • Compensation varies from case to case and comprises several factors. All surrogates will receive base compensation paid out monthly, with additional allowances for major milestones and necessities. First-time surrogates usually earn between $70,000 to $80,000, while experienced surrogates can earn upward of $100,000. Reimbursements for travel, lost wages, and more will also be provided.

  • The surrogate usually has some time with the baby before the intended parents take their new baby home with them. Post-birth paperwork will be processed, and a birth certificate will be issued recognizing the intended parents as the child’s legal parents.

Why GSHC: About Our Surrogacy Agency

GSHC Agency is an internationally recognized, full-service boutique agency dedicated to helping families grow through surrogacy and egg donation. With a core ethos centered on a passion for assisted reproduction and family building, we prioritize the highest level of service for both intended parents and surrogates. What sets us apart is our approach – 100% of our case managers are former surrogates themselves, providing unparalleled empathy and expertise. Our extensive pool of surrogates, close relationship with elite professionals, and commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity ensure a seamless journey toward parenthood. GSHC Surrogacy Agency, you’re in safe hands every step of the way. Learn how we can help facilitate your surrogacy journey in Pennsylvania.

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