If you’re considering becoming a surrogate in Illinois, you’re probably wondering: how long does the entire process actually take? The honest answer is that most women can expect the complete surrogacy journey—from initial application to delivery—to take anywhere from 12 to 18 months. However, your specific timeline will depend on several factors, including how quickly you complete screenings, find your perfect match with intended parents, and navigate the medical process.
Ready to take the first step? Talk to a specialist today to learn more about becoming a surrogate in Illinois.
Don’t worry—while that might sound like a long time, remember that you’re embarking on an incredible journey that will change lives forever (including your own!). Every step serves an important purpose in ensuring the safest, most successful experience for everyone involved. Let’s break down exactly what to expect during each phase of your surrogacy journey.
How Long Does it Really Take to Be a Surrogate: A Timeline
Understanding the surrogacy timeline helps set realistic expectations and reduces anxiety about the unknown. Here’s what your Illinois surrogacy journey will likely look like, broken down into six manageable phases.
Phase 1: Getting Started (2-4 weeks)
Your surrogacy adventure begins with some important groundwork. This phase typically moves pretty quickly—most women complete it within a month.
- Application Process: You’ll start by filling out a comprehensive application that covers your medical history, lifestyle, and motivations for becoming a surrogate. Take your time here—thoroughness now saves time later!
- Initial Screening: A surrogacy specialist will review your application and conduct an initial phone interview. They’ll assess whether you meet the basic surrogate mother requirements and answer any preliminary questions you might have.
- Agency Selection: If you’re working with an agency (which we highly recommend!), this is when you’ll make that important decision. Research different agencies, read reviews, and choose one that aligns with your values and provides the support you need.
- Early Preparations: Start gathering important documents like medical records from previous pregnancies and begin thinking about how surrogacy might affect your family dynamics.
Phase 2: Pre-Screening and Approval (4-8 weeks)
This is arguably the most thorough phase of the process, but it’s designed to protect everyone involved—including you.
- Medical Evaluations: This is to ensure that you are in good health for pregnancy.
- Psychological Screening: A mental health professional will meet with you (and likely your partner) to discuss your motivations, support system, and readiness for the emotional aspects of surrogacy.
- Background Checks: Standard background checks and home visits ensure a safe environment for pregnancy and beyond.
- Approval Process: Once all screenings are complete, you’ll receive official approval to move forward as a surrogate candidate.
Phase 3: Finding Your Match (2-12 weeks)
Finding your match has the biggest time range because it depends on finding the right intended parents. 2-12 weeks sounds like a long time- but it really just depends! Some matches happen in 2 weeks while others may take longer, and both are completely normal.
During this phase, your agency will present profiles of intended parents who align with your preferences based off of your birth plans, communication style, and more. From there, you will meet the intended parents via video calls or in person. This communication will help determine if both parties are compatible for this journey together!
Phase 4: Legal Preparation (3-6 weeks)
Once you’ve found your perfect match, it’s time to handle the important legal and medical details.
You will work with an experienced attorney to create a surrogacy agreement that will protect everyone involved. The agreement will also cover expectations, compensation, and responsibilities. Your team will ensure all legal requirements specific to Illinois surrogacy laws are met, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
Phase 5: The Medical Process (2-4 weeks)
Now for the exciting part—preparing your body for pregnancy and the actual embryo transfer!
- Medications: You’ll begin taking fertility medications to prepare your uterine lining for embryo implantation. Your medical team will monitor you closely during this time.
- Embryo Transfer: The actual transfer procedure is relatively quick and painless—similar to a routine gynecological exam.
- Early Pregnancy Monitoring: After transfer, you’ll have regular blood tests and ultrasounds to monitor for pregnancy and ensure everything is progressing normally.
Phase 6: Pregnancy and Beyond (9+ months)
Congratulations—you’re pregnant! This phase encompasses the pregnancy journey and beyond.
- Pregnancy Journey: You’ll experience a typical pregnancy with regular prenatal care, though you’ll likely have more frequent check-ups and closer monitoring than usual.
- Delivery: When the big day arrives, you’ll deliver the baby according to the birth plan you and the intended parents have agreed upon.
- Postpartum: Recovery looks similar to any other birth, though you’ll have the unique joy of watching the intended parents bond with their new baby.
- Relationship Continuation: Many surrogates maintain meaningful relationships with their intended parents long after delivery—it’s a beautiful extension of the journey you’ve shared.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
The Illinois surrogacy timeline might seem long, but remember that each phase serves a crucial purpose in ensuring the best possible experience for everyone involved. Most importantly, you won’t be navigating this journey alone—you’ll have support from experienced professionals every step of the way.
Benefits of Agency Support:
- Faster matching with pre-screened intended parents
- Streamlined legal and medical processes
- 24/7 support throughout your journey
- Experienced guidance through each phase
- Protection of your rights and interests
Want to apply to become a surrogate? Talk to a specialist today to begin your incredible journey. If you have more questions about the surrogacy process, we can connect you to a specialist who can provide personalized guidance for your unique situation.