If you’ve been thinking about becoming a surrogate mother in Texas, you’re likely driven by the desire to help someone else experience the joy of parenthood. Surrogacy is a unique and generous way to support growing families, and in Texas, the legal framework and medical infrastructure make it a favorable state for the process. At Simple Surrogacy, we’ve supported many women through the rewarding path of becoming a surrogate, and we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know to get started.
From eligibility requirements to legal steps and medical procedures, becoming a surrogate mother in Texas involves thoughtful planning, commitment, and compassion. Let’s break it down so you can decide whether this incredible journey is right for you.
Texas is considered one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the United States. The state allows for both traditional and gestational surrogacy, although the vast majority of arrangements today are gestational. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate does not share a genetic connection with the baby. Instead, an embryo created through in vitro fertilization is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
One of the benefits of pursuing surrogacy in Texas is the clear legal path that exists for both intended parents and surrogates. Pre-birth parentage orders can be established in most cases, ensuring that the intended parents are recognized as the child’s legal parents from the outset.
Before you can start your surrogacy journey, you need to meet certain qualifications. These requirements are in place to protect your health and ensure the best possible outcome for the baby and the intended parents.
Surrogate candidates typically must have already given birth to at least one healthy child of their own. This ensures you understand what pregnancy entails and can make an informed decision. You should also be in good physical health, have a stable lifestyle, and be free from major medical issues that could impact a future pregnancy.
Most agencies, including ours, require that surrogates be between the ages of 21 and 40, have a healthy body mass index, and do not smoke or use illicit substances. Emotional readiness is just as important as physical health, so psychological evaluations are also part of the screening process.
Once you confirm that you meet the basic requirements, the next step is completing an application. This enables us to gain a deeper understanding of you, your medical history, and the reasons behind your decision to become a surrogate.
After submitting your application, our team will reach out to schedule interviews and conduct initial screenings. This includes reviewing your obstetric history, speaking with your previous healthcare providers, and confirming your overall readiness for the journey.
Psychological evaluations and background checks are also conducted during this phase. These steps are not meant to be invasive. Instead, they ensure that you are fully supported and that your decision to become a surrogate is based on emotional stability and a personal commitment.
After you’re approved to move forward, one of the most meaningful parts of the surrogacy process begins: matching with intended parents. At Simple Surrogacy, we take this step seriously and work closely with you to ensure that your values, preferences, and boundaries align with those of the intended parents.
This match can happen in several ways. Sometimes surrogates work with someone they already know, such as a family member or friend. In other cases, our coordinators help facilitate introductions between surrogates and individuals or couples looking to grow their families.
Matching involves open conversations about expectations, communication styles, and important choices like the number of embryos to transfer or views on selective reduction. A strong match lays the foundation for a trusting and respectful relationship throughout the journey.
Texas law supports gestational surrogacy, but a legal contract is still required before any medical steps begin. This contract outlines everyone’s rights and responsibilities, helping to prevent future misunderstandings.
You will be represented by your own independent attorney, separate from the legal team of the intended parents. This ensures that your interests and well-being are fully protected. The contract will address compensation, medical decision-making, confidentiality, and steps to establish parental rights for the intended parents.
After the legal contract is finalized and signed by all parties, the fertility clinic can move forward with the medical process.
As a gestational surrogate, you will undergo a series of medical procedures to prepare your body for embryo transfer. This process begins with hormone treatments that thicken the uterine lining and mimic the body’s natural cycle. These medications may be administered orally, via patches, or through injections, depending on your specific protocol.
Once your body is ready, the embryo created using the intended parents’ or donor’s genetic material is transferred into your uterus. The procedure is painless and does not require anesthesia.
After the transfer, you’ll undergo regular monitoring to confirm implantation and track your early pregnancy. Once the pregnancy is stable, your care transitions to your personal OB-GYN, just like any other pregnancy. Throughout your journey, you’ll continue to receive support from your surrogacy coordinator, as well as emotional resources to help you feel confident and cared for.
After you give birth, the legal arrangements established at the beginning of the process ensure a smooth transfer of parental rights to the intended parents. In most cases, you will not be listed on the birth certificate, and the baby will go directly into the care of the parents you carried for.
This can be an emotional time for many surrogates, which is why we offer post-birth counseling and support. Whether you prefer to maintain a close connection with the family or take a step back, the most important thing is to honor your own boundaries and healing process.
In Texas, compensated surrogacy is legal, and surrogates receive payment for their time, effort, and the physical demands of pregnancy. This compensation is outlined in the legal contract and typically includes a base fee, along with reimbursements for medical expenses, travel, lost wages, maternity clothing, and other related expenses.
Compensation is an important part of the process, but it’s never the only reason women choose to become surrogates. Most of the surrogates we work with are inspired by the chance to give someone the gift of family. That said, we are committed to making sure that every surrogate is fairly compensated and fully supported throughout the process.
Becoming a surrogate affects more than just you. Your partner, children, and close family members will likely be part of the experience in some way. It is important to have open conversations with your loved ones early on, especially your partner, if you are in a relationship. Surrogacy can be time-consuming and emotionally intense, and having a strong support network makes all the difference.
We also offer support for partners and family members, including counseling and education, so everyone can feel prepared and involved.
Choosing to become a surrogate is a personal decision that deserves time and reflection. Ask yourself how you feel about carrying a baby for someone else. Consider the impact on your schedule, your family, and your emotional well-being. Speak with others who have gone through the process. The more informed you are, the more confident you will feel moving forward.
Surrogacy is not just about giving birth. It is about helping someone fulfill a dream that may have once seemed impossible. For the right person, it is one of the most meaningful journeys they will ever take.
At Simple Surrogacy, we are proud to work with compassionate women who want to make a difference through surrogacy. We understand the courage it takes to begin this journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
From your first question to the day you deliver, our team is committed to your safety, comfort, and success. With over two decades of experience and a trusted reputation in the surrogacy community, we offer personalized support and a clear, professional process for every surrogate we work with.
If you’re ready to learn more about becoming a surrogate mother in Texas, contact us. We’ll answer your questions, understand your goals, and help you decide if this path is right for you.
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