One of the most common—and important—questions that intended parents ask when exploring surrogacy is:
“Is the surrogate genetically related to the baby?”

The answer depends on the type of surrogacy arrangement. However, in the vast majority of modern cases—especially those conducted through licensed medical centers and international surrogacy programs—the answer is:

 No, the surrogate is not biologically related to the baby.

This is a defining feature of gestational surrogacy, the gold standard of ethical, legal, and medical practice today. In this article, we’ll explore:

• The difference between gestational and traditional surrogacy

• How genetics work in a surrogacy arrangement

• Why gestational surrogacy is globally preferred

• The legal and psychological implications of genetic links

• How we ensure clarity, safety, and trust in every case

Two Types of Surrogacy: Gestational vs. Traditional

Surrogacy is not a one-size-fits-all concept. While the outcome—a healthy baby for intended parents—is the same, the method of conception and biological relationship between surrogate and child differ greatly.

 1. Gestational Surrogacy (Modern Standard)

• Definition: The surrogate (also called a gestational carrier) carries an embryo that is not genetically her own.
   

• The embryo is created through IVF using:

  • The intended mother's egg

  • OR a donor egg

  • And the intended father's sperm

  • OR donor sperm
     

• The embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.

 In this scenario, the surrogate has zero biological connection to the baby.

Gestational surrogacy accounts for over 95% of all surrogacy cases globally and is the only legal option in many countries.

2. Traditional Surrogacy (Rare, Legally Complex)

• Definition: The surrogate uses her own egg and is artificially inseminated with the intended father’s or donor’s sperm.

• She is both the genetic mother and the birth mother of the child.

This method is highly controversial, poses legal risks, and is not allowed or practiced by most reputable clinics or agencies due to:

• Complicated parental rights

• Emotional and psychological challenges

• Lack of legal clarity in many jurisdictions

At Yuzko Medical Center and in most international programs, only gestational surrogacy is practiced to ensure clear, ethical, and legally secure arrangements.

So, Who Is Genetically Related to the Baby?

In gestational surrogacy:

• If using own eggs and sperm → both intended parents are genetically related

• If using donor egg or donor sperm → one or both parents may not be genetically related

• The surrogate is never genetically related to the child

This allows intended parents to build their families in a way that is legally protected and biologically planned—with no confusion over parentage.

Legal Reasons for Gestational-Only Surrogacy

Countries that permit surrogacy—such as Ukraine, the United States, Canada, Georgia, and others—require gestational surrogacy for very clear legal reasons:

• Ensures that the surrogate has no legal claim to the child

• Guarantees that intended parents are recognized as sole legal parents

• Streamlines the citizenship and documentation process for newborns

• Reduces legal disputes, especially in international arrangements

In many jurisdictions, traditional surrogacy is banned outright to prevent custody conflicts and protect all parties.

Psychological Clarity and Emotional Boundaries

Beyond the legal and biological aspects, gestational surrogacy is preferred for emotional well-being:

• Surrogates are fully aware that the baby is not theirs genetically

• Psychological screening ensures they are prepared to carry—not parent—the child

• Intended parents have peace of mind knowing there is no “maternal claim”

Most surrogates describe their role as “a vessel to help someone else become a parent”, not as a mother themselves.

At Yuzko Medical Center, every surrogate undergoes comprehensive psychological evaluation to ensure understanding, stability, and readiness.

Global Surrogacy Standards: Why This Question Matters

Understanding who is genetically related to the baby has real-world implications, especially in:

• Embassy procedures (for passports and citizenship)

• Birth certificate issuance (naming intended parents as legal guardians)

• Insurance and medical decisions during pregnancy and delivery

• Parent-child rights in countries where surrogacy laws vary

💡 That’s why it’s crucial to work with a reputable clinic or agency that follows international legal and medical guidelines.

Our Process at Yuzko Medical Center

As a multidisciplinary fertility center with a strong international focus, we ensure that:

✔️ All surrogates are gestational only — no genetic relation to the baby
✔️ All embryo transfers use intended parents' or donor gametes
✔️ Every surrogate is screened medically, psychologically, and legally
✔️ All contracts specify parentage and waive maternal rights
✔️ Parents receive full legal support for their child’s documentation and return home

Key Takeaways

Final Thoughts

Surrogacy is built on trust, science, and structure. When done ethically and transparently, it allows families to grow with full confidence in their legal and biological rights.

The surrogate is not related to the baby.
She is a deeply committed carrier, not a parent — and that’s exactly how it should be in modern, medically assisted reproduction.

Surrogacy costs vary widely by country. For example, in the United States a full gestational surrogacy program often runs $140,000–$200,000 USD. In Canada, where commercial compensation is not allowed (only reimbursement of expenses), costs are lower – roughly $75,000–$90,000 USD. In the United Kingdom, surrogacy is altruistic, and total costs (clinic fees, expenses, legal, etc.) can exceed £50,000 (about $65,000 USD). Eastern European destinations like Ukraine and Georgia are more affordable: current estimates put Ukraine around $50,000–$65,000 USD (Georgia is similar) because of lower medical and surrogate fees. In Mexico, costs are roughly $50,000–$80,000 USD, depending on the state and services (some programs include multiple embryo attempts or donor services). These ranges include most major components (surrogate compensation, IVF, legal fees, etc.), but actual budgets should be confirmed with providers.

What are the cost components in a surrogacy program?

Key cost categories for intended parents include:

• Surrogate compensation or expenses: In commercial programs (e.g. U.S., Ukraine) the surrogate is paid a base fee (often the largest single line item) plus allowances. In the U.S. this can be $65,000–$75,000 for a first-time surrogate. In altruistic countries (e.g. UK, Canada) only expenses are reimbursed; even then UK cases have approved expense packages up to ~£25,000 ($32k).

• Medical/IVF costs: This covers IVF cycles, embryo transfers, fertility drugs and tests. In the U.S. clinic and lab fees often total $25,000–$35,000. In Ukraine or Mexico, IVF is cheaper (studies or clinics may quote ~$7–15k for basic cycles), but note that multiple IVF attempts may be needed.

• Pregnancy and delivery care: Includes prenatal visits, hospital delivery and any NICU stay. Usually covered as part of the program, but if complications arise (emergency C-section, extended bedrest, preterm delivery) extra medical bills can occur.

• Agency or coordination fees: Surrogacy agencies handle matching, screening and case management. U.S. agencies often charge $25,000–$35,000. Agencies abroad may charge less ($5k–$10k in some countries) but services can vary.

• Legal fees: Drafting and reviewing contracts, establishing parentage and obtaining birth paperwork. In the U.S., legal costs are typically $8,000–$10,000. Abroad, legal fees can range from a few thousand dollars up (for example, Ukrainian legal support is often around $5k).

• Insurance: Intended parents generally must provide health insurance for the surrogate’s pregnancy if her policy doesn’t cover it. Surrogacy-friendly maternity insurance (or gaps coverage) can run ~$800+/month in the U.S.. Newborns also need immediate coverage at birth.

• Travel and accommodation: Intended parents (or surrogates) may need multiple trips overseas or within-country. Flights, lodging and meals add up, especially if long stays are required for embryo transfer and birth. If the surrogate lives far away from the clinic, her travel and lodging during pregnancy can also be included as an expense.

• Other expenses: These can include donor egg fees (if needed), psychological screening, embryo shipping, translation services, background checks, escrow and banking fees, and newborn arrangements (maternity clothes, infant care kits, etc.). Budgeting software or agencies often list these as separate line items.

How does compensated vs. altruistic surrogacy affect costs?

Surrogacy systems differ by country. In compensated surrogacy jurisdictions (e.g. much of the USA, Ukraine, Georgia), the surrogate receives a base compensation in addition to actual expenses. This means overall costs are higher because you are effectively paying for her time and effort. By contrast, in altruistic systems (e.g. UK, Canada, many parts of Mexico), surrogates may only be reimbursed for verifiable expenses (travel, loss of income, maternity clothes, etc.). In practice:

• Altruistic systems limit surrogate pay. For example, UK law bans paying a wage to surrogates, allowing only “reasonable expenses” (recent legal cases have approved up to ~£25,000 in expenses). This tends to keep budgets lower, but also means finding surrogates can be harder (e.g. Canada often has long waitlists).

• Compensated systems carry large surrogate fees. In the U.S., surrogate compensation often alone is nearly half of the budget (commonly $65–75k). Ukraine’s surrogates are paid less (roughly $18–20k in many packages), contributing to lower total costs there. Agency and clinical fees may also be higher in commercial programs.
  The key takeaway is that where surrogate pay is restricted (altruistic), total costs tend to be lower, but you still must fund all other components. In commercial models, higher surrogate pay and agency fees can double the cost compared to an altruistic country, even though medical costs (IVF, hospital) may be similar.

What hidden or unexpected expenses should intended parents plan for?

Even with a line-item budget, surprises can arise. Common unexpected costs include:

• Medical complications: If the surrogate faces a high-risk pregnancy or emergency (e.g. early bedrest, NICU), extra medical bills can accrue. For instance, a NICU stay for a preterm baby can be tens of thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.

• Legal contingencies: Changes in laws or additional legal work (e.g. appeals, citizenship cases) can add attorney fees. Contracts might need revisions, or additional court orders (especially for international births) may be required.

• Travel overruns: Multiple trips might be needed. If an embryo transfer fails, you might need to travel again for a frozen transfer. Intended parents should plan for flights and lodging for multiple visits, and possibly extra time if there are delays. Even surrogates might travel (e.g. from rural area to clinic), and those costs count.

• Insurance gaps: Surrogate’s own health plan may not cover surrogacy; you might have to buy a supplemental maternity policy on short notice. After birth, you’ll need health insurance for the newborn immediately. Denied claims or coverage gaps (e.g. IVF procedures not covered) can become surprise bills.

• Currency fluctuations and fees: International programs often pay in a foreign currency. Exchange rate swings or bank transfer fees can inflate costs. It’s wise to lock in rates or account for a margin on the budget.

• Delayed cycles or repeat attempts: IVF is not guaranteed. Budget for at least one extra cycle if needed. Many programs build a refund or guaranty clause, but if not, another cycle could cost several thousand more.

• Additional services: Psychological counseling, extra clinic tests, gestational surrogacy insurance, genetic testing (PGS/PGD) or expanded screenings, maternity clothing allowances, and newborn supplies can be easily overlooked.

It’s recommended to build in a contingency buffer—for example, 10–15% of your total budget—to cover overruns. Always ask agencies or clinics what is not included in their package and consider those items in your budget.

What are Ukraine surrogacy fees?

Ukraine is a popular international surrogacy destination due to its legal clarity and relatively low costs. In Ukraine:

• A typical package (gestational surrogacy with your own embryos) is often quoted around $50,000–$60,000 USD. This usually includes surrogate compensation, IVF, medical care, legal services and agency coordination.

• Surrogate compensation in Ukraine is modest by Western standards (commonly around $18,000–$20,000 USD in many programs). This lower pay is a major factor in Ukraine’s lower overall cost.

• IVF and clinical fees in Ukraine are also lower. Clinics typically charge roughly $7,000–$15,000 for IVF with embryo transfer, and fertility medications might add another few thousand. (If the intended mother cannot provide eggs, adding an egg donor costs ~$6,000.)

• Legal and agency fees are built into most packages. For example, Nova Espero (a Ukrainian agency) lists legal support around $5,000 USD and agency coordination $2,500–$5,000 USD.

• Total costs: Accounting for all components, many clinics and agencies quote a range of $50,000 to $65,000 USD for an all-inclusive surrogacy program. Some “baseline” programs might advertise as low as ~$35,000, but these often cover only the bare essentials (e.g. one IVF cycle with frozen embryos) and can rise if additional services are needed.

• Why Ukraine is cheaper: High-quality IVF care is heavily subsidized for foreigners, medical staff fees are low, and surrogate base pay is far below Western rates. At the same time, the legal framework firmly names the intended parents on the birth certificate from conception, simplifying paperwork (so fewer legal hours may be needed).

Intended parents should still expect travel to Ukraine (often multiple visits), and should budget local living expenses (accommodation, etc.) during their stay. Many agencies include a set allowance for the surrogate’s living costs, but it’s wise to ask exactly what is covered. Despite the war-related upheaval in the region, Ukraine continues to be a leading destination – just make sure to work with reputable clinics or agencies.

How can intended parents prepare financially?

Thorough financial planning is crucial. Key preparation steps include:

• Make a detailed budget: List every expense category (surrogate pay, IVF, meds, legal, agency, insurance, travel, etc.) and get quotes from providers. Consider consulting a financial planner who understands fertility costs. Break the budget into stages (e.g. pre-matching, IVF, pregnancy, post-birth) so you know when funds will be needed.

• Build a contingency fund: Because surprises happen, set aside extra savings. Experts suggest a buffer of at least 10–15% of your expected total. This can cover unforeseen procedures or delays.

• Explore financing options: Some agencies and clinics offer payment plans or staged payments. If cash is tight, fertility loans, home equity lines, or special programs (and even vetted crowdfunding) may help bridge the gap. Just be cautious of high-interest debt.

• Maximize savings now: Cut non-essential expenses or increase income before starting the process. Even small monthly savings add up over the typical 1–2 year surrogacy timeline.

• Understand payment schedules: Know which fees are due upfront (e.g. agency deposit, IVF clinic deposit) and which are later. Plan for lump-sum payments after pregnancy confirmation and at birth.

• Check insurance and taxes: Verify whether any part of your surrogacy might qualify for tax relief (in a few cases U.S. parents have deducted surrogate medical expenses) and ensure you have or can get maternity insurance for your surrogate and immediate newborn coverage.

• Get everything in writing: Have clear contracts with the agency and surrogate so you understand refund policies and what happens if the pregnancy doesn’t proceed. Clarity can prevent costly legal disputes later.

• Research grants or assistance: While rare, a few organizations offer grants or low-interest loans for fertility treatment. Any help can reduce personal strain.

• Monitor exchange rates (if international): If you’re paying in another currency (e.g. USD to EUR/UAH), consider hedging or timing transfers when rates are favorable to avoid hidden exchange costs.

By planning early and thoroughly, intended parents can approach their surrogacy journey with confidence. Breaking down the costs into categories and educating yourself (and your support network) about each expense will help you create a realistic surrogacy budget and avoid surprises

Surrogacy is a remarkable journey that brings together intended parents and women willing to carry a child on their behalf. But behind every successful surrogacy story lies a careful, structured process designed to protect everyone involved. For intended parents, one of the most pressing questions is: How do we know our surrogate is the right match?

The answer is found in a rigorous screening system. This process is not simply about medical check-ups—it is about ensuring health, safety, psychological readiness, and legal clarity. It is also about creating compatibility between surrogate and intended parents so that the journey unfolds with trust and mutual understanding.

This article takes you inside the surrogate screening process, explaining the steps, the values behind them, and why finding the perfect match is essential for a secure and positive surrogacy experience.

The Purpose of Screening

Screening exists for a simple but vital reason: surrogacy involves far more than pregnancy. It is a commitment that blends medical science, legal safeguards, and human relationships. A strong screening process:

• protects the health of the surrogate and the child;

• safeguards intended parents’ parental rights;

• ensures emotional preparedness;

• minimizes risks of conflict or misunderstanding.

By setting high standards, programs ensure that only candidates who are truly ready—physically, emotionally, and socially—move forward.

Step One: Initial Application and Review

Every journey begins with an application. Surrogates share information about their background, health history, previous pregnancies, and lifestyle. These details allow professionals to assess whether the candidate meets the basic requirements, which typically include:

• age between 21 and 30;

• at least one prior healthy pregnancy;

• no major medical issues;

• a stable home environment.

This first step ensures that only women with proven pregnancy experience and stability continue in the process.

Step Two: Medical Evaluations

Medical screening is at the heart of surrogacy preparation. Potential surrogates undergo comprehensive health checks to confirm that they can safely carry a pregnancy. These evaluations may include:

• blood tests and infectious disease panels;

• uterine and fertility assessments;

• drug and toxicology testing;

• review of previous pregnancy records.

The goal is not only to protect the baby but also to ensure the surrogate’s own health and wellbeing throughout the process.

Step Three: Psychological Assessment

Pregnancy is as much an emotional experience as it is physical. Licensed psychologists meet with surrogates to evaluate readiness. They explore questions such as:

• Does the surrogate fully understand the responsibilities involved?

• Does she have support from her family and partner?

• How does she cope with stress and complex emotions?

Psychological screening ensures that surrogates are emotionally prepared for the journey and for the unique experience of carrying a child for someone else.

Step Four: Background and Legal Checks

Transparency is key. Background checks verify identity, criminal history, and financial stability. Legal professionals review the surrogate’s situation to ensure there are no conflicts that could jeopardize the process. This step reassures intended parents that their surrogate is fully vetted on every level.

Step Five: Matching with Intended Parents

Once a surrogate passes medical, psychological, and background checks, she is ready for the matching stage. Here, intended parents and surrogates are introduced based on shared values, expectations, and communication styles.

Matching is not random—it is intentional. Both sides should feel comfortable, respected, and aligned in how they envision the journey. A strong match lays the foundation for trust and collaboration.

Step Six: Legal Agreements

Before any medical procedures begin, both parties sign a comprehensive surrogacy contract. This agreement clearly outlines:

• the surrogate’s responsibilities;

• financial arrangements and reimbursements;

• medical decisions during pregnancy;

• recognition of intended parents’ rights.

Each party has independent legal counsel to ensure fairness and protection.

Step Seven: Continuous Care and Support

Screening is not a one-time event. Throughout the pregnancy, surrogates receive ongoing medical monitoring, psychological support, and guidance from case managers. Regular communication ensures that both surrogate and intended parents feel secure and informed.

Why the Screening Process Matters

Surrogacy is an extraordinary act of generosity, but it is also a complex legal and medical journey. By following a structured screening process, programs ensure that:

• the surrogate is healthy and emotionally prepared;

• the intended parents’ rights are safeguarded;

• the child is protected from the very beginning.

This process transforms surrogacy from a leap of faith into a carefully managed path toward parenthood.

Conclusion: Building Families with Confidence

Finding the perfect surrogate match is about more than just willingness—it is about trust, safety, and preparation. A thorough screening process gives everyone involved the reassurance that the journey is supported by medical science, guided by ethics, and protected by law.

For intended parents, knowing that your surrogate has passed every stage of this evaluation offers peace of mind. And for surrogates, it ensures that their commitment is honored and supported at every step. Together, these safeguards create the foundation for successful surrogacy and the joy of welcoming a new life into the world.