San Bernardino is part of a state where surrogacy is well established and clearly regulated. California offers a legal framework that protects all parties involved, along with access to experienced fertility clinics and professionals who guide the process from start to finish.
This guide explains how surrogacy works for those living in or near San Bernardino. It covers the legal landscape, the full surrogacy process, eligibility requirements, compensation, and what to expect when working with a surrogacy agency.
Surrogacy in San Bernardino: Legal Landscape and Local Considerations
California is widely recognized as one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the United States. State law supports gestational surrogacy agreements and clearly defines the rights and responsibilities of everyone involved.
San Bernardino fits naturally within the Southern California surrogacy landscape. Many surrogates live in San Bernardino County while working with agencies, fertility clinics, and attorneys located throughout the region. This is common in California and does not limit a surrogate’s options.
The area offers access to quality medical care, reproductive specialists, and legal professionals familiar with surrogacy cases. Prenatal care usually takes place close to home, while some fertility clinic appointments may require travel to nearby cities.
California also allows pre-birth orders. These court orders establish the intended parents’ legal rights before the baby is born. This legal step helps ensure clarity before delivery and supports a smooth hospital experience for everyone involved.
How Does the Surrogacy Process Work for Surrogates?
The surrogacy process follows a structured path designed to protect the surrogate’s health, rights, and well-being. Each step builds on the previous one and is supported by medical and legal professionals.
STEP 1: Applying With a Surrogacy Agency
The journey begins with an application. During this stage, the surrogate provides basic information, including her medical and pregnancy history. An initial consultation follows, where the agency explains timelines, expectations, and support. This is also the time to ask questions and decide whether surrogacy feels like the right fit.
STEP 2: Completing the Screening Process
Screening confirms that surrogacy is appropriate from both a medical and emotional standpoint. Medical records are reviewed, physical exams are completed, and fertility clinic evaluations take place. A psychological evaluation is also required and focuses on emotional readiness, support systems, and long-term expectations.
If you fail the surrogacy psychological evaluation, it does not necessarily mean that surrogacy is no longer an option. Some concerns can be addressed over time, and eligibility may be reassessed later depending on individual circumstances.
STEP 3: Matching With Intended Parents
Once approved, the matching process begins. Surrogates review intended parent profiles and discuss communication preferences, boundaries, and expectations. Matching only moves forward when both sides feel comfortable and aligned. This step helps establish trust before legal and medical commitments begin.
STEP 4: Signing the Legal Contract
During this phase, the surrogate works with her own independent attorney. The surrogacy contract outlines rights, responsibilities, compensation, and legal protections. Every detail is reviewed carefully, and no medical procedures begin until the agreement is fully signed.
STEP 5: IVF and Embryo Transfer
The fertility clinic coordinates medical preparation and embryo transfer. The surrogate receives clear instructions about medications, appointments, and what to expect before and after the transfer. Medical supervision continues throughout this phase.
STEP 6: Pregnancy and Delivery
After a successful transfer, prenatal care continues, usually close to home. Agencies provide ongoing support, coordinate communication with intended parents, and help plan for labor and delivery in advance. Support remains available through birth and post-delivery steps.
How to Become a Surrogate in San Bernardino, California
Becoming a surrogate requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. These surrogate requirements are in place to protect your health and help ensure a safe and successful surrogacy journey.
Most surrogacy agencies look for candidates who meet the following guidelines:
- Age requirements
Surrogates are typically required to fall within a specific age range, often between their early 20s and late 30s or early 40s, depending on overall health. With Surrogacy by Faith, surrogate candidates are generally accepted up to age 37. - At least one prior healthy pregnancy
A successful full-term pregnancy without major complications is usually required. This helps demonstrate that the body can safely carry a pregnancy. - Good physical health
Overall health, body mass index, and medical history are reviewed to reduce pregnancy-related risks. - Stable lifestyle and environment
Agencies look for surrogates who have reliable housing, transportation, and a supportive home environment throughout the pregnancy. - Non-smoking and healthy habits
Tobacco use, drug use, and certain medications may disqualify a candidate due to medical risks. - Ability to attend appointments
Surrogates must be able to attend medical appointments, which may take place locally or elsewhere in Southern California.
How Much Do Surrogates Get Paid in California?
California offers some of the highest surrogate compensation in the United States. Compensation reflects the responsibility, time, and commitment involved in a surrogacy journey.
Base compensation varies depending on experience, prior journeys, and individual circumstances. Payments are issued in structured installments tied to milestones throughout the process, rather than as a single payment.
In addition to base compensation, surrogates typically receive:
- Monthly allowances for routine pregnancy-related expenses
- A maternity clothing allowance
- Reimbursement for travel, mileage, and related costs
- Full coverage of pregnancy-related medical expenses
- Insurance protections outlined in the legal agreement
All financial details are clearly explained and finalized before any medical steps begin. This transparency allows surrogates to understand exactly what to expect.
What Are the Benefits of Working With a Surrogacy Agency?
A surrogacy agency coordinates communication between fertility clinics, attorneys, and intended parents. It manages timelines, appointments, documentation, and logistics, allowing surrogates to focus on their health and well-being. Emotional support is also an important part of the process, with regular check-ins and ongoing guidance available.
Legal and medical steps can feel complex without support. Agencies help navigate these processes while advocating for the surrogate’s needs and addressing issues early.
Surrogacy by Faith is a women-led agency made up entirely of women who have been surrogates themselves. This firsthand experience shapes how the team supports others throughout the journey.
In addition to personalized guidance and responsive communication, Surrogacy by Faith offers a generous care package valued at approximately $11,000. This benefit package is designed to provide meaningful support beyond base compensation and includes extras that help cover practical needs and add comfort during the surrogacy process.
Surrogates also benefit from working with a small, dedicated team, rather than navigating multiple departments or contacts. This structure allows for quicker responses, consistent communication, and a smoother overall experience from application through delivery.