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One of the most important steps in any surrogacy journey is finding the right surrogate — someone who will not only carry a pregnancy but walk alongside you in a deeply personal experience. For many intended parents, it’s a process filled with both anticipation and questions: Where do I start? How do I know who’s right?
At Hatch, we understand how meaningful this part of the journey is. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to find a surrogate mother, what to expect during the matching process, and why working with a trusted agency can make all the difference.
A surrogate mother is someone who carries a baby on behalf of another individual or couple. In most cases today, this refers to a gestational surrogate, someone who is not biologically related to the child. The embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors and transferred to the surrogate via IVF.
Finding a surrogate isn’t just about medical compatibility. It’s about building a trusted partnership, someone who aligns with your values, communicates openly, and is committed to the process just as much as you are.
To learn more about the surrogate’s role, you can read our guide to what a surrogate mother does.
There are several ways to find a surrogate, but not all approaches offer the same level of safety, support, or long-term success. Here are the most common paths:
Working with a reputable surrogacy agency, like Hatch, offers the most structured and secure process. Agencies provide:
This is the approach used by most intended parents — and the one we strongly recommend for a smooth and ethical journey.
Some intended parents look for a surrogate independently through personal networks or online platforms. While this can work, it often lacks legal safeguards and professional support, increasing the risk of miscommunication, delays, or unmet expectations.
Some people are fortunate to have someone in their life offer to carry a child for them. While this can be meaningful, it’s still essential to go through the full medical and legal process, even if the surrogate is someone you know.
Finding the right match takes more than browsing profiles, it’s a thoughtful, guided process. Hatch’s surrogate matching process is designed to ensure that both intended parents and surrogates feel confident, safe, and emotionally aligned before moving forward.
We get to know you on a personal level, your goals, preferences, and communication style, and only match you with surrogates who have been thoroughly vetted. From medical compatibility to shared values, every factor is considered.
Still researching your options? Here’s a helpful resource comparing the best surrogacy agencies to help you make an informed choice.
The matching process is collaborative, not transactional. At Hatch, it typically includes:
To learn more about what happens after the match, check out the full intended parent journey.
Finding a surrogate mother is one of the most meaningful milestones on the path to parenthood. While it can feel overwhelming at first, the right support makes all the difference. At Hatch, we’re here to guide you with compassion, experience, and care every step of the way.
Ready to explore your options or ask questions? Learn more about how surrogate matching works at Hatch.
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