7 Misconceptions About Surrogacy

UPDATED: December 11, 2025

What are common misconceptions about surrogacy? Surrogacy is an amazing way to safely and ethically build a family. However, there are many misconceptions about surrogacy. These misconceptions can make it very confusing for couples or individuals who are trying to learn more about the surrogacy process.

• Surrogates are not related to the baby in gestational surrogacy.
• Surrogacy is not only for wealthy families or individuals.
• Surrogates cannot change their mind and keep the baby.
• Surrogates must be finically stable and motivated by helping others.
• Intended parents from any state can pursue surrogacy.
• Intended parents are involved in the process.
• You can utilize a surrogate for a variety of reasons.

1. The Child is Genetically Related to the Surrogate

Although this can be true if the arrangement is a traditional surrogacy, with a gestational surrogacy arrangement, the embryos are created with either the intended mother’s eggs or an egg donor – never those of the surrogate.

2. Building a Family via Surrogacy is Only for the Wealthy

Based on Family Source Consultants’ experience, many intended parents have an average income. Additionally, there are financing options available from lenders who specialize in reproductive arrangements, as well as cash discounts and payment plans.

3. The Surrogate May Not Give Up the Child

Surrogates have to already have their own children and completely understand that the child is not hers to keep. Surrogacy agencies should work with attorneys who specialize in reproductive law and, with the correct legal procedures in place, intended parents are the legal parents of the baby. In addition, a surrogate must undergo a psychological evaluation prior to entering into a legal agreement with the intended parents.

4. Surrogates Are in It for the Money

Many surrogates who are enrolled in Family Source Consultants’ surrogacy programs have a full-time career, are financially stable, and often have a partner who has a secure, well-paid job, too. A surrogate should never fully depend on the compensation that she receives in order to live a stable lifestyle. Financial problems or any indication that a surrogate candidate is motivated by money can be the reason for disqualification.

5. Intended Parents Who Live in a Less Surrogate ‘Friendly’ State Cannot Utilize Surrogacy

Family Source Consultants’ intended parent clients come from all 50 states and internationally. The important factor is that the surrogate must deliver in a surrogacy-friendly state, such as Illinois, Florida, California, or Texas.

6. Intended Parents Are Not Involved in the Pregnancy

Many Intended Parents and Surrogates communicate regularly throughout the journey and often remain friends after the birth. Intended Parents can attend doctor’s appointments and be present at the birth. The level of involvement is up to both the Intended Parents and the Surrogate and must be agreed on before matching.

7. You Must Have a Medical Reason to use a Surrogate

Many people choose surrogacy for a variety of different reasons. People choose surrogacy due to medical or personal reasons, age related factors, being in a same-sex relationship, or if they are a single individual wanting to build their family. There are no specific requirements for why someone chooses surrogacy.

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• Considering Surrogacy? Here’s How to Get Started
• Surrogacy Contracts: Why a Well-Written One is Key
• The Ethics of Surrogacy from a Gestational Carrier’s Perspective
• Top 3 Things TV and the Movies Get Wrong About Surrogacy