Busting the Most Common Myths About Surrogacy

Surrogacy is an extraordinary path to parenthood, but like many aspects of third-party reproduction, it’s often misunderstood. At Elevate, we believe that knowledge empowers better decisions, stronger relationships, and joyful journeys for everyone involved.

If you’re exploring surrogacy as an intended parent or considering becoming a surrogate, it’s important to separate myth from truth. Let’s unpack the six most common misconceptions and clarify what surrogacy really looks like today.

Myth 1: Surrogacy Is Only for Celebrities and the Ultra-Wealthy

Truth: Surrogacy is increasingly accessible to a wide range of families.

Yes, surrogacy is an investment, but it’s one many families choose to make thoughtfully and strategically. With the proper planning, support, and guidance, intended parents from all walks of life can pursue this option.

At Elevate, we believe in clarity, quality, and care, and our transparent pricing includes a large number of fees that would typically be an added expense: life insurance, legal work, escrow services, psychological evaluations, background checks, insurance reviews, insurance policy searches and placements, escrow services, medical billing services, and more. We also help clients explore financing options or employer fertility benefits (like Carrot or Kindbody) to make the process more attainable.

Myth 2: Surrogates Can Claim Parental Rights

Truth: Contracts and transparent processes protect everyone involved.

In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no biological connection to the child. The embryo is created using the genetic material of the intended parents or donors through IVF, and legal parentage is established through pre-birth or post-birth orders, depending on the state.

Working with a reputable agency and experienced reproductive attorneys ensures that all legal steps are followed and parental rights are secure from the beginning.

Myth 3: Surrogacy Is Too Legally Risky

Truth: With the right professionals, the process is safe and predictable.

Surrogacy laws vary by state and country. When intended parents partner with Elevate, they gain access to trusted legal experts who specialize in reproductive law and handle all contracts, court filings, and legal protections.

If you’re considering surrogacy in a different state or internationally, we’ll walk you through all the nuances to ensure compliance and peace of mind.

Myth 4: Surrogates Do It Just for the Money

Truth: Most surrogates are motivated by meaning, not money.

Compensation is a part of the process, and rightly so. Surrogates dedicate months, undergo medical procedures, and commit emotionally and physically to helping someone else build a family. At Elevate, we ensure every surrogate receives fair, customized compensation for her time, risk, and commitment.

That said, nearly every Elevate surrogate shares the same sentiment: helping someone become a parent is the most meaningful part of the journey. For many, the experience is deeply fulfilling, one they’d gladly repeat.

Myth 5: Surrogates Are the Baby’s Biological Mother

Truth: This is only true in traditional surrogacy, which is now rare.

Traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s egg is used, is now rare due to its legal and emotional complexities. Gestational surrogacy is now the industry standard and what Elevate exclusively supports. In this surrogacy type, the surrogate carries a child with no genetic connection to her body.

All parentage is established through legal agreements before birth, and the surrogate is never viewed as the biological mother.

Myth 6: Surrogacy Is Only for People With Medical Infertility

Truth: Surrogacy is a beautiful option for all kinds of families.

While surrogacy is often chosen due to infertility or medical risks, it’s also a common path for LGBTQ+ couples, single parents, and those wanting to avoid passing on genetic conditions. At Elevate, we proudly serve all family structures and celebrate the diversity of modern parenthood.

Whether you’re a same-sex couple, a single parent, or a hopeful mom facing health concerns, surrogacy offers a path to biological parenthood that is safe, supported, and inclusive.

Final Thoughts: Surrogacy Is About More Than Biology – It’s About Building Families

Surrogacy isn’t just a medical process. It’s a profoundly human journey built on compassion, trust, and connection.

By debunking common myths, we open the door to understanding what surrogacy truly offers – a way for families to grow, dreams to be realized, and lives to be forever changed.

If you’re considering surrogacy, we’re here to help. Whether you’re an intended parent or a potential surrogate, we’re ready to journey with you.

Let’s elevate your journey—together.