Frequently Asked Questions

We have a multi-stage screening process at Alcea.

1. It begins by filling out the brief “Do I qualify” questionnaire. If all checks out and you are approved for screening, you will be given access to our surrogate portal. Once you have created your account and logged in, you will see a list of things to gather.

We request that you complete the surrogate application, which may seem lengthy, but answering the questions is easy since they are all about you. As you fill out the form, be honest, open, and write down any questions that come to mind.

Upon submitting your application, you will be able to schedule a virtual appointment with your surrogate coordinator within your portal, or they will contact you via text to schedule a screening consultation. After your meeting, you will sign your disclosures and contract, and if all background information has been returned as requested, you will move on to the next exciting step.

2. As part of Alcea’s in-depth screening process, you’ll have a video interview with our social worker, which can last about two to two and a half hours. If applicable, they will also conduct a virtual ‘zoom’ home study and interview all adult members in the household, including your spouse. As part of this interview, the social worker will ask you about your motivation for becoming a surrogate, your support system, pregnancy history, family, interpersonal relationships, interests, and life experiences. We will build your ‘match’ sheet, confirm compensation expectations, and provide as much time as you and your family need to ask questions.

3. In cases where profiles match, we coordinate a video call and advocate on behalf of both parties until a match is mutually accepted. Once you have been matched formally, we will coordinate the next ‘phase’ of screening, and you and your Intended Parents can get to know each other in whatever way you both see fit.

This is usually up to the intended parents. However, many children are well aware that they were born via surrogate. Specifics about the surrogate herself depend entirely on the level of communication intended parents and their surrogate choose to keep up or on the amount of detail intended parents feel comfortable sharing.

Ultimately, having the conversation about surrogacy with children does not have to be as scary as it sounds. Suppose intended parents find themselves concerned or a little intimidated by the notion of having to try and explain surrogacy to a young mind. In that case, there are some incredible children’s books that help to explain surrogacy, IVF, and other building blocks of a family building to kids!

Every surrogacy journey is unique, and the relationship a carrier has with their intended parents is personal. Some surrogates feel content with occasional contact and updates, while some remain in touch with the intended parents and child for years to come, sharing photos and milestones of life. These connections can be fostered and grown organically throughout your surrogacy journey and beyond.