Matching Process
What is the matching process?
The matching process — also known as surrogacy matching, carrier-IP pairing, surrogacy alignment, or journey matching — is the method by which a gestational carrier is paired with intended parents (IPs) to pursue a surrogacy arrangement. Typically facilitated by a surrogacy agency, it ensures compatibility in goals, values, and expectations, laying the foundation for a successful gestational surrogacy journey.
How does the matching process work?
The process begins with both the gestational carrier and IPs completing detailed profiles, covering preferences like compensation, contact level (open or closed), location, and views on sensitive issues (e.g., termination). A journey coordinator reviews these to propose matches, prioritizing mutual priorities. Initial meetings — often virtual or in-person — allow both parties to discuss expectations, guided by the agency. Once a match is agreed upon, a gestational carrier agreement (GCA) — costing $5,000-$10,000 — formalizes the partnership, enabling medical steps like IVF or embryo transfer. The process can take weeks to months, depending on selectivity and availability.
What’s its role in surrogacy?
The matching process is the cornerstone of gestational surrogacy, creating a trusting, aligned relationship between the carrier and IPs. It ensures the carrier’s commitment — carrying a non-genetically related child — meshes with IPs’ vision for parenthood, reducing conflicts during pregnancy. By prioritizing compatibility, it supports emotional and legal clarity, making it critical for a smooth journey from embryo transfer to delivery.
What are common features?
- Profile screening: Detailed questionnaires assess lifestyle, values, and surrogacy goals.
- Agency mediation: Journey coordinators facilitate introductions and discussions.
- Mutual consent: Both parties approve the match before proceeding to contracts.
- Preference alignment: Covers compensation ($30,000-$50,000 in compensated cases), contact, and medical choices.
- Flexibility: Allows time to find the right fit, ensuring comfort and trust.
What is the history of the matching process?
The matching process formalized in the 1980s as gestational surrogacy grew, replacing informal arrangements. Early agencies in Los Angeles, California, pioneered structured matching after the 1985 first gestational case, focusing on legal clarity post the 1986 Baby M case in New Jersey. By the 1990s, San Diego, California, agencies refined profiles to include emotional compatibility. Canada’s Toronto standardized matching in the 2000s under regulated laws, while India’s New Delhi tailored it for international surrogacy until 2018, shaping today’s client-centered approach.
Who uses the matching process?
- Gestational carriers: Seek matches aligning with their surrogacy goals and comfort.
- Intended parents: Use matching to find a carrier matching their family vision.
- Surrogacy agencies: Drive the process, ensuring ethical and compatible pairings.
- Journey coordinators: Oversee matching, fostering trust and clear communication.
What are benefits and considerations?
- Benefits: Builds trust, aligns expectations, and supports a positive surrogacy experience.
- Challenges: Time-intensive matching can delay the journey; mismatched expectations require careful mediation.
- Emotional impact: A good match fosters connection, but carriers and IPs may feel pressure to choose quickly, needing agency support.
What about legal and financial aspects?
Matching is included in agency fees ($15,000-$30,000), part of surrogacy costs ($100,000-$200,000). GCAs ($5,000-$10,000) follow matching, ensuring legal alignment in states like California or Illinois, where pre-birth orders clarify custody. Internationally, the UK emphasizes altruistic matching, while Ukraine streamlines commercial pairings. Disputes — rare with thorough matching — may arise over misaligned terms, underscoring the process’s role in clarity.
Why does it matter?
The matching process sets the stage for gestational surrogacy, uniting carriers and IPs in a shared mission with trust and respect. For potential surrogates, understanding matching highlights their agency in choosing partners, building confidence. By detailing this step, agencies establish authority, guiding clients with care and precision toward a harmonious surrogacy journey.
Related terms
- Gestational Surrogacy
- Gestational Carrier
- Intended Parents
- Gestational Carrier Agreement (GCA)
- Journey Coordinator
Synonyms
- Surrogacy matching
- Carrier-IP pairing
- Surrogacy alignment
- Journey matching
The matching process weaves the first threads of surrogacy, connecting hearts and goals to create families with care.
