What’s the Difference Between a First-Time and Experienced Surrogate?
- ACRC Global
- Aug 8
- 3 min read
When you begin reviewing surrogate profiles, you may notice something right away: some women are labeled as “first-time surrogates,” while others are described as “experienced.” But what does that really mean — and should it affect how you choose?
At ACRC Surrogacy, we help Intended Parents understand more than just the surface details. Every surrogate we present has been carefully pre-qualified, and some surrogates are even medically cleared and is committed to helping you grow your family. Still, knowing the difference between a first-time and experienced surrogate can help you make an informed, confident decision.
Let’s break it down.
🌱 What Is a First-Time Surrogate?
A first-time surrogate is a woman who meets all the qualifications for surrogacy and has carried her own child (or children) before — but has not yet been a surrogate for another family.
She’s new to the surrogacy process itself, but not new to pregnancy, childbirth, or the emotional maturity required. In fact, many first-time surrogates have been considering this role for years and are fully committed.
Benefits of a First-Time Surrogate:
Often deeply motivated and enthusiastic about helping
May be more open to a wider range of Intended Parent profiles
Frequently younger and with fewer pregnancy-related risks (but still vetted for safety)
Fees are typically lower than those of experienced surrogates
🌟 What Is an Experienced Surrogate?
An experienced surrogate has already completed a previous surrogacy journey successfully. She’s gone through the full process — screening, legal, IVF, embryo transfer, pregnancy, and delivery — and often maintains a positive relationship with her previous IPs.
She brings a high level of familiarity and comfort with the medical and emotional aspects of the journey.
Benefits of an Experienced Surrogate:
Already understands the process, expectations, and clinic timelines
May feel more confident navigating communication with IPs and providers
May offer insight and predictability based on her previous journey
Medical records from her prior surrogacy can inform care decisions
💸 Why Is There a Cost Difference?
It’s common for experienced surrogates to receive higher base compensation — sometimes $5,000–$15,000 more than a first-time surrogate. This reflects their proven ability to complete the journey, plus the value of their prior experience.
That said, cost shouldn’t be the only factor in your decision. Both types of surrogates undergo rigorous screening, including:
Medical record review
Background checks
Home environment assessments
Psychological evaluations
MFM or OB clearance (if required)
At ACRC, we follow ASRM standards and go even further to ensure every candidate — experienced or not — is safe, stable, and ready.
What Should Intended Parents Consider?
Here are a few things to think about when choosing between a first-time or experienced surrogate:
What’s most important to you — experience or enthusiasm?
Do you have preferences around age or location that affect your options?
Are you working with a specific clinic that has requirements around surrogate history?
What level of communication and personality fit are you hoping for?
Often, the decision comes down to chemistry — not a résumé.
🧡 ACRC’s Approach
We match Intended Parents with surrogates based on more than a checklist. Our goal is to help you feel emotionally connected, legally protected, and well-informed.
Whether you choose a first-time surrogate or an experienced one, what matters most is that you feel supported, respected, and seen — every step of the way.
If you’re ready to meet potential surrogates, or just beginning to understand what your options are, our team is here to guide you. |
Contact us anytime for a private consultation — and let’s start building your family together.
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