Starting the Surrogacy Process in the New Year? What You Can Prepare Before January
The start of a new year naturally inspires momentum. Many intended parents choose January to begin the surrogacy process because it feels like a clean slate — a moment to move from intention into action. It’s also a time when many people review finances, update benefits, and look ahead to the year’s major plans, also making it a practical window for starting the surrogacy process. If this sounds like you, December can be a valuable month to prepare. Even with holiday schedules, this period can be a thoughtful time to get organized, reflect on your goals, and prepare for a smooth start once January arrives.
How December Can Be a Productive Time for Planning
Even if you’re not ready to formally begin the surrogacy process until January, there are meaningful ways to set yourself up for success now, without any hard deadlines or pressure.
1. Gather and Organize Medical Records
Fertility clinics and surrogacy programs might request:
Past fertility evaluations
IVF history, if applicable
Any relevant health documentation
You don’t need every document perfectly sorted, but beginning the process now helps avoid delays when matching and clinical coordination begin.
2. Clarify Your Family-Building Goals
December can be an ideal time to talk through your hopes and expectations:
How many children do you want to plan for?
Are you preparing for a single embryo transfer or thinking ahead to future siblings?
What values matter most in your relationship with your surrogate?
Reflecting on these questions early helps our team guide you toward a surrogate match that aligns with the experience you envision.
3. Familiarize Yourself With the Timeline
Surrogacy is a multi-step process involving matching, clinical evaluations, legal contracts, embryo transfer, pregnancy, and delivery. Starting the new year with a clear sense of the process can help set expectations and reduce uncertainty.
4. Complete Initial Forms or Questionnaires
Many intended parents find that paperwork feels less overwhelming when completed little by little. December is a great time to review agency materials and begin questionnaires. These early steps help our team understand your preferences and values so they can personalize your journey from day one.
Setting Yourself Up for a Smooth Start
Beginning the surrogacy process with a bit of advance preparation creates space for clarity, calm, and confidence. It allows our team to:
Begin coordinating with your fertility clinic earlier
Understand your goals and match preferences more deeply
Guide you through each stage without unnecessary delays
Most importantly, it ensures you begin this deeply meaningful journey without undue stress or pressure.
Ready to Begin in January? We’re Here to Support You.
Whether you’re collecting documents, aligning your goals, or simply wondering what to expect, West Coast Surrogacy is here to guide you with the thoughtful, concierge-level support your family might need. If you’re planning to start your surrogacy journey in the new year, we can help you make the most of this preparation period. Reach out today to learn more about starting your surrogacy journey.
