Colorado Surrogacy Myths: What Potential Surrogates Should Know
October 24, 2024 by Frank Golden
If you’re considering surrogacy in Colorado, you’ve probably heard a lot of conflicting information.
Some stories sound scary. Others seem too good to be true. And many just don’t make sense when you dig deeper.
The truth is, Colorado surrogacy myths are everywhere. They spread through outdated articles, social media posts, and even well-meaning friends who don’t have accurate information.
These myths can create unnecessary fear. They can make you hesitate when surrogacy might actually be a great fit for you.
This article clears up the most common Colorado surrogacy myths. We’ll separate fact from fiction so you can make an informed decision based on what’s actually true.
Table of Contents
- Why There Are So Many Myths About Surrogacy in Colorado
- Myth 1: Surrogacy Is Illegal in Colorado
- Myth 2: Surrogates Lose Control Over Medical Decisions
- Myth 3: Surrogates Are Not Legally Protected
- Myth 4: Surrogates Have to Pay Medical Expenses
- Myth 5: Surrogacy Happens Quickly and Easily
- Myth 6: Surrogacy Is Emotionally Too Risky
- How Understanding the Facts Empowers Colorado Surrogates
- Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Surrogacy Myths
- Making an Informed Decision About Surrogacy in Colorado
Why There Are So Many Myths About Surrogacy in Colorado
Surrogacy laws vary widely from state to state.
What’s true in one state might be completely different in another. This creates confusion, especially when you’re reading articles that don’t specify which state they’re talking about.
Some content online is simply outdated. Surrogacy laws and medical practices have changed significantly over the years, but old information still circulates.
Other myths come from people confusing traditional surrogacy with gestational surrogacy. These are two very different processes with different legal frameworks.
And let’s be honest, Hollywood doesn’t help! Movies and TV shows often portray surrogacy in dramatic, unrealistic ways that don’t reflect the actual experience.
That’s why it’s so important to seek Colorado-specific information from reputable sources.
When you understand what’s actually true in your state, you can move forward with confidence instead of fear.

Myth 1: Surrogacy Is Illegal in Colorado
Let’s start with the biggest myth of all.
The Truth: Gestational surrogacy is completely legal in Colorado!
Colorado has clear statutes that support and regulate surrogacy agreements. The state recognizes surrogacy contracts and has established legal processes for parentage orders.
Under the Colorado Revised Statutes, Intended Parents can establish their legal parentage before the baby is even born. This protects everyone involved and creates clarity from the start.
Here’s what makes Colorado particularly Surrogate-friendly:
The state allows pre-birth parentage orders. This means the Intended Parents’ names go directly on the birth certificate, not yours.
Colorado courts have consistently upheld surrogacy agreements. There’s a strong legal precedent supporting gestational surrogacy in the state.
Both married and unmarried Intended Parents can pursue surrogacy in Colorado. LGBTQ+ families are also fully supported under Colorado law.
One important note: Traditional surrogacy (where a Surrogate uses her own egg) has a different legal framework than gestational surrogacy. All reputable agencies in Colorado work exclusively with gestational surrogacy, where the Surrogate has no biological connection to the baby.
If someone tells you surrogacy is illegal in Colorado, they’re simply wrong. Don’t let this myth stop you from exploring further!
You can learn more about the specific legal protections in our detailed guide on Colorado surrogacy laws.
Myth 2: Surrogates Lose Control Over Medical Decisions
This myth causes a lot of unnecessary worry.
The Truth: You maintain bodily autonomy and final say over your medical care throughout the entire journey!
No one can force you to make medical decisions you’re uncomfortable with. Your body, your choice, that principle doesn’t change just because you’re carrying someone else’s baby.
Here’s how medical decision-making actually works:
Before you even match with Intended Parents, you’ll discuss important medical preferences. These conversations happen openly during the matching process.
Your surrogacy contract will outline agreed-upon medical procedures and protocols. But these are agreements you participate in creating, not demands placed on you.
You have the right to informed consent for every medical procedure. Your OB will explain all options and recommendations, and you make the final decision with your healthcare provider’s guidance.
If an unexpected situation arises during pregnancy, you work with your medical team to make decisions. Your contract provides a framework, but your health and safety come first.
What about delivery preferences? These are also discussed and agreed upon in advance. If you prefer a natural birth, that’s noted. If you’re open to induction under certain circumstances, that’s documented too.
The key is that nothing happens without your knowledge and consent.
Reputable agencies ensure Surrogates understand they’re never giving up their right to make informed medical decisions. They’re simply agreeing to communicate openly with Intended Parents and follow medical best practices.
This isn’t about control, it’s about collaboration and mutual respect.

Myth 3: Surrogates Are Not Legally Protected
Some people worry that surrogacy contracts somehow leave Surrogates vulnerable.
The Truth: Colorado Surrogates have strong legal protections throughout the entire process!
Here’s what actually protects you:
Independent Legal Representation: Before you sign any contract, you’ll have your own attorney. This lawyer represents only you, not the agency, not the Intended Parents, just you.
Your attorney reviews every clause of the surrogacy agreement. They explain what everything means in plain language and ensure your rights are protected.
The Intended Parents pay for your legal representation. You never have to worry about affording an attorney.
Written Contracts: Everything is documented in a comprehensive legal agreement. This contract specifies:
- Your compensation and how it’s paid
- What expenses are covered
- Medical protocols and decision-making processes
- Communication expectations
- What happens in various scenarios
Nothing is left to chance or verbal agreements. Everything is in writing and legally binding.
Parentage Orders: Colorado law allows for pre-birth parentage orders. This means the legal parentage of the baby is established before birth.
You are never listed as the legal parent. The Intended Parents’ names go directly on the birth certificate.
This protects you from any future parental responsibility or financial obligation to the child.
Court Recognition: Colorado courts recognize and enforce surrogacy agreements. The legal framework is well-established and tested.
You’re not entering into some legally gray area. Surrogacy in Colorado operates within a clear, established legal system.
At Golden Surrogacy, we never move forward with a match until both parties have independent legal counsel and a fully executed contract. Your protection is non-negotiable!
Myth 4: Surrogates Have to Pay Medical Expenses
This myth is particularly scary for potential Surrogates.
The Truth: You should never face financial risk for pregnancy-related medical expenses!
Here’s how medical expenses actually work in Colorado surrogacy:
Insurance Review Happens First: Before contracts are even finalized, a professional reviews your health insurance policy.
They identify what your policy covers for pregnancy and delivery. They also look for any surrogacy-specific exclusions.
This review happens early so everyone knows exactly what coverage exists and where gaps might be.
Supplemental Coverage Fills Gaps: If your insurance has a surrogacy exclusion or doesn’t provide adequate coverage, the Intended Parents purchase supplemental insurance.
This additional policy covers anything your personal insurance doesn’t. You’re never stuck with uncovered medical bills.
The Intended Parents pay for all supplemental insurance premiums. This is considered part of the overall surrogacy expenses, not your responsibility.
All Medical Costs Are Covered: From the first fertility clinic appointment through postpartum care, all pregnancy-related medical expenses are covered.
This includes:
- Prenatal appointments and ultrasounds
- Lab work and testing
- Hospital delivery costs
- Postpartum care
- Any pregnancy complications or unexpected medical needs
If you need bed rest, develop gestational diabetes, or experience any other pregnancy-related issue, those costs are covered too.
You’re Reimbursed for Out-of-Pocket Costs: Even small expenses like prescription copays are reimbursed. You submit receipts and receive prompt reimbursement.
Travel to and from medical appointments is also reimbursed. Mileage, parking, and other travel-related costs are covered.
At Golden Surrogacy, we work with specialized insurance coordinators who ensure coverage is comprehensive and clearly documented. Financial protection for Surrogates is absolutely essential!
For more details on how insurance works, check out our comprehensive guide on Colorado surrogacy insurance.

Myth 5: Surrogacy Happens Quickly and Easily
Some people think you can decide to be a Surrogate one month and be pregnant the next.
The Truth: Surrogacy is a thoughtful, step-by-step process that takes time, and that’s a good thing!
Here’s what the timeline actually looks like:
Agency Screening (30-90 days): Before you’re even approved as a Surrogate, you go through comprehensive screening.
This includes an initial interview, background checks, a home visit, medical records review, psychological screening, and OB clearance.
This isn’t meant to be discouraging, it’s meant to ensure surrogacy is safe and appropriate for you. The screening process protects your health and well-being.
Matching (1-2 weeks): Once you’re approved, the agency works to find the right match for you. This isn’t random, compatibility matters!
You’ll learn about potential Intended Parents, their preferences, and their story. If it feels like a good fit, you’ll have a matching meeting.
This process takes time because finding the right match leads to a better experience for everyone.
Medical Screening at Fertility Clinic (4-8 weeks): After matching, you have an in-person medical screening at the Intended Parents’ fertility clinic.
This appointment must align with your menstrual cycle timing. The clinic conducts thorough testing to ensure you’re medically cleared for embryo transfer.
Legal Phase (4-8 weeks): Only after medical clearance does the legal phase begin. Both parties work with their attorneys to create and finalize the surrogacy contract.
This contract takes time because it covers every detail of the journey. Rushing this step would be a mistake!
Medication and Transfer (15-30 days): Once contracts are signed, you start medications to prepare your body for embryo transfer.
The actual transfer is a simple procedure, but the preparation leading up to it takes time.
Pregnancy (9 months): If the transfer is successful, you’ll carry the pregnancy to term just like any other pregnancy.
Total Timeline: From first application to delivery, the process typically takes 14-18 months.
That might sound long, but each step serves an important purpose. The timeline protects your health, ensures legal clarity, and sets everyone up for success.
Agencies that rush this process aren’t putting Surrogate safety first. Time isn’t wasted, it’s invested in doing things right!
You can see a complete breakdown in our Colorado surrogacy timeline guide.
Myth 6: Surrogacy Is Emotionally Too Risky
Many people worry that Surrogates will struggle emotionally, especially when it’s time to say goodbye to the baby.
The Truth: Emotional support and preparation are built into the entire process, and most Surrogates find the experience deeply rewarding!
Let’s address the elephant in the room first: Will you become attached to the baby?
It’s natural to bond with a pregnancy. You’ll feel the baby move, attend ultrasounds, and care for your health for nine months.
But here’s what’s different about surrogacy:
You Have No Biological Connection: In gestational surrogacy, you’re not using your own egg. The baby doesn’t share your DNA.
From day one, you understand that you’re carrying someone else’s child. This biological reality helps maintain emotional clarity.
Psychological Screening Prepares You: Before you’re approved as a Surrogate, you meet with a licensed mental health professional who specializes in reproductive psychology.
They assess your understanding of surrogacy and your emotional readiness. They ensure you have realistic expectations and healthy motivations.
This screening isn’t meant to be intimidating: it’s meant to protect you! If surrogacy might not be emotionally healthy for you, it’s better to know that upfront.
Ongoing Support Is Available: Throughout your journey, you have access to counseling and emotional support.
At Golden Surrogacy, our dedicated Care Team checks in regularly. You’re never navigating the emotional aspects alone.
The Relationship with Intended Parents Matters: Most Surrogates develop a meaningful relationship with the Intended Parents they’re helping.
Seeing their joy, their anticipation, and their gratitude reinforces why you’re doing this. It’s not about giving up “your” baby: it’s about giving a family their baby.
Delivery Day Is Joyful: For most Surrogates, delivery day is one of the most fulfilling moments of the entire journey.
Watching Intended Parents meet their baby for the first time is incredibly powerful. Many Surrogates describe it as the highlight of their surrogacy experience.
Post-Journey Contact: Many Surrogates stay in touch with the families they help. Seeing photos and updates can be a wonderful part of the experience.
The level of ongoing contact is discussed and agreed upon before matching, so everyone’s expectations are aligned.
Common Emotions: Most Surrogates report feeling proud, fulfilled, and grateful for the experience. Some feel a bit of postpartum adjustment (which is normal after any pregnancy), but they don’t experience regret or loss.
The emotional “risk” that worries so many people rarely materializes in reality. With proper screening, preparation, and support, surrogacy is emotionally healthy for the vast majority of Surrogates!
How Understanding the Facts Empowers Colorado Surrogates
Now that we’ve cleared up these common myths, let’s talk about what knowing the truth actually does for you.
Confidence: When you understand how surrogacy really works in Colorado, you can make decisions with confidence instead of fear.
You’re not second-guessing information or wondering if you’re missing something important. You know the facts.
Informed Questions: Understanding the truth helps you ask better questions.
Instead of asking “Is this legal?” (it is), you can ask more specific questions like “What does the legal process look like for my specific situation?”
Better Matching: When you understand the process clearly, you can communicate your own preferences and boundaries more effectively.
This leads to better matches with Intended Parents whose expectations align with yours.
Realistic Expectations: Knowing what the timeline really looks like, how medical decisions actually work, and what support exists sets realistic expectations.
You won’t be surprised or disappointed by aspects of the journey that are actually completely normal.
Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, understanding the facts gives you peace of mind.
You know you’re legally protected. You know your medical expenses are covered. You know emotional support is available.
This peace of mind lets you focus on the incredible gift you’re giving instead of worrying about things that aren’t actually risks.
At Golden Surrogacy, education is at the heart of everything we do. We never want Surrogates to move forward based on incomplete or inaccurate information.
We take the time to explain how things really work in Colorado. We answer every question thoroughly. We provide resources and support at every step.
Because informed Surrogates have better experiences: period!

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Surrogacy Myths
Let’s tackle a few more quick questions about common surrogacy misconceptions.
Is surrogacy legal in Colorado?
Yes! Gestational surrogacy is fully legal in Colorado. The state has clear statutes supporting surrogacy agreements and allows pre-birth parentage orders.
Are Surrogates legally protected in Colorado?
Absolutely. Surrogates have independent legal representation, written contracts, and court-recognized parentage orders that protect their rights throughout the journey.
Do Surrogates get paid in Colorado?
Yes! Colorado allows compensated surrogacy. Surrogate compensation typically includes base compensation, monthly allowances, and reimbursement for all expenses. You can learn more about typical compensation in our Colorado Surrogate compensation guide.
Does insurance really cover surrogacy pregnancies?
It depends on your specific policy. That’s why insurance review happens early in the process. If your insurance has exclusions, supplemental coverage is purchased by the Intended Parents to fill any gaps. You’re never responsible for medical bills.
What if I don’t meet all the requirements to be a Surrogate?
Requirements exist to protect your health and safety. If you don’t meet current requirements, that doesn’t mean you never will! Some requirements (like age or time since last delivery) may change over time. You can review the specific requirements in our Colorado Surrogate requirements guide.
Should I talk to an agency before deciding if surrogacy is right for me?
Yes! Initial conversations with an agency are informational and pressure-free. Speaking with someone who can answer Colorado-specific questions helps you make a truly informed decision. You can learn more about becoming a Surrogate without any obligation.
Making an Informed Decision About Surrogacy in Colorado
Separating myths from facts is the first step toward making a confident decision about surrogacy.
You now know that surrogacy is legal in Colorado. You understand that Surrogates maintain bodily autonomy and have strong legal protections. You know that medical expenses are covered and emotional support is available.
You also understand that surrogacy is a thoughtful process that takes time: time that’s invested in protecting your health, ensuring legal clarity, and setting everyone up for success.
With accurate information, you can evaluate whether surrogacy might be right for you based on what’s actually true, not on myths and misconceptions.
If you’re curious about surrogacy, the next step is simply learning more. Ask questions. Talk to agencies that prioritize education and transparency. Connect with experienced Surrogates who can share their real stories.
At Golden Surrogacy, we’re here to provide honest, accurate information about what surrogacy looks like in Colorado. Whether you ultimately decide to become a Surrogate or not, we believe you deserve to make that decision based on facts.
Our founder, Frank Golden, leads our team with a commitment to treating every Surrogate like family. Our dedicated Care Team supports Surrogates throughout their journey, and your Program Manager is available by phone, text, and email whenever questions arise.
We never rush. We never pressure. We simply provide the information and support you need to make the best decision for you.
If you’re ready to learn more about becoming a Surrogate in Colorado, we’d love to talk! Reach out when you feel informed and confident: because that’s exactly how every surrogacy journey should begin.




