Michigan Surrogacy Timeline: How Long Does the Process Take?
August 5, 2025 by Frank Golden
If you’re considering becoming a Surrogate in Michigan, you probably have one big question on your mind: how long does this actually take? That’s completely understandable! The Michigan surrogacy timeline typically spans 14 to 18 months from your first application to delivery. That might sound like a long time, but there’s a good reason for it.
Michigan has a unique legal landscape when it comes to surrogacy. This means the process requires extra care, thoughtful planning, and experienced guidance every step of the way. But here’s the good news: when you understand what to expect, the journey feels much more manageable!
This guide breaks down each phase of the Michigan surrogacy timeline so you can plan ahead with confidence. Let’s walk through it together!
Table of Contents
- Overview of the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
- Application and Initial Screening Phase
- Medical and Psychological Screening
- Legal Review and Education in Michigan
- Matching Considerations in Michigan
- Medical Preparation and Embryo Transfer
- Pregnancy, Delivery, and Postpartum Period
- Factors That Can Affect the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
- What Surrogates Can Expect at Each Stage
- Frequently Asked Questions About the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
- Planning Your Surrogacy Journey With Confidence
Overview of the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
The complete surrogacy journey in Michigan generally takes between 12 and 18 months. This includes everything from your initial application through pregnancy and delivery.
Here’s a general breakdown:
- Getting started and pre-screening: 1 to 3 months
- Matching: 1 to 2 weeks
- Medical and psychological screening: 1 to 2 months
- Legal review and contracts: 1 to 2 months
- Medical preparation and embryo transfer: 1 to 2 months
- Pregnancy: Approximately 9 months
Why does the process in Michigan sometimes seem to take a long time? It comes down to the legal seriousness of ethical surrogacy arrangements. Michigan’s surrogacy laws require careful structuring and experienced legal guidance. Agencies that work in Michigan, like Golden Surrogacy, take extra time to ensure everything is done ethically and safely.
This careful approach protects you. It’s not about creating hurdles. It’s about making sure your journey is secure from start to finish!
Application and Initial Screening Phase
Your surrogacy journey begins with a simple application. This is your first step toward becoming a Surrogate!
During this phase, you’ll:
- Submit your initial application online
- Complete a pre-screening questionnaire about your health and pregnancy history
- Complete an agency-level psychological pre-screening as part of the initial process
- Have an introductory conversation with the Golden Surrogacy team
Founder Frank Golden leads the team personally, treating every Surrogate like family. From your very first interaction, you’ll have access to a dedicated Care Team that supports you throughout the entire process.
This phase typically takes a few weeks. It’s designed to help you understand what surrogacy involves and determine if it’s the right fit for you. There’s no pressure here, just honest conversation and education!
If you want to learn more about eligibility, check out our guide on Michigan Surrogate requirements.
Medical and Psychological Screening
Once you’ve completed the initial application, you’ll move into more comprehensive screening. This includes medical evaluations with the fertility clinic and psychological screening that starts at the agency level during pre-screening.
Medical Screening
A fertility clinic will conduct a thorough evaluation of your health. This may include:
- Physical examination
- Blood tests and lab work
- Review of your pregnancy and delivery history
- Uterine evaluation
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), these screenings help ensure that your body is ready for a healthy pregnancy. They’re not about judgment, they’re about safety!
Psychological Screening
Psychological screening is first completed through the agency as part of initial pre-screening.
It’s meant to make sure you feel supported, emotionally ready, and fully informed before moving forward.
This screening typically covers:
- Your motivations for becoming a Surrogate
- Your understanding of the process
- Your ability to communicate openly
- Your support network at home
Think of this as a conversation, not a test. It’s designed to protect your well-being and set you up for success!
This entire phase usually takes several weeks, depending on clinic availability and scheduling.
Legal Review and Education in Michigan
Here’s where Michigan stands apart from many other states.
Michigan’s legal environment requires extra attention when it comes to surrogacy contracts and parental rights. The legal process begins only after you’ve received medical clearance from the fertility clinic.
During this phase, you’ll:
- Work with an independent attorney experienced in Michigan surrogacy law
- Review and understand the surrogacy agreement
- Receive education about your rights and responsibilities
- Sign and notarize all legal documents before any medical procedures begin
Golden Surrogacy’s Agency Director is available via phone, text, and email throughout this process. You’ll never feel like you’re navigating legal complexities alone!
Because of Michigan’s unique laws, this stage may take a bit longer than in other states. But that extra time is an investment in your protection. Learn more about what makes Michigan different in our Michigan surrogacy laws guide.
Matching Considerations in Michigan
Matching is an exciting milestone! This is when you’re paired with Intended Parents who align with your values and preferences.
At Golden Surrogacy, matching is a thoughtful process. It’s not rushed. The goal is to find a partnership built on mutual respect, shared expectations, and clear communication.
During matching, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Review Intended Parent profiles
- Participate in introductory calls or meetings
- Ask questions and express your preferences
- Give your informed consent before moving forward
Matching in Michigan may be more selective due to the state’s legal considerations. But this careful approach helps ensure a positive experience for everyone involved.
Your comfort and alignment matter deeply. You should never feel pressured to match with anyone who doesn’t feel like the right fit!
Medical Preparation and Embryo Transfer
Once you’re matched and contracts are signed, you’ll begin preparing for the embryo transfer. This is where the medical journey really gets underway!
Some fertility clinics also require a group counseling session with both the Surrogate and the Intended Parents after a match is made.
Here’s what to expect:
- Medication protocol: You’ll follow a prescribed medication schedule to prepare your uterus for the embryo transfer.
- Monitoring appointments: You’ll have regular check-ins at the fertility clinic to track your progress.
- Embryo transfer day: The actual transfer is a quick, minimally invasive procedure. Most Surrogates describe it as similar to a pap smear.
- The two-week wait: About two weeks after the transfer, a blood test will confirm whether the pregnancy has begun.
In-person screening must align with your menstrual cycle timing, so the clinic will work closely with you to schedule everything appropriately.
This phase requires patience, but your Care Team will be there every step of the way!
Pregnancy, Delivery, and Postpartum Period
Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Now begins the longest (and often most rewarding) phase of the surrogacy timeline.
Pregnancy Milestones
Throughout your pregnancy, you’ll attend regular prenatal appointments. The CDC recommends consistent monitoring to support maternal health, and your agency will coordinate with your healthcare providers to ensure you receive excellent care.
During the second trimester, birthrights and hospital coordination commence. Your legal team will work on pre-birth orders to establish parental rights for the Intended Parents.
Delivery
As your due date approaches, your Care Team will help coordinate logistics with the hospital and the Intended Parents. You’ll have a clear birth plan in place so everyone knows what to expect.
Postpartum Support
After delivery, you’ll have time to recover physically and emotionally. Golden Surrogacy provides postpartum support to help you transition back to your daily life.
Curious about compensation during this time? Our Michigan Surrogate compensation guide explains what to expect financially throughout your journey.
Factors That Can Affect the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
Every surrogacy journey is unique. Several factors can influence how long your timeline takes:
- Legal review length: Michigan’s laws may require additional time for contract negotiations and court filings.
- Clinic scheduling: Fertility clinic availability can affect screening and transfer timing.
- Insurance coordination: Securing appropriate coverage may add time to the process.
- Personal readiness: Life circumstances, health, or scheduling conflicts can cause temporary pauses.
- Cycle synchronization: Medical preparation must align with your menstrual cycle.
These factors are normal and expected. The goal is never to rush, it’s to do things right!
What Surrogates Can Expect at Each Stage
Golden Surrogacy believes in full transparency. Here’s what you can expect in terms of communication and support:
Stage-by-Stage Breakdown
Application Phase
- Our Role: Reviewing your application and answering any questions you have.
- Your Role: Completing all forms honestly and thoroughly.
Screening Phase
- Our Role: Coordinating all medical and psychological appointments and providing resources.
- Your Role: Attending scheduled appointments and participating openly.
Matching Phase
- Our Role: Presenting you with compatible Intended Parent profiles.
- Your Role: Reviewing profiles and giving your informed consent to match.
Legal Phase
- Our Role: Connecting you with an independent attorney and explaining legal documents.
- Your Role: Reviewing and signing the surrogacy agreement.
Medical Preparation
- Our Role: Coordinating all schedules and requirements with the fertility clinic.
- Your Role: Carefully following all medication protocols and clinic instructions.
Pregnancy
- Our Role: Providing ongoing check-ins, emotional support, and journey management.
- Your Role: Attending regular prenatal care and keeping us updated.
Delivery
- Our Role: Coordinating with the hospital and Intended Parents for a smooth birth day.
- Your Role: Communicating your preferences and birth plan.
You’ll never be left guessing. Your dedicated Care Team and Agency Director are always just a phone call, text, or email away!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Michigan Surrogacy Timeline
How long does surrogacy usually take in Michigan?
Most journeys take between 12 and 18 months from application to delivery. Timelines vary based on individual circumstances and legal or clinic processes.
Why does Michigan take longer than other states?
Michigan’s surrogacy laws require careful legal structuring. This extra time ensures your journey is safe and properly protected.
Can the process pause if needed?
Yes! Life happens. If you need to pause for personal reasons, your agency will work with you to accommodate your needs.
What causes delays?
Common factors include clinic scheduling, legal review timelines, insurance coordination, and cycle synchronization.
What if I’m not sure I’m ready?
That’s okay! Surrogacy is a big decision. Take the time you need to learn and reflect. Visit our surrogate intake process page to continue exploring.
Planning Your Surrogacy Journey With Confidence
Understanding the Michigan surrogacy timeline is the first step toward a confident, informed journey. Yes, the process takes time. But every phase exists to protect you, support you, and set you up for success.
You don’t have to have all the answers right now. What matters is that you’re taking the time to learn: and that says a lot about the kind of Surrogate you could be!
When you’re ready to take the next step, Golden Surrogacy is here to guide you. Explore Golden’s Surrogacy Timeline Page for Surrogates to learn more about the journey ahead. No pressure, no rush: just support when you need it!
