Wisconsin Surrogacy Myths: What Potential Surrogates Should Know
February 27, 2025 by Frank Golden
If you’ve been researching surrogacy in Wisconsin, you’ve probably run into some confusing information. Maybe you’ve read that surrogacy is illegal here. Or that Surrogates have no legal protections. Perhaps someone told you agencies can’t even work with Wisconsin women!
Here’s the truth: Wisconsin surrogacy myths are everywhere, and they can make this journey feel scarier than it actually is.
The good news? Most of what you’ve heard simply isn’t accurate. This article separates fact from fiction so you can make an informed decision about whether surrogacy is right for you. No pressure, no rushing. Just clear, honest information!
Table of Contents
- Why There Are So Many Myths About Surrogacy in Wisconsin
- Myth 1: Surrogacy Is Illegal in Wisconsin
- Myth 2: Surrogates Have No Legal Protections
- Myth 3: Agencies Cannot Work With Surrogates in Wisconsin
- Myth 4: Surrogates Must Pay Their Own Medical Expenses
- Myth 5: Surrogacy Always Happens Quickly
- Myth 6: Surrogacy Is Emotionally Too Risky
- How Understanding the Facts Empowers Wisconsin Surrogates
- Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Surrogacy Myths
- Making an Informed Decision About Surrogacy in Wisconsin
Why There Are So Many Myths About Surrogacy in Wisconsin
Let’s start with why so much misinformation exists in the first place!
Wisconsin doesn’t have a single, comprehensive surrogacy statute. Instead, surrogacy arrangements are governed by case law and existing legal principles. This can feel confusing when you’re trying to find straightforward answers online.
Many websites oversimplify state laws or lump Wisconsin together with states that have very different regulations. Blog posts get outdated. Social media spreads incomplete information. Before you know it, myths start circulating as if they were facts!
The reality is that Wisconsin courts have addressed surrogacy multiple times. Landmark cases like In re Paternity of F.T.R. and Rosecky v. Schissel (2013) have established important precedents. But unless you’re reading legal documents, you might never hear about them.
That’s exactly why education matters so much. When you understand the facts, you can move forward with confidence!
Myth 1: Surrogacy Is Illegal in Wisconsin
The Myth: You can’t be a Surrogate in Wisconsin because surrogacy isn’t legal here.
The Reality: This is one of the most common Wisconsin surrogacy myths, and it’s simply not true!
Wisconsin has no statute prohibiting gestational surrogacy. In fact, both gestational and traditional surrogacy are practiced in the state. Compensated surrogacy is also explicitly legal. You can receive payment for your time, pregnancy-related expenses, and the medical risks you accept.
What matters most is how your surrogacy arrangement is structured. Working with experienced professionals ensures everything is handled correctly from the start.
The confusion often comes from Wisconsin’s anti-baby-selling statute (Wis. Stat. § 948.24). This law prohibits payment specifically for relinquishing parental rights. However, Surrogate compensation covers your time, effort, and medical commitment. It’s not payment for “giving up” a child. Courts understand this distinction!
Want to learn more about the legal landscape? Check out our guide to Wisconsin Surrogacy Laws for a deeper dive.
Myth 2: Surrogates Have No Legal Protections
The Myth: If something goes wrong, Surrogates are on their own with no legal support.
The Reality: When surrogacy is structured properly, Surrogates have strong legal protections in Wisconsin!
Here’s how it works:
Written Contracts: Every ethical surrogacy arrangement includes a detailed legal agreement. This contract outlines your rights, responsibilities, compensation, and what happens in various scenarios. Nothing is left to chance.
Independent Legal Counsel: You get your own attorney, separate from the Intended Parents’ attorney. This lawyer represents only your interests. Their job is to make sure the contract protects you and that you fully understand every provision.
Medical and Psychological Safeguards: Before you even sign a contract, you’ll complete thorough medical and psychological screenings. These aren’t just for the Intended Parents’ benefit. They ensure you’re physically and emotionally prepared for this journey.
Wisconsin courts have consistently upheld properly drafted surrogacy contracts. When all parties enter the agreement voluntarily and the arrangement serves the child’s best interest, these contracts are enforceable.
The key takeaway? Work with experienced professionals, and you’ll have layers of protection throughout your journey!
Myth 3: Agencies Cannot Work With Surrogates in Wisconsin
The Myth: Surrogacy agencies can’t legally coordinate with Wisconsin Surrogates.
The Reality: Ethical surrogacy agencies work with Wisconsin Surrogates all the time!
This myth likely stems from confusion about how agencies operate. A reputable agency doesn’t replace legal or medical professionals. Instead, they coordinate the entire process, connecting you with the right experts at every step.
Here’s what an ethical agency provides:
- Careful matching with Intended Parents who share your values
- Guidance through screening, legal processes, and medical appointments
- Dedicated support from start to finish
- Protection from informal or risky arrangements
At Golden Surrogacy, Founder Frank Golden leads our team, guiding every Surrogate as family. Your dedicated Care Team supports you throughout, and our Agency Director is available via phone, text, and email whenever you need guidance.
The difference between working with an agency and going it alone is significant. Agencies reduce risk, provide structure, and ensure nothing falls through the cracks. That’s not illegal. That’s smart!
Myth 4: Surrogates Must Pay Their Own Medical Expenses
The Myth: Surrogates are responsible for covering their own pregnancy-related medical costs.
The Reality: You should never face financial risk as a Surrogate!
Surrogacy arrangements include provisions for all pregnancy-related medical expenses. This typically works through one of several approaches:
Insurance Coverage: Your existing health insurance may cover pregnancy. If it does, Intended Parents typically reimburse your premiums and any out-of-pocket costs. If your policy excludes surrogacy or doesn’t provide adequate coverage, alternative arrangements are made.
Surrogate-Specific Policies: In some cases, a separate insurance policy is purchased specifically for the surrogacy pregnancy.
Direct Payment: Any medical expenses not covered by insurance are paid by the Intended Parents.
The important thing is that insurance review happens early in the process. Before you’re matched, your coverage is evaluated to identify any gaps. This protects everyone involved!
For more details on how insurance works in Wisconsin, read our complete guide to Wisconsin Surrogacy Insurance.
Beyond medical costs, Wisconsin Surrogate Compensation typically includes base pay, monthly allowances, and reimbursements for pregnancy-related expenses like maternity clothing and travel.
Myth 5: Surrogacy Always Happens Quickly
The Myth: Once you decide to become a Surrogate, you’ll be pregnant within a few weeks.
The Reality: Surrogacy is a thoughtful process that takes time, and that’s actually a good thing!
The typical surrogacy timeline spans 12 to 18 months from application to delivery. Here’s why:
Pre-Screening: You’ll complete an initial application, background checks, and preliminary medical review.
Matching: Finding the right Intended Parents takes time. This relationship matters, so rushing isn’t in anyone’s best interest.
In-Person Screening: Medical and psychological evaluations must align with your menstrual cycle timing for accuracy.
Legal Process: Contracts are drafted, reviewed, and signed only after you’ve received medical clearance.
Embryo Transfer: Preparation for transfer includes medication protocols and careful timing.
Pregnancy: A full-term pregnancy typically lasts around 40 weeks. During the second trimester, birthrights and hospital coordination commence.
Why does patience matter? Because each step protects you!
Rushing through screening could miss important health considerations. Skipping a thorough legal review could leave you vulnerable. Quick matching might mean a poor fit with your Intended Parents.
When you understand the timeline, you can plan accordingly and feel prepared at every stage. Learn more about what to expect in our Wisconsin Surrogacy Timeline guide.
Myth 6: Surrogacy Is Emotionally Too Risky
The Myth: Surrogacy will be emotionally devastating, and you’ll regret it.
The Reality: With proper preparation and support, most Surrogates describe their experience as deeply rewarding!
Let’s be honest: surrogacy involves emotions. That’s completely normal! But “emotional” doesn’t mean “too risky.” Here’s how ethical surrogacy programs address emotional well-being:
Psychological Screening: Before you begin, you’ll meet with a mental health professional who specializes in surrogacy. They help ensure you’re emotionally prepared and understand what to expect.
Ongoing Support: You’re never alone in this journey. Your Care Team checks in regularly, and counseling resources are available whenever you need them.
Clear Boundaries: Your contract establishes expectations around communication and involvement. Knowing what to expect reduces uncertainty.
Education: Understanding the process removes fear of the unknown. When you know what’s coming, you feel more confident.
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), psychological screening is a standard component of ethical surrogacy programs. This isn’t just a formality. It’s a genuine effort to support your emotional health.
Many Surrogates find that carrying a baby for someone else feels different from carrying their own children. The emotional experience is unique, but with the right preparation, it can be incredibly fulfilling!
How Understanding the Facts Empowers Wisconsin Surrogates
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to surrogacy!
When you understand how surrogacy actually works in Wisconsin, you can:
- Ask better questions during your research and interviews
- Recognize red flags in agencies or arrangements that seem too good to be true
- Feel confident in your decision, whatever that decision may be
- Advocate for yourself throughout the process
You should never feel rushed or pressured to commit. A reputable agency welcomes your questions and gives you time to think. If someone pushes you to decide quickly, that’s a warning sign.
Do you meet the basic criteria to become a Surrogate? Our guide to Wisconsin Surrogate Requirements can help you find out!
Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Surrogacy Myths
Is surrogacy legal in Wisconsin?
Yes! Wisconsin has no statute prohibiting gestational surrogacy. Both gestational and traditional surrogacy are practiced in the state, and compensated surrogacy is legal when properly structured.
Are Surrogates protected legally?
Absolutely. When you work with experienced professionals, you’ll have a detailed legal contract and independent legal counsel representing your interests. Wisconsin courts enforce properly drafted surrogacy agreements.
Do Surrogates get paid?
Yes! Surrogates receive compensation for their time, effort, and the medical commitment involved. Compensation packages typically include base pay, monthly allowances, and expense reimbursements.
Does insurance really matter?
Insurance is essential! Early insurance review ensures you won’t face unexpected medical expenses. Whether through your existing policy or alternative coverage, all pregnancy-related costs should be handled.
Should I talk to an agency before deciding?
It’s a great idea! Talking to an agency doesn’t commit you to anything. It’s simply an opportunity to ask questions, learn more, and see if surrogacy feels right for you.
Making an Informed Decision About Surrogacy in Wisconsin
You’ve made it through a lot of information! Let’s recap the most important points.
Wisconsin surrogacy myths can create unnecessary fear and confusion. The reality is much more reassuring:
- Surrogacy is legal and practiced in Wisconsin
- Surrogates have strong legal protections when working with the right professionals
- Ethical agencies coordinate surrogacy journeys every day
- You should never pay your own medical expenses
- The process takes time because each step protects you
- Emotional support is built into the journey
Education is your best tool. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel, whether you decide to move forward or not.
If you’re curious about surrogacy, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Golden Surrogacy is here to answer your questions, address your concerns, and support you in making the decision that’s right for your life.
Ready to learn more? Explore what it means to become a Surrogate and take the next step when you feel informed and ready!
