How long does the surrogacy process take in California?

The entire surrogacy journey typically takes 12-18 months from initial consultation to birth, depending on various factors including matching time and medical procedures.

What are the California surrogacy requirements to become a surrogate?

To become a surrogate in California, you must be between 21-40 years old, have had at least one successful pregnancy, maintain a healthy BMI, be a non-smoker, and live in a stable environment.

How much does surrogacy cost in California?

Total surrogacy journey costs typically range from $150,000 to $230,000+, including agency fees ($42,500), surrogate compensation, medical expenses, legal fees, insurance, and escrow. Every dollar is accounted for before you commit.

How much compensation do surrogates receive?

At On Fertility Ground, surrogates set their own base compensation rate — your worth, your choice. We never negotiate your rate down. Additional benefits include maternity clothing ($750-$1,000), monthly expense allowance ($250/month), embryo transfer fees, and more.

Eligibility

Can I Be a Surrogate If I Had a C-Section?

February 1, 2026 · 6 min read · On Fertility Ground Surrogacy

This is one of the most common eligibility questions we receive — and the answer is almost always yes.

The Short Answer

Having had one or two C-sections does not disqualify you. Three is reviewed case-by-case. Per ASRM guidelines, OFG accepts candidates with up to 2 prior C-sections. Candidates with 3 prior C-sections are reviewed case-by-case with medical clearance.

What the Medical Screening Evaluates

Thickness and quality of uterine lining
Scarring at previous incision sites
Overall uterine cavity structure
Presence of fibroids, polyps, or other concerns

What Might Be a Concern

Significant uterine scarring affecting cavity function
Placenta accreta spectrum (more common after multiple C-sections)
More than three C-sections (increased uterine rupture risk)

Bottom line: One or two prior C-sections are accepted. Three is reviewed case-by-case with medical clearance. Four or more is generally a concern. The only way to know is to go through the screening — and we will be with you the whole way.

From Our Founder

Bree — Founder & CEO, On Fertility Ground

This is one of the questions I get in my inbox most often — and it almost always comes with an apology. "I know this is probably a silly question, but..." It is not a silly question.

I have had conversations with women who assumed for years that a previous cesarean section meant surrogacy was not an option. Some of them went on to become some of our most exceptional surrogate candidates. The only thing standing between them and that possibility was information no one had bothered to share.

If you have had a C-section and you have been wondering — please do not wonder. Apply. Let the screening process give you a real answer based on your actual health.

— Bree | info@onfertilityground.com

Ready to Learn More?

Whether you're considering surrogacy as a surrogate or an intended parent, we're here to answer every question personally.

Become a Surrogate Intended Parent Inquiry

Email us at info@onfertilityground.com — We answer every inquiry personally.