How did your family and friends react when you shared your decision?
When I first told my family and friends that I wanted to become a surrogate, their initial reaction was definitely a lot of hesitation. Like many people, they didn’t fully understand how gestational surrogacy works and assumed I would be giving away my own baby. Once I explained the process—that the baby is created using the intended parents’ (or donor) embryos and that I have no genetic connection to the child—their perspective completely changed. They realized that I wasn’t giving away my own baby; I was helping another family welcome theirs. After learning more about surrogacy, they became incredibly supportive of my decision. They have celebrated every milestone with me and have been some of my biggest cheerleaders along the way.

How did you choose your intended parents?
For me, it really came down to the connection. I always say I went with my gut—or, as I like to put it, I went off the vibes! I wanted to match with intended parents whose values aligned with mine. I was looking for people who were kind, compassionate, genuine, and deeply excited about becoming parents. I also wanted a relationship where we could communicate openly, support one another, and truly enjoy the journey together. Feeling that connection from the beginning was incredibly important. I’ve been so fortunate to work with amazing intended parents, and the friendships we’ve built have become one of the most meaningful parts of my surrogacy journey.

How did surrogacy impact you physically and emotionally?
Physically, I was very fortunate to have healthy pregnancies and smooth recoveries throughout my surrogacy journeys. Every pregnancy is different, and while there were the normal aches, exhaustion, and all the things that come with growing a baby, I felt well-supported by everyone around me.
Emotionally, surrogacy has had an even greater impact on me. It has given me a deeper appreciation for the strength of women and the resilience of intended parents. Surrogacy has taught me deeper compassion, strengthened my confidence in what my body is capable of, and given my friendships that will last a lifetime.

Did the experience change your perspective on family or parenthood?
Absolutely. Becoming a surrogate gave me an even deeper appreciation for what it means to become a parent. Being a mom myself, I already knew how life-changing it is to welcome a child. But through surrogacy, I was able to witness firsthand just how much love, hope, and perseverance intended parents pour into growing their families. Many have faced years of infertility, loss, or unexpected obstacles before finally holding their baby. I’ve learned that families are built in many different ways, but the love that holds them together is always the same.

Is there anything you wish people understood better about surrogacy?
I wish more people understood that gestational surrogacy is not giving away your own child. One of the biggest misconceptions is that a surrogate is genetically related to the baby she’s carrying. In gestational surrogacy, that’s simply not the case. The embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetics, and the surrogate’s role is to lovingly carry and nurture the pregnancy until it’s time for the baby to go home with their family. (It’s literally like baking someone else’s cake in your oven). I also wish people knew how thoughtfully this process is approached. Surrogates go through extensive medical and psychological screenings, and everyone involved works together to make sure it’s the right fit. It’s a journey built on trust, communication, and a shared goal of helping create a family.

What advice would you give someone considering surrogacy?
My biggest piece of advice would be to really take the time to understand the process and make sure you feel fully supported—but if your heart is in it, trust that feeling. Surrogacy is one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had, but it’s also a big commitment physically, emotionally, and mentally. I always encourage anyone considering it to ask questions, talk to your family, learn about the agency, and make sure you feel comfortable in every aspect.

What moments from the journey will stay with you forever?
There are so many small moments from my surrogacy journeys that I know I will carry with me from my surrogacy journeys. But the most unforgettable moments across all of my journeys are always the same—the first time intended parents hold their baby. There is nothing quite like watching years of hope, waiting, and love turn into that very first embrace. It’s emotional (yes, you will probably cry), powerful, and something I will never be able to fully put into words. Those are the moments that stay with me forever.

Looking back now, how do you feel about the experience overall?
Looking back on my surrogacy journeys, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude, pride and love. Surrogacy has given me moments I will cherish forever and knowing I played a small part in something so life-changing for someone else will always hold a special place in my heart.

How was the delivery room experience different than with your own children?
Each delivery room experience was unique in its own way, especially compared to when I delivered my own son. With my first surrogacy journey, I gave birth to twins vaginally, almost an hour apart, which in itself made the experience very different. It was emotional and intense, and unfortunately my intended father didn’t make it in time for the delivery—he arrived the following morning. Even though he wasn’t physically there for the birth, the moment he finally got to hold his babies was incredibly special and worth the wait.

My second journey was also such a different experience in the best way. My intended mother was right there in the room with me, even holding one of my legs and being one of my biggest supporters through the entire delivery. My intended father was also there, standing in the corner of the room emotional and overwhelmed (and honestly trying not to pass out!). It was a mix of laughter, tears, and pure excitement. My husband was by my side throughout both experiences, rubbing my head, encouraging me, and being my constant support, just like he was during my own son’s birth.

Surrogacy delivery rooms may look different from a traditional birth, but they are filled with just as much love, emotion, and support—sometimes even more in ways I never expected.

Would you do it again?
I’m honestly not sure when I will stop doing it.