Hey Mama,
Let’s have a heart-to-heart.
If you’ve been exploring surrogacy, chances are you’ve seen the ads:
“Earn $80,000!”
“Calculate your lost wages and see how much you could make!”
They’re flashy. They’re tempting. And honestly? They’re not giving you the full story. And that’s a big problem.
The Truth About “Lost Wages”
One of the most common tricks these agencies use is hyping up “lost wages.” They make it seem like you’ll get a massive paycheck just for being pregnant.
What they aren’t telling you? Lost wages are only paid if you’re on medical work cessation — meaning your doctor has put you on strict bed rest because you can’t work, can’t move freely, and likely can’t take care of yourself or your family.
That’s not an ideal situation. That’s not something anyone hopes for. It’s not a “bonus” — it’s a medical necessity.
So why do agencies use it as a selling point? Because they assume money is your only motivator. They think a bigger number will seal the deal. But we know that couldn’t be further from the truth.
You’re Not Just a Number — You’re a Life-Changer
Yes, money matters.
You should never be out of pocket for helping someone build their family. You should feel secure, valued, and supported — financially and otherwise.
But the reason you’re here? It’s bigger than that.
You’re here because you want to make a difference. Because you know what it means to hold a child in your arms — and you want to help someone else feel that joy. Because your heart is full of generosity, strength, and compassion. And that doesn’t come from a pay-check. That comes from who you are.
What to Watch Out For
If an agency leads with promises of huge payouts — and not with your safety, support, and values — consider that a red flag.
Here’s what truly supportive agencies will prioritize:
- Transparent, real-talk conversations about what to expect
- Emotional and mental health support — not just during pregnancy, but from the beginning
- A meaningful, personalized match — not just any match
- Clear compensation details, with nothing hidden in fine print
- Respect for you and your why
They don’t just want a body to carry a baby. They want to walk beside a powerful woman making a life-changing choice — and support her every step of the way.
What Most Surrogates Actually Receive
Let’s get really clear here — most surrogates in Canada receive around $25,000 in reimbursement-based compensation. This isn’t a salary or income — it’s intended to cover:
- Maternity clothing
- Travel to appointments
- Childcare during medical visits
- Groceries and meals during pregnancy
- Self-care and wellness expenses
- Time off work for medical appointments or procedures
- Postpartum recovery costs
- And more
The goal is to make sure you’re never out of pocket for helping someone create a family — not to sell the experience as a windfall.
Where Does That Money Come From?
Intended Parents (IPs) — often couples or individuals who have already invested thousands into fertility treatments — are the ones who reimburse surrogates for these expenses.
In many cases, IPs have been through multiple rounds of IVF, and the financial, emotional, and physical toll is enormous.
This is why honesty and transparency matter so much. When we treat surrogacy like a transaction, we lose sight of the people involved on both sides — and the hope and heart that fuel this journey.
Ready to Get the Full Picture?
If you’re thinking about starting your surrogacy journey — or just want a safe place to ask questions — we’re here.
Our team of experienced, compassionate coordinators is ready to chat with you, answer your questions honestly, and help you understand what to expect — from start to finish.
Book a 1:1 with one of our surrogacy experts: Book With Meaghan | Book With Shannon | Book With Heather
No pressure. No sales pitch. Just real talk and full support.
Because you’re not “just a surrogate.” You’re a mom. A queen. A life-changer. And you deserve to be treated like it.