Many women considering surrogacy find themselves asking the same question.
“Can I do this while holding down a full-time job?”
The short answer is yes, you can. In fact, many of our surrogates work full time, raise families, or balance other major commitments while going through the process. The key is understanding what the journey involves, how to prepare, and where support makes all the difference.
Here’s what to know if you’re working full time and thinking about becoming a surrogate.
The Process is Structured, But Flexible
Surrogacy does involve regular appointments, paperwork, screenings, and eventually, medical procedures like embryo transfer. But the timeline is planned in advance, and most appointments can be scheduled around your availability.
What to Expect:
- The initial surrogate prescreening may require up to a half day off, while the full medical screening typically requires a full day off for testing and evaluation.
- Legal and psychological meetings can often happen virtually
- IVF monitoring appointments may be more frequent for a few weeks (Local Monitoring available to make things efficient, quick, and accessible.)
- Standard OB visits follow a routine pregnancy schedule
Most employers are supportive once they understand what the process involves. And we’re happy to provide documentation or talk through any scheduling needs with you.
You’re Not Doing It Alone
One thing we always tell prospective surrogates is this.
You are never expected to juggle everything by yourself.
At Simple Steps Fertility, you’ll be paired with a dedicated and experienced case manager who helps with scheduling, communication, and making sure everything fits around your life, not the other way around. That means help with organizing appointments, communicating with the intended parents, and adjusting plans as needed.
We’ve worked with teachers, nurses, office managers, retail workers, and remote professionals. Each person’s work situation is different, and we adapt to support you fully.
What About Taking Time Off?
In many cases, surrogates do not need to take significant time off until the third trimester or delivery. For example:
- During the embryo transfer, you may need 1 to 3 days of rest, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
- During pregnancy, most women continue working as usual with normal accommodations.
- For delivery and recovery, you’ll have time to rest, heal, and return to work when you’re ready.
Simple Steps Fertility offers lost wage compensation as part of your benefits package if your OBGYN prescribes bed rest during pregnancy—and especially during your recovery after delivery.
Communication is Key
If you are wondering how your employer might respond, you are not alone. Many surrogates choose to be open with their employer and colleagues, while others prefer to keep the details private. Either approach is valid, and we’ll support your decision.
You can also decide how much the intended parents are involved during your appointments or work hours. These relationships are tailored to your comfort level and availability.
Tips for Balancing Surrogacy With Work
- Plan Ahead: Keep a shared calendar with key dates and deadlines
- Ask Questions: Speak up early if something feels overwhelming
- Lean on Your Team: Your case manager is there to help reschedule or problem-solve
- Take Care of You: Build in rest and moments of calm whenever possible
Most importantly, give yourself credit. You are doing something remarkable for another family while still showing up for your own.
Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Press Pause on Life to Be a Surrogate
Surrogacy is not just for people with unlimited free time or perfect schedules. It is for real people with jobs, kids, lives, and big hearts.
At Simple Steps Fertility, we’ll help make the journey work for your real life. With the right support and planning, it is entirely possible to be a surrogate and a professional at the same time.
Want to know if you’re eligible to be a surrogate?
Take our 2-minute quiz and find out where you stand.