FAQ

Surrogacy Basics

What is gestational surrogacy?

Gestational surrogacy is when a surrogate carries a child created through IVF (in vitro fertilization) using the egg and sperm of a pair of intended parents or an egg donor and/or sperm donor. The surrogate has no biological connection to the baby.

Is surrogacy legal in all U.S. states?

Surrogacy is legal in most states, with the exception of Nebraska and Louisiana. State laws vary, and Nodal can help you navigate the legal landscape.

About Nodal

What is Nodal and how does it support surrogacy?

Nodal is a modern surrogacy solution that connects medically pre-screened surrogates with intended parents through a secure, technology-enabled surrogacy matching platform. Our experienced team provides personalized support, functioning like a traditional agency after matching, with full case management if you so choose.

Why is your company called Nodal?

Nodal [noh]+[dul] is inspired by growth and connection. We chose our name for three very specific reasons:

  • First, we connect different “nodes” of information to help our surrogates and intended parents reach their goals.
  • Second, the “NODAL” gene is required for embryo development.
  • Third, “nodes” are the points on a stem where buds, leaves, and branching twigs originate. You can’t grow a (family) tree without interconnected nodes!

Getting Started with the Nodal Matching Platform

How does the Nodal Matching Platform work?

The Nodal surrogacy platform has been called “Bumble for Surrogates,” and while we are proud of that comparison and the unique sense of agency we give our surrogates, we are so much more. Nodal offers comprehensive services, similar to those of a standard agency, with personalized support at every step. After passing our screening, surrogates and intended parents create profiles. Then, surrogates set the process in motion by browsing profiles and expressing their initial interest. If intended parents accept, a Nodal team member facilitates a match call. Almost all of our first-time intended parents choose case management, which covers their journey from match to embryo transfer.

What do I need to do to sign up for the Nodal Matching Platform as a surrogate or intended parent?

Fill out a brief questionnaire and schedule an intro call:

Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Is there a fee to join the Matching Platform as a surrogate?

No. Becoming a surrogate with Nodal is completely free. However, all surrogates must pass our screening process to join Nodal’s surrogate matching platform.

Surrogate Requirements and Screening

What are the requirements to become a surrogate with Nodal?

To qualify as a Nodal surrogate, you must meet some basic health and lifestyle requirements. View the full surrogate eligibility checklist here, and email us at hello@nodal.com if you have specific questions. We are always happy to talk with our potential surrogates.

What screening do surrogates go through?

Each surrogate completes:

  • Identity verification and background checks
  • A comprehensive medical record review by Nodal’s clinical team
  • Clearance from their current OBGYN
  • Review by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist (MFM)

Matching and the Journey

What happens after a surrogate matches with intended parents?

After a successful match,

  • Most surrogates and their intended parents choose Nodal Case Management, where our team handles everything from psychological reviews to travel logistics.
  • Some experienced surrogates and their intended parents who have been through the process before opt for a more independent journey, with referrals to trusted legal, insurance, and escrow providers.

Case Management & Costs

What is Nodal Case Management, and how much does it cost?

Nodal Case Management provides full support from match through successful embryo transfer starting at $10,000 with an optional $5,000 add-on for support post-transfer (some clinics require surrogacy case management from match to birth, which is a requirement that we can also satisfy). Additionally, you may bring your own surrogate candidate for Nodal to screen for a fee of $3,000.

What’s included in Case Management?

  • Coordination of medical clearance, psychological review, legal, escrow, and insurance
  • Travel booking and reimbursement support
  • Ongoing guidance from our experienced team

When should I sign up for Nodal Case Management?

Sign up directly after you’ve matched! You’ll pay a $500 hold fee each month until the surrogate’s Medical Record Packet is approved, and then the remainder of your Membership Fee upon your fertility doctor’s approval.

Are legal fees included in the Case Management cost?

No. Legal fees are separate. However, we’ll connect you with trusted reproductive law attorneys and help coordinate appointments.

What if a match falls through? Is there a refund policy for intended parents?

Matches can occasionally end unexpectedly. Nodal offers re-matching support and refunds where possible:

  • If medical records are not approved by the intended parents' doctor, the intended parents can rematch at no extra cost OR receive a partial refund.
  • For those who opt into case management from match to embryo transfer, if a match fails post-approval but before the legal contract, intended parents can return to match again at a discount OR receive a partial refund.
  • If a Gestational Carrier Agreement is signed, no refund or discount is available.

How much does it cost to join as an intended parent?

  • $500/month for platform access (this applies toward paying down a $15,000 Membership Fee).
  • Cancel anytime with just 7 days notice and walk away with no ongoing obligation.
  • After a match, settle the remaining membership balance and choose your preferred journey model.

Choosing Nodal

Why choose Nodal as a surrogate?

  • You’re in control. Unlike other models, surrogates browse all available intended parent profiles and make the first move toward helping the family that’s right for you.
  • Build your own surrogacy compensation package with expert support from a dedicated Surrogate Mentor.
  • Benefit from personalized journey support with a mentor who stays by your side throughout the entire process.

Why choose Nodal as intended parents?

As an intended parent, the most important part of the surrogacy process is finding the right match. Nodal offers intended parents an efficient way to connect with high-quality, pre-screened surrogates. Whether you want a hands-on surrogacy journey or prefer flexibility, our platform and team adapt to your needs.