In surrogacy, the term intended parents simply refers to the individuals or couples who plan to welcome and raise the child born through the surrogacy process. It is an inclusive, universal term used across assisted reproduction to honor the diverse ways families are created today. If you're new to surrogacy and want a broader foundation, read our What Is Surrogacy? guide for a helpful introduction. 

Intended Parents Meaning: The Simple Definition

Intended parents are the legal parents of the child carried by a surrogate. In gestational surrogacy, the model used today by most U.S. agencies, the surrogate has no genetic or parental claim to the baby. Her role is solely to carry the pregnancy. 

This definition includes married and unmarried couples, single parents, and those who are unable or choose not to carry a pregnancy for medical or personal reasons, regardless of sexual identity. At Growing Generations, we welcome intended parents from all backgrounds and never question the circumstances that bring someone to surrogacy. For LGBTQIA+ families, the surrogacy journey may involve additional considerations, which is why choosing an experienced, inclusive agency matters.  

The Role of Intended Parents in a Surrogacy Journey

Intended parents play a major role in the surrogacy process. As an intended parent, you have to make decisions about choosing the right surrogacy agency, whether or not to use a donor, and finding the right surrogate. 

With Growing Generations, intended parents experience a high-touch, professionally managed process. Our team oversees logistics, communication, and coordination, allowing parents to remain engaged without becoming overwhelmed by the details. 

Intended Parents vs. Surrogates: Understanding the Difference

Although intended parents and surrogates share the same goal, bringing a child safely into the world, their roles within the surrogacy process are defined and distinct. Intended parents are the legal parents of the child and assume full parental rights and responsibilities from birth onward. They guide the medical, legal, and emotional direction of the journey, and make decisions in partnership with their care team. 

The surrogate, on the other hand, carries the pregnancy but does not have a genetic connection to the baby in surrogacy. Her role is to provide a healthy environment for the developing child, supported by professionals who ensure her well-being throughout the process. It’s important to note that she is not the biological parent of the child. 

Who Can Be an Intended Parent?

The surrogacy process is for a diverse group of intended parents, reflecting the many different ways families are formed today. Your journey is unique, and the reasons for choosing surrogacy as your path to parenthood are deeply personal as well.  

Couples often turn to surrogacy based on their medical needs, personal preferences, or when facing infertility or medical complications that prevent pregnancy. Others, such as single parents, LGBTQIA+ parents, or couples who prefer not to pursue pregnancy for personal reasons, find that surrogacy aligns with their values, life plans, or emotional readiness. These examples represent only a small glimpse of who pursues this path. There is no “one” story that defines an intended parent. 

At Growing Generations, inclusivity guides every aspect of our work, ensuring that every intended parent, regardless of background, identity, relationship status, or circumstance, receives the respect, support, and personalized care they deserve. 

Why People Become Intended Parents

The decision to pursue surrogacy is rarely defined by a single factor. It is often shaped by a unique combination of personal and medical factors. Many intended parents arrive at surrogacy after facing medical challenges or infertility that make pregnancy difficult or unsafe. Others choose this path to have a genetic connection with their child or to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.  For LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples, surrogacy can be an integral part of their family-building journey. And for some, choosing surrogacy fits their vision of parenthood. 

At Growing Generations, we believe your reasons, whether medical or personal, are valid, and your journey deserves the utmost care and support. Whatever brings you to surrogacy, choosing this path reflects your intention and commitment to welcoming your child into the world. 

Common Questions About Intended Parents

As an Intended parent, you might have some questions about surrogacy. Here are the most common ones we hear about.  

Do intended parents have to be genetically related to the baby? 

No. Genetic connection is not a requirement for becoming an intended parent. Many intended parents use donor eggs and /or sperm based on their medical needs and preferences. Regardless of genetic connection, intended parents are the legal parents. 

Can intended parents be single? 

Yes. Single individuals of any gender can pursue surrogacy with Growing Generations. We were one of the first agencies to work with single men and continue to support single parents who feel ready to grow their families independently. 

Do intended parents need to live in a specific country or state? 

No. You can live anywhere in the world. Growing Generations works with international and domestic intended parents and matches them with surrogates residing in surrogate-friendly states in the United States. This ensures your journey is secure and fully supported regardless of your location. 

Is there an age limit for intended parents? 

In most cases, no. Agencies and clinics focus more on your overall health, readiness, and long-term caregiving capacity than your age. Many intended parents begin their journeys later in life. For a deeper look at this topic, you can read our guide on surrogacy for intended parents. 

Do intended parents need to meet the surrogate? 

Meeting the surrogate is optional, though many intended parents find it meaningful and choose to connect early in the process. Whether you prefer a minimal-contact relationship or an ongoing connection, we help establish clear expectations right in the beginning, so everyone feels comfortable and supported. 

Understanding the Term ‘Intended Parents’ Is the First Step

Understanding what it means to be an intended parent provides an important foundation as you explore the surrogacy process. The term reflects more than a legal designation. It acknowledges your intention to welcome a child and your commitment to creating a safe, loving home from the very beginning. Many of our clients have said that once they see themselves as intended parents, the path to parenthood starts to feel more real and personal. At Growing Generations, we are here to support this beautiful journey.  

To learn more about how surrogacy works and how Growing Generations supports intended parents with exceptional care, guidance, and expertise, we invite you to explore Surrogacy for Intended Parents.