Helping Single Men Build Families Through Surrogacy

A Doctor's perspective on surrogacy for single men

I am an American doctor who has dedicated the past 15 years to helping individuals grow their families through third-party reproduction (surrogacy). Over this time, I have advised or assisted more than 500 people—many of whom are single men or men in relationships.

While the concerns of single men considering surrogacy are similar to those of heterosexual couples, there are unique differences. Based on my experience, I’ve outlined the key concerns, questions, and insights I’ve gathered over the years.

Dr. Kramer: Surrogacy expert.

"I have advised or assisted more than 500 people—many of whom are single men or men in relationships." Dr. Kramer

Deciding if Gestational Surrogacy is Right for You:

For heterosexual men pursuing surrogacy, this decision often comes after realizing that finding a suitable partner is not their chosen path. Typically, these men have reached a stage in life where they’ve achieved financial and emotional stability but feel that something is missing.

The motivation to pursue surrogacy is usually driven by a combination of:

Legacy – The desire to pass on their family name and values.

Lifelong companionship – Creating a family for deep, meaningful connections.

The urge to nurture – Fulfilling an innate parental instinct.

Through surrogacy we can help men become fathers.

Psychological studies suggest that it takes an average of 18 months for a single man to decide he is ready to pursue family building through surrogacy. Interestingly, studies also indicate that this is the same amount of time it takes for a woman to decide she is ready to become a surrogate. I’ve observed this pattern through my contracted psychologists and the screening of over 100,000 gestational carriers by my agency.

Choosing the right surrogacy destination:

For those living in countries where surrogacy is either unavailable or prohibitively expensive, pursuing surrogacy abroad becomes the next major decision. As of March 2025, three primary countries legally allow single men to have children through surrogacy:

• Mexico

• Colombia

• Guatemala (our preferred venue)

• Argentina was a great venue, but at this writing it has ceased due to political changes.

The United States remains an option for those with a budget of $200,000 or more, but for those working with a budget of under $90,000, international options may be more feasible.

For those working with a budget of under $90,000, international options may be more feasible.

Once the destination is chosen, selecting a reputable surrogacy agency is critical. A good agency provides comprehensive services, including:

• Local egg donor selection or receipt of eggs from another provider

• IVF clinic coordination

• Legal assistance

• Surrogate matching

• Pregnancy management

• Birth planning and hospital coordination

Selecting an egg donor:

Choosing an egg donor is a crucial and deeply personal decision. With the expansion of egg banks worldwide—many emerging in the past decade—intended parents now have more options than ever before. Some men take six months to a year to finalize their choice.

Since 2015, advancements in egg-freezing technology have allowed for reliable freezing and thawing, leading to the rise of numerous egg banks globally. Among the most affordable and popular egg banks are those in:

• Ukraine

• Georgia

• Colombia

• Argentina

What Single Men Look for in an Egg Donor :

my Observations:

While good health and a strong family medical history are non-negotiable factors, men often select donors based on:

• Physical resemblance

• Talent and personal achievements (e.g., artistic ability, entrepreneurship)

• Education and academic success

• Attractiveness (though this plays a smaller role compared to the above)

Understanding the Timeline of Surrogacy:

Many intended fathers underestimate the time required to complete a surrogacy journey. In reality, a surrogacy journey can take up to three years from initial planning to bringing a baby home.

Even in guarantee programs, I’ve advised clients who waited three years before receiving their baby due to various delays in Mexico and Colombia.

Here’s a realistic timeline:

• Fastest possible journey: 1 year

• Average timeframe: 2 years

• Potential setbacks: Miscarriages (which occur in 15% of pregnancies) can add 2–3 months to the process.

My advise to future fathers:

One common regret I hear from intended fathers is that they wish they had started sooner. Many decide at age 45 that they want a child but don’t account for the time it takes to research venues, surrogacy providers, choose an egg donor, and navigate the surrogacy process.

I recommend:

• Start researching earlier than you think you need to.

• Find a trusted provider.

• Have all your questions answered before beginning the journey.

Becoming a father is an incredible and fulfilling experience. With the right preparation, support, and knowledge, you can confidently take the first steps toward building your family.

I offer a free one-hour consultation to any serious person interested in family creation via surrogacy.  It is my passion helping people.

Sincerely, Dr. Kramer