Short answer
There is no reliable universal average that applies to every intended parent or matching model. A more useful approach is to ask what candidates are active for your criteria now, what stage of screening they have completed, how recently profiles were updated, and whether those candidates are already considering other intended parents.
Factors that can shorten matching
- Access to a larger number of currently active candidates
- Compensation expectations that align with the candidates being considered
- Flexibility on geography and travel
- Clear decisions on important matching issues such as termination and communication preferences
- Embryos and clinic planning ready when appropriate
- Prompt response to profile introductions and screening requests
Factors that can lengthen matching
- Narrow geographic requirements
- Compensation limits that do not align with the candidates available to the search
- Narrow preferences on age, family situation, experience or communication
- Differences on termination or selective reduction
- Insurance or legal complications
- Profiles that are listed but are no longer active or are already considering another match
Ask these questions before paying a matching provider
- How many candidates are active for our criteria now?
- What stage of screening have those candidates completed?
- How is matching progress measured and communicated?
- What happens if no suitable match is found?
- Are we contractually allowed to search elsewhere at the same time?
Waiting list vs. active-profile model
A waiting-list model places intended parents in a queue or sequence until a suitable candidate becomes available. An active-profile model allows review of candidates presented as currently available. Neither model guarantees a particular timeline, and the meaning of “available” should always be verified.
Related guides
How to Find a Surrogate · Finding a Surrogate · Choosing an Agency