Can you really use Instagram or Facebook to match with a surrogate? Meeting a surrogate on social media isn’t just possible - it happens for people all the time!
My own match happened thanks to Instagram, and I’ve helped dozens of couples use the power of social media to successfully launch or level up their surrogate search. Let’s break down the basics!
What do you need to succeed?
Wifi
A pinch of creativity
A willingness to share your story
Yes, that’s it! The great part about weaving social media into your surrogate search is that it is accessible, widens your pool of surrogate options, and there is no cost to get started.
Which platforms should I use?
Consider which platforms you’re most comfortable on - that’s your starting point. Any social media you are on could have a potential match.
Facebook is home to many free surrogacy matching groups. These groups have the sole function of bringing people together for surrogacy journeys and tend to be the most competitive to stand out in, but also have the highest concentration of unmatched surrogates. Using search terms like 'surrogacy' or 'surrogacy matching' and adding your country or region is a great way to find the right group for you.
Instagram is another great platform to share your story and capture a surrogate’s attention. This app is a great spot for those open to getting creative, especially those who are willing to post video content. Not My Tummy has a broadcast channel you can join free of charge that shares tips and tricks weekly to help craft top notch content.
Leveraging your social content in other places
If you are working with an agency, you can encourage them to add your social handles into your intended parent profile. This can give potential surrogates who are looking at your profile the ability to get to know you on a deeper level by having access to more content. You can also tag your agency’s social media accounts in your posts - that way if they share your content to their Stories, you may receive extra eyes on your profile.
You can also add your social handles directly to your Matching Day profile, ensuring that all information about you as intended parents is housed in one convenient space for surrogates to look at.
How do I vet someone I’ve met online?
Surrogacy requires a deep level of trust, meaning it’s important that you verify that the person you are considering matching with is exactly who they say the are and that they are being truthful in what they share with you. This is true of potential matches you meet online as well as surrogates introduced to you by an agency or other third-party.
There are plenty of ways to vet someone. You can request a police record check, access paid services that run background checks for you, or ask to speak to a reference who can vouch for them. You can also request proof of employment. Remember though - it is totally reasonable for them to ask these same things of you. Don’t be put off if a potential match wants assurances that you are an honest, safe, and trusted match for them - it’s a green flag that they want to have full transparency going both ways.
I’d like to take my search to social media, but need help
Helping people with social media surrogate searches is what Not My Tummy was built on! We focus on providing accessible support that ensures you stand out from the crowd.
Whether you’re looking for a run-through of the basics (account set up, how to craft content, and personal branding) or an in-depth consulting package, there are plenty of ways we can work together. You can click here to read our full list of services or book some time to chat about getting started by clicking here.
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