A surrogate is a woman who carries and delivers a baby for an infertile couple. The intended mother may have damage to her uterus that makes carrying a child impossible, including uterine cancer, a uterus damaged by infection or congenital uterine abnormalities. Sometimes the health of the intended mother prevents her from carrying a baby or she may have a history of recurrent miscarriages.

A surrogate can be a friend, family member, a volunteer, or compensated. All surrogates undergo extensive physical and psychological screening to insure their suitability.