Surrogacy in Redwood City, CA: Surrogate Moms' Healthcare Resource Guide

Kaiser Permanente Redwood City Medical Center offers comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology services through board-certified OB-GYN physicians, experienced nurse practitioners, and certified nurse midwives who provide personalized, family-centered prenatal care to Kaiser members. The OB/GYN department on the fourth floor of Marshall Medical Offices provides routine prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, labor and delivery, postpartum care, gynecological services, family planning, menopause management, and health education. Kaiser’s integrated healthcare model ensures seamless coordination with laboratory services, imaging, pharmacy, and specialists all within the same system. The medical center offers the Centering Pregnancy program, an innovative group prenatal care model where pregnant women with similar due dates meet together. Services include comprehensive prenatal examinations, ultrasounds, genetic counseling, nutrition counseling, labor planning, breastfeeding support, and postpartum follow-up. Members have access to 24/7 advice nurses, the Kaiser app for appointment scheduling and secure messaging, and comprehensive health education classes covering pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.

Quest Diagnostics is one of the world’s leading providers of diagnostic testing, operating a patient service center in Redwood City that offers comprehensive laboratory testing including the full range of prenatal and pregnancy-related tests. The Redwood City location provides a comfortable environment with experienced, certified phlebotomists trained to make blood collection quick and comfortable. Quest performs over 3,500 different tests including essential prenatal screening, genetic testing, glucose tolerance tests for gestational diabetes screening, routine pregnancy blood work, hormone level testing, and infectious disease screening. The laboratory offers both scheduled appointments and walk-in service, though appointments are recommended to minimize wait times, with easy online booking through the Quest website or mobile app. Test results are available quickly through Quest’s secure online patient portal where patients can view results and share information with healthcare providers. The Redwood City center is conveniently located on El Camino Real with accessible parking, open Monday through Friday with extended hours plus Saturday morning hours. Quest Diagnostics is fully CLIA-certified, participates with most major insurance plans, and offers affordable self-pay options.

CVS Pharmacy at 1039 El Camino Real serves as a convenient, full-service pharmacy in central Redwood City, providing prescription medication services, over-the-counter healthcare products, and health resources to support surrogate mothers throughout their pregnancy journey. The pharmacy is staffed by licensed pharmacists available to answer questions about prenatal vitamins, pregnancy-safe medications, drug interactions, proper medication administration, and pharmaceutical concerns, ensuring safe and effective medication use. CVS offers rapid prescription refills with convenient options including in-store pickup, same-day delivery through Shipt, and standard 1-2 day delivery, plus auto-refill enrollment for ongoing prescriptions. Services include prescription transfers, medication therapy management, immunizations including flu shots (free with most insurance), medication synchronization, and specialty pharmacy services. Beyond prescriptions, the store offers extensive over-the-counter health products including prenatal vitamins, pain relievers, cold remedies, digestive aids, first aid supplies, and healthcare essentials, plus beauty products, household goods, and photo services. CVS ExtraCare membership is free and provides personalized coupons, sale notifications, and rewards. The pharmacy accepts most major insurance plans and offers UPS package services and free Wi-Fi.

Walgreens at 1414 El Camino Real in San Carlos operates as a 24-hour pharmacy providing round-the-clock access to prescription medications and pharmaceutical services, offering surrogate mothers in the Redwood City area peace of mind with medication access at any hour including late evenings, early mornings, weekends, and holidays. The 24-hour service is valuable for urgent medication needs, last-minute prescription fills before travel, late-night medication questions, or fitting pharmacy visits into unconventional schedules. The pharmacy is staffed by licensed pharmacists who provide expert medication counseling, answer questions about drug interactions and pregnancy safety, and offer personalized pharmaceutical care for safe, effective medication use. Walgreens offers comprehensive pharmacy services including fast prescription refills with in-store pickup or home delivery, prescription transfers, immunizations including flu shots, medication synchronization, automatic refills, and specialty pharmacy services. The store features extensive over-the-counter healthcare products including prenatal vitamins, pain relievers, digestive health medications, cold remedies, first aid supplies, blood pressure monitors, and pregnancy items, plus photo services, beauty products, household essentials, and convenience items. The Walgreens Balance Rewards program allows customers to earn points for discounts. The pharmacy accepts most major insurance plans. Located just minutes from Redwood City, this Walgreens provides convenient 24-hour access with ample parking.

The Wise Mind Institute is a private practice therapy group offering personalized mental healthcare in the Bay Area and across California, blending holistic practices with evidence-based therapies founded on core values of wisdom, compassion, and mindfulness. Founded by Dr. Wes Pederson and Dr. Chris Harrison in 2015, the institute provides empirically supported treatments with a team of highly trained clinicians including licensed therapists and clinical psychologists. The institute specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Radically Open DBT (RO-DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), existential-humanistic psychotherapy, and mindfulness-based interventions, supporting teens, adults, couples, and families. Treatment addresses anxiety, depression, emotion dysregulation, relationship challenges, life transitions, dual diagnosis (substance use and mental health disorders), grief and loss, and issues of emotional over-control and under-control. The institute offers individual psychotherapy, group psychotherapy including DBT skills groups, couple therapy, and family therapy, with both in-person sessions and telehealth options. Clinicians receive advanced training in interpersonal neurobiology and evidence-based modalities allowing them to meet varied client needs. The Wise Mind Institute provides brief and extended courses of psychotherapy and offers free 15-minute consultations to discuss treatment needs.

The following crisis resources provide immediate support for mental health emergencies, suicidal thoughts, postpartum mental health concerns, and urgent emotional distress. These services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and are staffed by trained crisis counselors who can provide immediate support, safety planning, and referrals to local resources.

Safeway at 1071 El Camino Real is a full-service neighborhood grocery store providing convenient access to fresh produce, quality meat and seafood, bakery items, deli selections, and comprehensive grocery shopping with extended operating hours. The store features all standard Safeway departments including fresh produce, meat and seafood counter, in-house bakery, deli counter, and pharmacy services. Like all Safeway locations, this store offers grocery delivery and pickup options, Safeway for U personalized digital offers through their mobile app, weekly ad savings, and Gas Rewards program. The pharmacy provides immunizations, prescription refills, and specialty care services. The store accepts EBT/SNAP benefits and provides additional services like Coinstar and Western Union for customer convenience.

Trader Joe’s in nearby Menlo Park is a specialty grocery store offering unique, high-quality products at affordable prices with a neighborhood market atmosphere, featuring unconventional and interesting Trader Joe’s branded items like their famous Mandarin Orange Chicken and Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate alongside everyday basics. The store is known for excellent value pricing with quality products including fresh produce, meat, eggs, bakery items, extensive cheese selection, fresh flowers, and specialty frozen meals and snacks. Trader Joe’s offers many organic and natural food options, international specialty items, and seasonal products that rotate throughout the year. The friendly staff provides knowledgeable customer service and product recommendations. Many products are exclusive Trader Joe’s brands not available elsewhere, and the store frequently offers free product samples for customers to try new items. The Menlo Park location is just a short drive from Redwood City, making it convenient for Redwood City residents.

The Kaiser Redwood City Farmers Market operates during the growing season from April through October, conveniently located at the Kaiser Permanente Medical Center campus on Maple Street at Marshall Street, providing midweek access to fresh local produce and farm products. The Wednesday market runs from 10 AM to 2 PM, making it convenient for those who cannot attend weekend markets. The market accepts FMNP WIC/Senior vouchers, Market Match incentive programs that double the value of CalFresh/EBT benefits for fresh produce purchases, and CalFresh EBT cards, ensuring access to fresh, healthy food for all community members regardless of income level. The market features California certified farmers selling seasonal produce and other farm-fresh products directly to consumers.

Sigona’s Farmers Market has been the Bay Area’s premier destination for highest-quality produce and specialty foods since 1975, operating as a family-owned open-air market experience that combines old-fashioned market charm with gourmet offerings. The market features fresh-picked organic and locally grown produce, extensive artisan cheese selection with award-winning varieties, fresh-pressed extra virgin olive oils, fresh-baked breads from local artisan bakers including Gizdich Ranch and Woodside Bakery, homemade pies and pastries, dried fruits and nuts, live organic healthy foods, fresh flowers, and an impressive selection of specialty gourmet items. The market operates year-round with extended daily hours, providing consistent access to premium produce and specialty foods. Located conveniently across from Costco on Middlefield Road, Sigona’s is known for exceptional quality, personalized customer service from the Sigona family and staff, and carefully curated specialty products. The market offers a complete shopping experience with fresh produce, cheese counter, olive oil tastings, bakery items, and gourmet ingredients all in one location.

Kaiser Permanente Nutrition Clinic offers comprehensive nutrition counseling and medical nutrition therapy provided by board-certified Registered Dietitians with specialized expertise in areas including diabetes management, kidney disease, nutrition support, gestational diabetes, prenatal and pregnancy nutrition, weight management, cardiovascular health, high blood pressure and cholesterol, gastrointestinal disorders, and general wellness. The dietitians work collaboratively with patients’ doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and care managers to create personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual health needs and goals. Services are available exclusively to Kaiser Permanente members and are fully integrated into the Kaiser healthcare system, allowing for coordinated care with medical providers and seamless sharing of health records. Appointments can be scheduled through Kaiser’s online portal, mobile app, or by calling member services, making it convenient to access nutrition support as part of comprehensive healthcare.

Planet Fitness offers an affordable, judgment-free fitness environment with 24/7 gym access, making it convenient for members to work out at any hour that fits their schedule. The facility features a comprehensive selection of cardio equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes, plus a wide range of strength training machines and free weights suitable for all fitness levels from beginners to experienced gym-goers. Certified personal trainers are available to provide free fitness training, facility orientation, and customized workout programs to help members achieve their fitness goals safely and effectively. The “Judgement Free Zone” philosophy creates a welcoming, non-intimidating atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable regardless of their current fitness level or experience. Members have access to the Planet Fitness mobile app with hundreds of workout videos, personal fitness tracking tools, and partner rewards and discounts. Black Card membership includes additional amenities such as unlimited guest privileges, access to any Planet Fitness location worldwide, hydromassage chairs, tanning beds, and red light therapy. The facility is clean, spacious, and well-maintained with accessible parking and ADA-compliant features.

Snap Fitness is a locally owned, 24/7 fitness facility offering a supportive community atmosphere with comprehensive equipment and member-focused amenities to help move your body and improve your mood. The gym provides key card access allowing members to work out any time day or night, with staffed hours available for tours, membership questions, and personal assistance. Equipment includes a well-maintained variety of cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals), strength training equipment with multiple weight sets, and functional training areas, all in a clean, compact facility that never feels overcrowded. The Snap App is a free member app providing workout tracking, fitness progress monitoring, class booking, on-demand workout access, personalized meal plans, mental health programs, brand discounts, and membership management tools. Group fitness classes are offered including Vinyasa yoga which links breath to movement through mindful flow sequences suitable for all levels. The gym maintains a welcoming, community-oriented environment where the supportive atmosphere helps members stay consistent with their fitness routines.

Anicca Yoga specializes in yoga for motherhood, nurturing women into pregnancy and beyond with dedicated prenatal yoga, postnatal yoga, parent and baby yoga, and parent and toddler yoga classes in Redwood City, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and surrounding areas. The signature “Yogi Mamas-to-Be” prenatal class is specifically designed to empower and support women throughout pregnancy using movement, breath, and mindfulness to strengthen, nurture, and prepare the body and mind for birth and the transition into motherhood. Classes teach practical techniques to assist during childbirth and provide benefits including improved sleep, circulation, and overall vitality, with sessions tailored to each trimester and personalized for individual conditions to ensure safe, unique experiences. Postnatal yoga helps restore vitality and find calm in the midst of new motherhood’s challenges. The studio also offers the unique “Mama Elixir” program designed to support women as they transition into and through motherhood, plus “Bloom: mindfulness for motherhood” classes. For children, “Yogi Cubs” classes integrate yoga poses, music, and mindfulness activities in dynamic, fun sessions helping little ones discover calm, confidence, and more. Anicca Yoga operates from park-side locations and embraces the philosophy that happy, healthy moms are good for the planet.

Red Morton Park is the crown jewel of Redwood City’s park system, spanning over 32 acres as a centrally located major recreational hub offering diverse amenities for all ages and activity levels. The park features the innovative Magical Bridge Playground, an inclusive, all-abilities play area designed for children of all abilities with interactive art installations, sensory experiences, and thoughtfully designed equipment that has become a family favorite and shining example of Redwood City’s commitment to inclusivity. Athletic facilities include multiple baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a skate park catering to both organized sports and casual play. The park offers expansive open lawns, designated picnic areas equipped with barbecue grills ideal for family gatherings and celebrations, plus a community center hosting various programs and events throughout the year. Additional amenities include walking paths, a fitness center at the community building, and beautiful mature trees providing shade. The park serves as a venue for community events including summer concerts and cultural celebrations. Note that while the Magical Bridge Playground offers amazing inclusive features, it gets busy on nice days and has limited shade in some areas, so visitors should bring sun protection.

Marlin Park offers a unique waterfront recreational experience along the scenic shores of Redwood Shores Lagoon, combining water-based activities with traditional park amenities in a peaceful, picturesque setting. The park’s calm lagoon waters provide opportunities for non-motorized water activities including kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing, with a boat launch facility available for easy access. A sandy beach area along the lagoon allows visitors to relax by the water, wade, or enjoy the waterfront atmosphere. Traditional park amenities include a modern playground suitable for children, designated picnic areas with tables perfect for family gatherings and outdoor meals, and a large grassy field for games, sports, and relaxation. Walking and biking paths offer scenic views of the lagoon and are perfect for leisurely strolls, brisk jogs, or family bike rides in a beautiful waterfront setting. The combination of water recreation and traditional park facilities makes Marlin Park a versatile destination popular with families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful natural environment. The park is also an excellent location for birdwatching with many waterfowl species frequently seen around the lagoon.

The Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program is a federally funded supplemental nutrition education program designed to promote and maintain the health of pregnant women, postpartum women, breastfeeding mothers, infants, and children from birth to five years of age. WIC provides monthly food benefits through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card that can be used at participating retailers including grocery stores and farmers markets to purchase nutritious foods including milk, cheese, eggs, whole grains, breakfast cereal, peanut butter, beans, juice, fruits, vegetables, infant formula, and more. The program offers comprehensive nutrition education and counseling to help families make healthy food choices and develop good eating habits. Breastfeeding mothers receive specialized support and education including lactation counseling, breast pump loans, and additional food benefits. WIC staff connect families to other needed health and social services through screening and referrals. Eligibility is based on categorical requirements (pregnant, breastfeeding up to infant’s 1st birthday, non-breastfeeding postpartum up to 6 months, infants up to 1st birthday, children up to 5th birthday), residency in California, and household income below 185% of Federal Poverty Level.

The Redwood Shores Branch of Redwood City Public Library opened in 2008 to serve the Redwood Shores community with library services, programs, and gathering spaces that connect community members with learning and reading. The branch provides access to books, digital materials, computers, WiFi, and technology resources. Programs include literacy initiatives, educational activities supporting school success, and cultural and recreational programs for all ages, incomes, and cultures. The library philosophy treats libraries as “indoor parks” with many learning, cultural, and recreational activities designed to build community through promoting participation and volunteerism. Family-friendly spaces make this branch particularly welcoming for parents with young children. Study and meeting rooms are available for public use. The Redwood Shores Branch emphasizes innovative and visionary programming to inspire learning throughout the community.

The Fair Oaks Community Center provides comprehensive human services, emergency assistance, and family support programs for residents of Redwood City, unincorporated North Fair Oaks, Woodside, Portola Valley, and Atherton. The center operates an Information and Referral Program connecting families to vital food assistance, housing resources, and other emergency and social services. The Family Harvest Food Distribution program provides food to low-income residents on the second Friday of each month from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, giving families access to adequate nutrition through a hand-up approach. Additional services include child care and early child development programs for working parents with children ages 1-5 through the Redwood City Child Development Program (fees based on family income), immigration and citizenship services, ESL and citizenship classes, and a tenant’s rights clinic. The Fair Oaks Family Resource Center at a separate location provides mental health counseling and therapeutic services offered one-on-one or in small groups to help children and families with socio-emotional issues, behavioral difficulties, crisis intervention, and family challenges often impacted by traum.

San Mateo County WIC Program provides comprehensive breastfeeding support and education as a core component of its services for pregnant and postpartum women. WIC recognizes breastfeeding as essential for infant development and promotes it as the best way to feed babies through peer counseling, lactation consultation, and practical assistance. Breastfeeding mothers receive specialized benefits including additional food packages, breast pump loans to support milk expression when returning to work or experiencing nursing difficulties, hands-on breastfeeding assistance and troubleshooting, and education about the health benefits for both mother and baby. WIC staff are trained to help mothers overcome common breastfeeding challenges and provide ongoing support throughout the nursing journey. The program connects families with community breastfeeding resources and celebrates World Breastfeeding Week annually. For breastfeeding help, mothers can contact their local WIC office or call the statewide WIC hotline. Additional information and resources are available on the California WIC website and MyFamily WIC portal.

Los Angeles Surrogacy operates a 24-hour emergency hotline accessible to all surrogate mothers any time, day or night. In an emergency, our role is to support, direct our surrogate mom in location to seek immediate medical attention (i.e., the nearest emergency room or your healthcare provider), and remain in close communication with her to help coordinate next steps and ensure continuity of care. It is important to mention that Los Angeles Surrogacy does not provide medical guidance.