Navigating the Surrogacy Screening Process

Becoming a surrogate is a rewarding and life-changing experience. But before embarking on this incredible path, it helps to understand what's involved in becoming a surrogate and the screening procedures designed to protect you, the intended parents, and the baby you'll carry. Let's explore the surrogacy screening process and what you can expect as you move forward. 

Why Surrogacy Screening Matters 

As a surrogate, you're not just carrying a baby—you're providing a safe and nurturing environment for a new life. We want to make sure you feel supported, safe, and ready for this incredible responsibility. The screening also helps protect the baby's health and gives intended parents peace of mind. 

Health Requirements for Surrogacy 

Your health is one of the top priorities when becoming a surrogate. Here are some of the key health requirements: 

• You must have had at least one full-term pregnancy and delivery without complications.  

• You must be between the ages of 21 and 44. The age requirement aligns with the guidelines set by IVF clinics to minimize risks to both you and the baby. 

• You must have a body mass index (BMI) under 33 to reduce potential health risks. 

• You should maintain a healthy lifestyle for a safe pregnancy. 

Ensuring you meet these health requirements protects you and the baby so you have a healthy surrogacy experience from start to finish. 

Legal & Financial Requirements 

In addition to health factors, legal and financial requirements play an important role in the surrogacy process: 

• You must be U.S. citizens or green card holders. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept surrogates who live in Nebraska, Louisiana, or Michigan due to state laws that restrict surrogacy. 

• Surrogates can’t participate in certain government assistance programs, such as cash aid or public housing. This ensures that surrogacy will not interfere with your financial stability or the financial benefits you may receive from other programs. 

Being prepared for these legal and financial requirements can ensure you enjoy a smooth process.

Lifestyle & Support Requirements 

More than just your physical health is important. You should be emotionally ready and prepared for the logistics of the process. We ask you to: 

• Have the support of your family. If you're married or in a relationship, make sure they're on board, too. You and your partner will need to participate in a social work screening to assess your support network. 

• Have a balanced and responsible lifestyle. This ensures a nurturing and stable environment for the baby.  

• Be flexible and ready to travel. Some aspects of the surrogacy process, such as medical screenings and embryo transfers, may require travel and overnight stays.  

Meeting these lifestyle requirements ensures you're well-prepared for the path ahead, with a support system in place to help you along the way. 

The Surrogacy Screening Process: What To Expect 

The screening process for surrogacy ensures you're physically, emotionally, and financially ready for this commitment. Here's an overview of what you can expect: 

• You'll undergo a thorough exam and detailed medical history review, including past pregnancies, to ensure you're in good health.  

• You'll receive a psychological screening to assess your emotional readiness. Surrogacy can be an intense experience, and it's important to feel mentally prepared. 

• Both you and your partner (if applicable) will participate in a social work screening. This evaluates your support network and ensures your family is ready for the surrogacy process. 

We're with you each step of the way, supporting you and making sure you're really ready for the surrogacy experience. 

Starting Your Surrogacy Journey 

Now that you understand the requirements and screening process, are you ready to take the next step? If you feel you meet our requirements, we'd love to meet you! You can fill out our surrogacy compatibility form to be connected with someone on our team. Surrogacy.com is here to support you with advocacy, guidance, and a sense of community that's with you every step of the way.  

To learn more, check out our Surrogacy FAQ.