Requirements
Deciding to become a surrogate mother is an enormous decision and meaningful choice. It will create a special connection between you and hopeful parents, fulfilling their dreams of having a child. However, this journey comes with specific requirements. Below, we’ll outline what the requirements are, but to understand these qualifications better, talk to one of our surrogacy experts today.
What Are The Qualifications To Be A Surrogate?
Becoming a surrogate involves a lot of time, energy, and commitment. Prospective surrogates need to be well-prepared both medically and emotionally. These are the basic qualifications to become a surrogate through most Agencies, including Los Angeles Surrogacy.
These qualifications are essential to ensure a healthy and successful pregnancy and delivery for your own benefit, for the prospective parents, and most importantly, for the new child you will bring into the world!
Surrogate
Basic Requirements
If you meet these criteria, congratulations! You are likely a strong candidate to begin the journey of becoming a surrogate carrier!
Prospective candidates must not use any nicotine, illegal drugs or have consumed any anti-depressants over the previous year.
Los Angeles Surrogacy only accepts applicants between the ages of 20 and 39.
Gestational carriers must have successfully completed at least one full-term pregnancy with no major pregnancy or delivery complications.
It is required for a surrogate mother to be either a U.S. citizen, hold a valid Green Card, or otherwise legally reside in the United States.
Your partner’s unwavering support is crucial. They play a vital role in offering emotional, physical, and mental support throughout the entire surrogacy journey.
What are the physical qualifications to be a surrogate?
Being a surrogate means dealing with all of the complexities and risks of any pregnancy.
The age requirements (between ages 20 and 39) were determined to ensure a higher probability for the successful delivery of a healthy baby.
Weight and BMI (Body Mass Index) requirements are part of the qualifications for becoming a surrogate for several reasons related to the health and safety of both the surrogate mother and the baby. An ideal BMI range, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) is between 18.5 and 24.9. At a BMI above 33, probable risks of complications increase for complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, preterm birth.
What kind of psychological qualifications are required to be a surrogate
Being a surrogate demands a high level of emotional preparedness.
Should you meet the physical requirements, you’ll commit to a partnership with intended parents that spans the course of a year, involving medical appointments and emotional challenges. Emotional stability and strong support from your family are essential.
What is the screening process like?
After confirming your physical eligibility, prospective surrogates will be asked to participate in thorough screenings.
You and your partner may be asked to participate in psychological assessments to understand your feelings about surrogacy and your coping abilities.
Los Angeles Surrogacy takes extensive precautions, including security steps and legal steps, to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved. We attract the highest quality candidates with competitive compensation plans while upholding strict screening standards for the health and safety of our surrogates and the beautiful children they bring into the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Surrogacy Baby Biologically Related to a Surrogate Mother?
No. Via gestational surrogacy, the egg of the intended mother (or a donor) is combined with the sperm of the intended father (or a donor) and transferred to the surrogate mother for growth during pregnancy. Therefore, the surrogate has no genetic link to the child, and the baby will only resemble the intended parents (or donors of the egg and sperm). There is no transfer of DNA during pregnancy.
How Much Money Does a Surrogate Make?
Surrogate compensation is not a “one size fits all” paycheck. It will vary greatly depending on location, prior experience as a surrogate (first-time surrogates may have an advantage sometimes), and other personal factors such as carrying multiples (twins or more), necessity of a C-section, coverage of insurance costs, medical fees (IVF appointment and checkups), possible travel fees, coverage of maternity clothing, legal fees, potential lost income (when working is no more an option near the third trimester), etc.
Does a Surrogate Mother Breastfeed the Baby?
A surrogate mother usually does not breastfeed, but there are exceptions.
- Emotional & legal boundaries – Breastfeeding may create an unintended emotional bond that the surrogacy contract usually intends to prevent.
- Intended parents’ role – Many intended mothers prefer to induce lactation or use donor milk.
- Colostrum feeding – In a number of cases, a surrogate will provide colostrum for early immunity.
- Pumping breast milk – In a number of cases, surrogates agree to pump milk for the baby.
How Many Times Can I Be A Surrogate?
A woman can typically be a surrogate 3-5 times, depending on medical guidelines and personal health. Fertility specialists often recommend a maximum of 5 pregnancies (including her own) to minimize health risks. Surrogacy agencies and fertility clinics also impose their own limits based on medical guidelines.
What Disqualifies You From Being A Surrogate?
Common disqualifications for surrogacy:
Medical
- Age outside of 21-40 range
- Previous pregnancy complications
- Over 5 prior pregnancies or 3 C-sections
- BMI over 32
- Untreated or chronic health conditions (e.g. diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases…)
Lifestyle
- Smoking and drug/alcohol use
- Criminal record or unstable living situation
- Absence of a support system
Legal
- Living in a state where surrogacy is illegal
- Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
What Questions Should I Ask?
10 key questions to ask before committing to becoming a surrogate and when meeting with intended parents:
Before committing:
- What are the medical requirements and risks for surrogacy?
- What compensation, benefits, and reimbursements are provided?
- What legal protections exist for surrogates in my state?
- Will I need to travel for medical procedures or delivery?
- How does health insurance coverage work for surrogacy?
When meeting with intended parents:
- What level of communication and involvement do you expect during pregnancy?
- What are your views on medical decisions (C-section, selective reduction, termination, etc.)?
- What are your expectations regarding my lifestyle, diet, and medical care?
- Will you be involved in the birth and post-delivery care?
- How will we handle unexpected medical or personal issues during the process?
Your surrogacy agency will advise you in much more details to ensure you are making your choice in full awareness of what it entails.
Is Becoming a Surrogate Risky?
Yes, becoming a surrogate carries risks, both medically and emotionally. This is not a light matter. You have to consider several aspects, including these:
Medical risks:
- Pregnancy Complications.
- Multiple Births
- C-Section Risks
- Hormonal Side Effects
- Long-Term Health Effects
Emotional & psychological risks:
- Emotional bonding with the baby
- Conflicts with intended parents
- Postpartum depression
Legal & financial risks
- Deficient legal protections
- Insurance complications
Your surrogacy agency will strive to give you a detailed account of the implications of becoming a surrogate before you decide to embark on this journey, and will work to set up the best possible contractual and financial conditions to ensure you are not subjected to hardship during and immediately after your pregnancy.
See if You Qualify
