Yes, you can be a surrogate after a C-section — in fact, many surrogates have had one or more Cesarean deliveries.
Surrogacy agencies, including Los Angeles Surrogacy, routinely work with women who’ve had C-sections, provided their previous deliveries were healthy and complication-free.
If you’ve been wondering, “Can I be a surrogate after a C-section?” this comprehensive guide answers that question and more. We’ll cover:
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C-section and surrogacy eligibility
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Medical requirements for C-section surrogate candidates
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How C-section history affects surrogate approval
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The application process
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Key risks and considerations
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Frequently asked questions
Let’s get into what every woman needs to know about becoming a surrogate after C-sections — and why your past deliveries may actually make you a strong candidate.
Can I Be a Surrogate If I Had C-Sections?
Yes — you can become a surrogate after one or more C-sections as long as:
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You’ve fully recovered from the surgeries
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Your prior pregnancies and deliveries were healthy overall
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There are no complications related to uterine scarring
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A fertility doctor clears you during your medical screening
C-section scars and a surgical birth alone are not disqualifying factors for surrogacy.
Why C-Section History Is Common Among Surrogates
Many women who apply to be surrogates in California have had Cesarean deliveries for reasons like:
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Breech presentation
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Failure to progress
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Placenta previa
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Twin deliveries
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Previous C-section births
These do not inherently increase your surrogacy risk — and many intended parents feel reassured knowing their surrogate has prior pregnancy and delivery experience.
C-Section Surrogacy Requirements: What We Look For
At Los Angeles Surrogacy, your C-section history is evaluated during medical screening. Here’s what we assess:
1. Number of C-sections
We typically accept surrogates with up to 3 prior C-sections, but each case is evaluated individually. Some fertility clinics accept up to 4, provided there are no complications.
2. Healing and Recovery
You must be fully healed, with no lingering pain or complications. Most agencies require a 6–12 month wait after your most recent C-section before starting surrogacy.
3. Uterine Integrity
An ultrasound or hysteroscopy may be used to evaluate your uterine lining and scar tissue. If the uterine wall is thin or compromised, it could be a barrier to eligibility.
4. Previous OB/GYN Records
We’ll ask for delivery notes from your past pregnancies to ensure:
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No postpartum hemorrhage
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No placenta accreta
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No uterine rupture or NICU stays related to complications
Can I Be a Surrogate If I’ve Had More Than One C-Section?
Yes — having multiple C-sections doesn’t automatically disqualify you.
But the more surgeries you’ve had, the more cautious we must be.
A surrogate with two or three C-sections and no complications is often cleared quickly. However, after four or more, fertility clinics may require additional imaging to evaluate uterine thickness and adhesions.
Surrogacy After C-Section: Medical Screening Process
Here’s what happens during the screening for women with a C-section history:
Medical Review Includes:
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OB/GYN record collection
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Full blood work and hormone panels
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Uterine evaluation (transvaginal ultrasound)
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Hysteroscopy (if prior complications or uterine concerns exist)
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Physical exam
All of this is paid for by the intended parents — and coordinated by your case manager at Los Angeles Surrogacy.
C-Section and Surrogacy Health Considerations
There are a few risks and considerations you should understand before becoming a surrogate after a C-section.
Uterine Rupture Risk
While rare, women with multiple C-sections may face a slightly elevated risk of uterine rupture. This is very uncommon and typically only a concern during labor, not pregnancy.
Placenta Issues
Prior Cesareans may increase the likelihood of:
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Placenta previa (placenta covers cervix)
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Placenta accreta (placenta grows too deeply)
These are monitored closely throughout the pregnancy and are manageable with proper care.
Surgical Adhesions
Sometimes scar tissue (adhesions) can cause discomfort or complicate embryo transfer. This will be reviewed during your surrogacy eligibility ultrasound.
Emotional Readiness After C-Sections
Becoming a surrogate is not just a physical journey — it’s also emotional. If your C-section was traumatic or involved unexpected challenges, it’s important to talk openly with our team about how you’re feeling.
You’ll receive:
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A psychological screening from a licensed fertility therapist
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Optional support groups
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24/7 contact with your case manager
Application Process: Becoming a Surrogate After C-Sections in California
Here’s what to expect if you live in California and are applying with a C-section history:
Step 1: Apply Online
Submit a short form at LosAngelesSurrogacy.com. You’ll answer questions about:
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Number of pregnancies
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Type of deliveries (vaginal vs. C-section)
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Recovery experience
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Medical history
Step 2: Pre-Screening Call
We’ll review your answers and walk through your delivery history. If you had more than 3 C-sections, we’ll consult with our medical partners early on.
Step 3: Full Medical Screening
We collect OB records, conduct imaging, and schedule your clinical evaluation.
Step 4: Approval and Matching
Once cleared, we match you with intended parents — then move into legal contracts and embryo transfer scheduling.
C-Section Surrogacy Compensation
Women who become surrogates after C-sections receive the same compensation as those who’ve delivered vaginally.
In California, surrogate pay ranges from $50,000–$75,000+ depending on experience, number of journeys, and other factors.
You’ll also receive:
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Embryo transfer fees
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Monthly allowances
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Maternity clothing stipend
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Lost wages reimbursement
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Multiples and C-section bonuses
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Childcare and travel reimbursements
Can Previous C-Section Mothers Be Surrogates Again?
Yes — many of our most experienced surrogates have had C-sections in past surrogacy journeys.
Each new match includes a review of how your body handled the previous pregnancy and delivery. If everything went smoothly, you’re often eligible again.
C-Section Surrogacy FAQs
Am I eligible to be a surrogate if I had a C-section?
Yes, if your recovery was smooth and you meet general surrogacy criteria.
How many C-sections are allowed for surrogacy?
Most clinics allow up to 3. Some will consider 4 with medical clearance.
Is a C-section scar a disqualifier?
No. C-section scars are normal and not a barrier unless they indicate deeper tissue damage.
What are the risks of being a surrogate after having a C-section?
Slightly higher risk of uterine rupture, placenta previa, or accreta — but all are monitored and manageable.
Can I apply to be a surrogate if I had a C-section years ago?
Yes. In fact, being years post-C-section may improve your candidacy since your body has had time to fully heal.
Key Takeaways
• Yes, you can become a surrogate after a C-section — even after two or three, depending on your health.
• C-section scars do not disqualify you unless there are specific uterine complications.
• Surrogates with C-section history are evaluated during medical screening, including uterine imaging.
• You’ll receive full compensation and support, just like any other gestational carrier.
• Los Angeles Surrogacy welcomes and supports surrogate mothers with C-section history throughout California.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’ve had one or more C-sections and are interested in helping build a family, we’d love to hear from you.
Call us today at 800-204-7129
Or fill out the short application at LosAngelesSurrogacy.com
You’re not disqualified. You’re qualified by experience.
Let’s help someone become a parent — together.
