The short answer is yes. At Los Angeles Surrogacy, every surrogate we work with must pass a thorough, multi-phase medical screening and psychological evaluation process designed to ensure the surrogate applicant is qualified, to protect the baby, and give peace of mind to the intended family.
We understand that trust, transparency, and medical safety are at the heart of every successful gestational surrogacy journey. That’s why our agency takes great pride in the fact that all of our surrogate mothers must pass our strict screening process before ever being presented to intended parents. Throughout this article we’ll walk you through exactly what that screening involves, why it’s important, and how our high standards make all the difference for families in Los Angeles and beyond.
Why Surrogate Screening Is Important for Your Peace of Mind
Before a surrogate can be matched with intended parents and proceed with any IVF process, it’s critical to verify that she is physically healthy and emotionally prepared to carry a baby. The surrogate screening process involves not only detailed medical testing and background checks, but also mental health evaluations to assess a candidate’s overall readiness for gestational surrogate pregnancy.
At Los Angeles Surrogacy, we believe in giving intended parents the confidence to move forward, knowing that their surrogate has been fully vetted and approved by both our agency and the IVF clinic. Our trusted surrogacy agency prioritizes both ethical practices and safety throughout the journey, ensuring that every family we serve receives the highest level of care and protection.
Initial Application Screening Process
The journey to becoming a surrogate with Los Angeles Surrogacy begins with a application and early screening. We review essential eligibility criteria such as:
- Age range: Typically 21–45 years old
- Legal status: U.S. citizenship or legal residency
- Health metrics: Healthy BMI (body mass index under 30)
- Lifestyle requirements: No history of drug abuse or smoking
- Pregnancy experience: At least one child born and raised by the applicant
- Medical history: No major pregnancy complications or complex delivery history
- Living situation: Stable home environment with adequate support
We also conduct a preliminary medical records review, looking at prior birth records, OB/GYN visits, and any instances of major complications in prior pregnancies. This helps us identify any red flags early in the surrogacy screening process and ensures only qualified applicants move forward to work with our intended parent families.
Drug Screening for Surrogate Mothers: What You Need to Know
What’s Included in a Surrogate Drug Test?
All surrogate mothers at Los Angeles Surrogacy must undergo surrogate testing for drugs as part of our rigorous intake standards. This includes a toxicology screen that tests for substances including:
- Marijuana (THC) – regardless of California state legality
- Nicotine and all tobacco products
- Cocaine and related substances
- Opiates (including prescription painkillers)
- Amphetamines and methamphetamines
- Phencyclidine (PCP)
- Alcohol (in certain cases)
Use of any of these substances, regardless of state legality, is considered disqualifying. It’s crucial to prevent risks during surrogate pregnancy and meet the standards set by our partnered reproductive medicine specialists and IVF clinics throughout the Los Angeles area.
When and How Drug Tests Are Performed
Drug testing occurs in multiple phases during the surrogate screening process. Our agency conducts an initial screen early in the application process. If the surrogate is selected by an intended parent, she will undergo a second round of drug testing as part of the surrogate medical screening process at the fertility clinic.
This secondary screening often involves blood tests and urine analysis to evaluate drug history and ensure no lingering substances could interfere with the upcoming in vitro fertilization cycle. Some of our partner clinics also require hair follicle testing for a more detailed substance history.
Partner Drug Testing Requirements
Many Reproductive Endocrinologists and fertility clinics in Los Angeles also require a surrogate’s partner to undergo drug screening, ensuring the home environment is substance-free and supportive. If a surrogate candidate or her partner test positive, they will be deemed ineligible to proceed with our program.
Medical Screening Process: What to Expect
Full Physical Evaluation
The medical screening process begins with a complete physical examination, typically performed by a fertility doctor or reproductive endocrinologist affiliated with the intended family’s IVF clinic. This includes evaluating overall health, vitals, weight, and OB/GYN background.
The physical examination confirms that the surrogate has a healthy BMI, no underlying health conditions, and a stable pregnancy history free from serious pregnancy complications. Our medical team works closely with top fertility specialists throughout Los Angeles to ensure the highest standards of care.
Reproductive Health Assessment
Next comes an in-depth reproductive review. The surrogate’s uterus and ovaries are examined via ultrasound and often through a saline sonogram (also called a saline infusion sonogram or SIS), which helps specialists identify fibroids, scarring, or other uterine abnormalities.
This part of the surrogate medical screening also includes:
- Reviewing pap smear results and ensuring current screening
- Assessing menstrual regularity and cycle health
- Evaluating any prior complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia
- Checking cervical health through examination and testing
- Ovarian reserve testing to assess hormone levels
Laboratory Testing Requirements
Extensive lab work is a vital part of the medical testing process. This includes testing required by both the FDA and industry best practices:
Infectious Disease Screening (FDA Required):
- HIV 1 & 2 antibodies and antigen testing
- Hepatitis B surface antigen and core antibody
- Hepatitis C antibody screening
- Syphilis testing (RPR or VDRL)
- HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 screening
- Chlamydia and gonorrhea (NAT testing)
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibodies
Additional Blood Work:
- Complete blood count (CBC) and comprehensive metabolic panel
- Blood type and Rh factor determination
- Immunity testing for rubella and varicella
- Thyroid function tests (TSH, T4)
- Prolactin and other hormone levels
- AMH and estradiol levels for ovarian function
These labs ensure that the surrogate is not only healthy, but capable of successfully carrying a baby during a gestational surrogate pregnancy. In some cases, additional labs may be ordered to follow up on irregular results or specific medical concerns.
Psychological Evaluation: Ensuring Mental Health Readiness
Mental Health Readiness for Surrogacy
A formal psychological evaluation is conducted by a licensed mental health professional who specializes in reproductive medicine. This ensures the surrogate is not only mentally and emotionally stable, but also fully prepared for the journey ahead. Topics discussed may include:
- Emotional expectations and boundaries with intended parents
- Coping mechanisms and stress management techniques
- Past trauma or significant life events that might impact pregnancy
- Relationship support and communication skills
- Long-term impact on mental health and family well-being
- Understanding of the surrogacy process and legal implications
This part of the surrogacy screening process is crucial to avoid emotional distress or misunderstandings later in the journey. It also allows the surrogate to be fully informed of what’s expected and required throughout the process.
Partner and Family Psychological Screening
In many cases, the surrogate’s spouse or partner will also meet with the psychologist. Their readiness and support are important for maintaining a nurturing environment during the surrogate pregnancy. The evaluation assesses:
- Support system adequacy and family dynamics
- Communication patterns and conflict resolution skills
- Understanding of commitment and process timeline
- Emotional preparedness for the surrogacy journey
Los Angeles Surrogacy’s Screening Standards: What Makes Us Different
Our Comprehensive Approach
Unlike some surrogacy agencies that may rush through screening, Los Angeles Surrogacy goes above and beyond industry standards. Our dual-layer process includes:
- Agency-level drug screening for early detection and qualification
- Full review of all medical records related to past pregnancies and deliveries
- Enhanced psychological evaluation with reproductive specialists
- Honest communication and personal support from day one
- Ongoing monitoring throughout the screening process
Our goal is to ensure that every surrogate who proceeds with in vitro fertilization is medically and emotionally equipped to do so—leading to safer, more successful matches and journeys for families throughout Los Angeles and California.
Working with Leading LA Fertility Clinics
Los Angeles Surrogacy partners with the most respected fertility clinics and reproductive endocrinologists in the Los Angeles area. This means our surrogates receive screening from:
- Board-certified reproductive endocrinologists with decades of experience
- State-of-the-art medical facilities with the latest technology
- Specialized nursing staff trained in surrogacy protocols
- Mental health professionals who understand the unique aspects of surrogacy
Celebrating Medical Clearance
When a surrogate officially passes all phases of the surrogate medical screening process, we celebrate it as a major milestone. It means she’s met every requirement, passed every test, and is cleared to move forward with her intended family. This achievement represents months of preparation and demonstrates her commitment to helping create a family.
What Happens After Medical Clearance?
After passing the surrogate medical screening with Los Angeles Surrogacy, a surrogate is ready to move forward with legal contracts and begin the medical process. Surrogates have passed medical screening once they have:
- Completed all medical testing required by FDA and ASRM guidelines
- Cleared psychological evaluations for herself and her partner
- Proven a healthy and stable pregnancy history through records review
- Provided full medical records and background checks
- Demonstrated understanding of the surrogacy process and commitments
From there, legal contracts are signed with the intended parents, and the surrogate begins medications to prepare her body for in vitro fertilization. Embryo transfer follows, leading into a hopeful, well-supported pregnancy with full medical monitoring throughout.
Common Disqualifying Factors in Surrogate Screening
Medical Disqualifiers
Reproductive health issues that may disqualify applicants:
- History of significant pregnancy complications (severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome)
- Multiple pregnancy losses or recurrent miscarriage
- Uterine abnormalities, fibroids, or significant scarring
- Previous postpartum depression requiring medication
- More than 3 cesarean deliveries or surgical complications
General health conditions:
- Diabetes requiring medication or poor control
- High blood pressure requiring treatment
- Heart disease or significant cardiac risk factors
- Autoimmune disorders affecting pregnancy
- Mental health conditions requiring ongoing medication
Lifestyle and Social Factors
Automatic disqualifiers include:
- Any current drug use, including legal marijuana
- Smoking, vaping, or any nicotine product use
- Excessive alcohol consumption or history of substance abuse
- Criminal background involving children, drugs, or violent crimes
- Financial instability or dependency on government assistance
- Inadequate support system or unstable living situation
Age and Pregnancy History Requirements
Age-related restrictions:
- Under 21 years old (legal and developmental maturity concerns)
- Over 45 years old (increased pregnancy risks and complications)
- Some fertility clinics prefer surrogates under 40
Pregnancy history requirements:
- Must have carried at least one pregnancy to full term
- No more than 5 total pregnancies (ASRM recommendation)
- Previous pregnancies must have been uncomplicated and healthy
- All children must be living and healthy
Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogate Screening
How long does the screening process take with Los Angeles Surrogacy?
The complete surrogate screening process typically takes 8-12 weeks from initial application to final medical clearance. Our team works diligently to move qualified applicants through the process efficiently while maintaining our high standards. The timeline can vary based on:
- Availability of medical records from previous providers
- Scheduling appointments with our partner fertility clinics
- Need for additional testing or medical clearance
- Complexity of medical or psychological history
Do you cover the costs of screening?
Los Angeles Surrogacy covers many of the initial screening costs as part of our commitment to finding the best surrogates for our intended parent families. Specific cost coverage includes:
- Initial drug screening and background checks
- Psychological evaluation for surrogate and partner
- Medical records review and analysis
- Agency coordination and support throughout the process
The intended parents typically cover the costs of the final medical screening at the fertility clinic, as this is part of the IVF preparation process.
Can I become a surrogate if I’ve had complications in previous pregnancies?
Each case is evaluated individually, but minor complications may not be disqualifying. We review:
- Type and severity of complications experienced
- Medical management required during the pregnancy
- Outcome for both mother and baby
- Current health status and risk factors
- Recommendations from your previous healthcare providers
Major complications like severe preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome, or significant pregnancy losses are typically disqualifying due to increased risks for future pregnancies.
What if I test positive for marijuana in California?
Marijuana use is disqualifying for surrogacy, even though it’s legal in California. This policy exists because:
- Most intended parents’ insurance policies exclude coverage for marijuana-related complications
- Unknown effects on fetal development, especially with high-potency products
- Federal regulations and clinic policies supersede state laws
- Liability and legal concerns for the agency and medical providers
We recommend complete abstinence from all cannabis products for at least 3 months before applying.
Do you work with surrogates outside of Los Angeles?
While Los Angeles Surrogacy is based in LA, we work with qualified surrogates throughout California and other states where surrogacy is legally protected. However, all surrogates must be willing to:
- Travel to Los Angeles area fertility clinics for medical procedures
- Receive prenatal care from approved providers
- Deliver at hospitals with experience in surrogacy cases
- Comply with all California surrogacy laws and regulations
The Los Angeles Surrogacy Difference
Our Commitment to Excellence
At Los Angeles Surrogacy, our commitment to thorough surrogate screening isn’t just about compliance—it’s about care. Our surrogates go through one of the most detailed medical screening processes in the industry because we know how important safety, preparation, and trust are to your family-building journey.
We understand that choosing a surrogate is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as intended parents. That’s why we’ve built our screening process to be comprehensive, transparent, and focused on finding not just qualified surrogates, but exceptional women who are truly prepared for this incredible journey.
Supporting Surrogates Every Step of the Way
Our screening process is designed to support surrogates as much as it protects intended parents. We provide:
- Clear communication about requirements and expectations
- Personal support from experienced team members
- Education about the medical and legal aspects of surrogacy
- Ongoing guidance throughout the screening process
- Celebration of achievements and milestones
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you’re a hopeful parent searching for a qualified surrogate, or you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate yourself, Los Angeles Surrogacy is here to guide you every step of the way—ethically, compassionately, and with your future in mind.
Our experienced team understands the unique needs of families in Los Angeles and throughout California. We’re committed to making your surrogacy journey as smooth, safe, and successful as possible.
Ready to learn more? Contact Los Angeles Surrogacy today to discuss your options, learn about our surrogate requirements, or explore what it means to become a surrogate with our agency. We’re here to answer your questions and help you navigate this life-changing journey with confidence and peace of mind.