Becoming a surrogate mother is one of the most selfless choices a woman can make. Helping another couple, or individual, build a family is a rewarding and fulfilling act, which can bring a sense of pure joy to the surrogate mother. If you want to know how to become a surrogate, this guide will walk you through the process, and help you prepare to give one of the most amazing gifts you can give.
Surrogacy is a life altering decision and a life changing journey, not only for the Intended Parents but for the Surrogate Mother as well. Therefore deciding what you’re most comfortable with and what feels right to you is the first place to start.
You must first decide if you want to embark on this journey alone, or if you prefer to work with an agency. Surrogacy agencies are here to make your journey into surrogacy as stress free as possible, so you can focus on the baby. You should also take the time to decide which type of surrogacy you wish to pursue. In surrogacy, there are two common processes, traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. As you embark on your journey in becoming a surrogate, the first thing you will need to do is decide what you are most comfortable with, and which type of surrogacy is right for you.
Traditional surrogacy is when the surrogate mother is biologically related to the baby, it is her own egg that has been fertilized using intrauterine insemination. Whereas gestational surrogacy is when the surrogate mother has no biological connection to the baby and a fertilized embryo is implanted in the mother using in vitro fertilization. It is important to learn more about the different types of surrogacy, and find the route you are most comfortable with.
There are many surrogacy agencies which will guide you on how to become a surrogate. When choosing an agency to work with, look for an agency that offers the services and support that you need. Once you have chosen a surrogacy agency, review their requirements for becoming a surrogate.
Surrogacy agencies set out a list of guidelines for surrogate mothers, to ensure a healthy, safe pregnancy and a healthy surrogate baby. The first step in your surrogacy journey will be meeting agency’s requirements for ensuring you are physically, mentally, and emotionally ready to embark on this journey.
Each surrogacy agency will set out their own requirements for surrogate mothers, but some common requirements include:
You can find a more comprehensive list of the requirements to become a surrogate here.
Once you have decided which surrogacy agency will be able to meet your needs the best, it’s time to set up an appointment, and start working towards becoming a surrogate. After passing the initial screening, the agency will likely require more information from you to begin the process of becoming a surrogate.You can expect to give information such as:
Surrogacy agencies will want to gain a comprehensive account of your medical history. This helps ensure you are eligible for surrogacy, and that you are the right person to carry out a healthy and safe pregnancy. You may even be asked about your family’s medical history.
A physical evaluation may be a vital step in how to become a surrogate. Undergoing a thorough physical examination will ensure that you are physically ready for surrogacy. As part of your medical examination you may also undergo a mental examination to make sure you fully understand all of the aspects of surrogacy.
Many surrogacy agencies will request background checks during the application process, which may include a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector screening.
After completing a comprehensive profile with the surrogacy agency, you will be able to start browsing the profiles of intended parents. At this point, you will tell the agency your preference on whether the intended parents are a couple, single, gay, straight, or international, so you can match with the Intended Parents you feel most comfortable with!
Once you have matched with Intended Parents on paper, it will be time to meet them. This is a vital step in becoming a surrogate, as you will be communicating and working closely with them over the next year or so. A good match between Surrogate Mother and Intended parents is the gateway into the next steps of surrogacy!
Some surrogacy agencies will help you find an attorney who can represent you in your state, during the surrogacy process. At this time, a contract will be given from the surrogacy agency, for both the Surrogate Mother and the Intended Parents to review and sign.
Now it is time to begin your surrogacy journey! With a dedicated agency behind you as well as excited and caring Intended Parents, you can begin the medical procedures that come along with surrogacy, and start working towards giving the gift of family!
Becoming a surrogate is an amazing way to help couples or individuals reach their goals of parenthood. As a woman, you have an amazing power to give this gift! If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, there are dozens of families out there who would appreciate your help beyond belief!
Now that you know how to become a surrogate, start looking at surrogacy agencies that will help you reach your goals. Simple Surrogacy is dedicated to working with women one-on-one to provide a stress-free, exciting pregnancy, as a Surrogate Mother. Speak with our Executive Program Director, Stephanie Scott, to start your surrogacy journey. Call us toll-free at 1-866-41-SURRO or local at 214-673-9321.
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