Becoming a Surrogate: The Physical Requirements

Becoming a surrogate is a decision which should be considered with the utmost care. The benefits are substantial, ranging from the joy that comes with the knowledge you have helped another couple and/or individual fulfill their familial dreams to the generous compensation packages Simple Surrogacy provides. However, it is important to remain cognizant of the responsibility which comes with harboring human life. In order to ensure the safety of both the surrogate and the child, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine has laid out a number of physical requirements all surrogates must meet. While certain exceptions may be made depending on the circumstances, the guidelines provide a clear blueprint for all aspiring surrogates.

Though this may not qualify as a health requirement in the narrowest sense, all surrogates must have given birth to a child of their own without any dire complications surrounding the pregnancy and/or delivery process. The reasoning behind this requirement largely stems from the need to ensure that surrogates are familiar with the medical risks of pregnancy and childbirth, as well as the emotional issues that may arise when bonding with a newborn baby.

All surrogates must be between the ages of 21-40 (though Traditional Surrogates must be under 35), with a Body Mass Index below 33—in attempt to reduce the risk of potential complications. Additionally, as is the case with all pregnancies, surrogates must abstain from habits that are harmful to both their physical well-being and that of the child. Such habits include the consumption of alcohol and smoking (even secondhand) throughout the medical process and pregnancy period, as well as the use of illegal drugs. Surrogates must also be free of any sexually transmitted diseases that would subject either the surrogate or the child they are carrying to any physical harm.

In the interest of uncovering any issues that may arise when it is time to give the newborn child to the intended parents, aspiring surrogates must also undergo a psychological evaluation by a mental health professional to ensure that they do not have any psychiatric illnesses and/or are not currently taking any related medications. Hence, surrogates can rest assured knowing that their mental well being is afforded the same care as their physical well being.

Overall, the physical requirements for surrogates do not drastically differ from those any woman wishing to successfully complete a pregnancy should meet. While the physical guidelines indicated above provide a general outline pertaining to the main requirements aspiring surrogates must meet, they are certainly not exhaustive. Furthermore, there are a number of non-physical requirements that surrogates must consider, including their United States residency status and the successful completion of a background check. Therefore, aspiring surrogates should familiarize themselves with all legal qualifications before proceeding.

If you are interested in becoming a surrogate, Simple Surrogacy can help you determine whether or not it’s the right decision for you. Furthermore, should you wish to continue your journey with us, you will find that our warm and welcoming coordinators (each of which were previous surrogates) are capable of providing you with the necessary support and empathy you need.

Contact us today, and let us guide you through your unique and fulfilling journey!