An overview of the medical, legal, psychological and practical qualifications to become a gestational surrogate.
Surrogate Screening: Requirements to Become a Surrogate
Surrogacy Mentor
When a woman first applies to become a gestational surrogate, she may be surprised to learn that there are strict qualification criteria in place before she can be approved. This screening process is in place to protect the health and well-being of the surrogate, the baby and the interests of the intended parents. Read on to learn more about the surrogacy timeline and qualifications.
Did you know that on average, only about 5% of women who apply to become surrogates actually meet all of the screening requirements? That means that 95% of applications are unfortunately denied. Some common reasons an application would be denied:
- Never given birth
- Not at least 21 years old and no older than 45
- Is not stable financially, emotionally or mentally
- Had complications or health issues during previous pregnancies
- Does not have the support of her partner/spouse for a surrogacy journey
- Applicant and/or partner cannot pass a criminal background check
These are just a few of the common reasons someone might have their surrogate application denied. There are many more instances where an application could be rejected - again, with the ultimate focus being on the health and safety of everyone involved in a surrogacy journey.
At Surrogacy Mentor, we aim to make the application process as quick, easy and painless as possible. To start, take our 2 minute online quiz, to see if you meet the very basic criteria. You will then receive an email from us within 24 hours letting you know you either meet the criteria or not. If you do, you will be invited to fill out the full application.
The full application is much more in depth and will ask for your background information and pregnancy history. We will ask for your full pregnancy and delivery history, along with any known pregnancy or delivery complications. We will also ask for information about your height and weight, living situation, profession, how your family is supported financially and your reasons for wanting to be a surrogate. There are some questions that ask about smoking, drug and alcohol use/abuse. We will ask if you or anyone in your household have any criminal history or charges that may come up during a background check.
This gives us a much better idea of who you are, and whether you meet the strict screening criteria necessary to become a candidate for Gestational Surrogacy. Even though this is very thorough, we make it as painless as possible, and everything can be done digitally. We can't wait to help you start your amazing surrogacy journey!