Surrogacy has become an increasingly popular and deeply meaningful way to build families. As more individuals and couples face infertility, medical complications, or choose single parenthood by choice, surrogacy provides a path to parenthood filled with hope. At the heart of this process are selfless, compassionate women—surrogates—who carry and deliver a baby for someone else.
But as interest in surrogacy continues to grow, one important question often arises: Can anyone be a surrogate? While many women are drawn to this journey, not all are eligible. The surrogacy process is carefully structured to prioritize safety, ethics, and success, which means there are specific requirements and disqualifications every potential surrogate must understand.
Understanding Surrogacy
Before diving into who can and cannot become a surrogate, it’s important to understand what surrogacy actually involves—particularly gestational surrogacy, the most common form practiced today.
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries a child who is not genetically related to her. The embryo is created using the intended parents’ (or donors’) egg and sperm through in vitro fertilization (IVF), and then transferred into the surrogate’s uterus. This modern form of surrogacy is widely used because it allows the intended parents to have a genetic connection to the baby, and it simplifies legal matters related to parentage.
Gestational surrogates play a vital and irreplaceable role. They are the bridge between hope and reality for intended parents who cannot carry a child on their own. Surrogates give the gift of life, and in doing so, profoundly impact not just one family—but generations.
Surrogate Requirements
If you’re wondering how to become a surrogate, the first step is understanding that not everyone is eligible. Surrogacy agencies and clinics follow a set of strict guidelines to ensure that each surrogate is physically, emotionally, and legally prepared for the journey ahead.
Here are the core surrogate requirements:
Age
Surrogates must typically be between 21 and 40 years old but Surrogacy by Faith sets the maximum age at 37. This age range ensures that the surrogate is mature enough to understand the responsibilities of surrogacy, while still being in the optimal range for a healthy pregnancy.
Health
Surrogates must be non-smokers, in excellent physical health, and maintain a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 29 or below. Good health reduces the risk of pregnancy complications and promotes a healthy environment for the baby. Read more on surrogacy health requirements here.
Reproductive History
A successful surrogate must have given birth to at least one child previously. All of her previous births must have occurred at 36 weeks gestation or later without significant complications. This history shows that her body can carry a pregnancy safely and that she understands what to expect.
Residency and Legal Requirements
Surrogates must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, and they must reside in a state where compensated surrogacy is legal. Surrogacy laws vary by state, so it’s essential to live in a jurisdiction that supports and protects the process.
Lifestyle
Women receiving state or federal financial assistance are generally not eligible to become surrogates. This is to ensure that the decision to become a surrogate is made out of genuine desire, not financial need. Surrogates must also be willing to undergo medical procedures related to fertility treatments, including hormone therapy and embryo transfer.
Psychological Health
Mental and emotional stability is equally important. Surrogates must have good emotional health, be off antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications for at least one year, and have a stable family environment with strong support systems in place.
For a complete breakdown of all requirements, visit the Surrogacy Requirements page on Surrogacy By Faith.
Disqualifications for Surrogacy
There are also conditions that may disqualify someone from becoming a surrogate, even if they meet other criteria. These disqualifications are in place to protect the health of the surrogate, the baby, and the intended parents.
Medical Disqualifications
Some medical conditions automatically disqualify a woman from becoming a surrogate, including:
- Diabetes (Type 1 and gestational)
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- HIV or hepatitis B or C
- History of hysterectomy or serious uterine abnormalities
These conditions can lead to complications during pregnancy or reduce the likelihood of a successful embryo transfer.
Lifestyle Disqualifications
Certain lifestyle factors are also disqualifying:
- Use of tobacco, recreational drugs, or excessive alcohol
- Unhealthy BMI above 29
- Currently receiving state or federal financial aid
These factors can negatively affect the pregnancy or raise concerns about the surrogate’s ability to complete the journey safely and responsibly.
Psychological Disqualifications
Emotional and mental wellness is critical. Disqualifying psychological conditions include:
- Current or recent use of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications
- An unstable home or family environment
Being a surrogate is both physically and emotionally demanding, so a solid emotional foundation is required to navigate the process successfully.
You can find a more comprehensive list of disqualifying conditions on the Surrogate Disqualifications page.
The Surrogacy Application Process
For women who meet the qualifications and are not disqualified, the journey to becoming a surrogate begins with a thorough application process. Here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Inquiry and Application Submission
You’ll complete an online form and answer preliminary questions to determine basic eligibility. - Medical and Psychological Evaluations
If your application is accepted, you’ll undergo physical exams, bloodwork, and psychological screening to confirm you’re ready—mind and body—for the journey ahead. - Background Checks and Home Visits (or Virtual Interviews)
Agencies often conduct background checks and a home visit or virtual interview to ensure a safe and stable living environment. - Matching with Intended Parents
Once approved, you’ll be matched with intended parents. You’ll have the chance to meet and ensure mutual compatibility before moving forward. - Legal Contract Drafting and Signing
Each party will work with a surrogacy attorney to draft and sign legal contracts that outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations for everyone involved. - Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy Monitoring
After legal contracts are in place, you’ll begin the medical preparation for embryo transfer. If the transfer is successful, you’ll be closely monitored throughout the pregnancy.
This multi-step process is designed to ensure that every surrogate is fully informed, supported, and prepared for a successful surrogacy journey.
Choose Surrogacy By Faith
Becoming a surrogate is a life-changing decision that requires deep commitment, exceptional health, and a genuine desire to help others. Not everyone qualifies—but for those who do, the rewards are immeasurable. But not everyone can be a surrogate. Strict requirements are in place to protect everyone involved. Surrogate qualifications include age, physical and emotional health, a positive reproductive history, and a stable lifestyle.
Disqualifications include certain medical conditions, lifestyle habits, and emotional or financial instability. Finally, the application process ensures each surrogate is fully prepared for the responsibility and joy of helping create a family.
At Surrogacy By Faith, we’re here to walk with you through every step of this journey. Our program is built on compassion, transparency, and respect—for surrogates, intended parents, and the sacred gift of life. If you’re interested in learning more or starting your journey, fill out the surrogate form or intended parent form today! We’ll be with your every step of the way to help build the family of your dreams.