Become a Surrogate
Become a Parent
Search
Close this search box.
(310) 908-3323
Become a Surrogate
Become a Parent

Requirements to be a Surrogate

If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, it’s essential to know the requirements you need to meet. From physical and health requirements to psychological evaluations, there’s a lot to consider, but don’t worry – we’re here to guide you through it all. Learn more about surrogacy requirements and how you can make a difference in someone’s life. 

Become A Surrogate

Our Surrogacy Qualification Process

Keep in mind gestational surrogacy is a demanding process, but it’s ultimately so rewarding. Helping intended parents create their perfect family is God’s work, and here at Surrogacy by Faith, we take it as our mission to make that happen. 

Part of that mission includes our strict qualifying guidelines. We believe that our process identifies the best surrogates for this righteous task.

If you’re located in Southern California, you’ll have to undergo a home visit. We want to make sure that you have the support and love you’ll need to bring this wonderful gift into the world. If you’re located elsewhere, we require a few Skype sessions to get to know you. Additionally, all potential surrogates must pass a background check and a drug test.

Our strict qualification process means that we find the best matches for surrogates and intended parents. These relationships become strong and are forged together in a common belief: every child is a gift. As a surrogate mother, you’ll have the chance to give that gift to the right family.

Fill out our Surrogate Initial Inquiry form and we can get the process started! We approve applicants on a case-by-case basis, so if you meet the basic requirements we strongly encourage you to apply.

What are Physical Requirements?

If you want to become a gestational surrogate with Surrogacy by Faith, then you should meet the requirements below: 
  • Be between 21 and 37 years old.
  • Be a non-smoker in excellent health.
  • Be within a healthy height and weight ratio with a BMI of 29 or below.
  • Have a healthy reproductive history, having given birth to at least one child that you are raising.
  • Have had all births occurring at 36 weeks gestation or later (unless a multiple pregnancy) without complications.
  • Not be receiving state or federal financial aid.
  • Be willing to undergo subcutaneous and intramuscular injections.
  • Live in a state where compensated surrogacy is legal. 
  • Be either a legal permanent resident or a US citizen. 

 

Additionally, all potential surrogates should undergo a complete physical examination by a qualified doctor who can then give approval for the pregnancy. This includes a blood test, urine drug screen, and, in some cases, a mammogram. Finally, the surrogate and their partner should both be tested for HIV or STIs.

What are Psychological Requirements?

Pregnancy isn’t just demanding on the body – it can also be emotionally or psychologically challenging. According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), potential surrogates should:
  • Be in good psychological and emotional health. 
  • Be off any antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications for at least one year. 
  • Have a stable family environment and adequate support network. 
  • Finally, the ASRM suggests that the potential surrogate undergo a psychosocial evaluation. This includes a clinical interview that will consider the impact of surrogacy on you and the intended parents. Psychological testing may also be necessary, but the handling of all data will follow American Psychological Association Ethical Standards.

Frequently Asked Question

Yes. We believe single mothers are just as capable of being surrogates as a woman who are married. If you are single, it is very important that you have some type of support system in place prior to committing to any surrogate program.

Yes. If you do not have health insurance, a surrogate-specific medical plan may be purchased for you by the intended parents for the duration of your pregnancy.

Once you have decided to join our agency, the whole process takes less than 30 days if your schedule allows for all the appointments.

Provided that your policy specifically and clearly states there is coverage for a surrogate pregnancy, your plan may be used with your consent. Your co-pays and deductible will be paid by the intended parents. Your portion of the premium will be reimbursed each month by the intended parents escrow account.

Being overweight does not necessarily disqualify you from being a surrogate. Generally, it’s best to have a BMI of 29 or under. The IVF physician that performs your medical evaluation will make this determination. If this is a concern for you, please call us and we can discuss this further.