How To Become A Surrogate: 5 Steps You Need To Know
Becoming a surrogate is a profound and life-changing decision that allows individuals to help others achieve their dream of parenthood. It is a journey that requires careful consideration, preparation, and a deep sense of compassion and commitment.
If you’ve ever wondered how to become a surrogate, you’re not alone. Many women feel drawn to this incredible act of generosity but are unsure where to start or what the process involves.
To become a surrogate, it’s important to understand the steps required, from meeting eligibility criteria to selecting the right surrogacy agency and preparing emotionally, physically, and legally for the journey ahead.
This process is not only about carrying a baby for someone else; it involves forming meaningful relationships, navigating medical procedures, and ensuring all legal protections are in place for both the surrogate and the intended parents.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the five essential steps you need to know to become a surrogate. Whether you’re motivated by a desire to help others, a personal connection to surrogacy, or a combination of reasons, these steps will provide you with a clear pathway to beginning this extraordinary journey.
Understand the Requirements
Before you begin your surrogacy journey, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the basic requirements for surrogates. Each surrogacy agency may have slightly different criteria, but generally, the following guidelines are standard across the industry.
Age
Most agencies require surrogates to be between the ages of 21 and 45. This age range is considered optimal for both physical and emotional readiness to carry a pregnancy.
Health Status
A good candidate should have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18 and 32 and should not have any underlying medical conditions that could complicate pregnancy.
Lifestyle
You must live in a non-smoking environment and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes avoiding alcohol, drugs, and any substances that could harm the pregnancy.
Medical History
Agencies typically require access to your medical records from previous pregnancies to confirm that there were no complications.
Choose a Surrogacy Agency
Selecting a reputable surrogacy agency is one of the most important decisions you will make in this process. The agency acts as your guide, offering support, resources, and a structured pathway to help you connect with intended parents.
When choosing an agency, consider its track record. Look for agencies with a long history of successful surrogacy arrangements. An established agency with years of experience is likely to provide better support and have more reliable systems in place.
Clear and open communication is vital with the agency. You should feel comfortable asking questions and receiving timely, transparent answers. The agency should also be upfront about its procedures, timelines, and any potential challenges.
A good agency offers comprehensive support, including legal assistance, medical coordination, and emotional counseling. They should be committed to your well-being throughout the entire process, from initial consultation to post-birth care.
It is imperative to understand the financial aspects of surrogacy, including compensation, expenses covered, and any fees the agency may charge. Reputable agencies will provide clear, detailed information on these matters.
Legal Considerations
Once you’ve been matched with intended parents, and have gained medical clearance, the next crucial step is to establish a legal contract. This contract outlines the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, including the surrogate, the intended parents, and the agency. Key aspects of the legal contract include:
- Compensation: The contract will specify the agreed-upon financial compensation for your role as a surrogate. This can include a base fee, as well as additional payments for any special circumstances, such as carrying multiples or undergoing a C-section.
- Medical and Psychological Care: The contract should clearly state the medical care you will receive before, during, and after the pregnancy. It should also cover any psychological counseling provided to ensure you are emotionally supported throughout the process.
- Rights and Responsibilities: The contract must detail your responsibilities during the pregnancy, including lifestyle requirements, medical appointments, and communication with the intended parents. It will also outline the intended parents’ responsibilities, such as covering medical expenses and maintaining communication.
- Post-Birth Contact: The contract may also address expectations regarding contact between you and the intended parents after the birth.
Medical Screening and Preparation
The medical screening process is a critical step in becoming a surrogate. This process ensures that you are physically and mentally prepared to carry a pregnancy. Here’s what to expect during this phase.
Initial Medical Evaluation
You will undergo a series of medical tests, including blood work, ultrasounds, and a full physical examination. These tests confirm that you are in good health and that your reproductive system is capable of supporting a pregnancy.
Psychological Assessment
Surrogacy can be an emotionally challenging experience. To ensure you are mentally prepared, you will meet with a psychologist or social worker who specializes in surrogacy. This assessment will help you understand the emotional demands of the journey and ensure that you have the resilience needed to see it through.
Partner Screening
If you have a partner, they may also undergo medical and psychological evaluations. This ensures that your partner is supportive and that there are no health issues that could affect the pregnancy.
Preparation for Embryo Transfer
Once you’ve passed the initial screenings, you will begin the medical preparation for the embryo transfer. This typically involves hormone medications and treatments to prepare your body for pregnancy.
Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy
After successfully completing the medical screening and preparation, the final step is the embryo transfer and subsequent pregnancy. This stage marks the beginning of the journey to bring a new life into the world.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
The embryo transfer is typically performed through IVF, where a fertilized embryo is implanted into your uterus. This procedure is done at a fertility clinic, and you will be closely monitored to ensure the best chance of a successful pregnancy.
Monitoring Pregnancy
Once the embryo transfer is complete, you will be monitored for signs of pregnancy. This includes regular blood tests and ultrasounds to confirm that the embryo has been implanted successfully and that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
Prenatal Care
Throughout the pregnancy, you will receive regular prenatal care to monitor your health and the development of the baby. Your care team will include your obstetrician, fertility specialist, and any other healthcare providers involved in your surrogacy journey.
Communication with Intended Parents
Maintaining open and regular communication with the intended parents is crucial during this time. They will likely want to be involved in the pregnancy, attending appointments and receiving updates on the baby’s progress.
Labor and Delivery
As you approach the due date, plans for labor and delivery will be finalized. The intended parents may be present for the birth, depending on the arrangements made in your contract.
At Carrying Dreams, we understand the unique journey of becoming a surrogate and are here to support you every step of the way. With over 10 years of experience in surrogacy and egg donation, we offer personalized guidance, comprehensive support, and some of the lowest rates in the US.
Our team is dedicated to helping you through every stage of the process, ensuring that you feel confident and cared for. If you’re ready to take the first step in becoming a surrogate, contact us today to learn more about how we can help you make a lasting impact on someone’s life.
