Boutique Surrogacy Agency Based in Northern California
We connect surrogate mothers with intended parents in Roseville, Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles area and beyond
What are the Requirements to Become a Surrogate Mother? What Does the Screening Process Look Like?
Surrogacy is a meaningful path for individuals and couples longing to grow their families. A successful surrogacy program relies on clear requirements and a comprehensive screening process to ensure the well-being of both the surrogate and the intended parents. These surrogate requirements are designed to prioritize the health, safety, and readiness of all parties involved, creating a strong foundation for a positive and rewarding experience throughout the surrogacy journey.
It is not as easy to qualify and become a surrogate as you think. The surrogacy journey is not for everyone because it involves immense physical, emotional, and mental commitment. Surrogates need to be fully prepared for the journey ahead and should meet all the necessary requirements for a healthy pregnancy and surrogacy experience.
To be considered for surrogacy and become a surrogate, you must:
Must be a US Citizen
To qualify as a surrogate, you must be a United States citizen. This requirement ensures compliance with legal and procedural guidelines throughout the surrogacy process.
Be Between the Ages of 21-38
The ideal age range for surrogates or a gestational carrier is 21 to 38 years of age. Women in this age group are considered to have the optimal physical health and reproductive ability for a healthy surrogacy experience.
Successful Prior Pregnancy
Having experienced at least one full-term pregnancy without complications is a critical qualification. This demonstrates the surrogate’s ability to carry a pregnancy successfully and safely.
Limited C-Sections
Surrogates should not have had more than two C-section deliveries. Multiple C-sections may carry increased risks, so limiting to two ensures safety for both the surrogate and the baby.
Reside in a Surrogate-Friendly State
You must live in a state that supports and permits surrogacy arrangements. Some states have legal restrictions against surrogacy, so this is a key requirement. (Refer to the map below for additional information.)
Maintain a Healthy BMI
A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or below is necessary to qualify as a surrogate. A healthy BMI contributes to a safer pregnancy for both the surrogate and the child. You can check your BMI using this calculator
Not Currently Using Anxiety or Depression Medications
Taking medications for anxiety or depression may pose risks to the pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Surrogates should not be taking these types of medications at the time of their application. If needed, we can lead you to a mental health professional!
Non-smoker and No Exposure to Second-Hand Smoke
Surrogates must be non-smokers and should not be exposed to second-hand smoke, including vaping and medical marijuana. A smoke-free environment is essential for the health of the baby.
Not On Federal or State Assistance
To qualify, surrogates should not be reliant on federal or state assistance programs. This ensures financial stability throughout a surrogate pregnancy.
No Criminal Record
Applicants must have a clean criminal record. This requirement is in place to safeguard all parties involved in the surrogacy process.
Financially Sound
Financial stability is an important qualification to ensure that the surrogate is independent and not entering into the process out of financial necessity.
COVID-Vaccination Not Required
While many medical procedures currently require COVID vaccination, it is not mandatory to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to qualify as a surrogate candidate.
These Surrogate Qualifications May Vary…
Additional surrogate requirements or qualifications to become a surrogate may or may not apply depending on the surrogacy professional or IVF clinic you decide to go to. For example, some IVF clinics may not accept surrogates over the age of 35 or those who have had multiple miscarriages. It is essential to carefully research and consider all requirements before beginning the surrogacy process. All of the surrogate requirements above are the standard with Made in the USA Surrogacy.
Made in the USA Surrogacy Qualifications and Care
These qualifications are set for Made in the USA Surrogacy to ensure we provide the best experience for both the gestational surrogate and intended parents. We proudly maintain high standards to support healthy, safe, and successful surrogacy journeys. Our goal is to prioritize the well-being of our surrogates every step of the way.
At Made in the USA Surrogacy, we take great care of our surrogates by providing emotional support, guiding them through every part of the process, and offering access to trusted medical professionals. We understand the dedication and commitment it takes to become a surrogate, which is why we ensure that surrogates are treated with respect and compassion. From initial screenings and consultations to post-pregnancy support, we stand by our surrogates to make their experience as smooth and rewarding as possible.
Become a surrogate with us today!
Surrogate-Friendly States
Each State Has Its Own Laws and Requirements
Each state in the U.S. has its own laws, regulations, and requirements regarding gestational surrogacy, making it essential to understand the specific rules for the state you live in. While some states are surrogacy-friendly and have clear legal frameworks allowing surrogacy arrangements, others may impose restrictions or have no explicit laws addressing surrogacy at all. For example, surrogacy-friendly states like California and Connecticut provide legal protections for all parties, including intended parents and surrogates, while states like Michigan and Louisiana have more restrictive laws that could prohibit or complicate the process.
Knowing your state’s surrogacy laws is critical to ensuring a smooth and legally sound surrogacy experience. This includes understanding contract enforceability, parental rights, compensation guidelines, and other legal considerations that may vary by jurisdiction. Consulting with legal experts or agencies familiar with your state’s policies is highly recommended. At Made in the USA Surrogacy, we help you navigate these complexities and ensure that all legal requirements are met, providing peace of mind throughout your surrogacy journey.
States that have No Specific Surrogacy Laws
Alabama, Alaska, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming,
Surrogacy Friendly States
Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Texas, Tennesse, Vermont, Washington
Restrictive States
Indiana, Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Utah, Virginia
Surrogate Requirements By State
Surrogacy laws vary by each state. Made in the USA Surrogacy is able to accept surrogates who reside in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, Washington, and West Virginia.
Frequently Asked Surrogate Mother Requirements Questions
What disqualifies you from becoming a surrogate?
There are several factors that can disqualify someone from becoming a surrogate. These include having certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or a history of complicated pregnancies, which may pose risks to both the surrogate and the baby. Additionally, surrogates must meet specific lifestyle and health requirements, and issues such as smoking, drug use, or untreated mental health conditions can also lead to disqualification. Legal and logistical factors, such as living in a state with restrictive surrogacy laws or failing to pass a comprehensive background check, may further prevent someone from qualifying as a surrogate.
Do surrogates do skin-to-skin?
Whether surrogates should do skin-to-skin contact after giving birth is a personal decision that is often guided by the preferences of both the surrogate and the intended parents. Skin-to-skin contact with the surrogate can provide immediate warmth and comfort for the baby while waiting to be handed to the intended parents since the baby is familiar with the surrogate. However, in most cases, the baby is placed with the intended parents for bonding as soon as possible. These decisions are typically discussed and agreed upon before the birth as part of the surrogacy plan.
Do surrogates get paid if they miscarry?
Yes, surrogates typically receive compensation even if they miscarry, though the specifics depend on the terms outlined in the surrogacy agreement. Most agreements include provisions that ensure the surrogate is compensated for the time, effort, and medical procedures involved up to that point. This payment often covers any incurred expenses and partial compensation for the pregnancy. It is important for both surrogates and intended parents to have a clear understanding of these terms before entering into the agreement.
Conclusion
Becoming a surrogate is a life-changing decision that carries immense responsibility, dedication, and compassion. By meeting the qualifications outlined above, surrogates can ensure a safe and successful surrogacy journey for themselves, the intended parents, and the baby. At Made in the USA Surrogacy, we are committed to supporting surrogates every step of the way with the highest standards of care and professionalism. Together, we help create families and provide a rewarding and meaningful experience for everyone involved. If you meet the requirements and are ready to embark on this incredible journey, we invite you to join us in making dreams of parenthood a reality.