Understanding the Requirements for Surrogacy: What You Need to Know
Becoming a surrogate is incredible, and it makes you a hero for intended parents who may not have been able to build their dream families otherwise. However, surrogacy is a complex process that involves multiple steps and potential challenges. Therefore, there are certain requirements you have to meet to become a surrogate. Let’s break down what these requirements are and why they’re important.
Surrogacy Requirements
Depending on the surrogacy agency you work with, there may be varying requirements. However, some common ones include:
- Age: Surrogates should be between the ages of 21 and 40.
- Citizenship: To become a surrogate in the U.S., you must be a citizen.
- Lifestyle: Surrogates must be non-smokers and non-drug users in good health.
- Birth experience: Surrogates must have given birth at least once without any complications.
Additionally, surrogate hopefuls must attend multiple staff interviews, receive psychological clearance, provide all official medical records from previous pregnancies along with a current pap smear, and submit to a full background investigation.
The Importance of Surrogacy Requirements
Surrogacy requirements are in place to protect the physical, emotional, legal, and financial wellness of both surrogates and intended parents. Knowing the requirements upfront allows potential surrogates to understand the process and its potential obstacles before signing on. It also gives intended parents peace of mind that their future child is in the best of hands. If you want to be a surrogate but don’t currently meet the requirements, surrogacy may not be the best path for you at this time.
However, if you meet these requirements later on, don’t hesitate to reach out to an agency and start the surrogacy process. Agencies are always looking for quality surrogates to match with their intended parents. By giving someone the joy of a child, you can make a life-changing difference that goes beyond what words can express.
Is Surrogacy Right for You?
If you believe you meet the requirements for surrogacy and have a desire to help others fulfill their wish of becoming parents, West Coast Surrogacy would love to hear from you. We work closely with our surrogate mothers and intended parents, keeping the interactions personal, making ourselves available, and supporting all parties every step of the way. For more information, contact us today, or fill out our surrogate registration form.
