What Disqualifies You From Being a Surrogate?

Surrogacy is a profound journey that brings hope and joy to intended parents while offering a unique and rewarding experience for the surrogate. However, becoming a surrogate requires meeting specific criteria set by fertility clinics to ensure the best possible outcome for everyone involved. Here are the key factors that might disqualify a woman from becoming a surrogate.

1. Age Requirements

One of the primary disqualifiers is not meeting the required age range. Fertility clinics often have strict age limits, typically between 21 and 40 years, to ensure the health of the surrogate and the successful development of the pregnancy. Younger and older candidates may face increased risks that could complicate the surrogacy process.

2. Previous Birth Experience

A standard requirement is having a history of at least one successful pregnancy and childbirth. This criterion ensures that the surrogate has proven fertility and understands the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy. Women who have not previously carried a pregnancy to term are generally not considered due to the uncertainties involved.

3. Body Mass Index (BMI)

Maintaining a BMI within a specific range is crucial for eligibility. An appropriate BMI helps ensure the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby. Surrogates with a BMI outside the accepted range may face higher risks of complications, which can impact the success of the pregnancy.

4. Residency in a Surrogacy-Friendly State

Laws regarding surrogacy vary significantly from state to state. It is essential for surrogates to reside in a state where surrogacy is legally supported. This legal backing ensures that the surrogacy process can proceed smoothly and without legal complications. States with restrictive or unclear surrogacy laws can present significant legal risks for both surrogates and intended parents.

5. Health and Lifestyle Factors

The overall health of the surrogate is paramount. Lifestyle choices that could negatively impact pregnancy, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or drug use, are disqualifiers. Additionally, underlying medical conditions that could pose risks during pregnancy can also lead to disqualification. Fertility clinics require surrogates to be in good physical and mental health to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

6. Financial Stability

Financial stability is often a requirement for surrogates. This criterion ensures that the decision to become a surrogate is not primarily driven by financial incentives. Financially stable surrogates are more likely to be motivated by altruistic reasons and can focus on the well-being of themselves and the baby without financial stress.

7. Family and Spousal Support

Having the support of one's family, particularly a spouse or partner, is crucial. Surrogacy impacts the surrogate's entire household, and a supportive home environment is vital for the emotional well-being of the surrogate. Family support helps manage the demands and emotional challenges that can arise during the surrogacy journey.

8. Emotional and Mental Readiness

Emotional and mental readiness to commit to surrogacy is a significant part of the process. Surrogacy is more than a physical journey; it requires a strong commitment and understanding of the emotional dynamics involved. Psychological evaluations are often conducted to ensure that potential surrogates are fully prepared for the emotional aspects of surrogacy.

Becoming a surrogate is a remarkable and life-changing decision that requires meeting stringent criteria to ensure a positive and healthy experience for all involved. Understanding these disqualifiers helps potential surrogates prepare for the journey and ensures that they are fully ready to undertake this significant responsibility. At Modooboo, we are committed to supporting our surrogates every step of the way, ensuring they are well-prepared and well-supported throughout the surrogacy process.