How to Become a Surrogate: Your Guide to Understanding the First Steps

Thinking about becoming a surrogate? This is one of the most generous and life-changing decisions you can make. When you choose surrogacy, you are choosing to give hope, joy, and the miracle of family to those who cannot do it on their own. Before you embark on this journey, it’s important to understand the process and prepare for the role you’ll play. Let’s walk through the first steps together.

Understand the Basics of Surrogacy

There are two main types of surrogacy: traditional and gestational. Traditional surrogacy involves using the surrogate’s own egg (scientific term: oocyte) meaning she is biologically related to the newborn, while gestational surrogacy, which is the most common method, uses an embryo created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) with the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors.

With gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic relation to the child she carries. This method is widely used and is what most people mean when they talk about surrogacy today.

It is important to note that several US states prohibit traditional surrogacy and many agencies do not support this type of surrogacy.

Review Eligibility Requirements

Agencies and clinics set eligibility requirements to protect everyone involved including you as the surrogate, the baby, and the intended parents.

For example, in California, one of the leading states for surrogacy, requirements typically include:

• Age: Being between the age of 21 and 42 (with special exceptions if you are between 43 and 45 and meet all other requirements.

• BMI: Being physically and mentally healthy and within the healthy range of 19-30 for Body Mass Index (BMI). 

• Living Environment: Must live in a stable, substance-free environment (no smoking, alcohol dependency, or drugs).

• Substance History: Having no history of smoking or drug use during previous pregnancies or currently.  

• Criminal Background: Having no criminal background in the past 7 years.

• Pregnancy History: Having had at least one healthy pregnancy and delivery.

• Citizenship/Resident Status: Being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

  • The specifications of this requirement are decided by the intended parents, often for legal reasons including immigration laws. 

• Financial Assistance:If you receive government financial aid (such as Section 8 housing, welfare, or cash assistance), please keep in mind that surrogate compensation is treated as income. When you report your updated income, it may have an effect on your assistance."

  
  

These requirements are in place to help ensure a safer and more successful surrogacy journey.

Complete the Application & Screening Process

Once you’ve confirmed you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to choose an agency and begin the application process. Here’s what you can expect:

• Filling out an initial surrogate application with a surrogacy agency.

• The Matching Process: Surrogates and intended parents are matched based on shared values, goals, and lifestyle, ensuring compatibility for a smooth and fulfilling journey.

• Comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations: 

• Your medical records are sent for review to the IVF clinic ​​​

• Psychological evaluation

• Medical screening appointment at the IVF clinic (labs & ultrasound) (travel to the clinic may be necessary)​

• A review of your pregnancy and health history

• Lifestyle and background checks, including drug screening

• A home assessment to ensure a supportive environment

  
  

Once you’ve been pre-screened, matched and medical clearance is granted by the clinic, you can proceed with the next steps.

For more detailed steps explaining the process, see Babymoon’s dedicated site. 

These screenings are thorough because agencies want to ensure you’re fully prepared including physically, mentally, and emotionally, for the journey ahead!

Build Your Support Network

Surrogacy is a team effort, and your support system is a big part of that team. Talk openly with your family and close friends so they understand your decision and can offer encouragement throughout your journey. Having a strong support network will help you feel confident and cared for during the process.

What Comes Next

Once you’ve been matched and medically approved, you’ll move onto the next stage of the surrogacy journey which includes: 

• Signing a legally binding contract called a Gestational Surrogacy Agreement (GSA) that outlines compensation, rights, obligations, and healthcare coverage.

• Beginning medical preparation for embryo transfer and regular health checkups.

  
  

Remember, you’re not in this alone. Agencies like Babymoon provide guidance at every step ranging from medical coordination and legal protection to emotional support. Their goal is to make the experience smooth, positive, and fulfilling for both you and the intended parents.

Becoming a surrogate is a meaningful way to help others build a family. While the process involves careful preparation and commitment, the reward of helping others experience parenthood is truly priceless. If you’re ready to take the first step, start by exploring agencies and submitting an intake form, to see if you qualify and making sure you have the support you need.

Important: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult qualified professionals for guidance tailored to your individual situation.