Surrogate motherhood can mean many things to different people. For you, it might mean a chance to help out a friend. Maybe it means giving a struggling couple the gift of parenthood, or simply the satisfaction and fulfillment of bringing a beautiful baby into the world.
You might have some other reason entirely for choosing surrogate motherhood — but whatever your reason, you need to know a few things about the application process before you get started.
Find out the Surrogate Mother Requirements
So how do you become a surrogate mother? The first order of business is finding out whether you have the qualifications to apply. Requirements can vary slightly depending on where you live, but some of the most universal ones include:
- Previously successful pregnancies: Most surrogate organizations require you to have given birth at least once with minimal complications.
- Restricted childbearing years: You must be between the ages of 21 and 39, which are typically the safest and most likely successful years of fertility.
- Financial stability: You should be in a stable financial situation before you apply to be a surrogate mother.
- Clean mental health history: You must have a history free of mental illness.
- Clean criminal record: If you have a criminal background, it may stand in the way of you and surrogate motherhood.
- A BMI between 19 and 33: There’s no specific weight required to become a surrogate, but a person who is extremely overweight or underweight can take longer to conceive.
Follow the Application Process
Once you think you can fit the requirements for surrogacy, it’s time to start the application steps. Usually, this process includes filling out an application to be accepted into the program. From there, you’ll need to agree to an interview, a background check and a psychological clearance. There may be other requirements as well, depending on where you decide to apply.
It’s a detailed process, but it’s all in place to make sure you can deliver your surrogate baby as safely as possible for the sake of both you and the child.
Become a Surrogate
After you’ve cleared all the qualifications and agree to the risks and benefits, the next step will depend on the type of surrogacy you take part in. For example, in traditional surrogacy, you might donate your own genetics to the cause. Meanwhile, gestational surrogacy includes the use of an embryo made from the egg and sperm of either the parents or donors.
You’ll then carry the baby to term for the intended parents as you would any other baby. Naturally, it’s important to practice healthy physical habits while pregnant to avoid complications for either you or the child.
Ready to Apply for Surrogate Motherhood?
Becoming a surrogate mother is a hefty responsibility, but it can be a noble and fulfilling way for you to make a difference for a family in need. Every couple deserves to build the family they’ve dreamed about, and you can help make that dream a reality. Apply online at Western Fertility Institute now!
This content was medically reviewed by the Western Fertility Institute medical team on July 8, 2019.