Surrogacy Screening

Screening Requirements for Surrogates

Gestational Surrogacy is a true act of service and generosity. It is an opportunity for a mother to positively impact a couple’s destiny. It takes a special woman to become a Gestational Surrogate. The first step for a mother is to meet the initial requirements recommended by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine.

• Age of the Surrogate mother ( 21- 40 )
• Have a healthy BMI of 30 or less
• No smoking or illicit drug use
• No government assistance
• Have at least one previous successful pregnancy
• Be currently raising your child(ren) in your home
• Have no major complications from previous pregnancies
• Have no felony convictions
• Be free of treatable STDs for at least 12 months
• Have no history of postpartum depression
• Discontinue use of antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications at least 12 months prior to surrogacy
• Wait at least 12 months since last tattoo or piercing
• Be able to travel as needed for appointments
• Have a stable lifestyle and support system

If you meet the general recruitments of a surrogate mother you can schedule an interview with our surrogacy specialist and begin the online application process.

The Application

The initial application process begins online. The application will ask some initial questions about you, your medical background and why you would like to become a surrogate mother. Once the initial application is approved a lengthy detailed application will ask questions about your social, medical, family history, work history, and personality. This is to provide intended parents with some insight about you and your family.

The Interview

Once an application is filled out you will be given an appointment for an interview at Simple Steps Fertility. At this appointment a surrogacy professional will discuss all of the steps and details of becoming a surrogate mother. It is an opportunity for the surrogate mother and the agency to get to know each other and ask questions. Simple Steps Fertility is an agency that is dedicated to provide support throughout your journey. You will have a friend with you at every appointment and every step of the way. Simple Steps Fertility also provides a wellness program for all surrogates to have an opportunity to discuss difficulties and challenges throughout their journey with professionals in the industry and amongst other surrogate mothers.

Medical Screen

You will be required to consult with a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist to screen for infectious disease general and reproductive health. The physician will also examine past pregnancy medical records and discuss any questions you may have about the medical process of becoming a surrogate.

Psychological Screen

You will also need to see a psychologist to ensure you understand and are comfortable with the emotional impact and challenges that come along with signing up to be a surrogate mother. It is important to be in good mental health throughout this process.

In-home assessment

A social worker will also be visiting your home to speak to you and your family members about any further questions you may have about the surrogacy process. It is important for a surrogate to be living in a supportive and safe environment. This is an opportunity for family members to ask questions and discuss your motivations and goals as a surrogate mother.

Background Check

You and your family members that are living with you will need to consent to a criminal background check.

Legal Consultation

An attorney will be assigned to help discuss your specific legal rights and obligations as a surrogate. The attorney will outline your responsibilities as a surrogate, relinquishment of the child , compensation and possible risks.

While the screening process may seem complicated and tedious, it is important for everyone involved. You can take comfort in knowing that intended parents will also be screened to ensure they too are ready for surrogacy.