What are the Requirements to be a Surrogate?
Becoming a surrogate is a huge decision and impacts not only you but the intended parents (IPs) as well as the baby. Because this is such a vital process, all surrogacy agencies have specific requirements set in stone for a surrogate to be eligible to start the process. At Jbaby, we want to support our surrogates so they not only fulfill each requirement but are mentally and physically prepared to create miracles for a family in need. We invite you to dive into this blog to educate yourself on the process of surrogacy and the essential requirements it takes to become a gestational surrogate.
Prior Birth(s)
At Jbaby, we want to know about your past birth(s), how many you’ve had, and whether or not you’re residing with them under the same roof. Most agencies require that you have had a successful pregnancy and delivery before becoming a surrogate. This is to make sure that everything went well and that your reproductive system is ready to take on another baby. We need to know if you have had any serious medical complications during previous pregnancies or deliveries for you to be cleared to become a surrogate.
Your Living Situation
We want to make sure that you have a stable living situation and are not planning on moving out during your potential surrogacy journey. A non-stable living situation can cause emotional issues, and moving is stressful, putting stress on you and the baby.
We also require that you be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident (green card holder). Our agency and doctors are in the United States, so being present in the country is a must when applying to be a surrogate with Jbaby.
Medical Records
Just like learning about your prior birth(s), we need to know about your medical history. We’ll ask that you provide us with complete medical records to ensure that you’re healthy enough–physically and mentally–to become a surrogate. These medical records should show a generally healthy history with no obesity or underweight issues and that you are free from smoking, drinking alcohol, or suffering from substance abuse.
Desired Age Range
If you want to become a gestational surrogate, we need to make sure that you’re in the proper age range before we can start the initial process. We require our surrogates to be between the ages of 21 and 40 before we entertain the initial conversation.
Vehicle and Driver’s License
You must possess a reliable vehicle for medical appointments and a valid driver’s license. Once you become pregnant, you must expect several doctor appointments during your journey, all of which are important and necessary.
Partner Support and Consent
When we get to know you, we’ll ask if you have a partner who will be present throughout your surrogacy journey. If so, your partner must be on board and ready to support you and cater to your needs. In addition, we may request that they participate in the required Psychological Assessment that is scheduled early on in the medical clearance process.
Loving Support System
If you have a partner who is a large part of your support system, that’s wonderful. If not, we want you to have a strong support network of family, friends, colleagues, or community members who will affirm your decision and provide emotional and other assistance on your surrogacy journey. Having a support system in your court during this process is crucial to your well-being and will help you along the way.
Jbaby is Here for You
Jbaby provides all the necessary services to ensure a smooth surrogacy experience, and we want to get to know you personally and help you understand that we are not just your average egg donor agency. We genuinely care about you and this process, as we know it is a huge decision that impacts you, the intended parents, and the baby. If you’re interested in becoming a gestational surrogate, please reach out today.
