Who Can Become a Surrogate? Requirements, Qualifications & Common Myths

Surrogacy is a beautiful and life-changing journey, not only for intended parents but also for the women who carry the pregnancy.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can I become a surrogate?”—this article is for you. We’ll walk you through the requirements, qualifications, and myths surrounding surrogacy eligibility. Becoming a surrogate is both a noble commitment and a complex decision. It involves medical, legal, and emotional considerations- but the reward of helping a family grow is immeasurable.

Who Can Become a Surrogate?

While requirements vary slightly by agency and country, most surrogacy programs follow well-defined medical, emotional, and legal standards to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

✅ General Requirements:

• Age: 21–40 years old (some clinics may allow up to 45)
• BMI: 19–32 (depending on agency requirements)
• Non-smoker and no drug use
• Have given birth to at least one healthy child
• Physically and emotionally healthy
• No significant pregnancy or delivery complications
• Stable lifestyle and support system

These requirements aim to ensure the surrogate can physically and emotionally handle the pregnancy and is capable of providing a stable environment throughout the journey.

✅ Psychological Evaluation:

Every surrogate must pass a psychological screening to ensure emotional readiness and understanding of the journey. This step helps verify that the surrogate can handle the attachment, communication, and separation involved in the process.

✅ Legal Clearance:

Surrogates must live in a region where surrogacy is legal and must be willing to sign legal contracts. These contracts protect the surrogate’s rights and clearly define parental responsibilities, compensation, and post-birth arrangements.

Financial Stability & Background Checks

Most agencies perform a background check to ensure the surrogate does not have a criminal history and has a stable living environment. Financial stability is essential—not because surrogates need to be wealthy, but because the process should not create financial dependence or pressure.

What Disqualifies a Surrogate Candidate?

• History of major medical or mental health issues
• Smoking, drug use, or alcohol dependency
• Complications during past pregnancies
• Lack of support system (emotional or logistical)
• Unwillingness to adhere to medical instructions or abstain from harmful substances during pregnancy

Understanding these disqualifiers helps clarify the seriousness of the surrogacy journey and the standards maintained to ensure safety for all parties involved.

Common Myths About Becoming a Surrogate

Myth 1: You need to be married
Not true. Single women with a good support system can qualify. Agencies assess your emotional support system, not your marital status.

Myth 2: You lose parental rights
Surrogates are not the legal parents—the intended parents are, via legal agreements established early in the journey.

Myth 3: You can never have children again
Surrogacy does not prevent future pregnancies unless health issues arise during the process.

Myth 4: Surrogates do it only for money
While compensation is a factor, most surrogates are motivated by the desire to help others build families.

Myth 5: Anyone can be a surrogate
Agencies have rigorous screening processes. Surrogacy is not for everyone—it requires commitment, stability, and empathy.

Myth 6: Surrogates must be young and athletic
Many healthy women in their late 30s or early 40s successfully complete surrogacy journeys. Physical fitness is helpful, but emotional readiness is equally important.

Myth 7: You must be wealthy or financially independent
Agencies are more concerned with financial stability than wealth. Being able to manage personal expenses without relying on surrogacy income is key.

Myth 8: Surrogates have no say during pregnancy
Surrogates have rights and are actively involved in medical decisions, birth planning, and communication. Their comfort and safety are prioritized.

Myth 9: Surrogacy affects your mental health negatively
With proper psychological preparation and post-birth support, most surrogates report feeling emotionally fulfilled and empowered.

Myth 10: Surrogates are left alone after birth
Most reputable agencies offer post-birth support, counseling, and maintain communication with the surrogate.

Pro Tips for Aspiring Surrogates:

• Get a full medical checkup before applying to confirm physical readiness.
• Talk to other surrogates to hear real experiences and advice.
• Choose an agency with legal and emotional support that prioritizes surrogate well-being.
• Understand the time commitment—it can take over a year from application to delivery.
• Involve your family or partner early to ensure emotional support throughout the journey.
• Keep a journal of your surrogacy experience—it’s both therapeutic and rewarding.
• Ask for a surrogate mentor if the agency offers one, to guide you through each phase.
• Know your rights—from compensation to medical autonomy.
• Build a strong support circle—from friends, therapists, or surrogacy communities.
• Stay organized—keep track of appointments, medications, and communication with the agency.
• Understand your motivations clearly—ensure you’re emotionally prepared for the journey.
• Review insurance coverage thoroughly—know what’s covered and what’s not.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Do I need to be married to be a surrogate?
No, being married is not a requirement. As long as you have a strong emotional support system, you can qualify.

Q2: Will I have to pay for any medical expenses as a surrogate?
No, the intended parents cover all medical and related expenses, including prenatal care, delivery, and travel if needed.

Q3: Can I choose the intended parents I want to work with?
Yes, most agencies match surrogates and intended parents based on mutual preferences, values, and compatibility.

Q4: Will I be compensated for being a surrogate?
Yes, surrogates receive compensation, which varies by region and surrogacy agency. It includes base pay and additional reimbursements.

Q5: Can I continue working during the surrogacy journey?
In most cases, yes. As long as your job is not physically demanding and your doctor approves, you can work during pregnancy.

Q6: What kind of support is available for surrogates?
Agencies offer psychological counseling, support groups, medical guidance, legal assistance, and ongoing communication.

Interested in becoming a surrogate? Apply now or Speak to our intake team for a personal consultation. Join a community that empowers women to make a lasting impact.