Surrogate Medical Requirements FAQs

Becoming a surrogate is a remarkable journey that changes lives — not just for intended parents, but for the surrogate herself. That said, this journey starts with some very specific medical requirements. These aren’t just bureaucratic hoops to jump through — they’re essential to protect your health and ensure the best possible outcome for everyone involved.

This article answers the most common questions about surrogate medical requirements, especially for women considering surrogacy in the United States. Let’s break it down.

To qualify as a surrogate in the U.S., you need to meet a clear set of medical criteria. These aren’t optional — they are designed to ensure safety and success in the surrogacy process.

The standard medical requirements typically include:

1. Age: Usually between 21 and 42 years old.
2. BMI (Body Mass Index): Most clinics require a BMI between 19 and 32.
3. Non-smoker and drug-free: No smoking, recreational drugs, or abuse of prescription meds.
4. No serious complications in previous pregnancies.
5. At least one full-term pregnancy with no major issues.
6. Not currently on certain medications (like SSRIs).
7. Normal results on a full physical exam, including pelvic and uterine health.
8. Normal pap smear within the last 12 months.

These requirements are often checked during a comprehensive medical screening, which includes bloodwork, urine analysis, and a thorough review of your OB-GYN history.

Eligibility and Common Questions

Can I Become a Surrogate Without a Previous Pregnancy?

In almost all cases, no — you cannot be a surrogate if you’ve never carried and delivered a child. Agencies and fertility clinics want to ensure you’ve experienced it firsthand and handled it well, with no major complications.

What Medical Conditions Can Disqualify You To Be a Surrogate Mother?

There are several medical conditions that can disqualify a woman from becoming a surrogate. These include:

9. Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
10. Hypertension (uncontrolled high blood pressure)
11. Heart disease
12. Certain autoimmune disorders (e.g., lupus)
13. Hepatitis B or C
14. HIV
15. Certain psychiatric diagnoses (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia)
16. BMI above 32 or below 19
17. Recurrent pregnancy loss

I’ve Had Healthy Pregnancies. Why All of These Considerations?

Even if you’ve had smooth pregnancies before, surrogacy involves IVF, hormones, embryo transfers, and a structured medical process. Medical clearance helps protect both you and the baby.

Can You Become a Surrogate if Your Tubes Are Tied?

Yes, absolutely. The embryo is transferred directly into your uterus — your fallopian tubes aren’t involved in gestational surrogacy.

Can You Be a Surrogate After a C-Section?

Yes, but your surgical history will be reviewed. One or two prior C-sections are generally acceptable if there were no complications.

Can You Be a Surrogate After Menopause?

Not usually. Post-menopausal IVF pregnancy is rare and not commonly accepted in surrogacy programs.

Can You Be a Surrogate If You Have HPV?

Depends on the type and severity. Low-risk, asymptomatic strains may be acceptable. Clinics often require recent pap smear and HPV test results.

Can You Be a Surrogate If You Have High Blood Pressure?

Only if it’s well-controlled. Uncontrolled hypertension or pregnancy complications like preeclampsia are disqualifiers. For more info, visit NHLBI.

Can You Be a Surrogate Mother If You or Your Children Are Not Vaccinated?

Most agencies require surrogates to be fully vaccinated. If not, you may need to catch up. See CDC guidelines here: CDC.

Other Relevant Resources

If you're curious about federal health policies related to women’s health and pregnancy, check out:

• womenshealth.gov
• hhs.gov

Conclusion

Being a surrogate is not just a generous act — it’s also a major medical responsibility. Clinics and agencies ensure that both the surrogate and the baby have the safest, healthiest experience possible.

If you meet the health criteria and are ready for the commitment, this could be one of the most meaningful journeys of your life. Reach out to a licensed surrogacy agency or reproductive clinic and start with a full medical screening.