Is Being a Surrogate Right for Me?

Choosing to carry another family’s child is a life-changing experience. Helping intended parents start or complete their family is incredibly joyous; however, becoming a surrogate is a decision that should not be made lightly. Reflect on the following questions to determine if surrogacy is right for you.

Do I meet the qualifications?

To be qualified to be a surrogate at Gift of Life Surrogacy Agency, one must:

Be at least 21 years of age
Have had at least 1 uncomplicated, full term pregnancy and delivery
Not have had more than 2 cesarean sections
Not be on government or state assistance of any kind
Not have a history of any pregnancy (prenatal or postnatal) complication
Not be on any medication for a mental health disorder
Be able to travel as needed for appointments, screening, transfers and monitoring
Have a stable lifestyle and support system

Why do I want to become a surrogate?

If you enjoyed your previous pregnancies and are looking to give the gift of life to a family, then surrogacy may be a great decision for you. Monetary compensation can also be a contributing factor but should not be your sole motivation.

Am I emotionally prepared to carry a child that is not mine?

Carrying a child that is not biologically yours can be an emotional journey which is why with Gift of Life all carriers will go through extensive medical, social and psychological screening. Each journey is unique and all carriers are provided genuine care and support from beginning to end. The emotions associated with carrying and delivering a child(ren) that is not biologically yours can be rewarding in many ways. However, emotions vary from person to person and a major reason why Gift of Life is here to support you.

Am I ready to commit to the time requirements of the surrogacy process?

Although a typical pregnancy lasts 10 months, the entire surrogacy process can take at least a year or longer. In addition to screening to become a surrogate, the matching process, legal coordination and embryo transfer adds to the overall timeline.

Are my friends and family supportive of me being a surrogate?

A strong support system is necessary during the surrogacy process. Although, we will support you every step of the way, it is also important to have supportive people at home. Not only are you required to travel (some local, some long distance depending on your match) but the requirements for monitoring, appointments and prenatal care along with delivery and postnatal recovery are all part of the journey and will require your attention on top of being a mother, wife, friend, etc.

Am I willing to travel?

While long distance travel is not a requirement (you could match locally or within your state) you will be required to attend monitoring, prenatal visits, screening, etc. So it’s important you have the time and flexibility to be able to include these in your schedule.

Am I open to maintaining a relationship with the intended parent(s)?

Intended parents usually want to be present at your appointments, will seek updates of your pregnancy progress and be a part of the delivery of their child. They may also be willing to have a relationship that extends after the child’s birth. These are topics that can be discussed before matching with intended parent(s), but is something to consider before making the commitment to become a surrogate.