Who Can Become a Surrogate? Requirements and Realities
Becoming a gestational surrogate is an extraordinary act of generosity, but ahead of matching, there are a number of qualifying processes. It’s not just about having carried a child before; there are medical, psychological, legal, and personal requirements to consider. At Cove Family Co., we aim for transparency and stand firm on the highest standards. Below is an overview of what agencies and clinics typically look for — and what real surrogates experience — in today’s surrogacy landscape.
Medical & Health Requirements
Surrogacy is a rigorous medical process, so overall health and prior pregnancy history are key factors. While standards vary by clinic and location, to qualify as a candidate with Cove, you’ll have to be a US Citizen, and:
Age range: You’ll need to be between 21 - 38 years old
Prior pregnancy: You’ll need to have had at least one full-term, uncomplicated pregnancy, of a child that you are parenting
General health: No uncontrolled chronic conditions (e.g. hypertension, diabetes), no substance abuse, including smoking, vaping, or marijuana use, no recent tattoos or piercings, and a BMI within healthy range (some clinics impose limits).
Reproductive health: Normal uterine anatomy with no history of recurrent miscarriage, or more than two terminations
No reliance on government support programs, including WIC or Medicaid
Comprehensive medical screening: Blood work, infectious disease testing, and other baseline health exams.
A stable home environment adequate to support pregnancy
And any partners must also be non-smokers, non-drug users, and willing to participate in the process
Psychological & Behavioral Criteria
Medical readiness is crucial, but so is emotional stability, resilience, and clarity of intention. A mental health screening and interview to ensure emotional preparedness, resilience, and capacity to cope with the demands of the journey will be conducted, and we’ll be looking out for:
Ability to handle stress, uncertainty, and medical procedures
Understanding of the emotional complexity of surrogacy (e.g. attachment, relationship with intended parents)
Support system in place (family, spouse, childcare, mental health resources)
Ability to enforce boundaries and make independent, informed decisions
No untreated major psychiatric disorders (or stable treatment with oversight)
Legal & Ethical Requirements
Surrogacy involves legal contracts and protections for both the surrogate and intended parents. Some of the standard legal/ethical prerequisites include:
Independent legal counsel for both parties
Contracts clearly outlining roles, responsibilities, compensation, medical care, and conflict resolution
Agreement about parental rights and orders, birth plans, and relinquishment
Assurance that the surrogate was not coerced or pressured into the decision
Compliance with state laws: Some states have restrictions or special regulations regarding surrogacy
Realities & Practical Considerations
Even if someone meets medical, psychological, and legal criteria, there are practical realities that often come up:
Time & Commitment: Surrogacy requires many appointments, monitoring, medications, and potential travel to clinics. Expect to dedicate time over many months.
Physical & Emotional Demands: Hormonal medications, injections, ultrasounds, and potential side effects are part of the journey. There can also be emotional ups and downs, especially if issues arise (e.g. failed transfer, complications).
Relationship with Intended Parents: The surrogate-intended parent relationship can be positive, but it also can bring emotional complexities. Boundaries, communication, and mutual respect are critical.
Long Recovery & Postpartum Care: The postpartum period is often underestimated. Physical recovery, emotional adjustment, and coordination of care take attention.
Insurance & Medical Coverage: Some procedures or complications may not be covered by existing health insurance; clarity about who covers what is crucial.
Why These Standards Matter
These criteria and processes are not about erecting unnecessary barriers. They’re there to protect everyone involved:
Ensuring the surrogate’s safety and emotional wellbeing
Reducing medical risk for the pregnancy and birth
Establishing clear legal frameworks so intended parents and surrogates know their rights and responsibilities
Fostering trust and transparency in what is already a deeply intimate and complex journey
If you’re reading this and wondering, “Do I fit the profile of a surrogate?”, know this: no candidate is the same. What’s most important is complete and total honesty, proactive communication, a strong health baseline, legal clarity, and emotional readiness.
At Cove Family Co., our role is to support you — through screening, education, and matching — so that everyone enters this journey feeling informed, respected, and secure. We’d be honored to walk this path with you.
Curious if surrogacy is right for you? Start here. No obligation, just a chance to learn more.
