Surrogate requirements.
Age, BMI, prior healthy birth, lifestyle, and residency. The application is the fastest way to know if you qualify.
Why these exist
These protect your health and the pregnancy. A prior healthy birth shows your body has carried to term; BMI and lifestyle criteria reduce medical risk; residency keeps the legal path clear. Screening confirms the details before a journey moves forward.
The core seven.
- Ages 21–40
- At least one healthy pregnancy & birth
- BMI under 35
- Non-smoker, drug-free
- Stable living situation & support
- US citizen or legal permanent resident
- No major complications in prior pregnancies
Common reasons to pause & re-check later
- BMI currently outside the program range
- Very recent birth — wait until postpartum recovery is complete
- Prior pregnancy complications that need medical review
- A state where the legal path needs extra planning
Requirements FAQ
What are the basic requirements to become a surrogate?
Baseline public requirements include age 21–40, BMI under 35, at least one prior healthy birth, a smoke-free lifestyle, and readiness for medical, psychological, and background screening.
What are the requirements for a surrogate mother?
The common requirements for a surrogate mother include age 21–40, BMI under 35, at least one prior healthy birth, a stable home and support system, and willingness to complete medical, psychological, legal, insurance, and background screening.
Are the requirements to be a surrogate mother the same as application requirements?
They overlap, but the application is only the first screen. The application checks whether you appear eligible, while final approval depends on records review, clinic clearance, legal fit, insurance review, and match-specific requirements.
Do I need to have had a baby before becoming a surrogate?
Yes. Reproductive programs usually require at least one prior healthy birth because that history helps clinics evaluate pregnancy readiness and medical risk.
Can I become a surrogate if I had a C-section?
Sometimes. Prior C-sections do not automatically disqualify you, but clinics review the number of prior surgeries, healing history, and overall pregnancy record before approving a journey.
What can delay or pause surrogate approval?
Recent delivery, unresolved medical issues, active nicotine or drug use, legal or insurance complications, and unstable support at home can all delay screening or require more review.