Gestational surrogacy is a process where a woman, known as the gestational carrier, agrees to carry a pregnancy for intended parents who cannot conceive or carry a child on their own. Unlike traditional surrogacy, the gestational carrier has no genetic connection to the baby, as the embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Intended parents pursue this path for many reasons, including infertility, medical conditions that make pregnancy unsafe, or to build a family. The journey requires an immense commitment from the surrogate, combining an altruistic desire to help others with the need to meet strict health, legal, and psychological requirements.
Essential Health and Lifestyle Criteria
The physical health qualifications for a surrogate are rigorous and designed to maximize the chances of a successful, healthy pregnancy. Most agencies require candidates to be between the ages of 21 and 40, though some may permit up to 44 years old. This age range ensures the candidate has the necessary maturity and stability while reducing the risk of pregnancy complications like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
A candidate must have a Body Mass Index (BMI) that falls within a specific range, typically below 35, though many clinics prefer a limit closer to 32. A higher BMI increases medical risks associated with pregnancy and delivery. A history of successful, uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery is also mandatory, usually involving at least one full-term birth. This history demonstrates the physical capability to carry a pregnancy safely.
Candidates must be non-smokers and drug-free, and minimize second-hand smoke exposure in the home. A medical history review screens for major health conditions that could be worsened by pregnancy, such as uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure. Medical screening also includes blood tests for infectious diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and sexually transmitted infections, all of which must return negative results.
Legal and Psychological Requirements
A prospective surrogate must satisfy several legal and psychological screenings to ensure she is prepared for the commitment. A comprehensive background check is mandatory for the surrogate and any adult living in her household, screening for criminal activity or involvement with child protective services. This ensures a safe and stable environment during the pregnancy.
Residency requirements are also a factor, as candidates must reside in a jurisdiction where compensated gestational surrogacy is legally regulated and enforced. A mandatory psychological evaluation is conducted by a mental health professional specializing in reproductive issues. This assessment confirms the candidate is emotionally stable, understands the psychological nuances of the journey, and can manage the emotional and physical demands of the process.
Once matched, the surrogate and intended parents must retain independent legal counsel to finalize the surrogacy contract. This contract must be completed before any medical procedures begin and legally outlines all expectations, responsibilities, and financial arrangements.
The Surrogacy Journey: From Matching to Delivery
The process begins after initial screening with the matching phase, where the surrogate is paired with intended parents based on shared values and expectations. This careful matching can take one to six months, forming the foundation for a relationship that lasts over a year. Once matched, the legal contract is finalized, which can take several weeks or months as attorneys negotiate all terms.
Following legal clearance, the medical phase begins, overseen by the fertility clinic. The surrogate undergoes an in-person medical screening, including blood work and a uterine evaluation, which may require travel. She is then placed on a regimen of hormonal medications, such as estrogen and progesterone, to prepare her uterus for the embryo transfer.
The embryo transfer is a quick, outpatient procedure where the embryo is placed into the uterus. After a successful transfer and confirmation of pregnancy, the surrogate’s care transitions to an obstetrician for prenatal monitoring. The entire process typically spans 14 to 18 months, requiring the surrogate to commit to numerous medical appointments and travel.
Financial Compensation and Support
Gestational surrogacy involves financial compensation for the surrogate’s time and commitment. First-time surrogates typically receive a base compensation ranging from $45,000 to $65,000, paid in monthly installments once the pregnancy is clinically confirmed.
The intended parents are responsible for covering all medical and legal expenses associated with the journey. This includes medical costs like insurance premiums, co-pays, and all procedure fees related to IVF and pregnancy. Additional stipends cover out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel costs for medical appointments, maternity clothing, and lost wages, ensuring the surrogate incurs no financial burden.