Surrogacy offers a path to parenthood for many individuals and couples, involving a woman who carries a pregnancy for others. A common question for those with tubal removal, a permanent birth control procedure, is whether this medical history impacts their ability to become a surrogate. This article explores if tubal removal affects surrogacy eligibility and outlines the typical requirements and journey.
Can You Be a Surrogate After Tubal Removal?
It is generally possible to be a surrogate after undergoing a tubal removal, such as a tubal ligation or salpingectomy. This is because modern surrogacy overwhelmingly relies on In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to achieve pregnancy. IVF involves fertilizing an egg with sperm in a laboratory, then transferring the resulting embryo directly into the surrogate’s uterus. Since fallopian tubes are not involved in this process, their absence or non-functionality does not impede a uterine pregnancy initiated through embryo transfer.
Medical Requirements for Surrogacy
Regardless of prior tubal status, all potential surrogates must meet specific medical criteria for a safe and successful pregnancy. Most agencies and medical professionals require surrogates to be between 21 and 40 years old. A healthy uterus, including a uterine lining capable of supporting an implanted embryo, is a primary requirement. Potential surrogates must also have a history of at least one successful, uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery.
Comprehensive medical evaluations, including physical exams, blood tests, and often a uterine assessment like an ultrasound or hysteroscopy, confirm overall physical health and uterine readiness. Being a non-smoker and non-drug user, along with good mental health, are standard requirements.
The Surrogacy Journey
The surrogacy journey begins with matching with intended parents, based on shared expectations and values. After a match, comprehensive legal agreements are drafted and finalized between the surrogate and the intended parents. These contracts define the rights, responsibilities, and financial arrangements for all parties.
The next step involves medical preparation, where the surrogate undergoes a regimen of medications, often including hormones like estrogen and progesterone. These medications prepare the uterine lining for embryo transfer. Following this, the embryo transfer procedure places the embryo into the uterus. Regular medical appointments and monitoring follow throughout the pregnancy, ensuring the health of the surrogate and fetus until delivery.