Requirements to Be a Surrogate: What You Need to Know
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Becoming a surrogate is a profound and generous act, providing an incredible gift to intended parents longing to start or expand their families. At Stork Connections, we prioritize the health and well-being of both the surrogate and the baby. Here are the essential requirements for anyone considering this life-changing journey.
Age and Health Requirements
Age Range: Surrogates should be between 21 and 40 years old. This range ensures that candidates are mature enough to understand the responsibilities and are within the optimal age range for a healthy pregnancy.
Health Standards: Good physical and mental health is crucial. Candidates must have a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) and should not smoke, use illegal drugs, or consume excessive alcohol.
Previous Pregnancy: Potential surrogates must have had at least one successful, uncomplicated pregnancy. This demonstrates that the surrogate can carry a pregnancy to term without major complications.
Lifestyle and Stability
Stable Lifestyle: A stable living situation is essential. Surrogates should have a supportive home environment that allows them to focus on the pregnancy and ensure the well-being of both themselves and the baby.
Support System: Having a robust support system of family and friends is critical. Emotional and practical support can make a significant difference during the surrogacy journey.
Medical and Psychological Screening
Medical History: Comprehensive medical screening is required. This includes reviewing past pregnancies, overall health, and any underlying conditions that could affect the surrogate's ability to carry a pregnancy safely.
Psychological Evaluation: Mental health is equally important. A thorough psychological evaluation ensures that candidates are mentally prepared for the emotional aspects of surrogacy. It also helps in identifying any potential stressors that could arise during the process.
Legal and Financial Stability
Legal Compliance: Candidates must reside in a surrogacy-friendly state and be willing to comply with all legal aspects of surrogacy, including contracts and agreements with the intended parents.
Insurance: Having health insurance that covers pregnancy is ideal. If a candidate's insurance does not cover surrogacy, a health insurance plan will be put in place to ensure all medical needs are met.
Financial Stability: While surrogates are compensated for their time and effort, they should not be primarily motivated by financial gain. Financial stability ensures that the surrogate is not relying solely on surrogacy compensation to meet basic needs.
Commitment and Communication
Commitment to Process: Surrogates must be willing to commit to the entire surrogacy process, which can take over a year from matching with intended parents to post-birth. This includes attending all medical appointments and adhering to medical advice.
Open Communication: Effective communication with the intended parents and the agency is crucial. This fosters a positive relationship and ensures that everyone is on the same page throughout the journey.
Conclusion
Becoming a surrogate is a significant commitment that requires careful consideration and preparation. At Stork Connections, we ensure that all surrogates meet these essential requirements to promote a safe, healthy, and fulfilling experience for everyone involved. If you meet these criteria and feel called to embark on this incredible journey, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can help create beautiful new families and be part of their happy ending.
For more information on becoming a surrogate, please reach out to us at info@storkconnections.com or directly to 619.324.9574
Warm Regards,
Tonya Zlock
Founder, Stork Connections LLC
"Where Storks meet miracles and families grow.”
Stork Connections
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