Becoming a surrogate is a generous decision that helps intended parents build their families. Before a woman can begin a surrogacy journey, she must complete a series of medical and psychological evaluations to ensure that carrying a pregnancy is as safe as possible for both the surrogate and the baby.
These health requirements are not designed to exclude applicants—they are in place to protect everyone involved and improve the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy.
In this guide, we’ll explain the common health requirements for surrogates, what doctors evaluate, and why each step matters.
Why Do Surrogates Need Health Screenings?
Surrogacy involves a carefully planned medical process. Fertility specialists evaluate potential surrogates to determine whether pregnancy is medically appropriate and whether there are any conditions that could increase risks.
Comprehensive screening helps:
- Protect the surrogate’s health
- Improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy
- Reduce pregnancy complications
- Ensure the safest possible environment for the baby
- Meet fertility clinic and legal program requirements
Medical History Review
One of the first steps is reviewing the surrogate’s medical history.
Doctors typically evaluate:
- Previous pregnancies and deliveries
- Any pregnancy complications
- Previous cesarean sections
- Chronic medical conditions
- Surgical history
- Current medications
- Family medical history
Women with healthy previous pregnancies generally meet the basic medical expectations more easily than those with significant pregnancy complications.
Pregnancy History
Most fertility clinics prefer surrogates who have:
- At least one previous healthy pregnancy
- No history of unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss
- No major pregnancy complications
- Experience carrying a pregnancy to term
A successful pregnancy demonstrates that the uterus can support fetal development.
Physical Examination
A complete physical examination evaluates overall health.
The physician may assess:
- Blood pressure
- Heart health
- Weight
- Height
- General physical fitness
- Signs of chronic illness
The goal is to confirm that pregnancy is medically appropriate.
BMI Requirements
Many fertility clinics have Body Mass Index (BMI) guidelines.
Maintaining a healthy BMI may help reduce the risk of:
- Gestational diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Cesarean delivery
- Pregnancy complications
BMI requirements vary between clinics, so applicants should discuss eligibility directly with their surrogacy team.
Infectious Disease Screening
Federal regulations and fertility clinics require infectious disease testing before embryo transfer.
Testing may include screening for:
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
These tests help protect everyone involved in the pregnancy.
Blood Tests
Routine laboratory testing may include:
- Blood type
- Complete blood count (CBC)
- Immunity screening
- Hormone testing (when appropriate)
These results help physicians prepare for treatment.
Uterine Evaluation
A fertility specialist may evaluate the uterus using imaging procedures such as:
- Ultrasound
- Saline sonogram
- Other fertility-related imaging when medically indicated
These examinations help determine whether the uterus appears suitable for embryo implantation.
Psychological Evaluation
Surrogacy involves emotional as well as physical commitment.
Mental health professionals evaluate:
- Emotional readiness
- Stress management
- Understanding of surrogacy
- Support system
- Expectations throughout the journey
Psychological screening helps prepare surrogates for the experience.
Lifestyle Assessment
Healthy lifestyle habits are an important part of surrogate eligibility.
Programs may discuss:
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol consumption
- Recreational drug use
- Nutrition
- Exercise habits
- Prescription medications
Healthy habits contribute to safer pregnancies.
Ongoing Health Monitoring
Health evaluations continue after acceptance.
Throughout pregnancy, surrogates typically receive:
- Regular prenatal care
- Routine laboratory testing
- Ultrasounds
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Communication with the fertility clinic and obstetric provider
Ongoing care supports both maternal and fetal health.
Why These Requirements Matter
Health requirements are designed to reduce risks—not to make the process unnecessarily difficult.
Comprehensive screening helps:
- Identify potential medical concerns early
- Improve pregnancy outcomes
- Protect surrogate health
- Support fetal development
- Provide reassurance for intended parents
Every requirement serves the goal of creating the safest possible surrogacy experience.
Final Thoughts
Every surrogate’s medical history is unique, and eligibility is determined through individualized evaluation by qualified healthcare professionals. While requirements may vary among fertility clinics, comprehensive medical and psychological screening helps ensure that surrogacy is pursued responsibly and safely.
If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, working with an experienced agency and licensed fertility specialists can help you understand the screening process and what to expect at every stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What medical conditions can affect surrogate eligibility?
Ans. Certain medical conditions, previous pregnancy complications, or health concerns may affect eligibility. Each applicant is evaluated individually by a fertility specialist.
Q. Do surrogates have to undergo psychological screening?
Ans. Yes. Most fertility clinics require a psychological evaluation to assess emotional readiness, understanding of the process, and available support systems.
Q. Why is infectious disease testing required?
Ans. Infectious disease screening helps protect the surrogate, intended parents, medical team, and the developing baby by identifying conditions that require medical attention.
Q. Is there a BMI requirement to become a surrogate?
Ans. Many clinics have BMI guidelines because maintaining a healthy weight may reduce pregnancy-related risks. Specific requirements vary by clinic.
Q. Are health screenings only done before pregnancy?
Ans. No. Health monitoring continues throughout the surrogacy journey with regular prenatal visits, laboratory testing, and fetal monitoring to support a healthy pregnancy.
Have questions about your surrogacy journey? Reach out to Surrogacy4All at (212) 661-7673 or email info@surrogacy4all.com
Dr. Naman Arya
Dr. Naman S. Arya is a Surrogacy Coordinator at Surrogacy4All, bringing a unique blend of clinical expertise and public health insight to the field of reproductive medicine. A qualified physician with an MD in Medicine and a Master of Public Health, Dr. Arya has extensive experience in patient advocacy, clinical coordination, and data-driven healthcare solutions.
- Dr. Naman Arya
- Dr. Naman Arya
- Dr. Naman Arya
- Dr. Naman Arya
