Surrogate Screening Standards in NY: Medical, Psych, Background & OB Clearance

Introduction

The health and safety of the surrogate and baby depend on rigorous screening. New York’s compliance-first environment expects agencies and clinics to apply high standards across medical, psychological, and social domains. Here’s how screening works—and what great looks like.

Medical Screening

A detailed OB history, uterine assessment, labs, medication tolerance, and prior pregnancy outcomes shape risk. OB clearance confirms medical readiness.

• OB history & delivery records; prior C-sections and outcomes.
• Uterine assessment and relevant imaging.
• Baseline labs and medication contraindications.
• Lifestyle considerations and travel tolerance.

Psychological Evaluation

Third‑party reproduction requires mental‑health readiness, informed consent, and stability. Evaluation explores motivation, support systems, and expectations.

• Readiness for surrogacy and informed consent capacity.
• Expectations on communication and boundaries with IPs.
• Stress coping, resiliency, and mental‑health history.

Background & Social Review

Safety and reliability are evaluated with background checks and home‑environment review, including partner support and childcare logistics.

• Criminal and civil background checks as applicable.
• Home environment and logistics for appointments.
• Partner participation and support readiness.

OB Clearance & Ongoing Monitoring

Final OB clearance confirms medical suitability. Ongoing monitoring tracks adherence to protocol and flags issues early.

• Clear documentation of clearance and constraints.
• Monitoring plan for medications and appointments.
• Early escalation pathway for side effects or complications.

Case Study

A prior‑pregnancy surrogate with one C‑section and one vaginal delivery passed OB clearance after imaging and labs. The team addressed childcare logistics early, preventing late‑cycle cancellations. She delivered a healthy baby at term with no complications.

Testimonials

• “Screening was thorough but respectful—I felt safe and supported.” — L., Buffalo
• “As IPs, the clarity around OB clearance gave us peace of mind.” — R.&T., NYC
• “The psychological evaluation aligned expectations early, which helped our match.” — K.&E., Long Island

Internal Linking Suggestions

Find a Surrogate in the USA

Find a Surrogate in Canada

Become a Surrogate

Egg Donor Options in the USA

Indian Egg Donors

Patients Medical – Wellness & Fertility

FAQs

Q. Can someone be a surrogate after a C‑section?

Ans : Yes, many surrogates have prior C‑sections. OB review will assess scar integrity and overall risk.

Q. What disqualifies a surrogate?

Ans : Uncontrolled medical conditions, certain psychiatric histories, substance use, or unstable social supports can disqualify candidates.

Q. How long does screening take?

Ans : Typically 4–8 weeks if records are complete and appointments are well‑coordinated.