If you’ve had one or more C-sections before, you might be wondering if those past deliveries could hold you back from becoming a surrogate.
The good news? They likely won’t. In many cases, you can be a surrogate if you had C-sections, as long as your overall health and pregnancy history meet the right criteria.
This guide will answer your biggest questions about surrogacy after C-sections, break down the medical considerations and walk you through our requirements.
If you have questions about your eligibility to be a surrogate, fill out our form today to find out how you can change lives.
Can I Be a Surrogate if I Had C-Sections?
Yes. Surrogates having C-sections usually isn’t an issue. At American Surrogacy, you can qualify if you’ve had up to three C-sections, provided your previous pregnancies and deliveries were healthy and your recovery was smooth.
When we talk about C-sections, we’re referring to the surgical method used to deliver your baby through incisions in your abdomen and uterus.
Most modern C-sections involve a horizontal (low transverse) incision, which generally heals well and supports future pregnancies. A vertical (classical) incision may carry more risk, so it’s reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Let’s take a closer look at each situation.
How Many C-Sections Is Too Many for Surrogacy?
Can You Be a Surrogate if You’ve Had a C-Section?
Yes, you can be a surrogate after just one C-section. As long as your healing process went smoothly and it’s been at least six months, you’re likely a strong candidate.
Can You Be a Surrogate After Two C-Sections?
Yes, you can be a surrogate after two C-sections. One thing to keep in mind is that after your first C-section, your future deliveries may also need to be done by C-section. This is especially true if the original reason for surgery is still a factor or if your provider makes that recommendation based on your medical history.
Can You Be a Surrogate After Three C-Sections?
Yes, you can be a surrogate after three C-sections, although this is typically the maximum number allowed. Since this would likely be your fourth C-section, it’s usually considered your final opportunity to be a surrogate. Additional surgeries beyond this point raise safety concerns for you and the baby.
What Are the Medical Risks of Multiple C-Sections?
Every pregnancy and delivery is different, but repeated C-sections come with additional health considerations. Here are the main risks of having multiple cesarean births:
- Placental Complications: Conditions like placenta accreta (when the placenta attaches too deeply) and placenta previa (when it covers the cervix) become more likely with each surgery.
- Scar Tissue (Adhesions): Scar tissue from previous surgeries can complicate future procedures and increase the risk of organ injury.
- Incision-Related Risks: Repeated C-sections can weaken the uterine wall and abdominal muscles, raising the chance of hernias.
- Uterine Rupture: Although rare, there’s a higher risk of uterine rupture along previous incision lines during pregnancy or labor.
Our agency and partnered fertility clinics will ensure a thorough medical review, helping you and your intended family move forward safely.
You’ll want to speak with your healthcare provider and our team to evaluate your current health and surrogacy potential.
What Are the Requirements to Be a Surrogate?
Surrogacy agencies follow strict medical and legal guidelines to protect you and the intended parents. Here’s what it takes to qualify at American Surrogacy:
- Be between the ages of 21 and 40
- Have had at least one successful pregnancy
- No more than five vaginal births or three C-sections
- Currently raising a child
- No major complications from previous pregnancies
- No felony convictions
If you meet these qualifications, your next step is to fill out our application. Once approved, you’ll go through a thorough screening process to ensure you’re ready for the journey ahead.
If you don’t qualify to become a surrogate, you may still be able to help another family by participating in our referral program. If your referral is successful, you could earn $5,000 or more within 30 days of the embryo transfer.
How Do You Become a Surrogate?
If you’ve had no more than three C-sections, here are the steps to become a surrogate:
Step 1: Fill Out an Application
This is your initial introduction to the surrogacy process. Once submitted, our team will review your responses to determine if you meet the basic eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Complete Social and Medical History Forms
If your application is approved, you’ll move on to detailed forms that ask about your health, lifestyle and family medical background.
During this stage, we’ll also collect important documents like your insurance card, driver’s license, signed medical release forms and a letter from your OB-GYN.
Step 3: Schedule an In-Home Assessment
A licensed social worker will visit your home to make sure it’s a safe, stable environment. They’ll speak with you and any adults living with you about your reasons for becoming a surrogate and walk through any concerns.
You’ll also meet with a licensed psychologist to talk through important emotional and mental health topics that help prepare you for the journey ahead.
Step 4: Match With Intended Parents
Once you’ve passed the social and psychological screenings, we’ll help you connect with the right intended parents. This is an exciting part of the process where we make sure values and expectations are aligned on both sides.
Step 5: Complete Your Medical Evaluation
Your final screening takes place at the intended parents’ fertility clinic. You’ll undergo lab work, a physical exam and a full medical history review. Once you receive clearance from the clinic’s physician, you’ll be ready to move forward with legal contracts and prepare for the embryo transfer.
Our team is here to support you throughout the surrogacy process. If you’re ready to begin, you can apply now.
Ready to Take the First Step?
You can be a surrogate if you had C-sections. If you’ve had no more than three cesarean births and meet our agency’s basic requirements, there’s a good chance you qualify.
Whether you’re ready to start the process or still have questions, we’re here to help. Fill out our form to learn more about how you can make a life-changing impact for a hopeful family.