If you’ve been researching the requirements to become a surrogate, you may have noticed how different agencies have different expectations.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what the medical and lifestyle requirements are to become a surrogate with leading agencies, why these standards matter and how agencies like American Surrogacy support you at every stage.
When you’re ready, you can get free information and see if you qualify.
What Are the Medical and Lifestyle Requirements to Become a Surrogate With Leading Agencies?
Reputable agencies have clear eligibility standards that focus on giving you and the baby the healthiest, safest experience possible. Here are the general medical and lifestyle requirements you’ll need to meet:
- Between 21 and 40 years old
- At least one previous full-term pregnancy and delivery
- Currently raising a child
- Good physical and mental health
- Reliable transportation and stable housing
These expectations help confirm that you’re prepared for the journey ahead.
Why Agencies Have Surrogate Medical Requirements
Agencies have requirements in place to protect everyone involved. Pregnancy is physically and emotionally demanding, and surrogacy adds a new level of responsibility.
These standards aren’t designed to exclude you. Rather, they protect your health throughout the process and help intended parents feel confident moving forward.
Your agency should focus on your well-being. When these expectations are clear from the start, it shows that your safety is a priority and helps you feel confident moving into the screening steps ahead.
How Our Surrogate Medical Screening Process Works at American Surrogacy
Once you meet our initial requirements, you can begin the surrogate medical screening. This process confirms that you’re ready for the resulting experience.
At American Surrogacy, there are two health tests required to become a surrogate:
- Medical Screening: This preliminary test occurs before you’re fully approved. You’ll need to fill out a detailed medical history form, provide your previous pregnancy records and complete a psychological evaluation. Our team will review these materials to assess whether you’re ready.
- Medical Clearance: After you match with intended parents, we’ll send your medical records to their fertility doctor’s office. You’ll need to travel to their clinic for an in-person physical exam and additional lab testing.
You can explore the full process in our online guide.
How Your Surrogate Psychological Evaluation Assesses Emotional Readiness
Your surrogate psychological evaluation confirms that you feel emotionally ready. During this conversation with a licensed mental health professional, you’ll talk about your emotional health, your family’s mental health history, what inspires you to become a surrogate and how you handle stress.
This evaluation also gives you space to discuss the support you have in your life.
Meeting Medical Clearance for Surrogacy
Medical clearance is the final approval step completed by the intended parents’ fertility doctor’s office.
Even after you meet agency standards, the clinic will conduct its own evaluation to ensure you’re ready for a safe embryo transfer.
During this stage, you go to the clinic for a full physical assessment, and the team takes one last look at your medical history to make sure nothing was missed.
This usually includes bloodwork, routine infection testing, a closer look at your uterus to confirm it can support a pregnancy, and a full exam with a fertility doctor.
Together, these steps confirm that you meet all surrogate medical requirements and are ready for embryo transfer.
You can learn more about what to expect from medical clearance at this link: How long does medical clearance take?
Lifestyle Expectations for Surrogates
Lifestyle choices can impact surrogacy eligibility. While every agency is different, most expect you to:
- Avoid all tobacco, nicotine and recreational drug use
- Be off antidepressants for at least 12 months under your doctor’s supervision
- Follow medical advice from your OB-GYN and fertility specialist
- Maintain a balanced diet and moderate exercise routine
- Ensure you can meet BMI guidelines for pregnancy safety
- Avoid high-risk activities, including certain jobs or strenuous sports
Some intended parents may request additional preferences regarding lifestyle or prenatal decisions. Your attorney will help you review and negotiate these during the contract phase.
Qualify with American Surrogacy and Get the Compensation Package You Deserve
As a top-tier national agency, we ensure you receive a comprehensive and competitive compensation package for your service and commitment.
American Surrogacy offers a compensation package of $50,000 - $110,000+ that includes:
- Base pay
- Signing and screening bonuses
- Embryo transfer
- Legal fees
- Insurance copays
- Travel and lodging
- Lost wages
- And more
This financial support confirms that your health and comfort are prioritized at every step, allowing you to focus completely on the journey.
For a detailed, personalized breakdown, fill out our form to speak with a specialist.
What Disqualifies You From Being a Surrogate?
Not everyone who wants to become a surrogate will qualify. Disqualifications are based on safety, not judgment.
Common reasons include:
- Previous serious pregnancy or delivery complications
- Unmanaged mental health conditions
- Uncontrolled medical issues (such as hypertension or diabetes)
- Current use of tobacco or recreational drugs
- Lack of reliable transportation
- Inconsistent housing
- Little to no support system
If you’re unsure, the best next step is to talk with a surrogacy specialist who can evaluate your specific situation.
Ready to Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Surrogate?
Do you feel called to help someone grow their family? You deserve a team that supports your health, your well-being and your journey.
You can get started by filling out our form to see if you qualify. Your next step could change a family’s life.