For those considering becoming a surrogate, there are a series of requirements for surrogacy in Arkansas that you need to meet to move along with the process. Surrogacy is a physically and emotionally sensitive process, and we want you to be able to prepare for success in your surrogacy journey.
If you have questions about surrogacy qualifications in Arkansas, reach out to our surrogacy specialists today.
If you are seriously considering becoming a surrogate, read on to learn more about the basic requirements and approval process.
Basic Requirements for Surrogacy in Arkansas:
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Between the ages of 21 – 40
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A healthy BMI
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At least one successful pregnancy, but not more than five vaginal births and no more than three Caesarean births
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Currently raising a child
Step 1: Initial Application
If you meet the basic requirements to become a surrogate in Arkansas, you can continue with the surrogate screening process. The first step is to fill out our initial application for surrogates. The application ensures you meet the requirements listed above. One of our surrogacy specialists will review your application and be in touch with you within 24 hours.
Step 2: Social and Medical History Form
The next step in the requirements to become a surrogate in Arkansas is to obtain your social and medical history. During this stage, we will gather information about you and your family’s medical background to ensure you are medically viable as a candidate for surrogacy. Our agency will collect information and documents such as:
- Your insurance card and policy manual in a PDF
- A copy of your driver’s license
- A signed medical release for us to access your medical records from past pregnancies and deliveries
- A letter from your OB/GYN recommending you as a surrogate
We understand that this may be a daunting part of the process. However, your surrogacy specialist will be there to assist you whenever you need it.
Step 3: In-Home Assessment
The goal of the in-home assessment is to determine if your home environment is safe for the health of you and the baby. A licensed social worker will visit your home and sit down with you and each of the adults living with you. The social worker will ask questions about your motivation for surrogacy, any fears or concerns, and learn more about what your spouse or partner’s commitment to surrogacy is like.
In addition to these qualifications to become a surrogate in Arkansas, we have also found that taking steps to emotionally prepare for the journey can make for a more positive process. In the interviews between you, your significant other and a licensed therapist, we will include various topics, including:
- Personality testing
- The “what-ifs” that could happen during the process
- How you might feel when giving the baby to the intended parents after delivery
While this step might feel intimidating, this is just a precautionary step to ensure everyone feels prepared to assist you in your journey through surrogacy.
Step 4: Medical Evaluation
In the final part of the process to become a surrogate in Arkansas, you will receive a medical evaluation at the intended parents’ fertility clinic. This will confirm that you are physically ready for embryo transfer and pregnancy. This is the final step before you can enter into a legal contract with the intended parents.
American Surrogacy is required to screen prospective surrogates by the standards and recommendations of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), which include:
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Review of personal and sexual history
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Physical exam to include Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS)
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Lab testing – blood and urine test
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Letter from physician stating you passed the screening and are capable of carrying a baby to term
Do you feel you meet the criteria to become a surrogate in Arkansas? Reach out to one of our surrogacy specialists to begin the process.