Can I Be a Surrogate With Herpes?

Research estimates that about 33% of people in the U.S. have had symptomatic HSV-1 at some point in their life. Globally, about 20% of people have an HSV-2 infection.

While there are some STIs that affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant and carry a child, herpes is not one of them. If you’re living with this condition and are considering becoming a surrogate, you could still be eligible.

Have questions about how your health history measures up to surrogacy standards? Contact us to learn more about your option.

Can You Become a Surrogate With Herpes?

Yes, you can be a surrogate with herpes as long as you are effectively managing your condition. It is important to know that herpes is incredibly common and manageable; having a diagnosis does not automatically disqualify you from surrogacy.

HSV 1, which is known to cause cold sores, should not affect your pregnancy or surrogacy experience. If you have HSV 2, or genital herpes, you may be required to undergo a C-section when the due date arrives for the protection of the baby.

A doctor will continue to evaluate your condition throughout the pregnancy to help prevent the development of neonatal herpes. While this situation is very rare, it is a serious condition that medical professionals are well-equipped to manage through proactive monitoring.

What’s the Difference Between HSV-1 and HSV-2 in Surrogacy?

While both conditions are common, they can affect your surrogacy journey differently.

HSV-1 (Oral Herpes): This is the virus typically responsible for cold sores around the mouth. Having HSV-1 should not affect your pregnancy or surrogacy experience.
HSV-2 (Genital Herpes): If you have HSV-2, your surrogacy medical team will work with you to manage it safely during pregnancy. If an active outbreak is present near the time of delivery, a C-section is typically recommended to reduce the risk of transmission to the baby.

Other Requirements to Meet if You’re Considering Being a Surrogate with Herpes

In addition to effectively managing herpes, you will need to meet our other requirements to become a surrogate.

What Happens if You Disclose Herpes to an Agency Like American Surrogacy?

When you choose to work with American Surrogacy, your health information is handled with the utmost respect and confidentiality.

When you disclose your status, we will typically need your medical records regarding your diagnosis and treatment history. This information is used solely for the purpose of medical review and to ensure that we can advocate for your health during the matching process.

Being transparent with your medical history allows us to find intended parents who are fully informed and comfortable with your history. This helps create a foundation of trust for the relationship.

Medical Screening for Surrogates With Herpes

To become a surrogate, you must go complete the medical screening process.

The first step is pre-screening with our agency. There will be a social and medical history form you will need to submit that details your health history. This helps determine whether you’re eligible to become a surrogate. Our specialists will review your records to ensure your condition is well-managed and meets the safety standards of fertility clinics.

Once approved, you will be matched with intended parents. At this point, they will know you are a surrogate with herpes and will have agreed to move forward. After a match is made, your records are sent to their chosen fertility clinic. You will then need to complete an in-person medical clearance appointment at their fertility clinic to confirm your body is ready for in vitro fertilization.

Can Herpes Be Passed to the Baby During Surrogacy?

Yes. However, neonatal herpes — the transmission of the virus to a newborn — is extremely rare.

The risk of transmission is highest if a gestational carrier has an active genital outbreak during delivery. This is why your OB-GYN will monitor you closely throughout the third trimester. If an outbreak occurs near your due date, a C-section is recommended to bypass the birth canal and reducing the risk of transmission.

Why You Should Still Apply

Being a surrogate with herpes can be a positive and fulfilling experience. If you are managing your condition and meet the other requirements for surrogacy, there is no reason why you cannot experience the joy of helping someone else become a parent.

Remember, herpes is a common condition that millions of women manage. We encourage you to speak with a surrogacy specialist who can provide personalized reassurance and answer any specific concerns you may have.

Next Steps for Prospective Surrogates With HSV

We want to help you achieve your goals. We know there are a number of surrogacy agencies to choose from, but you can trust that we have your best interest at heart through the entire process.

At American Surrogacy, we offer: