Women have many reasons for wanting to become a surrogate. From wanting the additional income, to the joy of being pregnant, there are dozens of reasons why you may be considering this journey. However, there are three sets of qualifications to be a surrogate in California that you need to meet before you can carry someone else’s child. If you feel you meet the requirements to become a surrogate, you can contact a surrogate professional today.
Physical Requirements for Surrogates in California
Pregnancy can take a toll on your body, not to mention the potential risks and complications that can be associated with it. This is why there are physical qualifications to be a surrogate in California. This is to ensure you are capable of carrying gestational pregnancy at minimal risk to both yourself and the baby. These physical qualifications can be a good indicator as to whether you are a good fit to become a surrogate. The basic required standards are:
- Currently 21 – 40 years old
- Have a healthy BMI
- Have carried at least one pregnancy successfully to term
- Be raising a child of your own in your own home
- No major complications in your previous pregnancies
- No new tattoos or piercings within 12 months of starting the process
Psychological Requirements for Surrogates in California
There are a number of emotional and psychological challenges to surrogacy. As you navigate the qualifications to become a surrogate in California, it’s important to take stock of your mental and emotional wellness. When you begin your surrogacy journey you will need to go through a psychological screening. You are essentially giving up your body, time and energy to help bring a life into the world to create a beautiful family for the intended parents.
This is a huge commitment and it’s important to take all precautions as you prepare. During your in-home screening, there will be a time to evaluate yourself and other adults who live with you. A licensed social worker will sit down with everyone individually to discuss surrogacy, along with any fears or concerns about the experience. They will ask about your partner’s commitment to surrogacy. These criteria for becoming a surrogate in California can help prepare everyone for the process.
It may also be beneficial to consult a licensed psychologist at you go through the process. We also ask that you and your significant other talk to a licensed psychologist. During your sessions you may discuss things like:
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Personality testing
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The “what-ifs” that could happen during the process
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How you might feel when giving the baby to the intended parents after delivery
Screening Requirements for Surrogates in California
To meet the requirements to become a surrogate mother in California you have a series of screenings to go through. This includes a background check, medical screening and psychological screening mentioned above. A medical screening will help ensure you are physically ready to go through with a healthy pregnancy, protecting both you and the baby. A medical evaluation will 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
This is not to prevent you from becoming a surrogate. Instead, this is meant to prepare everyone for the journey you are about to embark on.
Speak with a Surrogacy Specialist Today
If you feel you meet the qualifications to become a surrogate in California, the next step is to get in contact with a surrogacy specialist at American Surrogacy. Our team is ready to begin the process with you to start going through the screening process and help you get on your way to carrying the child of excited intended parents. Get started today!