Choosing to become a surrogate mother is an act of immeasurable love and compassion. If you're contemplating how to become a surrogate in Virginia, it's essential to understand the process, the support available and how American Surrogacy is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us online now to experience the difference with American Surrogacy or dial 1-800-875-2229 (BABY).
Is it Easy to Become a Surrogate Mother in Virginia?
Many women wonder about the ease of the process. With the right agency, becoming a surrogate in Virginia can be a smooth and rewarding journey. American Surrogacy's dedication ensures that every surrogate feels equipped and supported, from understanding the surrogate qualifications to navigating the emotional landscape.
How to Become a Surrogate Mother in Virginia
Becoming a surrogate in Virginia involves several aspects. From medical screenings to legal contracts, every phase is designed to ensure that you are emotionally, mentally and physically prepared for the journey.
Medical and Emotional Preparation
Before embarking on this transformative journey, surrogates must undergo a comprehensive screening process. This ensures you are physically and emotionally ready to bear a child for someone else.
To learn more about the specific medical requirements and procedures, check out this article on the medical process for a surrogate.
Legalities and Contracts
It's not just about asking how can I become a surrogate mother in Virginia. It's also about understanding your rights and responsibilities. Through American Surrogacy, you'll be supported with knowledgeable legal teams versed in Virginia's surrogacy laws.
Finding the Perfect Match
One of the hallmarks of American Surrogacy is how we help you find the ideal intended parents. Our commitment is ensuring your comfort and alignment with the parents you choose. You’re in complete control of choosing the right intended parents and can narrow down your choices based on:
- Race
- Religion
- Age
- Sexual orientation
- Personality
- Amount of contact shared during the surrogacy process
- And more
Contact us online now to get started on your surrogacy journey, or call us at 1-800-875-2229 (BABY).
What are the requirements to be a surrogate in Virginia?
Because surrogacy is a significant medical journey, there are specific surrogate requirements you must meet. These medical, legal, and lifestyle guidelines are set by reproductive professionals strictly to protect your health and ensure a safe, successful pregnancy.
Age 21-40 Body mass index of 19-32 No smoking or illicit drug use At least one successful pregnancy and currently raising a child No more than three cesarean births or five vaginal births At least six months past your last vaginal birth or one year since a C-section birth No major pregnancy complications Ability to travel to appointments No felony convictions Must be off antidepressants before you begin embryo transfer medications
You can review our complete list of surrogate qualifications here.
How American Surrogacy Supports You Through the Journey in Virginia
When you are researching how to find a surrogacy agency, you want a team that prioritizes your safety, comfort, and peace of mind above all else. At American Surrogacy, we believe that surrogates are the true heroes of the family-building journey.
We provide unwavering, wrap-around support from day one, including:
- Personalized Matching: We don't just assign you a family; we help you find intended parents whose values and communication styles align perfectly with yours.
- Expert Legal Coordination: Virginia surrogacy laws are highly specific. We coordinate with top-tier local attorneys who specialize in Virginia law to ensure your legal and financial security is ironclad.
- 24/7 Emotional Support: You will have a dedicated surrogacy specialist assigned to you, ready to answer questions, prep you for medical appointments, and cheer you on every step of the way.
Discover more about the advantages of working with American Surrogacy.
Is There Anything Unique About Becoming a Surrogate in Virginia?
Yes! Virginia has a very specific set of laws governing surrogacy (known as the Status of Children of Assisted Conception), which makes the legal process here a bit unique compared to other states.
In many states, attorneys file for a "pre-birth order" so the intended parents are declared the legal parents before the baby is born. In Virginia, pre-birth orders require intended parents and surrogates to jump through numerous hoops. Because of this, almost everyone in Virginia uses the much easier post-birth processes to establish parentage.
With this route, you will safely proceed with the pregnancy under a standard legal contract. Then, three days after you deliver the baby, you simply sign a form. This administrative paperwork goes straight to the Vital Records office to officially amend the birth certificate and name the intended parents as the legal parents. It is a smooth, straightforward process that saves everyone time and stress, and your legal team will handle all the heavy lifting!
Common Questions from Surrogates in Virginia
Do I get paid to be a surrogate, and how much do surrogates get paid?
Yes, you are financially compensated for your incredible commitment! Under Virginia law, surrogate compensation is technically classified as the reimbursement of "medical, legal, living, and other ancillary expenses" related to the pregnancy.