Can You Become a Surrogate with PCOS?

Can you be a surrogate with PCOS? We lay out what factors can affect the surrogacy process for you.

It is estimated that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects 8-13% of reproductive-age women. However, medical professionals suspect up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed worldwide. This makes PCOS one of the most common syndromes affecting women and their reproductive system. Sometimes PCOS can make it unsafe to become pregnant, while other times it doesn’t affect your fertility at all.

PCOS is often looked at on a case-by-case basis because of how differently it can affect women. This is why if you’ve been wondering whether or not you can become a surrogate with PCOS, the answer is it depends. Learn more about the PCOS diagnosis and how to become a surrogate. If you have questions you can directly contact us here.

Can I Be a Surrogate With PCOS?

You will not be disqualified immediately from surrogacy if you have PCOS, but the severity of your condition will be evaluated during the medical screening process. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, your doctor will monitor your blood sugar to ensure you can sustain a healthy pregnancy.

PCOS primarily affects the ovaries, which can impact your ability to become pregnant.. However, there are different versions and severities. Some women with PCOS have no issue getting pregnant while others struggle with their fertility.

While there are medications that can help with PCOS symptoms and help stimulate fertility, they may not be recommended when considering becoming a surrogate with PCOS. If you’ve had previous pregnancies free of complications with PCOS, you likely won’t have a problem becoming a surrogate. This is especially true if you meet the rest of the surrogate requirements. Those include:

  • Between the ages of 21-40

  • Previous pregnancy without major complications

  • No more than five vaginal births or three cesarean births

  • Be raising your own child in your home

  • No felony convictions

  • Have a healthy BMI range

  • No tattoos or piercings in the last 12 months

What is PCOS?

There are a variety of PCOS diagnoses. It has become very common among women of childbearing years and may be found early. The four types of PCOS include:

  • Insulin-resistant PCOS – occurs due to high insulin levels in the body and can be caused by metabolic syndrome.

  • Inflammatory PCOS – can prevent ovulation and can cause hormone imbalances.

  • Post-pill PCOS – this often happens after abruptly stopping oral contraceptives.

  • Adrenal PCOS – the driving force of this form is how our body responds to stress, with the body reacting abnormally to higher levels of stress.

There are several ways to discover you may have PCOS. The best way to determine if this is a syndrome you have is by contacting your medical provider to get an official diagnosis. Signs and symptoms of PCOS include:

  • Irregular periods

  • Too much androgen

  • Polycystic ovaries

  • A family history of PCOS

  • Weight gain, especially around the belly

  • Excess body hair

How to Manage PCOS During Pregnancy

We can help you have a healthy pregnancy as a surrogacy with PCOS. There are a number of ways to create a healthy lifestyle while also managing any PCOS symptoms. Some options include:

  • Exercise regularly

  • Monitor weight and blood sugar levels

  • Eat protecin-rich foods

  • Avoid caffeine

  • Take prenatal viatmins

  • Consult with your doctor on a regular basis

If you’re eager to become a surrogate, we’re here to help.  You can call us today to begin the process of determining your eligibility. If you’re ready to learn more about becoming a surrogate with PCOS, contact us today!

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns regarding medical conditions and surrogacy eligibility.