The first question intended parents usually have after deciding to go through surrogacy is ‘How do I choose the right surrogate? There are 7 main factors that intended parents should consider when choosing the best candidate.
# 1 - Pregnancy History
Candidates must have gone through at least 1 full term pregnancy without complications to be qualified. If candidates also have a history of miscarriage, they are still qualified as long as it was during early pregnancy.
# 2 - Health
To ensure the safe delivery of your baby, the physical and psychological health of your surrogate candidate are important. The candidate should have a well balanced diet and live a healthy lifestyle. For example, a healthy body mass index (BMI) can minimize gestational high blood pressure and diabetes during pregnancy. The candidate should also be mentally fit to undergo the surrogacy process and is not currently taking any antidepressants. A psychological evaluation of the candidate will be done during the screening process.
# 3 - Age
Most IVF doctors recommend that surrogacy candidates are between the ages of 21 and 40. The chance of complications increases as women age. Based on a 2014 study, the risk of emergency C-section is 3 times more among pregnant women over 40.
# 4 - Background Check
At times throughout the pregnancy, the doctor may require the surrogate to bed rest for an extended period of time. Surrogates who have support from friends and family are better able to carry the pregnancy. Those able to assist with household chores, childcare and emotional support may minimize the amount of stress the surrogate will receive.
# 5 - Location
Ideally the candidates’ home residence is located in a state that permits surrogacy with compensation. In case abortion or reduction is considered, it is recommended that abortion is protected by State laws.
# 6 - Family Support
Candidates are required to undergo a full background check of their criminal history. They should also not be involved in any civil lawsuits regarding divorce, legal separation, annulment, child and spousal support, and child custody cases.
# 7 - Emotional Support
We encourage intended parents to choose a candidate that they feel most connected to. The relationship between intended parents and surrogates requires cooperation and trust to ensure the wellness of your baby.