Preparing for a Safe Surrogacy Journey
Choosing to become a surrogate is a generous and serious decision. Because pregnancy carries real responsibility, we take time to ensure that this path is appropriate and safe for everyone involved.
The guidelines below are in place to support your health, reduce risk, and create stability throughout the journey. Our team reviews each application thoughtfully and individually. The goal is not simply approval, but confidence that you are stepping into a process that is medically sound and well supported from the beginning.
Basic Surrogate Requirements
To be considered as a surrogate with Coast to Coast Surrogacy, you must meet the following general qualifications:
Age and Pregnancy History
- Be between 21 and 42 years old
- Have delivered at least one child without serious pregnancy or delivery complications
Residency and Legal Status
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Reside in a surrogacy-friendly state
Health and Lifestyle
- Be a non-smoker and live in a smoke-free home
- Be drug-free
- Have a Body Mass Index of 32 or less
- Have no history of substance abuse
- Not currently be receiving federal or state financial assistance (some forms of assistance may be acceptable)
Stability and Readiness
- Have reliable transportation to attend medical appointments
- Have no significant criminal history
- Be willing to undergo a background check, including for your spouse or partner
- Be willing to complete a psychological evaluation, including for your spouse or partner
- Be willing to complete a medical examination and follow a prescribed medication calendar, including the use of injections
- Be open to an in-home evaluation
- Be able to obtain clearance from your OB to pursue a surrogacy pregnancy.
These requirements are based on medical guidelines and industry standards to ensure safety for you and the baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is normal to have questions about eligibility and qualifications when considering surrogacy. Because this is a serious commitment, it is important to understand the standards and why they exist.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about meeting the requirements. If you are unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to reach out. Our team is available to review your situation and provide clear guidance.
Why are there strict requirements for surrogates?
These guidelines exist to protect your health, reduce pregnancy risks, and ensure a safe outcome for the baby.
Can I apply if I have had a C-section?
Many women who have had prior C-sections still qualify. Approval depends on the number of prior surgeries and the details of your medical history.
Does BMI matter?
Yes. IVF clinics follow medical guidelines related to BMI because it can affect pregnancy outcomes and medication response.
What if I have mild anxiety or depression?
Mental health history does not automatically disqualify you. Approval depends on stability, treatment history, and professional evaluation.
Can I be a surrogate if I have had my tubes tied?
Yes. Having your tubes tied does not automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate. In gestational surrogacy, pregnancy occurs through embryo transfer, not natural conception. As long as your uterus is healthy and you meet the other medical qualifications, prior tubal ligation does not prevent you from qualifying.
Why do I need to have had a previous pregnancy to become a surrogate?
A prior healthy pregnancy helps confirm that your body can safely carry a pregnancy to term. It also provides important medical history for the IVF clinic to review.
Surrogacy involves significant responsibility, and prior pregnancy experience helps ensure that you understand the physical and emotional aspects of pregnancy before committing to carry for someone else.
