How to Be a Surrogate: The Most Complete Guide to Your Journey

Royal Surrogacy
Sep 2
3 min read

Becoming a surrogate is one of the most meaningful and transformative journeys you can undertake. It’s a decision rooted in compassion, strength, and the desire to help others experience the joy of parenthood. At Royal Surrogacy, we are dedicated to guiding you through every phase of this process—ensuring you are informed, supported, and empowered.

This comprehensive guide details the qualifications, step-by-step process, emotional considerations, and what makes Royal Surrogacy the trusted partner for surrogates across the U.S.

Hands form a heart over a positive pregnancy test on a woman's belly. She's wearing white. The mood is hopeful and intimate.

Why Become a Surrogate?

Surrogacy is far more than carrying a child—gifting a family. It’s a profound act of generosity that changes lives forever. As a surrogate, you offer hope where there was uncertainty and create bonds that often last a lifetime. But this journey also demands physical resilience, emotional stability, and a strong support network.

🩺 Surrogate Requirements: Are You Eligible?

Becoming a surrogate involves meeting specific criteria designed to protect your health and ensure the safety of the baby. These standards follow guidelines from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and our partner fertility clinics.

🟢 Basic Qualifications

To begin your surrogate journey with Royal Surrogacy, you must satisfy the following:

Age: Between 21–36 years old
Pregnancy History: At least one full-term pregnancy with no complications. Medical records will be reviewed.
Parenting Status: Currently raising at least one child
BMI: A healthy height-to-weight ratio with BMI not exceeding 31
Citizenship/Residency: U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident for a minimum of two years
Valid Driver’s License: Required for travel to appointments
Location: Must reside in a surrogacy-friendly state (not in Michigan, Louisiana, or Nebraska)
Health: Non-smoker, no drug use, and in excellent physical and mental health
Support System: Strong emotional support from family/partner
Background Check: Willing to complete criminal background screening (spouse/partner as well, if applicable)

🔴 Disqualifying Conditions

Certain health or historical factors may prevent approval. These include:

Gynecological/Obstetric History:
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
- Endometriosis
- Preeclampsia
- Gestational diabetes (unless diet-controlled)
- More than two C-sections
- Preterm delivery in prior pregnancy
- Uterine abnormalities or surgery, including Essure®
Medical History:
- Cancer
- Lupus
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- Diabetes (type 1 or 2)
- Sickle cell disease
Other Factors:
- History of substance abuse
- Use of certain antidepressants or antipsychotics
- No stable home environment
- Lack of support from spouse/partner

Note: Some conditions (e.g., borderline BMI) may be reevaluated. We encourage you to apply if you are close to meeting the criteria.

💬 Emotional and Psychological Readiness

Surrogacy is an emotional journey. You will work with a mental health professional to assess:

Your motivations for becoming a surrogate
Emotional experiences during past pregnancies
Your current support network
Understanding of the process and potential challenges

This evaluation ensures you are mentally prepared for the rewards and complexities of the surrogacy path.

📋 The Surrogate Process: Step-by-Step

Here’s a simplified overview of the surrogate journey with typical timeframes for each stage:

Application (20-30 mins): Complete our online form to share basic health and lifestyle information.
Consultation (Within 48 hours): A video call with our team to discuss your profile and answer your questions.
Pre-Screening (2-4 weeks): We review your medical records, conduct a psychological screening, and run background checks.
Matching (2-3 weeks): You’re matched with intended parents based on shared preferences. You can accept or decline any match.
Medical Screening (4-6 weeks): Visit the IVF clinic for physical exams and tests to ensure you’re ready for transfer.
Legal Contracts (2-4 weeks): An attorney helps review and finalize your surrogacy agreement.
Embryo Transfer (5-8 weeks): Begin medication and undergo the embryo transfer procedure.
Pregnancy (9-10 months): Regular monitoring and support throughout your pregnancy journey.
Delivery & Beyond (Ongoing): Deliver at the hospital, and we provide postpartum support.