ESEspañol中文中文

Surrogates

Surrogate requirements

To become a surrogate with Royal you must be 21–36 years old with a BMI under 32, have had at least one healthy full-term pregnancy, be raising a child, be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, be a non-smoker, and live in a surrogacy-friendly state (not Michigan, Louisiana or Nebraska).

Updated

Pregnant surrogate in her third trimester

Becoming a surrogate is a generous decision, and your health is our top priority. Just as we screen intended parents, every gestational carrier completes a detailed screening. Our requirements are as strict as, or stricter than, the guidelines of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), and we also consider the criteria of the reproductive endocrinologist (RE) overseeing each transfer.

Basic requirements

  • At least one full-term, healthy pregnancy with no complications, with medical records
  • Currently raising at least one child
  • Age 21 to 36
  • BMI under 32
  • No more than 5 deliveries and 2 C-sections
  • U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, with documentation for at least two years
  • A valid driver’s license
  • Living in a surrogacy-friendly state (not Michigan, Louisiana, Nebraska or outside the U.S.)
  • Non-smoker in excellent health
  • No history of alcohol or substance abuse
  • A strong support system, including your spouse or partner if you have one
  • Willing to complete a criminal background check (your spouse too, if married)
  • Open to traveling to fertility clinics for IVF

Conditions that usually disqualify

Pregnancy and gynecological history

  • PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)
  • Endometriosis
  • Preeclampsia
  • Gestational diabetes, unless diet-controlled
  • More than two C-sections
  • Preterm delivery in a prior pregnancy
  • Uterine abnormalities or surgery, including Essure

Medical history

  • Cancer, lupus, hepatitis C, HIV
  • Type 1 or type 2 diabetes
  • Sickle cell disease

Psychosocial

  • History of substance abuse
  • Certain antidepressants or antipsychotics
  • No stable home environment
  • No support from a spouse or partner

Some conditions can be reevaluated. If you are close to meeting the criteria, we encourage you to apply.

Sources

  1. ASRM Practice Committee: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers (2022)
  2. CDC: Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART)

Frequently asked questions

What is the age limit to be a surrogate?

Royal accepts surrogates aged 21 to 36.

What BMI do I need to be a surrogate?

Your BMI should be under 32. Some IVF clinics set a lower limit, which we take into account when matching.

Can I be a surrogate if I've had a C-section?

Yes, as long as you've had no more than 2 C-sections and no more than 5 deliveries in total.

Can I be a surrogate if I'm on antidepressants?

It depends on the medication and your history. Some SSRIs are permitted under clinic guidance, so apply and we'll review your situation.

Which states can't I be a surrogate from?

Royal does not currently accept surrogates living in Michigan, Louisiana or Nebraska, or outside the U.S.