Surrogate Questions
What are the requirements to become a surrogate Through Roots Surrogacy?
Have delivered a child of their own and have at least 50% custody.
Are between the ages of 21-41 years of age
Do not participate in certain government aid programs including cash assistance, welfare, public housing or section 8
Typically have a Body Mass Index (BMI) of no higher than 30. (In some instances, BMI between 31-33 is acceptable.) Calculate My BMI.
Live in a surrogate-friendly state in the United States
Have the support of family and friends and partner (should one exist)
Do not use illegal drugs, smoke cigarettes, or abuse alcohol
Are not currently using any medications for mental health issues
My husband is hesitant. What should I do?
Partners often start out with hesitation. You are their everything – their wife, their partner, and the mother of their children. They are concerned for your health and safety and we respect them for that. The only thing you can do is talk to your partner and give him/her time. It is an absolute requirement for all surrogates with partners (boyfriend, girlfriend, husband or wife) to have their full support in order to move forward.
I have had a Tubal Ligation (tubes tied). Can I still be a surrogate?
Absolutely. Having your tubes tied will not affect your ability to be a successful surrogate.
Do I need insurance that covers surrogacy?
If you have insurance that covers the surrogacy process, great! If not, Roots Surrogacy will work with your intended parents to find you a policy that covers the cost of your maternity care and delivery. Your intended parents will cover all out of pocket maximums as well.
I am currently enrolled in a government assistance program. Can I be a surrogate?
We are unable to accept applicants who are enrolled in certain government programs, including cash assistance, welfare, public housing, and Section 8 housing. There are other government programs that are more lenient about income allowances. With all government aid, it is likely that you will no longer be able to receive aid during surrogacy. Roots Surrogacy will consider any government programs in which you are enrolled when reviewing your application.
What is BMI?
BMI is your Body Mass Index and gives the doctors a generalized idea of health based on weight and height. While each person's composition is unique, there is a guideline that women need to be under a BMI of 34 to be eligible for surrogacy. To calculate your BMI, click here.
How soon can I become a surrogate after delivery?
Fertility clinics vary but a good estimate is no earlier than 12 months.
I am currently breastfeeding. Can I still apply to become a surrogate?
Please feel free to apply but you will not be able to be medically cleared until your period has returned for two cycles and you have completely weaned.
I do not believe in selective reduction or abortion for any reason. Should I still apply?
Most people or couples want the ability to decide what is right for their family, even if that requires termination. We do, on occasion, have parents that are not interested in termination. Please apply but note that the wait time to find a parent who does not want the right to choose may be much longer.
I have needed to take medications for anxiety, depression, etc. Can I still be a surrogate?
Mental health and stability are two key factors in becoming a surrogate. If your past required medication that you are no longer using, please share that information in your application. Unfortunately, if you are currently using mental health medications, we are unable to accept you as a gestational carrier.
I do not have a partner. Can I still be a surrogate?
Yes. Single moms often make great surrogates. You do need to have a support team in place and your village surrounding you in case you need help during the pregnancy and beyond.
If I have a sexually-transmitted disease/infection (STI/STD) can I still be a carrier?
Some STIs/STDs will disqualify you. HIV and Hepatitis (or any others that could be communicated to a fetus/baby) would disqualify you, whereas others, such as genital warts and genital herpes, may not. Please note that if you are experiencing an outbreak of genital herpes close to delivery we would request that you have a C-section and follow the advice of your primary obstetrician.
Have more questions? Contact us!