Screening Process
The Surrogate Screening Process
As a surrogate applicant you will take part in a 3-step screening process to ensure you are properly informed about what being a surrogate entails, and that surrogacy is the right fit for you and your family.
1
Surrogate Prescreening
A history of uncomplicated pregnancies and deliveries
Your age is between 21 and 42
A Body Mass Index (BMI) of no higher than 33. Calculate My BMI.
In addition, we will:
Run criminal and financial background checks
Collect health insurance information
Review medical records
Confirm U.S. residence in a surrogate-friendly state (we cannot accept gestational carriers who reside in Nebraska or Louisiana)
Please review our detailed guidance on our surrogate requirements to help you better understand the qualification process. If after the Prescreening process you seem like a good fit for surrogacy – and you feel it’s a good fit for your life – you will progress to the second step of the process: the Surrogacy Consultation with a licensed mental health professional.
2
Your Surrogacy Consultation
Your surrogacy consultation is done with a licensed mental health professional who is experienced in speaking with and screening surrogate candidates. This social work screening can last approximately 2 hours (but you can split that into two shorter meetings!)
During your Surrogacy Consultation, you will answer questions and share information on the following:
Your motivation for wanting to become a surrogate
Your pregnancy history
Your family and interpersonal relationships
Any hobbies, interests and life experiences
Who your support network will be, including identifying your Primary Support Person
Medical Records
During this phase of screening your Primary Support Person will also have a separate screening with a licensed mental health professional to ensure they are ready to take on the very important role of supporting you!
3
Psychological Assessment
Your third and final step in the Surrogate Screening Process is a psychological assessment. Each surrogate must complete psychological testing through the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) which is interpreted by a licensed psychologist.
This test typically takes around 30-45 minutes, and is used to further screen surrogate candidates to assess their overall psychological function to determine if she’s a suitable candidate for surrogacy. A surrogacy journey can be complex, and we try to determine upfront if you and your family are ready to begin this amazing adventure.
Mental health is just as important as physical health screening because it helps us assess your:
Emotional Readiness: Surrogacy is a deeply emotional journey. The psychological assessment helps ensure you are mentally prepared for the unique experience of carrying a child for someone else.
Understanding and Commitment: The psychological assessment confirms that you fully understand what's involved in being a surrogate, feel confident in your decision, and are ready to take on this life-changing responsibility with clarity and peace of mind.
Support System & Mental Wellness: The overall screening process ensures you have a strong support system and healthy emotional foundation, so both you and your family feel confident, secure, and supported throughout your journey.
What Happens After The Screening Process?
Once you complete the three steps of the screening process and all parties agree that surrogacy is a great fit for you and your family, you will review and sign our Journey Acknowledgement Form and you’ll be ready to match with intended parents!