At Acorn Surrogacy Center in Los Angeles, the health and safety of surrogates, intended parents, and babies is our top priority. One of the most important steps in the surrogacy journey is the medical screening process. While it may seem complex, this step ensures that everyone is fully prepared for a safe, healthy, and successful experience.
Why Is Medical Screening for Surrogacy Important?
Medical and psychological screenings serve as safeguards for everyone involved in the surrogacy process. They help confirm that a surrogate is physically and emotionally ready to carry a baby and that all potential risks are minimized. Screening also provides intended parents with peace of mind, knowing their surrogate has been carefully evaluated.
This stage is standard in North America, whether you’re entering a commercial surrogacy arrangement or an altruistic one. No embryo transfer can take place until screenings are completed and cleared.
Who Is Eligible to Become a Surrogate?
Before medical testing begins, applicants must meet basic eligibility criteria, often guided by standards from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Generally, candidates must:
Be between 21 and 45 years old
Have a BMI under 36
Be a non-smoker and drug-free
Have given birth to at least one child without major complications
Live with their child(ren)
Have no more than five vaginal deliveries and no more than three C-sections
Be financially stable and supported at home
Have no felony convictions (applies to both the surrogate and her partner)
These requirements protect the surrogate’s health and ensure the best outcome for the intended parents.
What Does Medical Screening Include?
Medical screenings take place at the intended parents’ chosen IVF clinic. While procedures may vary slightly, most screenings involve:
Medical history review and physical exam
Pap smear and cervical swabs for infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea
Blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B & C, syphilis, HTLV-1, hormone levels (thyroid, prolactin), and blood type compatibility
Urine drug testing to ensure a drug-free environment for pregnancy
Ultrasound to examine the uterus
In some cases, a hysteroscopy to evaluate the uterus, cervix, and lining
All of these steps are designed to make sure the surrogate is healthy and that the pregnancy can move forward safely.
Psychological Evaluation
Just as important as medical testing, a psychological evaluation helps determine if a surrogate is emotionally prepared for the journey. This assessment is usually performed by a licensed therapist or social worker. Topics may include:
Past mental health challenges and how they were resolved
The surrogate’s motivation for pursuing surrogacy
The strength of her support system during pregnancy and recovery
Some women feel nervous about this step, but it’s simply an opportunity for reflection and reassurance. It ensures that both the surrogate and intended parents are ready for the unique challenges and joys ahead.
Drug and Substance Testing
Drug use during pregnancy can cause serious harm to a baby. For that reason, comprehensive drug testing is a required part of the surrogacy screening process.
If an applicant tests positive for illegal drugs, she will not qualify.
Exceptions may be made in cases of prescribed medications (for example, opioids taken briefly after surgery), provided further screenings confirm no ongoing use.
Moving Forward After Screening
Once a surrogate has been medically and psychologically cleared, she can move on to the next stage: drafting legal agreements with the intended parents. Only after contracts are in place will embryo transfer and pregnancy planning begin.
While the medical screening for surrogacy may feel detailed, it is one of the most critical steps to ensure safety and success for everyone involved. At Acorn Surrogacy Center, our team guides surrogates and intended parents through every step of the process with compassion, transparency, and support.
If you have questions about medical or psychological screening, we encourage you to reach out. Our experienced team is here to provide answers and help you begin this remarkable journey with confidence.
