Surrogate Requirements
We strive to ensure the health and well-being of both our surrogates and the babies they carry. To achieve this, our agency adheres to surrogate requirements based on guidelines set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), which are strictly followed by the vast majority of IVF clinics in the United States. These surrogate requirements are designed to provide the best outcomes for everyone involved in the surrogacy journey. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in meeting these standards, as they help create a safe and supportive environment for you and the families you are helping.
To qualify as a surrogate with Ivy Surrogacy, you must:
- Be a US citizen or permanent resident
- Between the ages of 21-38
- Delivered at least one healthy child
- Have had no more than 2 C-sections or 5 deliveries
-
Body Mass Index (BMI) of 32 or below ( BMI Calculator )
- No history of illegal substance use or recent marijuana/tobacco use
- Have a support system
- Reside in a surrogacy friendly state
Don’t meet every item on this list?
You might still qualify. Reach out—we’re here to help you find out.
💬 Can I Still Be a Surrogate If…?
Many women assume they’re not eligible to become a surrogate due to their medical history or unique circumstances. In reality, you may still qualify in the following situations. At Ivy Surrogacy, we understand that no two journeys are alike. That’s why we take a personalized, case-by-case approach when reviewing surrogate requirements—because your unique experience matters, and we’re here to help you explore your options with care and clarity.
Yes. Having your tubes tied (a tubal ligation) does not affect your ability to be a surrogate. Since embryos are transferred directly to the uterus through IVF, natural conception is not required. For more details, read our comprehensive guide: Can You Be a Surrogate After a Tubal Ligation? Here’s What You Need to Know.
It depends. If your gestational diabetes was controlled with diet alone and did not require insulin, you may still be eligible. Our medical team will review your pregnancy history to determine eligibility.
Possibly. Irregular periods don’t automatically disqualify you. Many surrogates with irregular cycles go through fertility treatment and successfully carry pregnancies through IVF.
Yes, in many cases. A history of miscarriage or termination doesn’t automatically disqualify you. As long as you’ve had at least one healthy full-term pregnancy, we may still consider your application.
Maybe. Certain medications are compatible with surrogacy, while others are not. Please let us know what medications you’re currently taking so our team can evaluate your individual situation.
It depends. A history of premature birth doesn’t automatically disqualify you from becoming a surrogate. Our medical team will carefully evaluate the cause, timing, and severity of the premature delivery. If it was a one-time event or occurred close to full term without serious complications, you may still qualify to move forward.
Most likely not. While some IVF clinics accept surrogates with a BMI up to 32, the majority follow stricter surrogate requirements and prefer a BMI under 30. Intended parents also often have ideal BMI preferences when selecting a surrogate. If your BMI is above 32, matching opportunities will be very limited, and you may be asked to lower it before moving forward.
It depends on the type and treatment status of the STD. Certain infections like syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia do not automatically disqualify you, as long as they have been properly treated and cleared. However, having an active or untreated STD may delay your eligibility. As part of standard surrogate requirements, all candidates must undergo thorough medical screening to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for both the surrogate and the baby.