Struggling to conceive is a journey shared by so many women.
But an even bigger concern for future parents is ensuring a healthy pregnancy from start to finish.
However, the right surrogate mother can give you the peace of mind you need to ensure a successful pregnancy.
In fact, data from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Council for Responsible Genetics show that surrogate births more than doubled in just four years.
But a more important question remains.
How do you ensure a successful pregnancy when someone else is carrying your child?
This is such an important concern and one that all future parents should have before choosing their surrogate.
That’s why we’re decoding everything you need to know to choose the right surrogate moving forward.
Healthy Track Record
Choosing a surrogate mother with impeccable health may seem obvious, but there are several health factors to consider.
You can’t let anything slide when it comes to the health, so let’s go over the health factors you need to look for:
- 100% non-smoker.
- Absolutely no drinking or drug use.
- A cleared psychological mental screening provided by a licensed professional.
- Healthy medical history and birth record.
- Does not require medications that complicate pregnancies.
Another potential health factor to consider is whether or not your potential surrogate is an active mother raising a child. This type of experience can be helpful in choosing a surrogate with the innate knowledge of how to maintain a healthy pregnancy.
A Surrogate Mother with a Strong Support System
Now, here’s a determining factor that may not seem as obvious as a healthy track record.
Being pregnant also means being prepared for anything at a moment’s notice.
Pregnant women’s bodies rapidly change, so surrogates commonly feel a range of both physical and mental responses.
At a moment’s notice, your surrogate may need to see a doctor due to Braxton Hicks, overwhelming fatigue, hypertension, or other concerns.
That’s why it’s important to choose a surrogate mother who already has a strong support system of family and friends.
A surrogate pregnancy is a collaboration between you and your surrogate, but you also deserve the peace of mind that your surrogate has a support system beyond yourself.
Clean Background Check
There is a transactional aspect to choosing the surrogate route. Therefore, it’s so important that you choose a surrogate mother that you can trust.
Since you’re entrusting another individual to carry your child, it’s critical that you perform a criminal background check prior to making your surrogate agreement.
Anyone with any prior criminal charges, especially fraud and drugs, should be immediately crossed off your list of prospective surrogates.
This process should also begin a sincere discussion about the current financial stability of your prospective surrogate.
Experts suggest choosing a surrogate that already has a decent monthly income with a legitimate company or profession.
Along with a clean criminal background check and financial stability, don’t forget to check your surrogate’s health, history, and family support system.
This way, you’ll be one step closer to realizing your dream of becoming a parent, but with less bumps in the road.