BMI for Surrogacy: What You Need to Know to Qualify

If you’re thinking about becoming a surrogate, one of the first questions you might have is: “What’s the right BMI for surrogacy?” At Hatch Fertility, we require a BMI under 32 to ensure a safe and successful pregnancy.

In this guide, we’ll break down what BMI means, the risks of being outside the ideal range, and what other surrogacy qualifications you’ll need to meet.

What is BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a common way to assess whether your weight is healthy for your height.

You can calculate it by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in meters squared. Or use the BMI calculator on the CDC’s website.

This provides a number that categorizes you as one of several groups: underweight, normal weight, overweight, or obese. The categories help healthcare professionals evaluate potential health risks related to weight.

That said, BMI has its limitations. It doesn’t distinguish between muscle and fat, so if you have a muscular build, your BMI might categorize you as overweight or obese, even if your body composition is healthy. 

It also doesn’t consider where fat is distributed in your body, which matters because central or visceral fat (around your abdomen) poses greater health risks than fat stored in other areas.

When it comes to surrogacy, staying within a healthy BMI range can lower your risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. You can calculate your BMI easily, but be sure to follow up with a healthcare provider for a full assessment of your health and eligibility.

What is a "Healthy" BMI?

While BMI is a helpful tool for assessing body weight in relation to height, it should not be seen as an official representation of overall health. It’s just one piece of the health puzzle and doesn't account for factors such as muscle mass or fat distribution as we previously mentioned.

Here are the standard BMI ranges:

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
• "Healthy Weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
• Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
• Obese: BMI of 30 or higher

A “healthy” BMI range is generally associated with lower health risks, but it’s crucial to consider other aspects of health and well-being. Factors such as physical fitness, diet, and overall lifestyle also play significant roles in determining true health. 

What Are the BMI Requirements for Surrogates?

At Hatch Fertility, you must have a BMI of 32 or lower to qualify as a surrogate. This standard helps reduce the risk of complications and supports a healthy pregnancy.

While BMI guidelines may vary slightly between surrogate agencies, our range is based on decades of experience and a strong track record.

Specifically, BMI matters for surrogates because it impacts the success of the medications necessary for IVF and the embryo transfer.

Below, we’ll cover what kind of BMI complications could disqualify you from surrogacy.

High BMI Surrogacy Risks

High BMI can lead to complications and various health issues during pregnancy. These risks are not limited to the following:

• Preeclampsia
• Gestational diabetes
• Gestational hypertension
• Macrosomia (having a larger-than-average baby)
• Increased risk of cesarean delivery
• Sleep apnea
• Higher chances of miscarriage
• Postpartum hemorrhage

Low BMI Surrogacy Risks

Low BMI can also lead to complications and health issues during pregnancy. These risks include, but are not limited to:

• Premature birth
• Low birth weight
• Fetal growth restriction
• Developmental issues
• Increased risk of miscarriage
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Anemia

What Are the Surrogacy Requirements of Hatch Fertility?

Besides BMI, there are other important requirements for surrogates, including:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Age range of 21-42
• A healthy pregnancy history
• No more than two c-sections

What If Your BMI Is Too High or Too Low?

If your BMI doesn’t fall within the required range (32 or below), here are specific steps you can take to improve your eligibility.

If your BMI Is too high:

• Track your intake and activity: Use apps like MyFitnessPal to monitor calories and macronutrients.
• Focus on steady, sustainable fat loss: Aim to lose 0.5–1 kg per week by creating a moderate calorie deficit through diet and exercise.
• Prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods: Center meals around vegetables, lean proteins, legumes, and healthy fats.
• Add strength training: Building muscle can improve body composition and support long-term weight management.
• Check with your doctor: Some medications or underlying conditions (like PCOS or hypothyroidism) can affect your ability to lose weight.

If your BMI is too low:

• Increase caloric intake gradually: Focus on calorie-dense but nutritious foods like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, avocado, and whole grains.
• Incorporate strength-building workouts: Gaining lean muscle can help increase your BMI in a healthy way.
• Eat more frequently: Adding snacks between meals can help boost your overall intake without overwhelming your digestion.
• Rule out health issues: Conditions like hyperthyroidism, GI disorders, or disordered eating patterns can contribute to low weight and should be addressed with a medical provider.

Improving your BMI takes time and consistency, but it’s absolutely possible. Once you're within the recommended range, you can reapply to become a surrogate with Hatch.

We adhere to the ethical guidelines established by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) to ensure the highest standards of care and support.

Choosing to become a surrogate with Hatch Fertility means joining a community dedicated to empathy and support. With over 30 years of experience, our leading agency boasts a compassionate team of former surrogates and intended parents who provide first-hand guidance. We are here to support you every step of the way.