Becoming a Surrogate is one of the most meaningful decisions a woman can make. It’s not just about carrying a baby—it’s about partnering with a hopeful parent to build their family. If you’re wondering “Who can be a Surrogate” or “Who becomes a gestational carrier,” this guide will break it all down: eligibility, motivations, screening, risks, and the support that makes things truly possible.
The first step toward becoming a Surrogate is understanding the basic requirements. Qualified gestational carriers are carefully screened medically, legally, and psychologically to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience for everyone involved.
Age: Between 21 and 42.
Health: Must have had at least one full-term, uncomplicated pregnancy and be in good physical and mental health.
Lifestyle: Non-smoker, no drug or alcohol abuse, and able to maintain a healthy weight (BMI ≤ 32).
Family Support: A strong support network is essential for the emotional journey ahead.
Motivation: Alignment with humanitarian and altruistic motivations.
Legal Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident and live in a surrogacy-friendly jurisdiction.Read more about the requirements here.
Did you know? Women with past pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes (managed through diet) or tubal ligation can still become Surrogates. Agencies assess each case individually and holistically.
When people ask “Who becomes a Surrogate?” the answer isn’t homogeneous. Women across different ages and backgrounds choose this path for unique, deeply personal reasons:
Altruism: The joy of helping another family grow is a powerful motivator.
Empowerment: Many Surrogates say the experience builds confidence, resilience, and purpose.
Financial Security: Compensation can provide savings, education funds, or financial growth.
Faith or Humanitarian Desire: Some women feel their personal beliefs or values align with helping others fulfill their dream of parenthood.
Real-world insight: Many Surrogates say the bond formed with Intended Parents is one of the most rewarding aspects—lasting long after the journey ends.
Becoming a Surrogate involves a detailed screening process designed to protect everyone involved. At Hatch, we guide you every step of the way, which typically takes 2 months from application to matching.
Each step is designed to confirm eligibility, assess emotional readiness, and ensure you are prepared for the journey ahead.
Surrogacy isn’t just a medical process, it’s an emotional journey. One of the most common questions is: “Am I strong enough to carry a baby and then give it up?”
The answer: Most Surrogates who undergo screening and build a strong support system handle this transition well. Agencies and legal contracts ensure you remain empowered throughout.
Not every pathway to surrogacy is the same. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
Agency Supported: Rigorous and Comprehensive
Independent: Varies
Agency Supported: Professional Support Provided
Independent: Self-sourced only
Agency Supported: Included
Independent: Must manage yourself
Agency Supported: 24/7 guidance throughout
Independent: Limited to personal network
Agencies like Hatch make the journey safer, easier, and more stable, especially for first-time Surrogates.
Throughout your journey, Hatch provides full-spectrum support:
ADD IN HATCH PROMISE PHOTO from Erin
Will I bond too deeply with the baby?
Most Surrogates report forming a meaningful connection, but therapeutic support and contracts help maintain clear boundaries.
Can I make medical decisions?
Yes, you have the final say and legal protections to ensure your bodily autonomy when it comes to choices for your health and safety, however many medical decisions are made collaboratively. Generally speaking the Intended Parents want to make choices for their child such as being able to choose to terminate or reduce in the case of serious defects/disabilities. Pregnancy is a time when your health and baby’s health overlap. If there was ever a critical decision between your health and safety or baby’s- yours would come first, always.
What if something goes wrong?
Hatch covers all pregnancy-related medical care and your contract provides legal protections to safeguard your health.
Who is responsible if complications occur?
Your medical, legal, and support teams coordinate closely with Intended Parents to prioritize your well-being.
The gestational surrogacy journey usually follows these stages:
With your Surrogate Specialist
Step 1: Initial Application
Step 2: Initial Zoom Call/Preliminary Records Review***
With your Surrogate Advocate
Step 1: Welcome Zoom Call***
Step 2: Medical Records Collection/Review***
Step 3: Background Checks (Surrogate Portal)
Step 4: Partner/Support Person Call
Step 5: Local Uterine Lining Ultrasound
Step 6: Psychological Screening and PAI
With your Match Specialist
With your Case Manager
Step 1: Medical Screening
Step 2: Legal Contracts
Step 3: Cycle/ Embryo Transfer
Step 4: Pregnancy/Delivery
Step 5: Postpartum & Beyond
Choosing to become a Gestational Surrogate is much more than a decision, it’s a legacy. It’s a promise that a couple’s dream of parenthood will come true and a statement that your body and love can create lasting hope.
If you’re asking “Can I be a Surrogate?” the answer is likely yes if you meet the criteria, feel deeply motivated, and are ready to change lives forever.
Take the First Step: Start your journey with Hatch today by filling out a pre-qualification form. Your path to helping create a new family could begin with one click.