Many clients have asked what they should look for when choosing a gestational carrier. Ultimately, the best answer is that they should work with someone that “feels right,” and most intended parents know that feeling when it comes. However, to offer additional guidance, here is a list of the qualities that many agencies and even some state laws require or recommend that a prospective gestational carrier possess:
- At least 18 years of age (some agencies and states require that she be at least 21 years old)
- Married or in a stable committed relationship with someone who is supportive of her decision to be a gestational carrier
- Has had and is raising at least one child of her own
- Is in good physical and mental health (some IVF clinics will not accept gestational carriers who have had a history of or are currently taking anti-depressants or other psychotropic medications or whose Body Mass Index is too high)
- Is satisfied with the size of her own family and/or does not desire to have additional children of her own
- Is comfortable with the sexual orientation and religion of the intended parents
- Has health insurance and/or can easily obtain health insurance and access to quality healthcare
- Has compatible views with the intended parents on abortion and reduction
- Is not on public assistance or in financial crisis
- Does not have a criminal history (particularly in crimes such as fraud, extortion, financial crimes, and/or prostitution)
(This article is not intended as legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Each family and agreement is unique, so you should hire a competent attorney to advise you specifically about your particular case.)
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