California Surrogate Clinic Screening: What to Expect
September 18, 2025 by Frank Golden
If you’re considering becoming a Surrogate in California, you probably have questions about what happens during clinic screening. It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about this step! The good news is that California surrogate clinic screening is designed to protect you, not judge you.
Clinic screening exists to make sure you’re healthy, supported, and ready for this incredible journey. Understanding what to expect can help you feel calm and confident as you move forward.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every part of the screening process. You’ll learn about medical evaluations, psychological assessments, and how long everything takes. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect and why each step matters.
Table of Contents
- Why Clinic Screening Is Required for Surrogates
- Medical Screening for California Surrogates
- Psychological Screening for Surrogates
- How Fertility Clinics Evaluate Overall Surrogate Readiness
- How Long Clinic Screening Typically Takes in California
- Red Flags in Inadequate Clinic Screening
- How Golden Surrogacy Supports Surrogates Through Screening
- Frequently Asked Questions About California Surrogate Clinic Screening
- What Comes After Clinic Screening?
Why Clinic Screening Is Required for Surrogates
Clinic screening is one of the most important steps in the surrogacy process. It’s not about proving yourself or passing a test. It’s about making sure you’re safe and supported throughout your journey.
California fertility clinics follow strict guidelines set by organizations like the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). These standards exist to protect Surrogates and ensure healthy pregnancies.
Screening looks at your overall health, your reproductive history, and your emotional readiness. Each evaluation serves a specific purpose. Medical screening checks that your body can safely carry a pregnancy. Psychological screening confirms that you understand the process and have the support you need.
California is known for its surrogate-friendly laws and high-quality fertility clinics. The state’s ethical standards mean that every Surrogate receives thorough, respectful care. You can learn more about the legal protections available to you in our California Surrogacy Laws guide.
Think of screening as your safety net. It’s there to catch any potential concerns early and set you up for success!
Medical Screening for California Surrogates
Medical screening happens at the Intended Parents’ fertility clinic. This is where doctors evaluate your physical health and reproductive readiness. Don’t worry! The process is straightforward, and most Surrogates find it easier than expected.
Medical History Review
First, the clinic will review your complete medical history. They’ll ask about your past pregnancies, deliveries, and any health conditions you’ve experienced.
Be honest and thorough during this conversation. The more information you share, the better the clinic can support you. Previous pregnancy complications, surgeries, or chronic conditions all matter.
This isn’t about finding reasons to say no. It’s about understanding your unique health profile and planning accordingly.
Physical Exams and Lab Testing
Next comes a physical exam and laboratory testing. The clinic will check your general health, including blood pressure and heart health.
Blood tests screen for infectious diseases like HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and syphilis. You’ll also have a pap smear and cervical testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea. A urine drug test confirms you’re drug-free.
An ultrasound examines your reproductive system. This helps doctors confirm that everything looks healthy for pregnancy.
All of these tests follow CDC guidelines for maternal health. They’re standard practice at every reputable fertility clinic in California.
Prior Pregnancy Requirements
To become a Surrogate, you must have carried at least one pregnancy to term without major complications. This requirement comes directly from ASRM guidelines.
Why? Because your previous pregnancy history is the best predictor of future pregnancy success. Clinics want to see that your body has safely carried a baby before.
You can review all the baseline requirements in our California Surrogate Requirements blog. Meeting these standards before screening helps everything go smoothly!
Psychological Screening for Surrogates
Psychological screening is just as important as medical screening. It ensures you’re emotionally prepared for the surrogacy journey and that you have strong support systems in place.
The evaluation typically has two parts. First, you’ll meet with a licensed mental health professional for a surrogacy consultation. This session usually lasts about two hours, though it can be split into shorter meetings.
During this conversation, you’ll discuss your motivation for becoming a Surrogate. The counselor will ask about your pregnancy history, family relationships, and support network. They want to understand why surrogacy matters to you and how you’ll handle the emotional aspects.
Your primary support person will also complete a separate screening. This confirms they’re ready to help you throughout the journey!
Second, you’ll take a standardized psychological assessment called the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI). This test takes about 30 to 45 minutes. A licensed psychologist interprets the results to evaluate your overall psychological readiness.
This screening protects you long-term. Surrogacy involves unique emotional experiences, and the clinic wants to make sure you feel confident and supported every step of the way.
How Fertility Clinics Evaluate Overall Surrogate Readiness
Fertility clinics work closely with surrogacy agencies to evaluate Surrogate readiness. This partnership ensures nothing falls through the cracks.
At Golden Surrogacy, we coordinate with California’s top fertility clinics throughout the screening process. Our team communicates with clinic staff to schedule appointments, share records, and advocate for you.
Different clinics may have slightly different requirements. Some may ask for additional testing based on your health history. Others might have specific protocols for certain procedures. This is normal and nothing to worry about!
What matters most is that your clinic follows ASRM guidelines and takes a thorough, ethical approach. Experienced clinic partnerships make the entire process smoother and more comfortable for Surrogates.
In-person screening must align with your menstrual cycle timing. Your Care Team will help you coordinate these appointments so everything stays on track.
How Long Clinic Screening Typically Takes in California
Most Surrogates complete clinic screening within four to six weeks. However, timing can vary based on individual circumstances and clinic schedules.
Medical screening appointments usually happen over one to two visits. Psychological evaluations can often be scheduled within a week or two. The clinic then reviews all results before providing final clearance.
Want to avoid delays? Here are some tips:
- Gather your medical records early
- Be responsive to scheduling requests
- Complete any required paperwork promptly
- Ask questions if anything is unclear
The screening phase fits into the larger California Surrogacy Timeline. Understanding how each step connects helps you plan and prepare.
Remember, pacing matters more than speed. Thorough screening protects your health and sets you up for a positive experience!
Red Flags in Inadequate Clinic Screening
Not all surrogacy experiences are created equal. It’s important to recognize when screening standards fall short.
Watch out for these warning signs:
Rushed approvals. If a clinic or agency pushes you through screening too quickly, that’s a concern. Proper evaluations take time.
Missing evaluations. Every Surrogate should complete both medical and psychological screening. Skipping either one puts you at risk.
Lack of transparency. You deserve clear answers about what’s happening and why. If a clinic won’t explain their process, that’s a red flag.
Pressure to proceed. You should never feel forced to move forward before you’re ready. Ethical clinics and agencies respect your autonomy.
Cutting corners on screening can endanger your health and well-being. Always work with agencies and clinics that prioritize thorough, ethical practices. You can learn more about identifying quality agencies in our guide to choosing a successful surrogacy agency.
How Golden Surrogacy Supports Surrogates Through Screening
At Golden Surrogacy, we believe every Surrogate deserves exceptional support. Founder Frank Golden leads our team, guiding every Surrogate as family.
Here’s how we help you through screening:
Scheduling coordination. Your dedicated Care Team handles appointment scheduling and logistics. We work around your availability and cycle timing.
Education before appointments. We explain exactly what to expect before each evaluation. No surprises!
Advocacy and communication. Our Agency Director is available via phone, text, and email. If you have questions or concerns, we’re here.
Transparency at every step. We keep you informed throughout the process. You’ll always know where you stand and what comes next.
We partner with California’s most respected fertility clinics. These relationships ensure you receive thorough, respectful care from experienced professionals.
Screening is a team effort. You’re never alone in this journey!
Frequently Asked Questions About California Surrogate Clinic Screening
Does clinic screening hurt?
Most screening procedures are comfortable and painless. Blood draws and pap smears may cause brief discomfort, but nothing significant. The psychological evaluation is simply a conversation and written assessment.
Can a Surrogate fail screening?
Screening isn’t a pass-or-fail test. It’s an evaluation to ensure safety and readiness. If concerns arise, the clinic will discuss them with you. Some issues can be addressed, while others may mean surrogacy isn’t the right fit at this time.
Who pays for clinic screening?
You don’t pay for clinic screening! The Intended Parents cover all costs, including travel expenses. Learn more about financial aspects in our California Surrogate Compensation guide.
What happens if a clinic does not approve me?
If you’re not approved, your agency will explain why and discuss options. Sometimes a different clinic may have different requirements. Other times, waiting and addressing specific health concerns makes sense.
Can I ask questions during screening?
Absolutely! Ask as many questions as you need. Understanding the process helps you feel confident and informed.
What Comes After Clinic Screening?
Once you receive medical clearance, exciting things happen! The legal process begins only after medical clearance is confirmed.
You’ll work with an independent attorney to review your surrogacy contract. This legal protection ensures your rights, compensation, and expectations are clearly documented.
After contracts are finalized, you’ll prepare for embryo transfer. Your Care Team coordinates everything with the fertility clinic.
During your second trimester, birthrights planning and hospital coordination commence. Golden Surrogacy handles these details so you can focus on your health and well-being.
Ready to learn more? Visit our Become a Surrogate page to explore whether this journey is right for you.
Taking Your Next Step
California surrogate clinic screening is designed to protect and support you. Every evaluation exists to ensure you’re healthy, informed, and ready for this meaningful journey.
Understanding the process removes uncertainty and builds confidence. You now know what medical and psychological screening involves, how long it takes, and what to watch for.
If you’re considering surrogacy, take your time. Ask questions. Gather information. When you feel ready, Golden Surrogacy is here to guide you every step of the way.
Explore our surrogacy resources or reach out to our team whenever you’re ready to learn more. Your journey starts whenever you say so!
