If you’re considering becoming a Surrogate in Oregon, you’ve probably wondered whether you qualify. That’s one of the first questions most women ask! Understanding Oregon surrogate requirements can feel overwhelming at first. But here’s the truth: these requirements exist to protect you.

Every guideline serves a purpose. They help ensure your health, safety, and emotional well-being throughout the journey. If you don’t meet every requirement right now, that’s okay! It doesn’t mean surrogacy isn’t for you. It just means the timing might not be quite right yet.

Let’s walk through what it takes to become a Surrogate in Oregon. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what to expect!

Table of Contents

• Who Can Become a Surrogate in Oregon?
• Medical Requirements for Oregon Surrogates
• Psychological and Emotional Readiness
• Lifestyle and Stability Requirements
• Legal and Contractual Requirements in Oregon
• Why Oregon Surrogate Requirements Matter
• Common Reasons Applicants May Not Qualify
• What Happens After You Meet the Requirements?
• Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Surrogate Requirements
• Deciding Whether Surrogacy Is Right for You

Who Can Become a Surrogate in Oregon?

Oregon welcomes gestational Surrogates from across the state. The baseline criteria focus on your overall health, pregnancy history, and readiness for this unique experience.

Age Range

Most agencies and fertility clinics work with Surrogates between 21 and 40 years old. Some may consider candidates up to 42 or 43, depending on individual health factors. This range reflects when pregnancy tends to carry the lowest medical risks.

Prior Pregnancy Experience

You’ll need at least one successful pregnancy and delivery. This shows that your body has carried a pregnancy to term without major complications. Most programs also limit candidates to no more than five total pregnancies or three cesarean sections.

General Health

Good overall health matters! You should be free from chronic conditions that could complicate pregnancy. Non-smokers are required, and you’ll need to live in a smoke-free environment.

Citizenship Status

You must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or green card holder. This ensures legal protections remain in place throughout your journey.

These baseline criteria help create a foundation for a safe, healthy surrogacy experience!

Medical Requirements for Oregon Surrogates

Medical screening is one of the most important steps in the process. It protects both you and any future pregnancy.

Pregnancy History Review

The fertility clinic will review your complete pregnancy history. They’ll look for uncomplicated deliveries and healthy outcomes. Any past complications will be evaluated carefully, not to judge you, but to ensure surrogacy is safe for your body.

Physical Health Standards

You’ll undergo a thorough physical examination. This typically includes bloodwork, infectious disease screening, and a pelvic exam. Most programs require a BMI between 18 and 32, though this can vary by clinic.

Fertility Clinic Screening

The Intended Parents’ fertility clinic plays a key role in medical clearance. Their reproductive endocrinologist will conduct additional testing to confirm you’re a strong candidate for embryo transfer.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), thorough medical screening helps reduce risks and improves outcomes for everyone involved.

Remember, in-person screening must align with your menstrual cycle timing. Your Care Team will help coordinate everything!

Psychological and Emotional Readiness

Surrogacy is an emotional journey. Psychological screening ensures you feel prepared and supported every step of the way.

Purpose of the Evaluation

A licensed mental health professional will meet with you to discuss your motivations, expectations, and coping strategies. This isn’t a test you pass or fail. It’s a conversation designed to help you succeed!

Emotional Preparedness

You’ll explore topics like how you’ll feel during pregnancy, how you’ll manage the relationship with Intended Parents, and how you’ll process the birth experience. Being honest with yourself matters here.

Communication and Boundaries

Healthy surrogacy relationships depend on clear communication. The screening helps you think through boundary-setting and what kind of contact feels right for you.

Personal and Family Support

Your support system matters! Whether it’s a partner, family members, or close friends, having people who understand your decision makes the journey smoother. At Golden Surrogacy, founder Frank Golden leads the team, guiding every Surrogate as family.

Lifestyle and Stability Requirements

Consistency creates the best environment for a healthy pregnancy. These requirements help ensure you can focus on yourself throughout the journey.

Stable Housing

You’ll need a safe, stable living environment. This doesn’t mean you need a perfect home! It simply means your living situation should support a healthy pregnancy.

Reliable Transportation

Surrogacy involves medical appointments, sometimes at clinics in different cities. Having reliable transportation helps you attend every appointment without added stress.

Household Support

If you have children, childcare planning matters. You’ll want support at home during appointments and especially during the later stages of pregnancy.

Financial Stability

Most programs require that you’re not currently receiving certain forms of public assistance. This helps ensure surrogacy compensation supports your journey rather than replacing essential income.

Your dedicated Care Team supports Surrogates throughout, and your Program Manager is available via phone, text, and email whenever you need guidance!

Legal and Contractual Requirements in Oregon

Oregon has clear, supportive surrogacy laws that protect Surrogates. Understanding the legal process helps you feel confident and secure.

Written Surrogacy Agreement

Every surrogacy journey requires a comprehensive legal contract. This document outlines everyone’s rights, responsibilities, and expectations. It covers everything from compensation to medical decisions.

Independent Legal Counsel

You’ll have your own attorney, completely separate from the Intended Parents’ lawyer. This ensures your interests are fully represented. The Intended Parents cover the cost of your legal counsel!

Legal Before Medical

The legal process begins only after medical clearance. Your contract must be signed before any embryo transfer takes place. This protects you every step of the way.

For more details on how Oregon law supports Surrogates, check out our Oregon Surrogacy Laws guide!

Why Oregon Surrogate Requirements Matter

Every requirement exists for a reason. They’re not hurdles to jump over. They’re safeguards designed with your well-being in mind!

Protecting Your Health

Medical and lifestyle requirements help identify any potential risks before pregnancy begins. Catching concerns early protects your physical health.

Reducing Risk

Psychological screening and legal protections reduce emotional and financial risks. You deserve to enter this journey feeling informed and secure.

Upholding Ethical Standards

Reputable agencies like Golden Surrogacy maintain high standards because they care about Surrogates. These requirements reflect a commitment to treating you with respect and dignity.

Common Reasons Applicants May Not Qualify

Not everyone qualifies right away. And that’s completely okay! Here are some common reasons an application might be paused.

Medical History

Certain pregnancy complications or health conditions may require additional evaluation. Sometimes a condition can be managed. Other times, the timing just isn’t right.

Lifestyle Factors

Living in a smoking household, lacking reliable transportation, or experiencing housing instability can affect eligibility. Many of these factors can change over time!

Timing and Readiness

If you’re in the middle of a major life transition, waiting might be the best choice. Surrogacy works best when you feel settled and supported.

If you don’t qualify today, you may qualify in the future. Eligibility can change as your circumstances evolve!

What Happens After You Meet the Requirements?

Once you meet the requirements, the real journey begins! Here’s a quick overview of what comes next.

Application Review

Your application and initial screening results are reviewed by the agency team. Learn more about the surrogacy process to see the full picture.

Clinic Screening

You’ll complete medical screening at the fertility clinic. This includes all the physical and psychological evaluations we discussed.

Legal Coordination

After medical clearance, contracts are drafted and reviewed. You’ll work with your independent attorney to finalize everything.

Matching

You’ll be matched with Intended Parents who share your values and preferences. This is one of the most exciting parts of the journey!

Throughout the process, Golden Surrogacy’s dedicated Care Team supports Surrogates every step of the way. You’re never alone! Check out the surrogacy timeline for more details on what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Surrogate Requirements

Do I need to live in Oregon to be a Surrogate there?

Not necessarily! Oregon’s laws are favorable, but your primary residence and the Intended Parents’ preferences both play a role. Requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, surrogacy agency-specific criteria, and clinic guidelines.

Do I need prior pregnancy experience?

Yes. You must have had at least one healthy, full-term pregnancy and delivery. This demonstrates that your body can safely carry a pregnancy.

Can requirements vary by clinic?

Absolutely. Each fertility clinic sets its own medical standards. Your agency will help match you with clinics that align with your profile.

What if I’m unsure whether I qualify?

Reach out! There’s no obligation to continue. A quick conversation can help clarify whether surrogacy is right for you.

Can I apply again later if I don’t qualify now?

Yes! Eligibility can change over time. If your circumstances shift, you’re welcome to reapply.

Deciding Whether Surrogacy Is Right for You

Understanding the requirements is the first step toward making an informed decision. Knowledge is power!

Take your time. Ask questions. Talk to your family. There’s no rush.

If you meet the requirements and feel ready, surrogacy can be one of the most meaningful experiences of your life. You’ll help create a family while being supported, compensated, and celebrated every step of the way.

When you’re ready to learn more, explore our Become a Surrogate page. We’re here to answer your questions and support you, no pressure, just information!