Deciding to have a child is one of the most significant decisions you can make. Thanks to modern medicine, surrogacy helps women and men who cannot conceive because of health conditions or same-sex relationships. Choosing a suitable surrogate to carry your child requires thoughtfulness and time to ensure they are a match for your family. Whether you choose a carrier independently or through an agency, here is a guide on finding the best surrogate for you and your partner. 

How to Choose Your Surrogate

1. Health

An ideal candidate would be a nonsmoker with a body mass index (BMI) between 19 and 32 and no history of drug use. They must pass physical and psychological screenings as well. This process may be emotional, and a history of postpartum depression or mental illness can complicate the arrangement. Choose a woman who has had healthy pregnancies before and understands what to expect from it, making the process smoother for both parties involved.

2. Trustworthiness

Select a surrogate who you can trust. Since she will be carrying the child, you want to make sure that she cares just as much about your baby's health as you do. You will need to trust she is taking care of her body and attending appointments you may not be present for.

3. Age

The woman you choose should be at an age where she can handle the emotional and physical challenges of pregnancy. The age range may vary when using an agency, but ages 21 to 42 are appropriate for surrogacy should they pass the previous requirements and screenings. However, there can be increased physical risks for women 40 and older.

If you dream of parenthood, make it a reality with Diamond Institute for Infertility & Menopause in Millburn, NJ. With 40 years of experience, this skilled infertility clinic, led by doctors Matan Yemini and Ndidimaka Onwubalili, has provided custom treatment programs for patients going through IVF, artificial insemination, egg freezing, and gestational surrogacy. Start your next chapter today by calling (973) 761-5600 or visiting them online to schedule your consultation.