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Single Mothers and Surrogacy: Is It Right For You?
Most states and agencies require surrogates to have had at least one child already. As a single mom, you automatically meet that requirement. Beyond the financial benefits and helping a family bring a child of their own into the world, there are other things that you need to consider before taking the next step to becoming a surrogate.
Are You Financially Stable?
Before considering surrogacy, you must be financially secure. Surrogates are not allowed to receive government assistance programs such as food stamps, unemployment insurance, welfare, WIC, housing aid, and disability insurance while receiving compensation for surrogacy. If you are currently receiving these benefits, it is not a disqualifier. Instead, you must be willing to give up these benefits for the duration of the journey.
What Is The State of Your Health and Home Life?
Though all surrogacy candidates are thoroughly screened, there are no additional health requirements specifically for single moms. Before becoming a surrogate, be mindful of how the toll of pregnancy can affect your day-to-day responsibilities and possibly cause disruption in your home life. For the sake of your mental and physical health, make sure everyone in your home, including pets and your child(ren)’s other parent, is supportive of your decision to become a surrogate.
Do You Have A Support System?
Besides the usual babysitting needs of a single parent, you will also need childcare while at doctor appointments and meetings with the intended parents. Having reliable family members that live close by, like your child(ren)’s parent and grandparents, will provide a solid support system and peace of mind. For some surrogates, interstate travel can be required to attend specific clinics. In these situations, it would be helpful to leave your children with their other parent.
Late in your surrogate pregnancy or after the child’s birth, you might need to be on bed rest and give yourself time to heal. In addition to having friends and family to lean on, check your employer’s policy for sick leave, mental health resources, and postpartum policies regarding your life after pregnancy.
Do You Plan On Dating or Engaging in Sexual Intercourse While Being A Gestational Surrogate?
Dating and sexual intercourse are not prohibited for surrogates. However, make sure you choose a partner who understands that you are carrying someone else’s child. Your partner not only needs to be vetted by your sexual, mental, and physical health standards but also with the intended parents’ security, comfort, and wellbeing in mind. Only you, not your potential partner, are under contract with the intended parents, so it would be your responsibility to consider all three parties’ needs and desires as you navigate the surrogacy.
We understand that life happens and you may end up meeting someone special during your journey. In this situation, your case manager will refer to the contract established by the intended parents, therapist/counselor, and yourself—and give you ethical step-by-step instructions for these new personal and professional relationships.
If you are a healthy individual with a strong support system and love being pregnant, you are the perfect surrogacy candidate. Your next step would be reaching out to us at GSHC Surrogacy to begin the screening process. Click here to start your journey.