Can You Be a Surrogate After 40? Why It’s Worth Asking
When you think about a gestational surrogate, you may picture someone in her 20s or early 30s. But what if you’re 40, 41, or even in your early 40s and wondering, “Could I still be a surrogate?”
The answer is: don’t count yourself out before you ask.
In a recent episode of Me, You, and Who, we spoke with Jen, a three-time gestational carrier who began her first surrogacy journey at age 40.
Jen’s Surrogacy Journey Began at 40
Jen was already a mom to two boys who were in junior high when she first learned about surrogacy. Her family was complete, but she had always enjoyed pregnancy and felt drawn to the idea of helping another family experience parenthood.
At 40, she wasn’t sure if she was too old.
Instead of assuming she wouldn’t qualify, she explored it.
That decision led to three surrogacy journeys for three different families.
Her journeys weren’t always easy. Her first transfer wasn’t successful, and during her third journey, she experienced an ectopic pregnancy that required emergency surgery. With the support of her intended parents, medical team, and agency, she continued her journey and ultimately delivered a healthy baby boy.
Looking back, Jen says her experiences were some of the most meaningful things she has ever done.
Age Is Only One Piece of the Puzzle
Jen’s story is a reminder that turning 40 doesn’t automatically mean you should count yourself out.
Eligibility depends on much more than your age, including your pregnancy and delivery history, overall health, medical history, BMI, and emotional readiness.
Surrogacy also requires a real commitment. There are medications, injections, appointments, monitoring, and the emotional aspects of carrying a baby for another family.
As Jen shared, you have to be physically and mentally prepared for the journey.
And that’s why the best first step isn’t deciding whether you’re too old.
It’s finding out if you’re eligible.
What About Your Family?
Jen’s surrogacy journeys also became a family experience.
Her two sons were involved throughout her journeys and eventually developed relationships with the children she carried. Her parents also became familiar with the intended parents and families.
For Jen, surrogacy became much more than something she did for another family. It became a meaningful experience that her own family shared with her.
Can You Be a Surrogate After 40?
Maybe. And that’s exactly why it’s worth asking.
Jen’s advice is simple: don’t count yourself out before you learn more.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of Create A Happy Family featuring Jen, a three-time gestational carrier, to hear her complete surrogacy story
–
Ready to take a next step?
If you’ve completed your family, had healthy pregnancies, enjoyed pregnancy, and feel called to help another family, take the first step and explore your options.
You may be surprised by what’s possible.
At Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions, our current requirements for becoming a surrogate include:
- Age: 21 to 42 years old
- Previous pregnancy: You must have given birth to and be raising at least one child. Your previous pregnancy should have been uncomplicated.
- Pregnancy records: We must be able to obtain your previous pregnancy and delivery medical records.
- BMI: Your BMI must be below 33.
- U.S. citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Financial eligibility: Your household cannot currently receive government assistance such as Medicaid, WIC, or CHIP.
- Medical clearance: You must meet the medical requirements of the fertility clinic. Final eligibility is determined during the medical screening process and based on the requirements of the fertility clinic.
Requirements can vary based on your individual history and the clinic you work with, so being over 40 doesn’t mean you should automatically assume you’re ineligible.
Think you might be a good candidate? Don’t count yourself out. Find out! Our team is here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and help you determine whether surrogacy may be right for you.
