Can I Be a Surrogate with Bipolar Disorder?

American Surrogacy does not accept prospective surrogates with a bipolar disorder diagnosis.

This medical requirement exists entirely to protect your health from the risks associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period, including an elevated risk of postpartum psychosis.

A disqualification is never a judgment of your character, your current stability or your ability to parent your own children.

While you cannot carry a pregnancy as a surrogate, you can still help build families and earn a financial bonus through our referral program.

Why Does Bipolar Disorder Disqualify You From Surrogacy?

Bipolar disorder is a disqualifying condition because pregnancy and delivery create intense hormonal shifts that can trigger severe mood episodes.

For women with bipolar disorder, the postpartum period carries a uniquely high risk of developing postpartum psychosis or severe postpartum depression.

This is why the American Society of Reproductive Medicine and most fertility clinics will not accept surrogates with a bipolar diagnosis.

A responsible surrogacy program must consider your safety long after the baby is born.

The physical and emotional demands of surrogacy are high, and we cannot ethically approve a process that introduces an avoidable, severe medical risk to your long-term mental health.

What If My Bipolar Disorder Has Been Stable for Years?

Even if your bipolar disorder is well-managed and you have been stable for years, the diagnosis still disqualifies you from becoming a surrogate.

Surrogate screening standards are based on the specific medical risks associated with the diagnosis and the postpartum transition, not just how you feel today.

Previous healthy pregnancies also do not eliminate the risk of a severe mood episode triggered by a new pregnancy. Medical professionals prioritize your future safety, and no period of stability overrides the potential dangers of the surrogacy process.

Does Bipolar II Disorder Also Disqualify You From Being a Surrogate?

Yes, a diagnosis of bipolar II disorder will also disqualify you from becoming a surrogate.

American Surrogacy does not accept applicants with any form of bipolar disorder, including bipolar II. While bipolar II may involve different symptom patterns than bipolar I, it still carries an increased vulnerability to significant mental health complications during and after pregnancy.

This requirement ensures we do not place you in a medically compromising position.

Surrogate Requirements Are Designed to Protect Your Health

Surrogacy screening is not a test you need to pass, but a system designed to protect you. Fertility treatments, pregnancy and delivery demand a massive physical and emotional toll.

Our medical and psychological requirements exist to reduce avoidable risks before you ever begin fertility medications.

1

Medical Record Review: ~1-5 weeks

2

Background Check: ~1 week

3

Psychological Evaluation: Results available in ~1 week

4

Insurance Review: ~1 week

By adhering to strict screening standards, we ensure you have the safest possible experience through matching, pregnancy and postpartum recovery. Identifying these risk factors early prevents you from investing unnecessary time into a medical process you cannot safely complete.

You Can Still Make an Impact Through Our Surrogate Referral Program

Not qualifying to carry a pregnancy closes the path to becoming a surrogate, but it does not mean your desire to help a family has to end. You can still make a life-changing impact through American Surrogacy's referral program.

By connecting us with a friend or family member who successfully qualifies as a surrogate, you directly help intended parents achieve their dream of having a child. In return, you can earn a $5,000+ bonus for a successful qualifying surrogate referral.

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Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns regarding medical conditions and surrogacy eligibility.

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