Having anxiety won’t prevent you from becoming a surrogate, but there are considerations you should be aware of before you begin your surrogacy journey.
We have certain requirements and screenings in place to protect you and the intended parents’ baby that may affect your surrogate eligibility if you have anxiety.
If you have questions about what being a surrogate with anxiety might look like, contact a surrogacy specialist.
Can You Be a Surrogate With Anxiety?
Yes. If you have an anxiety disorder, a diagnosis will not prevent you from becoming a surrogate. However, it’s important that you understand that the surrogacy process is a mentally and emotionally involved one. The additional responsibilities, pregnancy hormones and physical limitations of pregnancy have the potential to affect any preexisting anxiety. That’s why we have a screening process in place to help determine if you’re ready for the journey ahead.
Our Psychological Screening
Every surrogate candidate goes through a psychological evaluation to determine if they are emotionally and mentally prepared to go through the surrogacy process. This will allow a psychologist to discuss the important aspects of your surrogacy decision with you and your family. It will ultimately decide if you are ready for this emotional and physical process. The topics of the evaluation include:
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You reasons for being a surrogate
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Your feelings about pregnancy
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Your preparation for family expectations
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Your understanding of the risks of being a carrier
This process is not designed to try to prevent women from becoming surrogates. It’s set to ensure you are fully supported as you begin this process. Becoming a surrogate with anxiety should be treated with kindness and care. We want you to have the full support of not just our agency, but the people you live with as well. If you do not pass our psychological evaluation at this time, that does not mean you can’t try again later on down the road.
Can a Surrogate Be on Anti-Anxiety Medication?
No. You cannot be a surrogate if you are currently on anti-anxiety medication. Our surrogacy requirements state that you cannot be taking medication for anxiety or other mental health conditions for at least 12 months before the surrogacy process. If you have a history of taking anti-anxiety medication, it will not necessarily disqualify you as a surrogate as long as you stopped taking them at least a year before beginning the surrogacy process. However
If you are currently on anxiety medication, but want to become a surrogate, you should consult with your mental health provider or other medical professional. Having a good handle on your mental health will always take priority over becoming a surrogate. A medical professional can help you through the process of going off of medication and find ways to manage your mental health through the process.
If you feel like you are not at a place in your life where you can manage your anxiety without medication, we encourage you to wait until you feel like you can do so. You control the pace of your surrogacy journey, and you can begin whenever you’re ready. We’ll be here to help you get started.
Learn more about our surrogate requirements.
How to Manage Anxiety During Pregnancy
If you’re ready to become a surrogate, but are worried about managing your anxiety without medication, here are some helpful ways you can cope with symptoms of anxiety:
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Therapy
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Journaling
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Adequate sleep
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Exercise
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Lean on your support system
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Meditation
Our surrogacy specialists are also available if you need someone to talk to, or if you want a referral to mental health professional during your pregnancy. The best way to determine how you can effectively manage your anxiety during pregnancy is by talking to your doctor or a qualified mental health professional. If you’re ready to become a surrogate today or want to see if you qualify, contact us today to get started.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional for any questions or concerns regarding medical conditions and surrogacy eligibility.