Achieving weight loss goals has become more manageable through weight loss drugs and bariatric surgery. This opened the door for many women to have the healthy weight they’ve been working towards for their overall health.
Our surrogates are required to meet certain weight requirements to help ensure they can have a healthy surrogate pregnancy and delivery. Women who have gone through major weight loss and meet these requirements can be great surrogate candidates.
We’re here to help you navigate the surrogate process. If you have questions about weight loss and surrogacy, contact us today.
Can I Be a Surrogate After Weight Loss Surgery?
Yes, you can be a surrogate after weight loss surgery as long as it does not result in any major health complications that could affect your ability to be pregnant. Common weight loss surgeries include:
-
Gastric Sleeve
-
Gastric Bypass
-
Gastric Band
These each have different challenges involved in recovery, but can ultimately help you achieve your health goals. When pursuing surrogacy, we will ask about previous surgeries and health history. If you have any issues associated with the surgery, you should note those in your application.
Can I Be a Surrogate After Using Weight Loss Drugs?
Yes, you can be a surrogate after using weight loss drugs in most cases. Your doctor may recommend weight loss drugs if your BMI is at 30 or higher. Your doctor should take into consideration some of your allergies and other health history.
Weight loss medications function in a variety of ways including telling the brain the stomach is full, blocking fat absorption and curbing appetite. Some of the most popular weight loss drugs and combinations on the market include:
-
Liraglutide (Saxenda)
-
Naltrexone HCl and bupropion (Contrave)
-
Orlistat (Xenical)
-
Phentermine
-
Semaglutide (Wegovy)
Please note if you are using drugs that cause weight loss for other health conditions such as diabetes, you may not be suitable for surrogacy. Contact a surrogacy specialist if you have any questions.
Weight Requirements for Surrogacy
Weight requirements for surrogacy vary among fertility clinics and agencies, as different professionals may have distinct criteria. Generally, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for the success and safety of the surrogacy process. Surrogates with a BMI within the recommended range, typically between 18 and 30, are often preferred. Extreme underweight or obesity can pose health risks for both the surrogate and the baby, and we do not want to put anyone at unnecessary risk.
A healthy weight contributes to successful embryo implantation and reduces the likelihood of complications during pregnancy. Surrogates are required to undergo a thorough medical screening, including assessments of overall health and lifestyle factors. Additionally, maintaining a stable weight throughout the surrogacy journey is essential.
However, it's important to note that each surrogacy arrangement may have specific requirements, and prospective surrogates should consult with fertility professionals to understand the guidelines and expectations related to weight and overall health.
Start Your Surrogate Journey
Becoming a surrogate after weight loss is possible and we’d love to start working with you. If you have questions about surrogate requirements, we can help you navigate this process. Get started on your surrogate journey and contact a surrogacy specialist today.