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Why Medical Screening Matters
Before starting a surrogacy journey, the first step is medical screening. This is not just paperwork; it is done to check if the surrogate is healthy enough to carry a baby safely. In India, only altruistic surrogacy is allowed, so the whole process is pretty strict to keep both the surrogate and the child safe.The doctors check her overall health to see if her body can handle pregnancy. Along with physical health, her mental readiness is also important.
Who Can Be a Surrogate in India?
It’s important to know who qualifies to be a surrogate in India.The surrogacy laws in India set clear rules to make sure only suitable candidates take on this role:
- The surrogate has to be a close blood relative of either the intended mother or father. This keeps the process altruistic and family-focused.
- She must be between 25 and 35 years old, as this age group is considered best for healthy pregnancies.
- She needs to have given birth to at least one healthy child of her own, showing she can carry a pregnancy successfully.
- A woman can only be a surrogate once in her lifetime.
The Medical Screening Process
The medical screening for surrogates in India is very detailed. The whole point is to make sure the surrogate can carry the pregnancy safely and to take care of her well-being at every step:Initial Health Evaluation
The first step is a detailed look at the surrogate’s overall health:- Doctors check her past pregnancies and any medical conditions that might affect her ability to carry a baby safely.
- Conditions like diabetes or heart disease that could complicate pregnancy are ruled out.
- The surrogate is screened for habits like smoking, alcohol use, or drug abuse.
Physical Examination
Next, a full physical exam confirms the surrogate’s general health:- Vital signs: Checking heart rate, blood pressure, and other basics to make sure she’s in good shape.
- BMI: A healthy BMI is important, as being underweight or overweight can affect pregnancy outcomes.
- Reproductive health: A pelvic exam is done to check that her reproductive organs are healthy and ready for pregnancy.
Blood Tests and Lab Work
Some of the main blood tests include:- Infectious diseases: Tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, and other infections that might affect the baby.
- Hormone levels: Checking fertility hormones to see if the surrogate’s body can support a pregnancy.
- Blood type and Rh factor: Important for avoiding complications linked to blood compatibility.
- Complete blood count: Helps detect issues like anaemia that could impact pregnancy.
Reproductive Health Tests
Doctors do a few tests to check the surrogate’s uterus and ovaries:- Ultrasound scan: Shows the condition of the uterus and ovaries to make sure they’re ready for pregnancy.
- Hysteroscopy or sonohysterogram: These tests check for issues like fibroids or cysts.
- Pap smear and cervical cultures: Screen for cervical problems or infections.
Drug and Alcohol Screening
Surrogates must pass drug and alcohol tests to ensure a safe environment for the baby. Doctors may repeat these checks from time to time to make sure she’s living a healthy lifestyle during the whole journey.This step is non-negotiable, as substance use can harm both the surrogate and the baby.
Psychological Screening
Surrogacy isn’t only about being physically healthy. The emotional side matters just as much. Carrying a baby for someone else can feel complicated, so doctors also check if the surrogate is mentally prepared:- A licensed counsellor talks with her to see if she’s emotionally ready and fully understands the process.
- The counsellor explores how carrying and giving up the baby might affect her emotionally.
- The surrogate’s family environment is checked to make sure she has a stable support system.
Genetic Testing
Some agencies also ask for genetic testing. This is done to check if there are any hereditary conditions that might affect the surrogate’s pregnancy or the baby’s health.What Happens After Screening?
Once the surrogate clears all her screenings, she can move on to the actual surrogacy process.Take a quick look at what comes next:
- She’ll take medicines to get her uterus ready for the embryo. During this time, she’ll visit the clinic often for scans and blood tests so doctors can track how her body is responding.
- Using in vitro fertilisation (IVF), an embryo is placed in the surrogate’s uterus. It's a quick, minimally invasive procedure.
- Once pregnant, the surrogate has regular check-ups. At first, these are monthly, but they become more frequent as the pregnancy progresses.
- Medical insurance and access to a case manager or nurse are provided in case of complications.
- After the baby is born, the surrogate gets medical care to help her recover physically.
Legal and Ethical Guidelines
In India, the surrogacy laws require the surrogate to sign a legal agreement before moving forward. This agreement clearly explains her responsibilities and makes it clear that she won’t receive money beyond medical and insurance expenses.
You might wonder why all these steps are necessary. The answer is simple: surrogacy is a big responsibility, and everyone involved deserves to feel safe and supported. Medical screening makes sure the surrogate is healthy enough to carry the baby without major risks.
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FAQs on Medical Screening and Health Requirements for Surrogates in India
- Can a surrogate travel during pregnancy?
Yes, but only if the doctor permits. High-risk pregnancies may require restrictions. - Is breastfeeding by the surrogate required after delivery?
No, the surrogate is not required to breastfeed. Intended parents may use formula or stored breast milk.
