Resources For Surrogates

Step 4: You’ll Discuss Your Support System and Relationships

Even if you’ve had uncomplicated pregnancies before, surrogacy can affect your household in ways that are different from carrying your own child.

Your evaluator may ask how your partner or family feels about your decision, who can help with childcare or transportation, and whether you have people you trust when you need to talk.

If you have a partner, they may also be asked to participate in part of the screening process, depending on the program’s requirements.

This discussion can reveal practical concerns worth addressing early, such as how your family will manage additional appointments or what support you’ll have during recovery after delivery.

Step 5: You May Complete Psychological Questionnaires

Some surrogacy psychological evaluations include standardized assessments in addition to the interview.

These may ask about your emotions, personality, coping habits, relationships, or past experiences. The format varies, but you may be asked to respond to statements or answer multiple-choice questions.

If you encounter questions that seem repetitive or unrelated to surrogacy, remember that standardized assessments are designed to look at patterns across responses. Answer based on your actual experiences rather than what you think a surrogate is supposed to say.

How Long Does the Evaluation Take?

There isn’t one standard appointment length for every surrogacy psychological evaluation.

The clinical interview may take around one to two hours, although some appointments are shorter or longer. If psychological questionnaires are required, you’ll need additional time to complete them.

You may also be asked to provide background information before your appointment. Afterward, the mental health professional will review the information and prepare any documentation required by the agency or fertility clinic.

Ask your coordinator about the expected timeline and whether the evaluation involves more than one appointment.

Can You Be Disqualified Because of Your Mental Health History?

This is one of the questions prospective surrogates may hesitate to ask.

A history of anxiety, depression, counseling, or another mental health concern doesn’t automatically determine the outcome of an evaluation. However, some conditions, symptoms, or treatment circumstances may affect eligibility, particularly if they could create additional risks during pregnancy.

The evaluator will look at your current mental health, relevant history, stability, coping resources, and the potential demands of surrogacy. They may also recommend additional information from a treating provider or further assessment before a decision is made.

In some cases, the recommendation may be to wait until a health concern is better managed. In others, a program may determine that surrogacy isn’t appropriate based on its screening criteria.

Being open about your history allows the professionals involved to make an informed assessment. Leaving out important information can make it harder to identify the support or precautions you may need.

What Happens After the Psychological Evaluation?

Once your evaluation is complete, the mental health professional typically prepares a report or recommendation for the appropriate members of your surrogacy team. Depending on the findings, you may be cleared to continue, asked to provide additional information, or advised that more evaluation is needed.

If a concern comes up, you can ask what it means for your application and whether there are any appropriate next steps.

It’s also reasonable to ask how your personal information will be handled. Your evaluator should explain the limits of confidentiality, what information may be shared with the agency or clinic, and which authorizations are required.

Completing the psychological evaluation is an important screening milestone, but it doesn’t replace the medical clearance and other requirements involved in becoming a surrogate.

How Can You Prepare for Your Evaluation?

You don’t need to study for your surrogacy psychological evaluation, but knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable.

Before your appointment, consider these simple steps:

• Review your history. Think about previous pregnancies, postpartum experiences, and any mental health treatment you may have received.
• Talk with your support system. Make sure the people closest to you understand your plans and have had an opportunity to share their questions.
• Write down anything you’re unsure about. You can ask about the evaluation process, confidentiality, or situations that concern you.
• Give yourself enough time. Choose a quiet, private setting if your appointment is virtual, and avoid scheduling it between other commitments.

Most importantly, be yourself during the conversation. If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification. If you haven’t considered a particular scenario before, it’s fine to say so.

Feel More Prepared for Your Next Step in Surrogacy

It’s understandable to feel a little nervous about discussing personal experiences with someone you’ve just met. But understanding what the evaluation involves can help you approach it with clearer expectations and questions of your own. It’s also an opportunity to consider whether surrogacy is the right commitment for you at this point in your life.

At Surrogacy GRACE, we want prospective surrogates to feel informed and supported from the beginning. If you’re considering becoming a surrogate and have questions about psychological screening or the application process, contact the GRACE team. We’re here to explain what to expect and help you understand your next steps.