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Why Rigorous Surrogate Pre-Screening Matters
At Giving Tree, we implement rigorous pre-screening for all surrogate applicants so we have only the best candidates for our intended parents. We accept only 1–2% of our surrogate applicants, continually refreshing our pool of ready-to-match surrogates. Our Pre-Screening Process Produces the Most Qualified Surrogates
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Our comprehensive pre-screening process helps identify the strongest surrogate applicants who are medically and emotionally equipped for the path ahead. This is a benefit for intended parents because it:
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Helps create stronger matches from the start
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Reduces surrogates being disqualified later in the surrogacy process
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Gives parents confidence that their surrogate match is informed and ready for the journey​
Our 10-Step Pre-Screening Process
1. Application Review​
Each surrogate candidate begins by completing an application and a detailed questionnaire covering medical history, support system, and motivations. We carefully review these materials to identify those with uncomplicated obstetric histories and strong personal support.
2. Evaluation Consultation (via video call)
Next, candidates take part in a 1–2 hour video consultation with one of our experienced Surrogate Consultants. During this conversation, we explore their background, pregnancy history, and motivations in greater depth, ask follow-up questions about their application and questionnaire, and assess emotional readiness and alignment with intended parents’ values. This consultation allows our team to identify the smaller group of strong candidates from the larger pool who will move forward.
3. Criminal Background Check
Together, with any cohabiting partner, the candidate undergoes national, county, and federal background checks. This step helps us confirm whether the surrogate candidate and her partner (if applicable) are in good standing to move forward with surrogacy.
4. Virtual Home Visits
Through a virtual home tour, we confirm that the surrogate’s living environment is safe, stable, and supportive for a pregnancy.​
5. Internal Gather and Review of Medical Records
Before any surrogate candidates are shared with intended parents, our surrogate intake team members request and review pregnancy and delivery records. By doing this early, we can identify potential red flags based on ASRM guidelines, reduce the risk of late-stage disqualification, and support a smoother path to medical clearance at the IVF clinic. Since only an IVF clinic can grant final clearance, this step provides an expert pre-screening perspective rather than a final approval. Unlike many agencies that wait until after a match, we invest in this review upfront to protect both our surrogate candidates and intended parents.
6. External Health Insurance Review
Once a surrogate candidate’s medical records have been collected, a Registered Nurse reviews the records and conducts an intake call to further discuss her medical history. Following the intake process, a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist completes a comprehensive review, assesses any potential risk factors, confirms the candidate meets ASRM guidelines, and provides recommendations for a care plan before the journey begins.
7. OBGYN Clearance
We request the candidate’s personal OBGYN provide written clearance confirming reproductive health and readiness to pursue pregnancy. This statement supports our pre-screening process but does not replace the IVF clinic’s final medical decision.
8. External Health Insurance Review
An independent insurance reviewer evaluates the candidate’s health insurance policy to determine whether the plan may cover prenatal care, delivery, and potential complications. This review is for planning purposes only and does not guarantee coverage.​
9. Psychological Evaluation & Clearance
Candidates meet with licensed mental health professionals for a formal evaluation. These assessments help confirm emotional resilience, coping skills, and preparedness for the surrogacy journey.
10. Drug Screening by Independent National Lab
Before beginning any IVF procedures, candidates complete an off-site drug pre-screening with an independent national laboratory. This early check supports health, safety, and readiness.
We Have 2-5 Ready-to-Match Surrogates Weekly
Once all screening steps are complete, we welcome the candidate into our Match Pool. At this stage, intended parents receive a thoroughly reviewed, pre-approved surrogate profile (supporting documents are not shared at this point).
