Once you’ve been matched with intended parents and cleared the initial phases of your surrogacy journey, the next big step is the in-person medical screening appointment. This visit is a vital part of the process, helping ensure that your body is ready to support a healthy pregnancy.
(DISCLAIMER: The information in this post is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Readers should consult a medical professional for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.)
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What Is the Medical Screening and Why Is It Important?
The medical screening is conducted in person at the intended parents’ fertility clinic, which may require travel if the clinic is out of state. This appointment is designed to confirm that you’re medically able to carry a pregnancy safely, especially one created through IVF.
The results of this screening help the doctor make the final decision on your medical clearance to move forward with the surrogacy process.
What Happens at the Medical Screening Appointment?
While each clinic’s exact process may vary slightly, here’s what you can typically expect:
✳️ A Comprehensive Physical Exam
You’ll meet with a reproductive endocrinologist who will conduct a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, Pap smear (if needed), and breast exam.
✳️ Bloodwork
A full panel of blood tests will be done to check hormone levels, rule out infectious diseases (like HIV, Hepatitis, etc.), and evaluate general health markers.
✳️ Transvaginal Ultrasound
This internal ultrasound allows the doctor to check your uterus for any abnormalities (like fibroids or polyps) and measure the uterine lining.
✳️ Urine Sample
This is typically collected to check for drug use or infections.
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What About Your Travel and Expenses?
Your travel and accommodations, including all related expenses, will be handled by the intended parents or the surrogacy agency. This usually includes:
Airfare or mileage reimbursement
Hotel accommodations
Meals and other basic expenses
Childcare and lost wages while you're away
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
Here are a few tips to help you feel prepared:
Confirm all details in advance with your agency or intended parents
Follow all pre-visit instructions from the clinic or your agency carefully
Wear comfortable clothing for travel and exams
Bring your ID, a debit or credit card and some extra cash for travel
Have a list of questions ready for the doctor
Take notes to help you remember what was discussed
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After the Appointment
Once your screening is complete, the clinic will review your results and issue a medical clearance letter—which allows you to move on to the legal and medication phases of the surrogacy process.
Final Thoughts
Attending your medical screening appointment is a major milestone—and an exciting step forward in your surrogacy journey. It’s totally normal to feel a mix of nerves and excitement, but with the right preparation and support, it can be a smooth and empowering experience.
💬 Have questions about the screening process or curious if you qualify to become a surrogate? Take our 2-Minute Surrogacy Quiz to get started!
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