Surrogacy is a delicate process that should be conducted with the minimum potential for risks in order to ensure the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby as well as the financial and emotional expenditure of the intended parents.
What is BMI?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the relationship between height and weight. The ideal BMI range for a surrogate is between 20 and 30. While many women outside of that range can successfully carry a natural pregnancy, an IVF pregnancy is very different. When an embryo is implanted in the uterus fertility medications are used to aid in the implantation and these medications work optimally with women within a specific BMI range.
While body fat is necessary for a healthy pregnancy but too much or too little can be harmful. Class 2 Obesity (BMI over 35) can double conception time while underweight women (BMI under 19) can take 4 times longer to conceive. Excess weight can alter hormone production and ovarian function and is also a major risk factor for PCOS. Underweight women have a higher risk of the baby being premature and/or underweight as well.
Surrogacy Complications With Higher BMI
Additionally, there is a higher risk of complications with overweight gestational carriers such as:
*Hypertension (high blood pressure) and preeclampsia
*infections during pregnancy
*DVT: deep vein thrombosis (blood clotting)
*obstructive sleep apnea
*three times more likely to develop gestational diabetes
*longer gestation which increases the risk of cesarean section due to a larger baby
*difficulties conceiving additional embryo transfers = additional cost
*miscarriage or stillbirth
*difficulties during labor and birth as well as extended postpartum recovery
Due to the increase of risk factors, surrogate agencies and insurance companies both have very strict requirements for surrogates. Our BMI eligibility requirement at Love & Kindness Surrogacy is a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 32. If you are within this range and interested in becoming a surrogate with us, please fill out an application here. We are always with you every step of the way providing all the care and attention you need during your journey.