Guide to Becoming a Surrogate Mother in New Jersey: Steps, Requirements, and Legal Insights

Becoming a surrogate mother is a profound and life-changing decision. In New Jersey, the process is guided by clear legal frameworks, medical protocols, and emotional commitments to ensure a smooth journey for both the surrogate and the intended parents. If you’re considering surrogacy, this guide will help you understand the process and requirements in New Jersey. Gateway Surrogacy is here to support you every step of the way.

What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an arrangement where a woman, known as the surrogate, carries and delivers a baby for someone else. There are two primary types of surrogacy:

1. Traditional Surrogacy: The surrogate is biologically related to the child as her egg is used in the process.
2. Gestational Surrogacy: The surrogate carries a baby created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors. The surrogate has no genetic relationship to the child.

In New Jersey, only gestational surrogacy is legally protected under the New Jersey Gestational Carrier Agreement Act of 2018.

Legal Framework in New Jersey

New Jersey is a surrogate-friendly state. The Gestational Carrier Agreement Act provides clear guidelines for surrogacy arrangements. Key legal points include:

• The surrogate must be at least 21 years old.
• A legal contract between the surrogate and intended parents is mandatory and must outline the rights, responsibilities, and financial arrangements.
• The intended parents are recognized as the legal parents of the child immediately after birth.
• Traditional surrogacy agreements are not legally enforceable in New Jersey.

Requirements to Become a Surrogate in New Jersey

To ensure the safety and well-being of all parties involved, potential surrogates must meet specific criteria:

1. Age and Health Requirements:
   • Be between 21 and 40 years old.
   • Have a healthy BMI (body mass index).
   • Have had at least one uncomplicated pregnancy and delivery.
   • Be a non-smoker and free of substance abuse.
2. Medical and Psychological Screening:
   • Undergo thorough medical evaluations to confirm physical ability to carry a pregnancy.
   • Participate in psychological counseling to ensure emotional readiness.
3. Legal and Financial Stability:
   • Be financially stable and not reliant on surrogacy compensation for basic living expenses.
   • Have no criminal history.
4. Support System:
   • Have a strong support system of family and friends.
   • Be willing to attend medical appointments and legal consultations as required.

Steps to Become a Surrogate with Gateway Surrogacy

1. Initial Consultation: Contact Gateway Surrogacy to learn about the process and ask any questions.
2. Application and Screening: Complete a detailed application form. Gateway Surrogacy will arrange for medical, psychological, and legal screenings.
3. Matching with Intended Parents: Gateway Surrogacy carefully matches surrogates with intended parents based on preferences and compatibility.
4. Legal Contract: Work with experienced attorneys to draft and review the surrogacy agreement.
5. Medical Procedures: Undergo IVF procedures to transfer the embryo and begin the pregnancy journey.
6. Pregnancy and Delivery: Attend regular medical checkups and maintain open communication with the intended parents. After delivery, the baby is handed over to the intended parents as per the legal agreement.

Facts and Figures About Surrogacy in New Jersey

• Average Compensation: Surrogates in New Jersey typically earn between $35,000 and $60,000, with additional allowances for expenses such as maternity clothing, travel, and monthly stipends. This amount can vary based on the surrogate’s experience and specific circumstances.
• Surrogacy Success Rates: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the success rate of live births through gestational surrogacy with fresh embryos is approximately 50% to 60% per transfer cycle. The success rate increases with high-quality embryo transfers.
• Number of Surrogacies: In the U.S., over 18,000 babies were born via gestational surrogacy between 1999 and 2013, with numbers steadily increasing each year. New Jersey’s surrogate-friendly laws have made it a top destination for surrogacy arrangements.
• Medical Costs: The medical procedures involved in surrogacy, including IVF, can cost intended parents between $30,000 and $50,000. Surrogates are not responsible for these expenses.

Why Choose Gateway Surrogacy?

At Gateway Surrogacy, we prioritize the health, safety, and satisfaction of our surrogates and intended parents. We offer:

• Comprehensive support from application to delivery.
• Access to top-tier medical and legal professionals.
• A compassionate and experienced team to guide you through the journey.