Are you interested in becoming a surrogate in Illinois and helping someone have a family? Becoming a surrogate is a selfless act that can have a major impact on someone’s life. The process of becoming a surrogate in Illinois can be confusing, however, and it’s important to understand exactly what’s involved.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about becoming a surrogate in Illinois, including the eligibility requirements and the process that you must go through. Read on to learn more.
What is a Surrogate?
Before we discuss what it takes to become a surrogate in Illinois, let’s take a quick look at what surrogacy is. Surrogacy is the practice of carrying a baby for another person or couple.
A surrogate, or gestational carrier, carries a baby that is not biologically related to them. The baby is created using in vitro fertilization (IVF) whereby the egg and sperm of the intended parents are used to create an embryo. This embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus, where it will grow and develop until birth.
Surrogacy is a wonderful way for couples who are struggling to conceive to have a baby of their own. It’s also a great way for single individuals to become parents.
Who Can Become a Surrogate in Illinois?
In Illinois, there are certain eligibility requirements that must be met in order to become a surrogate.
To be eligible to become a surrogate in Illinois, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Have given birth to at least one healthy child
- Be a permanent resident of Illinois
- Have a BMI of less than 33
- Be in good physical and mental health
- Be a non-smoker
- Have a reliable support system
- Be willing to undergo a psychological evaluation
- Be willing to undergo a medical screening
If you meet all of the above criteria, you may be eligible to become a surrogate in Illinois.
What is the Surrogacy Process in Illinois?
Once you are eligible to become a surrogate in Illinois, the next step is to begin the surrogacy process. The surrogacy process in Illinois includes the following steps:
- Finding an Agency: In order to become a surrogate in Illinois, you will need to find a surrogacy agency. The agency will help you find intended parents, assist with the legal process, and provide emotional support throughout the process.
- Screening: Once you have chosen an agency, you will need to undergo a screening process. This includes a psychological evaluation and a medical screening. The screening process is designed to ensure that you are physically and mentally healthy and ready for the surrogacy process.
- Matching: After you have been screened, the agency will help you find intended parents. This process is often called “matching”. The agency will match you with intended parents who have similar values and goals for the surrogacy process.
- Legal Process: After you have been matched with intended parents, you will need to complete the legal process. This includes signing a legally binding contract that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties. It is important to have a lawyer review the contract before signing.
- Medical Process: Once the legal process is complete, you will begin the medical process. This includes taking medications to prepare your body for pregnancy, undergoing IVF, and having regular check-ups throughout the pregnancy. The medical process is overseen by your doctor and the intended parents’ fertility doctor.
- Delivery: Once the baby is born, the intended parents will take custody of the baby and you will be paid for your services as a surrogate. The intended parents will be responsible for all medical costs associated with the pregnancy and delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Surrogate in Illinois
What is the compensation for surrogacy in Illinois?
The compensation for surrogacy in Illinois varies depending on the agency and the individual circumstances. Typically, surrogates in Illinois are paid between $25,000 and $50,000 for their services.
How long does the surrogacy process take in Illinois?
The surrogacy process in Illinois typically takes between 12 and 18 months. This includes finding an agency, screening, matching, the legal process, the medical process, and the delivery.
What is the success rate for surrogacy in Illinois?
The success rate for surrogacy in Illinois is very high. Typically, the success rate for surrogacy in Illinois is between 60% and 70%.
What is the legal status of surrogacy in Illinois?
Surrogacy is legal in Illinois. In Illinois, the gestational carrier agreement must be approved by a judge in order to be legally binding.
What are the risks associated with surrogacy in Illinois?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with surrogacy in Illinois. These include the risks of pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, preterm labor, and preeclampsia. It is important to discuss these risks with your doctor before beginning the surrogacy process.
Conclusion
Becoming a surrogate in Illinois is a selfless act that can have a major impact on someone’s life. It is important to understand the process of becoming a surrogate in Illinois, including the eligibility requirements and the steps involved in the surrogacy process.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in becoming a surrogate in Illinois, it is important to work with a reputable surrogacy agency. A surrogacy agency can help you find intended parents, assist with the legal process, and provide emotional support throughout the process.
If you have any questions about becoming a surrogate in Illinois, it is important to speak with a medical professional. They can answer your questions and provide more information about the process.
Becoming a surrogate in Illinois can be a rewarding experience and can help someone have a family of their own. If you are interested in becoming a surrogate in Illinois, it is important to understand the process and the risks associated with surrogacy.
