Table I.

Criteria used in initial screening by telephone of candidates for IVF surrogacy

Intended mother

Absence of a functional uterus, e.g. resulting from cancer treatment or following hysterectomy for other medical reasons, e.g. post-partum haemorrhage or Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster syndrome

Contraindications for pregnancy owing to life-threatening medical problems with a fair prognosis, e.g. severe antiphospholipid syndrome or after liver transplantation

Age <41 years

Intended mother and father

No police record (e.g. sexual offence) in view of adoption procedure

Surrogate mother

Healthy multipara with a normal functioning uterus and an uncomplicated obstetric history

Ideological reasons for surrogacy, i.e. non-commercial, which usually means a sister, sister-in-law or good friend as surrogate mother

Age <45 years