Can You Be A Surrogate With Your Tubes Tied?

Yes, it’s possible!

Tubal ligation, or “getting your tubes tied,” is a permanent medical procedure that prevents pregnancy. This is accomplished by “tying” the fallopian tubes, preventing the release of eggs or the entry of sperm. Many people get their tubes tied (or removed) because they’ve decided not to have any more children or to treat or prevent certain illnesses like ovarian cancer.

In some cases, people who have tied or removed their tubes may change their minds and want to become pregnant, either as a parent or a surrogate, but worry it is not possible.

We are happy to say that it is indeed an option to still be a surrogate with tubes tied!

Tubal Ligation Vs Salpingectomy: Understanding the Difference

Before we delve into the specifics of potentially becoming a surrogate with tubes tied or removed, let’s discuss the difference between the two major procedures.

Tubal ligation is a “tube-tying” procedure. Tubal ligation is done by blocking the fallopian tube either by cutting or, as the name implies, tying it shut. This procedure is typically performed either under a general anesthetic or after giving birth. It does not require a substantial recovery period.

A reversal procedure for tubal ligation is possible. The reversal surgery is a major operation and, unfortunately, is not always effective. If you have any questions about surrogacy with tubal ligation concerning your specific circumstances, please contact our team.

A salpingectomy removes either one or both fallopian tubes entirely. While only removing one tube can still lead to a “natural” pregnancy, a bilateral salpingectomy will prevent that from happening. This procedure will likely entail a recovery period of around three weeks. This procedure is irreversible.

Can I Be A Surrogate If My Tubes Are Tied?

Absolutely. A reversal surgery is possible after a tubal ligation, though it is a large operation to consider. However, this is not the only way to be a surrogate with tubes tied.

A tubal ligation procedure was designed to prevent natural embryo fertilization through sexual intercourse. This means that folks with tied tubes can still become pregnant and experience a healthy pregnancy and birth, thanks to IVF. Since surrogacies are already carried out with the help of IVF, this means that a tubal ligation will have no impact on a surrogate pregnancy! If a woman meets all the qualifications and passes her medical screenings, she can still become a surrogate if she has had a tubal ligation. Many women who have completed their families opt for having this procedure.

Can You Be a Surrogate With Your Tubes Removed?

Yes. Even if an applicant has previously undergone a bilateral salpingectomy, it is possible to become pregnant as a surrogate through IVF. However, there have been some reports of complications in these cases.

If you have had your fallopian tubes removed and are considering becoming pregnant through IVF, either as a surrogate or a parent, our best advice is to speak with your doctor first. You will be able to assess the potential risks and whether it is the best choice for you.

Become a Surrogate (With Tubes Tied or Not!)

We’ve established that a tubal ligation may prevent natural pregnancy, but it won’t affect surrogate eligibility. However, there are several other requirements to become a surrogate. In the US, all eligible surrogates must be between the ages of 21-45, have a BMI below 36, be drug and smoke-free, be financially stable and have previously given birth. Applicants are also screened comprehensively to ensure they are psychologically and physically equipped to be a surrogate and have no history of criminal behavior. The requirements in Canada and Mexico are similar and will also allow for surrogates with tied tubes.

If this sounds like you, you might be a perfect surrogate candidate. Find out for yourself by filling out our application at your convenience. We’ll contact you for an official interview, where you can ask us any questions and learn more about surrogacy. Once we approve your application, you’ll go onto our secure online database to get matched with a family. We’ll be here to provide support this entire time should anything come up.

At Extraordinary Conceptions, we’ve been helping surrogates, egg donors and Intended Parents navigate ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) for nearly 20 years, and we are so proud of the hope and joy we spread every day. We look forward to meeting you and learning more about YOUR story!