Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a legal arrangement in which a woman, known as the surrogate or gestational carrier, carries and delivers a child for another individual or couple, known as the intended parents. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate's own egg is fertilized with the intended father's sperm through artificial insemination or intrauterine insemination (IUI). In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended mother's egg and the intended father's sperm, or using donor eggs or sperm, through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Surrogacy can be an option for individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term due to various reasons such as infertility, medical conditions, or same-sex couples.

Who is Surrogacy suitable for?

• Medical Reasons: Surrogacy may be suitable for individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term due to medical conditions such as infertility, repeated pregnancy loss, or medical risks associated with pregnancy.
• Same-Sex Couples: Surrogacy can be an option for same-sex male couples or individuals who wish to have a biological child using donor eggs and a surrogate.
• Genetic Disorders: Surrogacy may be considered by couples who have a high risk of passing on genetic disorders to their offspring and wish to use a gestational carrier.

What does Surrogacy involve?

• Selection of Surrogate: Intended parents typically work with a surrogacy agency or attorney to find a suitable surrogate. The surrogate undergoes a thorough screening process, including medical and psychological evaluations, to ensure she is physically and emotionally prepared for the journey.
• Legal Agreements: Legal contracts are drawn up to define the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved, including the intended parents, surrogate, and any egg or sperm donors.
• Fertility Treatments: In gestational surrogacy, the intended mother or a donor undergoes ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, and the resulting embryos are transferred to the surrogate's uterus through IVF.
• Pregnancy and Birth: The surrogate carries the pregnancy to term, attending regular prenatal appointments and receiving medical care as needed. The intended parents may be involved in the pregnancy and attend ultrasound appointments and prenatal visits.
• Birth and Parental Rights: After the birth, the intended parents assume legal custody of the child, and the surrogate relinquishes any parental rights as defined in the legal agreements.

What are the symptoms of Surrogacy?

• Emotional Rollercoaster: Surrogacy can be emotionally intense for all parties involved, with feelings of joy, excitement, and anticipation mixed with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty.
• Physical Demands: Surrogates may experience typical pregnancy symptoms such as morning sickness, fatigue, back pain, and mood swings.
• Bonding and Attachment: Surrogates may form a bond with the baby they carry, which can lead to mixed emotions after the birth, including feelings of loss or sadness.