๐งฌ Introduction: What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman (the surrogate) carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple (the intended parents). This process offers hope to individuals and couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical, biological, or social reasons.
Surrogacy has become a life-changing option for infertile couples, same-sex couples, and single parents around the world, says Neelam Chhagani of Complete Surrogacy.
๐ Key Terms to Understand
- Surrogate Mother: A woman who carries a baby for someone else.
- Intended Parents: The person(s) who plan to raise the child after birth.
- Embryo Transfer: The process of placing a fertilized embryo into the surrogate’s uterus.
๐งซ Types of Surrogacy
1. Gestational Surrogacy (Most Common)
- The surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.
- An embryo is created via IVF using the intended parents’ or donor gametes.
- Legally and emotionally less complicated.
2. Traditional Surrogacy
- The surrogate is also the biological mother, as her egg is used.
- Less common today due to legal and emotional complexities.
๐ Who Chooses Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an option for:
- Women with uterine issues or medical conditions preventing pregnancy
- Couples with repeated IVF failure
- Same-sex male couples wanting to have a biological child
- Single men or women looking to become parents
- Women who have undergone hysterectomy or cancer treatment
๐ How Does the Surrogacy Process Work?
- Medical Evaluation: Surrogate undergoes tests and screenings.
- Legal Contracts: A surrogacy agreement is signed between the surrogate and intended parents.
- Embryo Creation: Via IVF using sperm and egg from donors or intended parents.
- Embryo Transfer: The embryo is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
- Pregnancy and Birth: The surrogate carries the baby to term and delivers it.
- Parental Rights: Post-delivery, legal procedures confirm the intended parents’ rights.
๐งพ What is the Cost of Surrogacy?
Surrogacy costs vary widely based on country, agency, legal requirements, and medical expenses.
- USA: $90,000 to $150,000+
- Mexico/Colombia: $50,000 to $70,000
- Georgia/Ukraine: $40,000 to $60,000
- India (Altruistic Only): Limited to Indian citizens under specific laws
Note: Some countries ban commercial surrogacy or restrict it to locals. Always check the legal framework before proceeding.
⚖️ Is Surrogacy Legal?
The legality of surrogacy depends on the country or state. Here's a quick overview:
- Legal and regulated: USA (some states), Ukraine, Georgia, Mexico, Colombia
- Altruistic only: UK, India, Australia
- Banned or restricted: France, Germany, China
๐ It’s crucial to work with a reputable surrogacy agency or fertility lawyer to understand the legal risks and parental rights.
๐คฐ Requirements to Be a Surrogate
Typical requirements include:
- Age between 21–40 years
- At least one previous healthy pregnancy
- Physically and mentally healthy
- No major complications in previous pregnancies
- Non-smoker, drug-free, and stable lifestyle
๐ฌ Real-Life Case Study
Couple from the UK finds success in Georgia
Emma and James, a couple from the UK, struggled with infertility for 8 years. After several failed IVF attempts, they opted for gestational surrogacy in Georgia. Working with a local surrogacy agency, they matched with a healthy surrogate and welcomed a baby boy within 14 months—costing them 50% less than in the UK.
๐ Why Is Surrogacy Growing in Popularity?
- Rising infertility rates
- Improved IVF success rates
- Greater acceptance of non-traditional families
- More surrogacy-friendly destinations
- LGBTQ+ family building
๐ก Tips for Intended Parents
- Research laws in different countries
- Choose an experienced agency or clinic
- Consider emotional and financial readiness
- Discuss long-term implications with a counselor
- Always have a clear legal contract
๐ Related Posts
๐งก Final Thoughts
Surrogacy is more than a medical process—it’s a deeply emotional journey filled with hope, complexity, and joy. Whether you're exploring surrogacy for the first time or ready to take the next step, make sure to educate yourself thoroughly, work with trustworthy professionals, and prepare legally, financially, and emotionally.
๐ Get in Touch for a Free Surrogacy Consultation
๐ฑ +91-8800481100 (WhatsApp | LINE | Viber)
๐ง neelam@ivfconceptions.com
๐ www.completesurrogacy.com
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