Surrogacy: What Is It, How Does It Work, and Costs
What Is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a reproductive method in which a woman carries a pregnancy for another individual or couple who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical reasons. The surrogate mother goes through the pregnancy and, after giving birth, hands over the baby to the biological parents. This process involves medical, ethical, and legal considerations.
How Does Surrogacy Work?
The surrogacy process consists of several medical and legal steps:
- Medical Evaluation of Intended Parents: The biological mother and father undergo medical tests to determine their eligibility for surrogacy.
- Selection of a Surrogate Mother: The surrogate candidate’s health, psychological well-being, and medical history are carefully evaluated.
- Medical Procedures: Eggs from the biological mother and sperm from the biological father are fertilized in a laboratory to create an embryo, which is then transferred to the surrogate mother’s uterus.
- Pregnancy Monitoring: The surrogate mother undergoes regular medical check-ups throughout the pregnancy.
- Birth and Legal Process: After birth, legal procedures are completed, and the baby is handed over to the intended parents.
Who Can Benefit from Surrogacy?
Surrogacy may be an option for:
- Women without a uterus or those who have had a hysterectomy
- Women who have experienced recurrent miscarriages
- Women with serious medical conditions that make pregnancy risky
- Individuals born with uterine anomalies
- Individuals who have lost fertility due to cancer treatments
Requirements to Become a Surrogate Mother
To become a surrogate mother, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Be between 21-40 years old
- Have given birth to at least one healthy child
- Be physically and mentally healthy
- Abstain from smoking and alcohol
- Agree to legal agreements
- Participate in psychological counseling
Surrogacy Costs
Surrogacy costs vary by country and depend on several factors:
- Medical expenses: IVF treatments, medications, and childbirth costs
- Surrogate mother compensation: Payments for the surrogate’s living expenses and support during pregnancy
- Legal fees: Attorney fees and contracts
- Psychological and medical counseling: Support for the surrogate mother
Is Surrogacy Legal?
Surrogacy laws vary by country. While it is fully legal in some countries, others impose restrictions. Before beginning the surrogacy process, it is essential to research the legal regulations in the respective country.
Surrogacy is a significant reproductive option for families unable to conceive naturally. However, medical and legal considerations must be carefully evaluated. For more information, consulting with experts is recommended.
