5 Facts about Surrogacy

Separating fact from fiction

As infertility rates rise around the world, the use of surrogacy is becoming more popular as a way for couples to have children.  However, surrogacy is a relatively new science and there are many rumors and misconceptions about how this technology works.  Let’s separate fact from fiction for both the egg donor or surrogate mother, and intended parents.

Egg donation is safe.

There is no evidence of long-term risk for women who donate eggs, including cancer.  After donating eggs, women go back to their natural egg cycle and are not required to continue with fertility or other medications.  There are rare cases of women having short-term side effects to medication that includes weight gain, but these are all treatable.

Egg donation is legal in most places.

In most countries in the world, surrogacy is either legal, or unregulated.  In some places, like the UK, surrogacy is allowed, but the surrogate mother can only be paid enough to cover expenses, not make a profit.  The State of California in the is considered the most favorable place in the world for surrogacy as it is protected by law and there is no limit as to how much a surrogate mother can be compensated.

You are not required to be married.

In most countries, there are no restrictions on an individual having a child through surrogacy – there is no requirement to be married or in a relationship.  This includes same-sex couples in countries where gay marriage is not legal - there are generally no restrictions around sexual orientation when someone wants a child through surrogacy.  Studies show that children raised by gay parents are just as successful as those raised in heterosexual homes.

Can the surrogate mother keep the baby?

In most countries, the surrogate mother signs a contract that gives full legal control of the baby to the intended parents.  However, it is rare that a surrogate mother changes her mind – in most cases in-vitro fertilization is used meaning the surrogate mother is not genetically related to the child minimizing feelings of attachment.  All professional surrogacy agencies carefully screen surrogate mothers to further mitigate this concern.

If you are considering egg donation or surrogacy, the best place to start is a local surrogacy agency that has been in business for many years with a great reputation.  Many have helped hundreds of people and operate internationally.  Ask to speak to someone who has gone through a similar experience, or find a friend or family member who has an experience of their own to share.  And, of course, consult your doctor before becoming an egg donor or surrogate mother.

Disclosure: This is a contributed post.