Surrogacy

Surrogacy has been practiced since the 1980s. Unlike earlier times, when it was hidden under legal complexities and secrecy, today it has become a more accepted and routine option for couples and individuals who cannot have a baby naturally but still wish to have a child with their genetic connection.

Surrogacy is a process in which a woman (surrogate mother) carries a pregnancy on behalf of the intended parents. This option offers hope for couples facing severe fertility challenges, single parents, and same-sex couples.

How Surrogacy Works

The process begins with the creation of an embryo using the sperm and egg of the intended parents or donors. This embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Depending on the method chosen, the surrogate may or may not have a genetic link with the child.

Types of Surrogacy

Surrogacy can be classified into two main types based on whose egg is used:

1. Traditional Surrogacy

Also known as partial or straight surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg, making her the biological mother of the child. She is inseminated with sperm from:

• The intended father, if the female partner cannot provide eggs or carry a pregnancy
• A sperm donor, if the couple faces infertility issues on both sides

This method is also an option for single men and same-sex male couples.

2. Gestational Surrogacy

The most commonly used method today, gestational surrogacy, ensures that the surrogate has no genetic connection with the baby. The surrogate’s uterus is implanted with an embryo created via In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) using:

• Gametes from both intended parents
• Donor eggs or sperm, if required

Ideal for couples with healthy eggs but an unhealthy uterus, women who cannot carry a pregnancy, or same-sex couples.

Surrogacy Process

Since surrogacy involves legal, medical, and emotional considerations, the process is carefully structured:

1. Understand the Laws – Check the surrogacy regulations in your country or region before starting.
2. Choose Professionals – Work with a reputed surrogacy agency, fertility clinic, and lawyer.
3. Select Surrogacy Type & Donors – Decide between traditional or gestational surrogacy after fertility tests.
4. Legal Contract – A detailed agreement is signed between the intended parents, surrogate, and legal representatives.
5. Embryo or Sperm Transfer – The embryo (or sperm) is transferred to the surrogate’s uterus under medical supervision.
6. Pregnancy & Support – Once pregnancy is confirmed, intended parents can stay involved and support the surrogate throughout the journey.

Who is Eligible for Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an option for:

• Couples with repeated IVF failures despite healthy embryos
• Single parents who wish to have children
• Women with recurrent miscarriages
• Women without a uterus or those who had a hysterectomy
• Same-sex couples wanting to build a family

Surrogacy Cost

Surrogacy is a costly procedure as it involves medical treatment, surrogate compensation, agency management, and legal assistance.

• In India: Costs usually range between ₹10 Lakhs – ₹15 Lakhs.
• In the USA: The expenses are significantly higher, averaging $60,000 – $100,000.

While the costs may seem high, surrogacy offers a life-changing opportunity to experience the joy of parenthood.

Conclusion

Surrogacy has given hope to countless couples and individuals who cannot conceive naturally. With medical advancements like IVF and proper legal guidance, surrogacy provides a safe and reliable path to parenthood. Whether through traditional or gestational surrogacy, it continues to be a life-changing option for those dreaming of having a child.