Surrogacy

Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman, known as a surrogate, carries and delivers a child for another person or couple, referred to as the intended parents. This arrangement is often pursued by individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term due to medical conditions, infertility, or other personal circumstances.

There are two main types of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg, making her the biological mother of the child. This type of surrogacy typically involves artificial insemination with the intended father's sperm or donor sperm. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended mother's egg and the intended father's sperm, or donor eggs and/or sperm. In this case, the surrogate has no genetic link to the child.

The surrogacy process begins with finding a suitable surrogate, who may be a friend, family member, or a woman selected through a surrogacy agency. The surrogate undergoes thorough medical and psychological screenings to ensure she is healthy and emotionally prepared for the surrogacy journey. Legal agreements are also established to outline the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of both the surrogate and the intended parents, ensuring all parties are protected throughout the process.

In gestational surrogacy, the intended mother's eggs are retrieved through an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure, fertilized with the intended father's sperm, and the resulting embryos are cultured and monitored. One or more healthy embryos are then transferred into the surrogate's uterus. The surrogate carries the pregnancy, goes through childbirth, and delivers the baby, who is then handed over to the intended parents immediately after birth.

Surrogacy provides a viable pathway to parenthood for many individuals and couples who might otherwise be unable to have children. It requires careful consideration, planning, and the involvement of medical professionals, legal advisors, and emotional support networks. Despite the complexities and legalities involved, surrogacy has enabled countless families to grow, offering hope and fulfillment to those experiencing infertility or other reproductive challenges.