Why People Choose to Undergo a Surrogacy Journey
Many Intended Parents choose surrogacy as a means to have a biological child of their own. The reasons are often personal and unique to each individual or couple.
Here are some common benefits of surrogacy and reasons why people may choose it:
Medical conditions:
Some individuals or couples may have medical conditions that prevent them from conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to full term. Surrogacy provides an alternative option to have a biological child. Surrogacy is also a great option for Intended Parents with certain genetic disorders.
Infertility:
Infertility can be a deeply distressing experience, particularly for women who have always envisioned themselves as mothers. The inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy can evoke profound sadness and feelings of loss. Additionally, societal expectations and norms can exacerbate the emotional burden, leading to feelings of shame in some women who cannot have children. For couples facing infertility issues, surrogacy offers a chance to have a child genetically related to one or both parents.
Genetic connection:
One of the primary reasons for choosing surrogacy is to have a child who is genetically related to one or both Intended Parents. Some individuals or couples have a strong desire to pass on their genes and have a biological connection to their child.
Biological parenthood experience:
For some people, the experience of pregnancy, childbirth, and raising a child from birth holds significant emotional value. Surrogacy allows Intended Parents to experience the journey of pregnancy, even if they are not physically carrying the baby.
Fertility issues:
Couples facing infertility or medical conditions that prevent them from conceiving and carrying a pregnancy to term may turn to surrogacy as a way to have a child.
Same-sex couples:
Surrogacy provides an option for same-sex couples to have a child that is biologically related to one of the partners, utilizing the genetic material of one or both parents.
Control over prenatal care:
In a surrogacy arrangement, Intended Parents have some control over prenatal care and can be actively involved in the pregnancy, ensuring the best possible outcomes for the child.
Avoiding potential adoption challenges:
Adoption processes can be lengthy and complex, with potential challenges in finding a suitable match, dealing with birth parent decisions, and navigating legal requirements. Some people may prefer the relative predictability and control of surrogacy. Some individuals or couples may have had negative experiences with adoption or may not feel emotionally prepared for the unique challenges that can arise in the adoption process.
Age-related factors:
Individuals or couples who are older may face more significant challenges with respect to fertility. Surrogacy can be a viable option for those seeking to have a child later in life. For older individuals or couples, pregnancy can carry additional risks. Surrogacy might be a safer option in such cases.
Avoiding pregnancy risks:
Pregnancy can carry certain risks, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. Surrogacy allows intended parents to avoid potential health risks associated with pregnancy.
Family planning choices:
Some individuals or couples may prefer to focus on their careers or other aspects of life and choose surrogacy to start a family without interrupting their current goals.
Incompatible uterus:
In cases where the intended mother does not have a functional uterus or a uterus that cannot sustain a pregnancy, surrogacy becomes a viable option.
Genetic disorders:
If one or both intended parents have genetic disorders they do not wish to pass on to their child, they can opt for surrogacy with a donor egg or sperm.
Previous pregnancy complications:
Women who have experienced severe pregnancy complications in the past might opt for surrogacy to avoid potential risks in future pregnancies.
Emotional reasons:
Some individuals or couples might find it emotionally challenging to carry a pregnancy or may have experienced recurrent miscarriages, leading them to choose surrogacy.
Benefits for Surrogates:
Becoming a surrogate can offer several benefits to women. It’s important to note that the specific benefits can vary depending on the surrogacy arrangement and legal frameworks governing commercial surrogacy in specific jurisdictions. Here are some potential benefits that women may receive for becoming surrogates in locations where commercial surrogacy is legally and ethically practiced (e.g. the majority of US states):
Financial compensation: In addition to reimbursement of all medical and legal expenses, surrogates typically receive financial compensation for their time, effort, and the physical and emotional demands of the surrogacy process. The amount of compensation can vary based on factors such as the location, the complexity of the surrogacy, and the surrogate’s experience. A surrogate is always free to name her own terms, regardless of what’s on an agency’s rate card or whether she is doing a journey independently without an agency. For more information on compensation under independent surrogacy, please read this blog post.
Here’s some of the ways surrogates use their compensation:
Covering living expenses:
Surrogates may use the compensation to cover their living expenses during the pregnancy, including rent or mortgage payments, utilities, groceries, and other day-to-day costs.
Support for their family:
Surrogates may use the compensation to support their families, including providing for their own children’s education, healthcare, and other needs.
Paying off debts:
Some surrogates may use the compensation to pay off existing debts or loans, such as student loans, credit card debt, or medical bills.
Saving for the future:
Surrogates may choose to save a portion of the compensation for their future, whether it be for emergencies, retirement, or other financial goals.
Education and personal development:
Some surrogates may use the compensation to invest in their education or personal development, such as taking courses or pursuing hobbies and interests.
Enhancing their lifestyle:
Surrogates may use the compensation to improve their quality of life, such as making home improvements, going on a vacation, or purchasing items they have long desired.
Giving back:
Some surrogates choose to use part of their compensation to support charitable causes or organizations they care about.
Fulfilling a desire to help others:
Many women become surrogates because they have a strong desire to help Intended Parents that are unable to have children on their own. Being a surrogate can provide a sense of fulfillment and the opportunity to make a significant impact on someone else’s life.
Empowerment and personal growth:
Being a surrogate can be a transformative experience for many women, providing a sense of empowerment and personal growth as they navigate the challenges and joys of the journey. Many surrogates simply love being pregnant but are done with their own family building and do not wish to have more children.
Building lasting connections:
Surrogacy often involves building relationships between the surrogate and the Intended Parents. Many surrogates and Intended Parents develop close bonds during the process, leading to lasting friendships and connections.
It’s important to mention that surrogacy is a significant commitment that requires careful consideration and understanding of the legal, medical, and emotional aspects involved. Before becoming a surrogate, women should thoroughly research surrogacy laws and regulations in their state, and consult with legal and medical professionals to fully understand the process and their rights and responsibilities.
FAQ – Benefits of Surrogacy
Why do some people choose surrogacy to have a child?
People opt for surrogacy for various reasons, including medical conditions that prevent them from conceiving or carrying a pregnancy, infertility issues, and the desire for a genetic connection to the child.
How does surrogacy benefit same-sex couples?
Surrogacy provides an option for same-sex couples to have a child biologically related to one of the partners, utilizing the genetic material of one or both parents.
What are the benefits of surrogacy over adoption?
Surrogacy allows for a genetic connection to the child and provides Intended Parents with more control over the prenatal care and the pregnancy journey compared to adoption, which can involve lengthy and complex processes.
Can surrogacy help older individuals or couples have children?
Yes, surrogacy can be a viable option for older individuals or couples facing age-related fertility challenges and potential risks associated with pregnancy.
How do surrogates benefit financially from the surrogacy process?
Surrogates receive financial compensation for their time, effort, and physical and emotional demands of the surrogacy process.
What emotional benefits do surrogates experience?
Being a surrogate can be a transformative experience, providing a sense of fulfillment, empowerment, and personal growth. Many surrogates find joy in helping Intended Parents fulfill their dreams of having a child.
Can surrogacy offer women with medical conditions an alternative for having a biological child?
Yes, for women with medical conditions that prevent them from carrying a pregnancy to term, surrogacy can provide a viable option to have a biological child.
Is surrogacy a significant commitment?
Yes, surrogacy is a major commitment that requires careful consideration of the legal, medical, and emotional aspects involved. It’s essential to thoroughly research surrogacy laws and consult with experts before making a decision.
Please note that surrogacy laws and regulations vary by state, and individuals considering surrogacy should consult with legal professionals to understand the specific requirements and obligations in their location.
