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How Does Surrogacy Work? A Complete Guide to the Process

Writer's picture: Olga PysanaOlga Pysana

Updated: Jan 28

Surrogacy has become a popular option for different categories of people around the world. Indeed, it's an excellent opportunity to fulfil the dream of having a child. This option is often a solution for those facing fertility challenges. The growing trend shows how family-building is changing globally.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain the surrogacy meaning with all the details. We'll also answer the question: How does surrogacy work? It will give you a better understanding of the procedures involved and potential challenges you may face. Let's start our journey through this process!



What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an arrangement where a woman agrees to carry a child for another person or couple. This process becomes a real lifeline for those unable to carry a pregnancy. Surrogacy gives such people a second chance to build a complete family. So, the surrogacy meaning lies in creating a family for those facing reproductive challenges.


Different Types of Surrogacy

There are two main types of surrogacy: gestational and traditional. Each type has different procedures, medical approaches, and emotional dynamics. Understanding the differences can help intended parents choose the right path for them.


Traditional Surrogacy

In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate mother is genetically related to the child. In simple words, she becomes pregnant through artificial insemination. The procedure involves using the biological material from the intended father or a donor. 

This type of surrogacy is less common today. The reason is a genetic connection between the surrogate and the child. It can also raise legal and emotional issues. Clear agreements and support are essential for everyone involved.


Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy offers a less emotionally and genetically connected approach. The surrogate carries a baby created through IVF (in vitro fertilisation). This way, the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby. This method is more common and widely used.

The key here is that the surrogate has no genetic ties to the child. Consequently, gestational surrogacy offers a more straightforward legal process. It's often the preferred option for couples who need assistance with fertility. This approach provides clearer guidelines and fewer complications.


Who Chooses Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is an option for family building that appeals to different categories of people. As a rule, these include couples with infertility issues, same-sex married couples and single parents. It's important to note that the surrogacy arrangement and legal aspects are an integral part of the process.


How Much Does Surrogacy Cost?

The cost of surrogacy can vary significantly depending on several factors, including the country or region where the surrogacy takes place and whether it is commercial or altruistic. For example, surrogacy in the United States, where commercial surrogacy is legal, can range from £80,000 to £200,000 (100,000-250,000$) or more, depending on factors like medical treatments, surrogate compensation, and legal fees. In the UK, costs generally range betwee£40,000 and £55,000 (45,000-70,000$), with intended parents covering medical expenses, legal fees, and reasonable reimbursements for the surrogate's costs (such as lost wages and travel).



How Does Surrogacy Work? The Step-by-Step Process

The surrogacy process is an emotional and complex journey. That's why we emphasise the importance of having a clear answer to the question: How does surrogacy work? Understanding the steps involved will ease the uncertainty. From finding the surrogate to the moment you hold your baby, every step plays an important role.


Matching with a Surrogate

The surrogacy process begins with finding an appropriate surrogate, which involves thorough screening and preparation. This step ensures that the surrogate matches the intended parents' needs and meets specific qualifications. When both parties are comfortable and have clear, aligned expectations, the process proceeds smoothly.

If you're considering international surrogacy, it’s especially important to have the opportunity to communicate with the surrogate. Clear communication (in most cases via the agency) helps set expectations, and address any concerns, ensuring that everyone involved is on the same page. However, the steps involved can differ depending on the country, as surrogacy laws and practices vary widely across regions.


Medical Procedures

After matching, the medical procedures begin, with the surrogate undergoing comprehensive health screenings and assessments to ensure she is physically capable of carrying the child. The main goal is to confirm that the surrogate is fit and healthy enough for the pregnancy. Given the complexity of the surrogacy process, it also includes ongoing psychological support for both the surrogate and the intended parents. In some cases, the screening process may take place before matching in international surrogacy arrangements, especially when intended parents are working with clinics abroad where surrogates may undergo initial evaluations before being matched.

In most surrogacy arrangements, the intended parents will undergo IVF to create embryos, which are then implanted into the surrogate's uterus. This process begins with ovarian stimulation, where the intended mother's or an egg donor's eggs are harvested and fertilised in a laboratory using sperm from the intended father or a sperm donor. The resulting embryos are monitored for development, and one or more healthy embryos are selected for transfer to the surrogate. 

Surrogacy involves close monitoring of the surrogate’s health throughout the pregnancy, with regular check-ups and medical support being vital for both the surrogate’s well-being and the child’s development. In some situations, the intended parents may also require medical treatments, typically including hormone therapy to prepare the surrogate's body for embryo implantation. However, medical procedures may vary depending on the specific needs of the intended parents, the surrogate, and the clinic or agency handling the surrogacy arrangement.


Legal Agreements

Before the surrogacy journey continues, pay attention to legal agreements. These documents protect both the surrogate and the intended parents. They clarify parental rights and responsibilities throughout the pregnancy. Both parties need to adhere to their legal obligations.

The legal aspect also ensures that all procedures are compliant with local laws. This stage may involve consultations with legal experts to address any questions or concerns. Proper legal protection ensures a smooth process from start to finish.


Timeline from Matching to Birth

The timeline for the whole surrogacy process can vary. Typically, it takes about 12–18 months from finding a surrogate to the birth of the child. 

Every step should be carefully planned. Professional help is crucial to guarantee the health and safety of both the surrogate and the child. With proper medical care and support, the timeline remains relatively predictable. Ultimately, it gives intended parents a clear path to parenthood.

If you have any questions, contact us for further assistance. Our experts will guide you throughout the process. Take the first step today to get closer to parenthood!



Legal Aspects of Surrogacy

The surrogacy process involves critical legal aspects to protect all parties involved. It can vary by location, but it generally means one woman carries a child for someone else. The legal framework includes contracts and parental rights. These aspects are vital to ensure that everyone's rights are clear from start to finish.

Some states and countries have strict surrogacy laws that define parental rights before the baby is born. Others may have less clear rules, creating uncertainty for both the surrogate and intended parents. Understanding local laws is crucial for things like legal parentage and citizenship.

Knowing the legal requirements is essential for anyone considering surrogacy. It helps avoid surprises and misunderstandings. Whether you're asking, "How does surrogacy work?" or need to clarify some legal aspects, expert help makes all the difference.


Legal Counsel and Agreements

Legal counsel is crucial in surrogacy arrangements. Lawyers create clear contracts that cover all associated rights and responsibilities. Transparency ensures that both parties are fully informed. Without proper legal support, misunderstandings can arise and lead to complications.

These agreements are designed to protect everyone's rights. They specify that the surrogate will not have parental rights after birth, giving the intended parents peace of mind. A solid agreement also prevents future legal issues, including those related to surrogacy price and medical care.


Challenges in Different Jurisdictions

Surrogacy laws differ by location, which can create specific challenges. Some countries ban international surrogacy or have strict regulations, while others have more lenient laws. These differences can affect legal parentage and documentation for the child.

The surrogacy price can vary based on location, affecting costs like legal fees and surrogate compensation. Medical and legal expenses differ depending on the country. Legal guidance is essential to navigate these challenges to ensure the surrogacy process flows as smoothly and efficiently as possible.



Who Does Surrogacy Help?

Surrogacy offers a unique solution for family-building. It appeals to many individuals and married couples who face challenges with traditional conception. First of all, surrogacy implies a unique opportunity to build a family when natural methods aren't viable. Second, it helps different categories of people, including:

  • Couples Struggling with Infertility: Infertility caused by medical conditions or age is a common obstacle. When other treatments haven't worked, surrogacy becomes the best alternative.

  • Single Individuals: Surrogacy gives the chance to have a child when natural conception isn't an option. It offers a way to experience parenthood even despite this obstacle.

  • Women with Medical Conditions: Some women cannot carry a pregnancy due to health issues. Surrogacy provides a safe path to parenthood and a complete family.

  • Same-Sex Couples: Surrogacy provides same-sex couples the opportunity to have a child with a genetic connection, allowing them to experience parenthood.

At The Surrogacy Insider, experienced consultant Olga Pysana is dedicated to helping you choose the ideal surrogacy destination and provider while ensuring you fully understand the process. She will guide you through the initial stages of the process, connecting you with the right professionals and industry experts to make the journey as seamless as possible. With our support, your dream of building a complete family can become a reality.

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