Gestational surrogacy is still shrouded in mystery for some. For those who are involved in surrogacy or know the people who are, it can seem pretty straightforward. It involves matching a healthy, willing woman with a couple who are unable to have children of their own with the ultimate goal of producing a baby for the intended parents. However, people have a lot of questions and don’t know who to ask. Here are just a few of the common myths about becoming a gestational surrogate.
Surrogates only do it for the money (or to get rich)
Surrogates are compensated for their medical and other expenses associated with the surrogate pregnancy such as missed work, travel, maternity clothes, etc. A gestational surrogate is likely to break even or come out just a little ahead of the time she spends as a surrogate. Most women who choose to become surrogates do so out of a sense of gratitude for being able to carry at least one pregnancy to term and a desire to help intended parents build their families.
Any woman can become a surrogate
This could not be more untrue. There is an extensive list of qualifications and a rigorous screening process that includes psychological and medical testing. Not to mention that the surrogate and the intended parents must develop a good working relationship. Only a small percentage of women who apply are actually accepted.
The surrogate will be related to the baby
In the case of a gestational surrogate, she has no biological connection to the child. The sperm is provided by the intended father and the egg by either the intended mother or an egg donor. The surrogate will not have the biological or legal rights to the baby at all. Some surrogates like to refer to it as “babysitting” because they know it’s not their child and they are keeping watch over the first nine months.
Surrogates should only be a carrier for friends or family
Some couples do use a surrogate they know. That’s a fine choice for families who have that option and are comfortable with it. But for other intended parents, a gestational surrogate they work with through an agency is a better fit. There are fewer muddy emotional waters to navigate and they know the surrogate will be thoroughly screened. When you are related to the intended party, relationships get complicated and there is no independent party to help you sort them out.
Surrogacy is illegal
Surrogacy is prohibited in a handful of locations, but laws regulating surrogacy vary from state to state and often county to county. The laws in your specific area are fairly easy to find online or you can just ask your agency for details. The aim of most regulation is to avoid what is essentially a commercial baby-making enterprise or taking advantage of low-income women. Most surrogacy agency screening includes verifying the surrogate is not turning to surrogacy to climb out of a financial hole.
Want answers to other myths and misconceptions about surrogacy? Contact the experts at Surrogate Solutions. Our staff will be with you every step of the way and are happy to answer any questions you have. We look forward to hearing from you!
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