There are many surrogacy myths, but actual facts can be much different and surprising!!
At IVF Conceptions, we understand that surrogacy can be a complex and misunderstood process. As a leading provider of assisted reproductive technology, we aim to clear up some of the most common myths surrounding surrogacy and provide accurate information to intended parents. Let’s debunk these misconceptions and shed light on surrogacy myths and facts.
Surrogacy is a relatively new phenomenon for many would-be parents. Lots of celebrities have lately opted for the gestational surrogacy process. But with the pros and cons of surrogacy, come the myths and facts about surrogacy.
When it comes to the surrogacy process, there are lots of myths among the would-be parents which can be confusing and stop them from making the right decision at the right time. In this article, we will cover common Myths and Facts about Surrogacy.
What are Surrogacy Myths And Facts
| Surrogacy Myths | Surrogacy Facts |
|---|---|
| Surrogacy Myth #1: Surrogacy is just for celebrities and wealthy couples. | Fact: Surrogacy is accessible to anyone with the financial means. Costs vary based on location, use of donors, and surrogacy type. Surrogacy isn’t limited to the wealthy. |
| Surrogacy Myth #2: Surrogate mothers do it only for the money. | Fact: Surrogates undergo rigorous evaluations and are motivated by compassion, not just money. Compensation is a token of appreciation, not the primary motivation. |
| Surrogacy Myth #3: Women choose surrogacy to avoid pregnancy and save their figure. | Fact: Surrogacy is often chosen after failed IVF, advanced age, or medical conditions like uterine issues. It’s not a cosmetic choice but a solution for medical or family-building reasons. |
| Surrogacy Myth #4: The surrogate mother will want to keep the child. | Fact: Surrogates undergo psychological evaluations and fully understand the child is not theirs. The fear of surrogates keeping the child is rare and legally addressed. |
| Surrogacy Myth #5: Intended parents will struggle to bond with the baby. | Fact: Bonding begins before and after birth. Intended parents can attend medical appointments, take ultrasound photos, and enjoy immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth. |
| Surrogacy Myth #6: Gestational surrogacy is illegal in my country. | Fact: Many countries, including the U.S., Ukraine, Georgia, and Colombia, allow legal gestational surrogacy with regulations that protect all parties involved. |
| Surrogacy Myth #7: Working independently with a surrogate is easy and cost-effective. | Fact: Independent surrogacy can lead to legal complications and higher costs. Surrogacy agencies provide essential services like legal advice, matching, and medical care. |
| Surrogacy Myth #8: The gestational surrogate is the real mother of the child. | Fact: In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic link to the child. The embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material and transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. |
| Surrogacy Myth #9: Surrogates conceive the child through traditional methods and are genetically related to the baby. | Fact: Today, most surrogacies are gestational, where the surrogate carries an embryo created through IVF using the genetic material of the intended parents or donors. Traditional surrogacy is rare. |
| Surrogacy Myth #10: Surrogacy is an unethical practice. | Fact: Surrogacy is ethical and involves mutual consent. Agencies ensure both surrogates and intended parents are protected and cared for throughout the process. |
| Surrogacy Myth #11: Surrogacy is unaffordable for most people. | Fact: While surrogacy can be expensive, there are funding options, loans, and more affordable international surrogacy options to make the process accessible to more people. |
Begin your surrogacy journey with IVF Conceptions today!
Mobile: +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Email: neelam@ivfconceptions.com
Surrogacy Myth #1- Surrogacy is just for celebrities and wealthy couples
Surrogacy Fact:
Gestational surrogacy is a modern family building and it is open for all. This myth is popular because the cost of surrogacy is exceptionally high. The cost of surrogacy depends on various factors:
- A place where the surrogacy procedure is carried out
- Where is your surrogate located?
- If you are using an egg donor or sperm donor?
- If you are opting for traditional surrogacy or gestational surrogacy?
All these factors will contribute to the cost of surrogacy. Apart from these factors, the medical insurance of the surrogate will cost you around $30,000 in the USA, which is a considerable sum of money. There are health policies that do not discriminate surrogacy from their medical plan.
If your surrogate is covered under such a policy, then you need to pay less or no cost for the insurance of the surrogate.
Therefore, anyone who has enough financial resources can opt for the process of surrogacy.
Related surrogacy Costs guides:
What is the average surrogacy cost?
How much does surrogacy cost in Ukraine?
How much does surrogacy cost in Georgia?
How much does surrogacy cost in India?
What is the Surrogacy Cost in Colombia?
What is Surrogacy cost in Mexico?
What is surrogacy cost with family members?
Surrogacy Myth #2- The surrogate mothers are in for the surrogacy because of the money
Surrogacy Fact:
The compensation comes at the end of the list for most surrogates. It’s not at all easy to be a surrogate mother. She has to fulfill the rigorous skills to be a surrogate. She has to adapt to her surroundings. She has to create adjustments in both her body and lifestyle.
Furthermore, strict requirements are placed on the lifestyle of surrogate mothers, their activities, and their daily routines. She is accountable for another person’s child’s well-being.
The pregnancy itself requires nine months of her time, incorporating the whole legal and medical process into a more than a year-long operation.
So, the gestational carriers are not just here for the cash, but any form of financial reimbursement is a token of appreciation from the intended parents.
These are the kind and loving females who appreciate pregnancy and want to help infertile couples to become parents.
Surrogacy Myth #3- A woman opts for surrogacy to save her figure and avoid pregnancy
Surrogacy Fact:
Surrogacy is a very expensive and emotionally draining process for any woman. Surrogacy is chosen by the woman because of the following reasons:
- Failed IVF attempts for about 3 to 4 times
- The advanced age of the mother
- Life-threatening conditions like kidney disease or heart disease
- Uterine problems such as the inability of the uterus to carry the child or lack of a womb.
The temporary weight gain doesn’t matter to most females who want to be parents. The most significant part of their life is to have a family and become parents. Most couples who opt for gestational surrogacy have gone through years of struggle to have a baby.
For same-sex couples, who wish to have a family, gestational surrogacy is an inevitable part of parenthood.
Surrogacy Myth #4 – The surrogate mother will keep the child
Surrogacy Fact:
This is the most common fear among the expected parents that the surrogate might change her mind and keep the baby.
They may occur even though these instances are uncommon. Ideally, she might have her kid, so she understands what it feels like to have your kid.
She understands the importance of a family and kids and wants you to have that experience.
Some of them may be thankful for comparatively simple pregnancies, so they do a great job of making families possible for childless couples.
Right from the beginning, she has been counseled and made to understand that the surrogacy baby does not belong to her, and she’s carrying the child just to hand it over to the expected parents. A surrogate mother undergoes a psychological evaluation to ensure she has a sound emotional and mental approach.
Moreover, according to research, the a possibility that the would-be parent will change their mind five times more than the surrogate will change her mind.
Still, to protect their rights intended parents opt for legally secure surrogacy countries for their gestational surrogacy journey,
How to find a surrogate mother?
Surrogacy Myth #5- The intended parents will have a problem bonding with the baby
Surrogacy Fact:
Some expected intended parents have the impression that they may or may not be willing to bond with the kid. The case though is entirely different.
While the baby is in the uterus, you can bond with the baby. Also, along with the surrogate, you can attend all medical appointments. Take ultrasound photos or record your voice.
Even if you don’t do these things, it doesn’t mean you can’t bond with your own baby. Mostly, when the baby is born, the expected parents will be there. That first skin-to-skin contact experience is incredible when you hold a child.
Also, the process of bonding begins after the birth of the child, not while in the womb. Once the baby is born, he/she will be handed over instantly to the expected parents where the bond will start to develop.
Surrogacy Myth #6 – Gestational surrogacy is illegal in my country
Surrogacy Fact:
There are many areas around the globe where gestational surrogacy is heavily protected by explicit legislation, including within the United States.
Indeed, some countries do not allow any sort of gestational surrogacy agreements and many only allow their citizens or only married couples.
Some countries only accept surrogacy cases with a valid medical reason for the female partner, like Ukraine. So, gay surrogacy or same-sex surrogacy is not allowed in Ukraine.
Read more about countries where gestational surrogacy is allowed.
Surrogacy Myth #7- Working independently with the surrogate will be easy
Surrogacy Fact:
Surrogacy is a complicated process not only in terms of emotion but also in terms of the law.
While doing independent or private surrogacy, you may save a lot, but it may result in many unseen legal problems both before and after the birth of the baby. Sometimes, the inexperienced intended parents end up using more money than they save.
Depending on the state for which you choose surrogacy and the specificity of the legal document, the document may not cover all appropriate parental or surrogate protection. That may result in delayed parenting rights.
The agency maintains all parties on the same page to allow both sides to have a common goal of having a hassle-free surrogacy baby. A surrogate agency can play a significant part in planning your surrogacy process.
While it may seem cost-effective to go independent surrogacy, understanding an agency’s function is crucial. From screening and matching to legal advice and medical procedures, the organization can provide you with a range of services.
So, you can truly benefit from the knowledge of the surrogacy agency professionals who will assist you in preventing certain pitfalls such as legal issues, unsuccessful medical testing, and issues of compatibility that could destroy your surrogacy journey.
Read more:
All about Independent surrogacy
Is a surrogate genetically related to the baby?
Surrogacy Myth #8- Gestational surrogate will be the real mother of my child
Surrogacy Fact:
The egg from the expected mother or an egg donor is fertilized with the expected father’s sperm or from the sperm donor in gestational surrogacy. Then the embryo is transmitted to the surrogate who carries the baby until birth.
Thus, the embryo is transferred to the surrogate via the IVF process. The surrogate is not genetically associated with the baby. The baby genetically belongs to the commissioning parents. Gestational carriers are not usually emotionally attached to the baby as they know from the beginning that they are just carriers. They have their families and babies to fall back on for emotional support.
Sometimes egg donation is an integral part of the surrogacy process.
Surrogacy Myth #9: The surrogate is related to the baby, and she has to conceive the child in the “traditional” way.
Surrogacy Fact:
While traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate uses her own eggs, was once an option, it’s rarely practiced today due to genetic risks and legal complexities.
The majority of surrogacies, including those completed by IVF Conceptions, are gestational surrogacies. In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is used to implant the embryo into the surrogate’s uterus under medical supervision.
Surrogacy Myth #10: Surrogacy is an unethical practice where women sell their wombs and intended parents profit off vulnerable women.
Surrogacy Fact:
Surrogacy is an ethical practice that involves mutual consent and understanding between surrogates and intended parents. At IVF Conceptions, we prioritize the well-being of both parties and ensure they are protected throughout the process. Surrogates are generously compensated for their selfless act, and intended parents are provided with professional care and support.
Surrogacy Myth #11: I can’t afford surrogacy.
Surrogacy Fact:
While surrogacy can be expensive for intended parents, there are various funding options, grants, and loans available to make it more accessible. At IVF Conceptions, we work with intended parents to find financial solutions that suit their needs. We advocate and assist with international surrogacy in countries where the surrogacy cost is 70% less than the US surrogacy cost.
Read about affordable and legal surrogacy options here for Surrogacy Myths And Facts:
Top 4 Cheapest Countries For Surrogacy That Parents Should Know (in 2023)
Countries Where Surrogacy Is Legal (International Surrogacy 2023)
Best Countries for Surrogacy 2023; Top International Destinations
Best Countries for Gay Surrogacy
International Surrogacy Guide: Your Path to Parenthood Abroad
IVF Conceptions Surrogacy Prices & Plans ( in 2023)
Conclusion for Surrogacy Myths And Facts
There are quite a few surrogacy myths among surrogates and intended parents. The best way to understand the surrogacy process is that parents need to consult a surrogacy agent.
Infertility is a painful experience. Gestational surrogacy is a fantastic family-building option for a few of us.
There are many experienced surrogacy professionals or surrogacy agencies who have years of experience in this domain. Getting a surrogacy consultation can remove lots of surrogacy myths and can advise you on the best surrogacy plan that can be according to your specific needs.
If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at IVF Conceptions. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy services.
Begin your surrogacy journey with IVF Conceptions today!
Mobile: +91-8800481100 ( WhatsApp, Line, Viber)
Email: neelam@ivfconceptions.com
FAQ about Surrogacy Myths And Facts:
- What is surrogacy, and how does it work?
Surrogacy is an assisted reproductive technology where a woman (the surrogate) carries a pregnancy on behalf of another person or couple (intended parents). The embryo is typically created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material and then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus to carry the pregnancy to term.
- Are surrogates genetically related to the child?
In gestational surrogacy, which is the most common type, the surrogate is not genetically related to the child she carries. The embryo used for the pregnancy comes from the intended parents or donors.
- What are the different types of surrogacy arrangements?
There are two main types of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate using her own eggs, making her genetically related to the child. In gestational surrogacy, the embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material, making the surrogate not genetically related to the child.
- Is surrogacy legal in all countries?
Surrogacy laws vary from country to country and even within different states or regions. Some countries have specific laws regulating surrogacy, while others may have no regulations or outright bans. It’s essential to research the laws and regulations in the specific location where surrogacy is being considered.
- How much does surrogacy cost?
The cost of surrogacy varies significantly depending on the location, agency or clinic, medical procedures involved, and other factors. On average, surrogacy can range from $80,000 to $150,000 or more.
- What are the potential risks and complications of surrogacy?
Surrogacy, like any medical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. Some risks may include multiple pregnancies, medical complications during pregnancy, and legal issues. Working with a reputable surrogacy agency and medical professionals can help minimize these risks.
- Can same-sex couples opt for surrogacy?
Yes, same-sex couples can opt for surrogacy as a way to have biological children. Surrogacy offers an opportunity for intended parents, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, to become parents.
- How do I find a reliable surrogacy agency or clinic?
Finding a reliable surrogacy agency or clinic is crucial for a successful surrogacy journey. Look for agencies with positive reviews, experienced staff, and a track record of successful surrogacy arrangements. It’s essential to do thorough research and ask for referrals from others who have gone through surrogacy.
- What psychological and emotional considerations should intended parents and surrogates take into account?
Both intended parents and surrogates should consider the emotional and psychological aspects of the surrogacy journey. Open communication, counseling, and support throughout the process can help manage emotions and ensure a positive experience for all parties involved.
- How does the surrogacy process impact the child’s upbringing and relationship with the surrogate?
The surrogacy process can impact the child’s upbringing and relationship with the surrogate depending on the level of openness in the arrangement.
Some surrogacy agreements involve ongoing contact between the child and the surrogate, while others may have limited contact or none at all.
Open communication and understanding between all parties are vital in shaping a positive and healthy relationship for the child.