Altruistic Surrogacy in India: Understanding the Process

Altruistic surrogacy has become an important option for many couples struggling with infertility in India. Unlike commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate is compensated, altruistic surrogacy involves a surrogate who carries the baby for intended parents out of compassion, without any financial benefit, apart from covering medical and pregnancy-related expenses.

What is Altruistic Surrogacy?

Altruistic surrogacy is a process where a surrogate agrees to carry a child for intended parents without receiving financial compensation for the act. In India, the legal framework only permits altruistic surrogacy to protect both the surrogate mother and intended parents from exploitation. The surrogate is usually a close relative, friend, or acquaintance, driven by the desire to help couples struggling with infertility.

Key Features of Altruistic Surrogacy in India:

1. No Compensation: The surrogate does not receive financial rewards for the surrogacy, aside from medical costs and related expenses.

2. Strict Legal Regulations: Altruistic surrogacy is governed by strict laws to prevent exploitation and protect all parties involved.

3. Eligibility Criteria: Surrogates must be a close family member of the intended parents, married, and have had at least one child of their own.

4. Surrogacy Contracts: A legal agreement is established between the surrogate and the intended parents, ensuring clarity on rights, responsibilities, and medical support.

The Legal Framework of Altruistic Surrogacy in India

The Indian government passed the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, which bans commercial surrogacy and legalizes only altruistic surrogacy. Under this law, the process is strictly regulated to ensure that surrogates are not exploited, and intended parents can pursue their dream of having a child in a legally secure manner.

Key provisions of the act include:

• Only married heterosexual couples with proven infertility are eligible.

• The surrogate must be a close relative of the couple.

• Surrogates can only be women aged between 25 to 35 years, who have a child of their own.

• Compensation is prohibited, except for medical expenses.

How to Find the Best Surrogacy Centre in India

Choosing the best surrogacy centre in India is crucial for a successful surrogacy journey. Look for a center that provides comprehensive services, including fertility treatments, legal support, and medical care for both the surrogate and the intended parents. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a surrogacy centre:

1. Expertise in Surrogacy and Fertility Treatments

The surrogacy centre should have a strong track record in fertility treatments and surrogacy programs, with experienced fertility doctors who understand the nuances of altruistic surrogacy. Top centers offer specialized care for both the intended parents and surrogates.

2. Legal and Ethical Support

Navigating the legal aspects of altruistic surrogacy can be complex. A reputable surrogacy centre will have a legal team to help you understand and comply with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act and ensure the contracts between the surrogate and intended parents are airtight.

3. Comprehensive Medical Care

The best surrogacy centres provide comprehensive medical care for both the surrogate and the intended parents, from fertility assessments to prenatal and postnatal care. The centre should have state-of-the-art medical facilities and a high success rate in assisting couples through the surrogacy process.

4. Supportive Environment

Emotional support is just as important as medical care in surrogacy. The centre should offer counselling services to help both the surrogate and intended parents navigate the emotional aspects of the surrogacy process.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy offers a compassionate path to parenthood for couples facing infertility challenges in India. With the right medical and legal support, intended parents can fulfill their dream of having a child while ensuring that the surrogate mother is well cared for. When choosing the best surrogacy centre in India, look for expertise in fertility treatments, ethical legal practices, and comprehensive care. By partnering with a reputable surrogacy centre, you can embark on this journey with confidence, knowing that all parties are protected under India’s strict surrogacy laws.