Surrogate Mothers: What It Is and How Does Surrogacy Work?

Surrogacy has emerged as a viable option for individuals and couples struggling with infertility. In India, surrogacy laws have undergone significant changes to ensure ethical practices and protect the rights of all parties involved. Understanding what surrogacy entails and how it works is essential for intended parents considering this option.

What Is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is a reproductive process where a woman (the surrogate mother) carries and delivers a child for intended parents who may be unable to conceive naturally. The practice can be categorized into two types:

• Traditional Surrogacy – The surrogate mother contributes her egg, making her genetically related to the child.

• Gestational Surrogacy – The embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents (or donors) and implanted into the surrogate mother’s womb. In this case, the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.

How Does Surrogacy Work in India?

With the implementation of the new Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only altruistic surrogacy is permitted in India. This law prohibits commercial surrogacy, allowing only close relatives to act as surrogates without monetary compensation except for medical expenses and insurance coverage.

The surrogacy process in India involves several steps:

1. Eligibility and Legal Requirements: Intended parents must fulfill legal criteria, including being a married Indian couple with proven infertility. Single women (widows or divorcees) can also opt for surrogacy.

2. Selection of Surrogate Mother: Only a close relative who has previously given birth and is between 25-35 years old can be a surrogate.

3. Medical and Psychological Screening: The surrogate undergoes medical tests to ensure she is fit for pregnancy.

4. Embryo Transfer: After successful IVF treatment, the embryo is transferred to the surrogate mother’s uterus.

5. Pregnancy and Delivery: The surrogate carries the child to term under medical supervision, and post-delivery, the baby is handed over to the intended parents.

Altruistic Surrogacy in Delhi

Delhi has become a hub for altruistic surrogacy, with several renowned Surrogacy Centres in India providing comprehensive support for intended parents. These centres ensure adherence to legal guidelines while offering medical, legal, and psychological assistance throughout the surrogacy journey.

Why Choose Surrogacy in India?

• Legal Framework: The Surrogacy Regulation Act ensures ethical practices.

• Advanced Medical Facilities: India is home to state-of-the-art fertility clinics.

• Cost-Effective Treatment: Compared to other countries, surrogacy in India remains an affordable option for many couples.

Conclusion

Surrogacy offers hope to many couples facing infertility challenges. With the new surrogacy law in India, only altruistic surrogacy is allowed, ensuring ethical practices and protecting surrogate mothers. For those considering surrogacy, consulting an expert at a reputed Surrogacy Centre in India is the best way to begin this life-changing journey.