Choosing Surrogacy: 3 Concerns to Consider



There are many specific and personal reasons why a potential parent may be considering surrogacy. Female infertility and other types of medical issues that can affect a woman’s ability to safely carry or deliver a child are generally the reasons for considering surrogacy.

There is very little available evidence, if any, to support the claim that women choose surrogacy for the sake of convenience or vanity. Rather, choosing a surrogate mother is more typically a matter of health and fertility-related practicality--for many, it is a last resort as a reproductive option. In fact, most IVF doctors will not work with clients who are pursuing surrogacy for non-medical reasons.

One of the more significant obstacles for parents-to-be who are considering surrogacy is the expense of the process. Surrogacy is a considerable financial investment that requires much forethought and careful budgeting, even for those who are financially stable. There are other valid concerns regarding surrogacy that couples must address before initiating the process. Read on for a breakdown of three major concerns to consider if you are thinking about choosing surrogacy.

3 Major Surrogacy Costs & Concerns

  1. The overall cost is high. The average cost for a gestational surrogacy is between $80,000 and $120,000. These numbers reflect the cost of the entire process, which includes legal fees, agency fees, surrogate and screening fees, insurance costs, and other medical fees. It is also recommended that parents considering surrogacy should plan for a 10-15 percent variability in costs to account for unforeseeable developments that may occur along the way. The price for surrogacy in major metropolitan areas, like New York City, tends to be higher than elsewhere in the country. While grants and loans are available for some parents looking to finance surrogacy, this type of aid isn't necessarily ensured for anyone.

  2. It can take a psychological toll. It is widely recommended that couples that are seriously considering surrogacy undergo counseling before making a final decision. Allowing another person to carry a child in your place can have a greater effect on you emotionally and mentally than you might anticipate. You’ll want to discuss your needs for the surrogacy process in therapy sessions. Therapy can help you explore and discover the degree to which you should be involved in a surrogate’s pregnancy, for example, in order for you to feel most comfortable. It is also generally recommended that you have your surrogate pass a psychological evaluation.

  3. The laws surrounding surrogacy vary and can be easily misunderstood. Surrogacy is more than just a medical issue – it’s also a legal issue. Each state has different laws regarding surrogacy. You’ll want to be sure to choose a surrogate mother who lives in your area and plans to deliver in your state. It is risky to have a surrogate who may travel out of state for delivery because of the varying surrogacy laws. You and the surrogate should each have independent legal counsel to help guide you through the red tape of surrogacy, most importantly, regarding the parental rights you’ll have after delivery.
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