Surrogacy is a more familiar word these days as childless couples see it as a viable option to start a family. This article goes on to explain a few basic details about surrogacy and when it can be the right choice for a childless couple.
Surrogacy allows parents more choices of reproductive options and helps to create families that share special bonds. The best part about this option is that children born out of surrogate parents are the natural progeny of their parents bearing all the genetic traits.
Surrogacy
General Information
What is Surrogacy?
This is a form of fertility treatment that allows a woman (surrogate mother) to carry the pregnancy and deliver a baby for another couple. The surrogate mother may be the genetic mother (traditional surrogacy) or may not be genetically related to the child that she is carrying (gestational surrogacy). In surrogacy agreements, however, she has to give up all parental rights and give back the baby to the parents that requested the surrogacy when the baby is born
Who is surrogacy suitable for?
Surrogacy is best suited for couples that find it difficult to conceive. Surrogacy can be suggested as an option when:
- There are repeated incidences of ovulation failure, unsuccessful implantation, miscarriages, etc.
- When the female is born without a functional uterus or when the uterus has been surgically removed
- There are abnormalities in the uterus and other problems such as intrauterine adhesions/scarring
- Hypertension
- Chronic loss of reproductive capability
Any type of third-party reproductive method is not an easy one to suggest for childless couples. Here, the couple should be well aware of the social and legal implications of surrogacy before opting for it. It is important that the couple spends a considerable amount of thought on the matter of surrogacy (national/international) along with the consultant and a lawyer to become well aware of all the legal issues of such an arrangement.
What is Legal Status of surrogacy in India?
The legal rules of surrogacy vary widely in different parts of the world. In India, whereas commercial surrogacy (where the surrogate mother is compensated) is illegal, voluntary or altruistic surrogacy (where the surrogate mother does not want any payment but requires only a reimbursement for the expenses involved) is allowed.
At, IVF Spring Fertility Center, the best surrogacy clinic in Mumbai, India, we adhere to all laws pertaining to surrogacy in India.
What is Surrogacy Process?
If you have decided to go on with the surrogacy treatment at IVF Spring, as the first step, you have to identify the egg donor and a willing host to act as the surrogate mother.
In the beginning, there will be many blood tests and ultrasound scans conducted to assess the health conditions of the egg donor and the surrogate mother. Prior to starting the fertility drug and the IVF/ICSI treatment regimen, the egg donor is subjected to many tests to rule out infection and to screen the genetic health.
The whole process has to be carefully synchronized and monitored for the pregnancy to be successful.
What is Success rate of surrogacy?
There are many factors that decide whether a pregnancy will be successful. Some of them are the age of the surrogate, the ability of the surrogate to conceive, the sperm quality, the age of the egg donor, etc., among others.
Why Spring Fertility?
At IVF Spring we are clear with the basics of the procedure and can methodically design a professional program that is suited to a specific couple opting for surrogacy. At IVF Spring, we take special care of both the couple and the surrogate host throughout the journey starting from conception to the end of a successful pregnancy.
Surrogacy related FAQs
What is surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an assisted reproductive technology (ART) where a woman carries a baby for another individual or couple who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves.
Is surrogacy legal in Mumbai, India?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in Mumbai and regulated by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020.
What are the types of surrogacy available in Mumbai?
There are two types of surrogacy - traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate uses her own eggs, and gestational surrogacy, where the eggs are from the intended mother or a donor and fertilized in a lab before being implanted into the surrogate's uterus.
Who can opt for surrogacy in Mumbai?
Couples or individuals who have medical conditions that prevent them from carrying a pregnancy or conceiving naturally can opt for surrogacy.
How is a surrogate chosen in Mumbai?
A surrogate is chosen based on certain criteria like age, medical history, and psychological evaluation. It is important to use the services of a reputable agency to ensure that the surrogate is thoroughly screened and meets all necessary qualifications.
How is the surrogate compensated in Mumbai?
The surrogate is compensated for her time, effort, and medical expenses during the pregnancy. The amount of compensation is typically determined by the agreement between the surrogate and the intended parents.
Is a legal agreement necessary for surrogacy in Mumbai?
Yes, a legal agreement between the surrogate and the intended parents is necessary to clarify the rights and responsibilities of both parties and to ensure a smooth surrogacy process.
What is the success rate of surrogacy in Mumbai?
The success rate of surrogacy depends on various factors such as the age of the intended mother or donor, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and the overall health of the surrogate. The success rate is typically higher for gestational surrogacy compared to traditional surrogacy.
How long does the surrogacy process take in Mumbai?
The surrogacy process can take anywhere from 12-18 months depending on the type of surrogacy, the availability of a suitable surrogate, and any legal or medical complications that may arise.
What are the legal formalities involved in surrogacy in Mumbai?
The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020 mandates that all surrogacy arrangements in India must be altruistic, i.e. the surrogate cannot receive any monetary compensation except for medical expenses. The intended parents must also obtain a certificate of essentiality and a certificate of eligibility from a government authority before proceeding with surrogacy.
Dr. Anjali Ajit Deval
Dr. Anjali Ajit Deval is the Director of IVF Spring Fertility Center Mumbai. With 15+ years’ practice experience as an…