What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is a reproductive technology in which a woman willingly bears and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple who hires the woman with a definite amount of money. We can broadly divide surrogacy into two main types: gestational and traditional.

In gestational surrogacy, a woman (the surrogate) carries an embryo that has been created using in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and is not biologically related to her. The embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or donors.

In traditional surrogacy, the doctors artificially inseminate the lady with the intended father’s or a donor’s sperm, and the baby is biologically related to the surrogate.

Always remember that the surrogate should take proper care of herself during pregnancy. Also, most of the time, couples choose a young and healthy lady so that she can give birth to a healthy child.

Surrogacy is a controversial and complex issue, and the legal and social implications vary widely by country. In some places, surrogacy is strictly regulated or even banned, while in others, it is more openly accepted and governed by laws or contracts. However, the Indian government has legalised altruistic surrogacy for married couples with genuine infertility-related issues. But you can never force someone to be your surrogate.

 It is essential for individuals or couples considering surrogacy to carefully research and understand the legal and ethical issues involved, along with all its pros and cons. Finally, if you decide to opt for surrogacy, always carry legal papers to clarify the terms and conditions between both parties because word of mouth seldom has any value in modern times.