11 Surprising Facts About Gestational Surrogacy

The discussion surrounding gestational surrogacy gained significant attention recently, especially after surrogacy agreements were legalized in New York. One remarkable story involved a surrogate from Idaho who is still caring for a baby she carried for a couple from China, nearly a year after giving birth due to travel restrictions related to Covid-19. While such stories often make headlines, many people are realizing their dreams of parenthood through gestational surrogacy. With advancements in fertility treatments, there are increasingly diverse paths to parenthood with the assistance of a third party. If you’re considering a surrogate for your family, here are some intriguing insights.

Surrogacy Has Ancient Roots

Surrogacy has been around for centuries, with references found in the Old Testament where Sarah, unable to conceive, asked her servant Hagar to bear a child for her and Abraham. This is an example of traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate uses her own egg for conception.

Finding the Right Match

Gestational surrogacy involves a carrier who has no genetic link to the baby she carries. While some choose friends or relatives as gestational carriers (GCs), many prefer to work with an agency or “surrogacy matchmaker.” These professionals help intended parents articulate their surrogacy goals and find the best match through extensive screening—only about 2% of applicants qualify as GCs.

Dietary Guidelines Matter

Surrogacy contracts often include specific dietary stipulations beyond the usual prohibitions against alcohol and drugs. Intended parents may request that their GC eat organic foods, avoid certain cheeses and raw meats, and steer clear of hair dyes or whitening products. While GCs can negotiate these terms, many intended parents are eager to ensure their carrier’s choices support a healthy pregnancy.

A Pivotal Year in Surrogacy History

The year 1944 was significant for surrogacy; it marked the first successful fertilization of an egg outside the human body by John Rock, a pioneer in fertility medicine.

Age Is Just a Number

Interestingly, women can serve as surrogates even after their own eggs are no longer viable. There are documented instances of women over sixty acting as surrogates, sometimes even carrying for their own daughters. While age can increase risks, it’s not impossible for older women to become surrogates.

More Common Than You Think

The U.S. boasts some of the most favorable surrogacy laws globally, resulting in approximately 750 babies being born via surrogacy each year, often as multiples like twins or triplets.

Experience Matters

Most agencies prefer gestational carriers who are already mothers, as their previous pregnancies provide assurance of their ability to carry a child to term. These women better understand the emotional and physical commitments involved in surrogacy.

Legal Parentage Established

In supportive states, intended parents can request a pre-birth order to have their names listed on the birth certificate at the time of the baby’s birth, ensuring they are recognized as the legal parents from the outset.

Motivation Beyond Money

While gestational carriers can earn substantial compensation, agencies typically avoid working with women who are financially desperate for quick cash. Most GCs are compassionate individuals who willingly take on the emotional and physical challenges of surrogacy.

Nursing After Surrogacy

Intended mothers can breastfeed their babies even if they didn’t carry them. Medical professionals can administer hormones to stimulate lactation post-birth, allowing mothers to experience the joys of nursing.

Famous Faces in Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy has steadily gained traction among celebrities like Emma Roberts, Neil Patrick Harris, and Ricky Martin, showcasing its rising popularity. However, it’s not just the wealthy who can pursue this path. There are various methods to manage costs, such as looking into insurance options and considering international surrogacy.

As science and legislation continue to evolve, the possibilities for expanding your family are becoming broader. The landscape of parenthood is filled with surprises, reminding us to always anticipate the unexpected.

For more insights into family building, check out this informative article on inclusive family building. If you’re interested in learning about at-home insemination kits, Make a Mom is a great authority on the topic. Additionally, Mount Sinai provides excellent resources for infertility that can assist you in your journey.

Search Queries:

Summary

Gestational surrogacy offers numerous surprising insights, from its historical roots and modern practices to the emotional considerations of surrogates. As societal norms and technologies progress, more individuals can explore this path to parenthood, making it accessible to a wider audience.