There are many misconceptions and myths when it comes to surrogacy. We wanted to address some of those and help educate people about surrogacy and how it all works.
Myth #1: The Surrogate is the Mother
In gestational surrogacy, an embryo is formed through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended parents’ or donors’ egg and sperm. This embryo is then transferred to the uterus of the gestational carrier. The gestational carrier is not biologically linked to the child and lacks legal parental rights. Legal contracts safeguard the surrogate from any legal obligations toward the child. Surrogates view their role as assisting the intended parents in building their family, devoid of a maternal relationship with the child.
Myth #2: Surrogates Are in it For the Money
Surrogates are compassionate individuals driven by the desire to contribute to another person’s family. They undergo a thorough screening process, and endure physical changes, discomfort, and health risks during the surrogacy journey. Compensation is intended to cover any pain, suffering, and time devoted to the process. Contrary to the belief that surrogates are motivated solely by financial gain, their compensation is often insufficient when considering the extensive time commitment and sacrifices involved. They truly want to help others on the journey to starting a family.
Myth #3: Your Surrogate Will Want to Keep Your Baby
A common fear in surrogacy is the notion that the surrogate might want to keep the baby. However, surrogates enter into the arrangement with a clear understanding of the child’s parentage. Rigorous screening, including mental health evaluations, ensures their comprehension of surrogacy dynamics. Legal contracts further protect all parties, establishing parental rights well before birth. For surrogates, witnessing the intended parents hold their child for the first time is often the most cherished aspect of the process. Mental health screenings, background checks, and legal matters are just a few reasons why it’s important you use a surrogacy agency to help you through the surrogate process.
Myth #4: A Woman Will Choose to Hire a Surrogate Because She Just Doesn’t Want to Be Pregnant
Contrary to the concept of ‘social surrogacy,’ where a woman supposedly hires a surrogate without medical need, such instances are rare. The decision to opt for surrogacy is typically a result of significant personal challenges, including multiple failed attempts at conception. It is a deeply emotional and expensive choice, often considered as a last resort after enduring considerable pain and loss. Also, in the state of Texas, the law requires medical need for surrogacy.
Myth #5: Parents Will Have Trouble Bonding with Their Baby Born via Surrogacy
Bonding with a baby born via surrogacy can begin during the pregnancy. Positive relationships with the surrogate mother are encouraged, involving attendance at doctor’s appointments and other activities. Intended parents can actively engage by having the surrogate play recordings of their voices for the baby, promoting familiarity. Research suggests that bonding is nurtured more by post-delivery emotional attachment than merely carrying the child. Each parent may bond with the baby at different times, emphasizing the importance of building emotional connections soon after delivery.
If you are interested in surrogacy or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Shared Conception. You can visit our website at https://sharedconception.com/contact/ or call us at 713-622-1144.
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