Surrogacy is a profound journey that intertwines the lives of intended parents and surrogate mothers, with the latter playing a pivotal role in bringing new life into the world. Understanding the psychological experiences of surrogate mothers is essential for ensuring a supportive and positive surrogacy process.
Emotional Preparedness and Detachment
Research indicates that surrogate mothers often engage in intentional emotional detachment during pregnancy to facilitate the process of relinquishing the child to the intended parents after birth. This 
conscious effort helps surrogates maintain clarity about their role and fosters a healthy transition post-delivery. A study by the Family and Child Psychology Research Centre at City University, London, found that surrogate mothers rarely had difficulty relinquishing rights to the surrogate child, and intended mothers exhibited greater warmth toward the child than mothers who conceived naturally.
Satisfaction and Empowerment
The majority of surrogate mothers report high levels of satisfaction and a sense of empowerment from their surrogacy experience. Contributing to the creation of a family brings profound fulfillment. However, unmet expectations, such as a lack of closeness with the intended parents or feeling undervalued, can lead to dissatisfaction. Therefore, clear communication and mutual respect are vital components of a successful surrogacy partnership.
Psychological Support and Counseling
While many surrogates navigate the process without significant emotional distress, access to psychological support is crucial. Some surrogates may experience emotional challenges, and the availability of counseling services can provide essential support during and after the pregnancy. Shared Conception emphasizes the importance of offering therapy and emotional support throughout the surrogacy journey to address any potential psychological concerns.
Impact on Surrogates’ Families
Concerns about the effect of surrogacy on the surrogate’s own children are common. A 2011 study from the Centre for Family Research at the University of Cambridge found that surrogacy does not have a negative impact on the surrogate’s own children.
Understanding the psychological landscape of surrogate mothers is essential for all parties involved in the surrogacy process. By fostering open communication, providing robust emotional support, and ensuring mutual respect, the surrogacy journey can be a positive and empowering experience for surrogate mothers, intended parents, and the families they help create.
Shared Conception is a transparent surrogacy agency that will be compassionately straightforward with you, and everyone else involved, as we help make your familial dreams come true!
Recent Comments