Surrogacy is a helpful option for people who cannot conceive traditionally. These include same-sex couples, single people, and people who think their age will affect the baby's health. Some heterosexual couples may also not want to pass on certain genetic defects or conditions, forcing them to go for surrogacy.
In this guide, we will look at the key stages of surrogacy.
1. Finding a Match
A successful surrogacy journey will always start by finding the perfect match. For this process to be successful, the agency has to create a plan outlining what both parties expect from the experience. The surrogate should consider what kind of family they want to work with. For example, you may want to work with same-sex couples, single parents, or parents of different races.
You also have to figure out the relationship you want with the parents during the pregnancy and once the baby is born. USA surrogacy agencies will ensure that both the couple and the surrogate's needs are considered when finding perfect matches.
2. Signing the Legal Documents
Both parties involved in the surrogacy process will have to sign legal documents. The documents outline the obligations of each party and their protections. It also gives the couple parental rights after the birth of the baby.
Another crucial thing that must be covered in the document is the number of attempts the surrogate is willing to make to achieve pregnancy. In many cases, the parties agree to three attempts, after which a new contract must be signed.
You also have to discuss the finances. The contract should differentiate expenses for IVF, pregnancy-related issues, and the compensation for carrying the pregnancy. Normally, these documents are drafted by family lawyers and should be negotiated by attorneys representing each party.
3. Transferring the Embryo
Once the contracts are signed, the next step will be fertilization and transferring of the embryo. The surrogate will need to undergo medical procedures to prepare for the embryo transfer, which will be done in a fertility clinic. After successfully transferring the embryo, the surrogate will have to begin prenatal care and can start receiving upkeep and other payments. The surrogate can also monitor the pregnancy with pictures.
After the long surrogate process, the mother will finally deliver the baby, usually in the presence of the intended parents. Most surrogates don’t breastfeed the child, but parents who feel strongly about the benefits of breast milk can ask the surrogates to pump for them after the baby is born.
Conclusion
The surrogacy process can be quite rewarding for both the intended parents and the surrogate. The process involves finding a perfect match, signing legal documents, and completing the fertilization procedure. It can bind the surrogate and intended parents together, and they can even maintain a relationship throughout the child's life.
In many cases, the surrogacy agency helps to facilitate the relationship and provides any support needed.
