Here’s a more in-depth look at the steps to getting started with surrogacy, so you can do your best on the journey to parenthood.
For parents who cannot have a child on their own, all hope is not lost. Surrogacy, a type of assisted reproduction, is made possible by in-vitro fertilization (IVF), a process that has led to over eight million births since 1981.
Surrogacy is an agreement between the parent/parents of a child and an intended parent.
The most common method today is gestational surrogacy. It involves a more detailed process than traditional surrogacy but is preferred by many who intend to start and grow a family.
How to Get Started
Surrogacy is a process that takes time. It requires several steps before you have a new addition to the family, including:
- Finding the right surrogate.
- Choosing a reputable surrogacy agency.
- Deciding your expectations of the surrogate.
- Knowing how much it will cost.
- Taking legal considerations into account.
Whether you work with an agency or choose your own surrogate, there are many factors. An agency can find qualified surrogates. It can also arrange medical/psychological screenings and other appointments. The ideal surrogate is in good physical health, mentally fit, and committed to the process.