Misconceptions about Surrogacy
Let’s talk about surrogacy – it’s an amazing option for parents who are unable to carry a child on their own. Unfortunately, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about surrogacy that are perpetuated by the media. So, let’s try to set the record straight!
One of the biggest myths about surrogacy is that surrogates do it for the money. While compensation is a factor, most women who choose to become surrogates do so because they genuinely enjoy being pregnant and want to help others become parents. It’s unfair to assume that surrogates are only doing it for financial gain or because they’re poor and uneducated.
Some people worry that surrogates might change their minds and want to keep the baby. However, this is extremely rare. Surrogates go through a rigorous screening process, including psychological testing and legal contracts, to ensure that they understand the terms of the arrangement and that any biological rights they may have are terminated. So, while it’s understandable to worry about this, it’s very unlikely to happen. While surrogates do care for the baby they’re carrying, they understand that they’re simply helping another couple become parents. It’s important to remember that surrogates aren’t “giving up” the baby – they’re giving the baby back to its intended parents.
Finally, some people believe that the baby will be genetically related to the surrogate. This may have been true in the past, but now gestational surrogacy allows for the intended mother’s eggs and the intended father’s sperm (or donor eggs and/or sperm) to be used to create an embryo, which is then implanted in the surrogate. This means that the surrogate is simply carrying the intended parents’ biological child and is not genetically related to the baby.
Surrogacy can be an incredible option for intended parents who are unable to carry a child on their own. While there are myths and misconceptions out there, it’s important to remember that surrogates are doing this out of a desire to help others become parents, and that the process is carefully regulated to ensure that everyone’s needs are met.
