How to Find a surrogate mother?

Surrogacy is a form of third-party reproduction in which a woman consents to a pregnancy for intended parents who cannot conceive for medical reasons. There are two forms of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy. Traditional surrogacy uses a surrogate mother's egg for conception. In contrast, gestational surrogacy is done by transferring an embryo created through IVF along with an egg from the intended mother or donor.

The first thing to decide with a medical professional is what type of surrogacy you need. For example, artificial insemination is an option for couples in which the woman has lost egg cells, or never had enough. A surrogate mother is artificially inseminated with the sperms of the male partner. Hence, the child will be genetically related to the surrogate mother and male partner. In order for the intended mother to be legally recognized as the child's parent, she must adopt the child after it is born. It is extremely important to sign a legal agreement with the surrogate, stating that she will deliver the child to the intended parents. Sometimes, the intended parents agree to grant surrogate visitation rights – but all of these details must be settled before the birth.

Another surrogacy option available, depending on the cause of infertility, is gestational surrogacy. This technology combines the sperm and egg cells of a parent in the hopes of creating an embryo – just like IVF does. The embryo or fetus is then transferred to the surrogate womb. Whatever method you take, choosing a surrogate mother will be a difficult, but also exciting, decision. Some couples have a surrogate in mind, such as a close friend or family member. Such independent arrangements have the advantage of a greater level of understanding between Planned Parenthood and the surrogate, and the opportunity for the surrogate to remain in contact with the child. It is also much cheaper than going through an agency.

Remember, however, that you'll need to stick to the same legal protocol as you would with a stranger. The contract must still be drawn up by attorneys representing both parties. The person you choose, and their partner, must undergo medical testing, and you must have agreed to any behavior modification beforehand. You must be prepared for changes in your relationship with the person during pregnancy and after childbirth. A surrogacy agency is another solution. While it may seem strange to involve a stranger in such a personal experience, it is reassuring to know that the women involved have volunteered to help people like you, and have received vigorous scrutiny.

A good agency will inform you about all the steps in your application. You will need to provide detailed information about your medical and psychological history - but so will your potential surrogate. Experienced coordinators will find a surrogate whose position best suits your needs. Since your nearest specialist center may be far away, the Internet is a great tool for advance preparation of your application and meeting with potential candidates. Things to check include: what the center needs from a surrogate (in terms of health, age, past birth and psychological profile), what legal issues you need to consider, and how much the entire experience will cost. Relax and study hard to find what's best for you, and you'll set yourself up for a successful surrogate pregnancy.