Surrogacy has become an increasingly popular way for individuals and couples to start a family. It involves a woman carrying a child for another person or a couple who cannot conceive a child on their own. Surrogacy offers a solution for those struggling with infertility or medical conditions that prevent them from carrying a child.
Becoming a surrogate mother can be a life-changing experience for both parties: the intended parents and the surrogate. It involves a lot of physical, emotional, and financial commitment. However, becoming a surrogate mother is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. So, if you want to become a surrogate mother, weighing the pros and cons before deciding is essential.
This article will outline the pros and cons of being a surrogate mother. By weighing these factors, you can decide whether becoming a surrogate mother is right for you.
The Pros Of Being A Surrogate Mother
- Helping Others Start a Family
Probably one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a surrogate mother is helping someone else start a family. Many intended parents struggle with infertility or medical conditions that hinder them from carrying a child. By becoming a surrogate mother, you offer them the gift of life and fulfilling their dream of having a family.
- Financial Compensation
Becoming a surrogate mother can also provide financial compensation. Surrogacy agencies and intended parents usually offer compensation to cover your medical expenses travel expenses, and compensate you for your time and effort. The payment generally depends on the surrogacy agreement, ranging from USD$20,000 to USD$55,000.
- Personal Growth And Fulfillment
Surrogacy is a challenging and rewarding experience that can help you grow as a person. It is a unique journey that requires a lot of physical and emotional strength, patience, and selflessness. Being a surrogate mother can be a fulfilling experience that allows you to help others while also learning more about yourself.
- Close Relationship With Intended Parents
Surrogacy can create a unique bond between the surrogate mother and the intended parents. Throughout the surrogacy journey, you and the intended parents will work closely together, attend appointments, and share updates about the pregnancy. This close relationship can lead to a lasting friendship and fulfillment for all parties involved.
- Improved Health
Studies have shown that pregnancy can have positive health benefits for women, including a reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Becoming a surrogate mother can improve your overall health and well-being while also helping others start a family.
- Controlled Pregnancy Experience
As a surrogate mother, you have more control over the pregnancy experience than in a traditional pregnancy. You can work with the intended parents to develop a birth plan that aligns with your preferences and values. This may include decisions about pain management, delivery method, and postpartum care. Having more control over the pregnancy experience can make the process more manageable for you as a surrogate mother.
The Cons Of Being A Surrogate Mother
- Physical And Emotional Demands
Surrogacy is a physically and emotionally demanding process. You are expected to undergo several medical procedures, take medications, and experience pregnancy and childbirth. It can be challenging to carry a child for nine months and then give it to someone else. Furthermore, you may also need to deal with the emotional toll of the surrogacy journey, including potential attachment to the baby.
- Legal And Financial Risks
Surrogacy involves legal and financial risks that one must consider. Youโll be asked to sign a surrogacy agreement that outlines the terms of the surrogacy, including compensation, medical procedures, and legal responsibilities. You may face legal and financial consequences if any issues arise during the surrogacy journey.
- Social Stigma
Surrogacy is still controversial in many communities, and some people may not understand or support the surrogacy process. There is a risk that you may face social stigma and judgment from family, friends, and strangers. Hence, as a surrogate mother, you must have a strong support system and be prepared to deal with potential criticism.
- Health Risks
Pregnancy and childbirth come with inherent health risks, and surrogacy is no exception. Since you must undergo medical procedures and take medications, these might have side effects on your general health. There is also a risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and postpartum depression.
- Potential For Legal Battles
In some cases, intended parents may change their minds about surrogacy or may not follow through with the surrogacy agreement. This can lead to legal battles and emotional turmoil for the surrogate mother.
- Impact On Family
Becoming a surrogate mother can have an impact on your family. Thus, before becoming a surrogate, you must have the support of your partner, children, and other family members throughout the surrogacy journey. Ultimately, it is essential to consider the impact on the family before deciding to become a surrogate mother.
The Bottom Line
Becoming a surrogate mother is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and weighing the pros and cons. It can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience that allows you to help others start a family while also undergoing personal growth. However, it also comes with physical, emotional, legal, and financial risks that must be considered. If you are considering becoming a surrogate mother, do your research, talk to other surrogates, and consult with a surrogacy agency to ensure that you make an informed decision.
