9 Myths About Surrogacy For Intended Parents

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9 Myths About Surrogacy For Intended Parents

Nov 10, 2022

It is critical that you understand these beliefs and their realities, regardless of whether you're considering carrying out your own surrogacy or just want to learn more. This will not only help you understand surrogacy better for yourself, but it will also provide you with the knowledge to dispel some of these myths whenever you come across them in conversation.

Here are some of the most widespread misconceptions regarding surrogacy that, regrettably, people still have:

1. Myth: A surrogate can change her mind and keep the child

This process is almost difficult to achieve in a gestational surrogacy. A surrogate has no parental rights to retain a child after birth because she is not genetically related to the child she is carrying. Additionally, while the surrogate is still pregnant, your surrogacy attorney and surrogacy specialist will make sure that the intended parents' rights are safeguarded. These parental rights are established by a pre- or post-birth parentage order, which also frequently enables the hospital to record the names of the intended parents on the birth certificate.

A surrogate rarely wishes to "keep" the child she is carrying, even with these legal protections. The surrogates that work with MyMedGlobal are finished having children and don't want any more. A surrogate does not feel the same emotional attachment to the infant of the intended parents as she had when she carried her own kid; rather, she views the unborn child as "babysitting" until they are delivered, at which point she is relieved to see the baby meet and go home with its parents. All surrogates receive emotional counseling during the process and are required to already have one kid, which is just one more technique to maintain a surrogate's emotional equilibrium.

2. Myth: Surrogacy is only for couples with fertility issues

Not just infertile couples can use surrogacy. For instance, Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas have openly acknowledged that they decided to hire a surrogate because their schedules did not align well enough for them to become pregnant naturally.

Lesbian couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy on their own, as well as homosexual males who wish to be biologically attached to their children, are both common candidates for surrogacy. In vitro fertilization (IVF), gestational carriers, and egg donors are most frequently used in LGBT surrogacy to obtain conception, and the surrogacy procedure is substantially the same as it would be for any other intended parent. However, before starting the procedure, same-sex couples must make certain crucial choices.

3. Myth: The surrogate is related to the baby

When people think of surrogacy, they frequently immediately conjure up images of conventional surrogacies in which the surrogate is genetically connected to the child she is carrying. Although traditional surrogacies are still an option, they are no longer frequently carried out due to the dangers associated with a genetic connection between the surrogate and the kid. The great majority of surrogacies, including those performed by American Surrogacy, are gestational, which means the surrogate is implanted with an embryo that was already developed and did not use her own eggs.

Similarly, despite the fact that many people are aware of in vitro fertilization, they can believe that a surrogate only becomes pregnant after having a sexual relationship with the intended father. Before the development of ART, this may have been the method used to produce covert surrogate pregnancies, but surrogacy specialists never use this method nowadays. As previously indicated, in vitro fertilization is a component of surrogacy, and an embryo is implanted into the surrogate under the guidance of medical professionals.

4. Myth: Surrogates are only interested in money

One myth that is common among surrogates is that they only want money. While some compensation is a necessary part of the process, it is not the main driver. Rather, surrogates enter surrogacy as a calling. They see money as an extra bonus to make their work more bearable.

Several myths are common, such as that surrogates are only interested in money and do not want to carry a child. Women who decide to become surrogates do have the choice of a compensated surrogacy, in which they would get a base payment for bearing the child (in addition to coverage of all pregnancy-related expenses). While surrogates do view this base pay as a means of achieving their financial goals, it's not the main factor in their decision to sign up as a surrogate. Instead, they are driven by a desire to see another family enjoy the joy that they understand parenthood can offer. While some of these ladies first learned about it later in life and "just felt" it was what they were supposed to do, others had dreamed of being surrogates since they were young.

All of our prospective surrogates undergo a thorough screening process that includes a look at their motivations.. Surrogates often see the experience of pregnancy as a gift and the gift of carrying a child is a powerful act of altruism and a legacy for the surrogate.

5. Myth: Surrogacy is unethical

Surrogacy is a highly regulated procedure that safeguards the rights and interests of all parties involved in addition to being an ethical one where both parties have the same goals. Both intended parents and surrogates are protected by several laws and regulations, and reputable surrogacy organizations that collaborate with MyMedGlobal ensure that their clients receive the best care possible during the process. Intentional parents pay surrogates well for carrying their children, and they wish to do this. It will be a wonderful experience for everyone as long as your surrogacy is carried out by an experienced surrogacy professional and attorney.

6. Myth: A surrogate baby won't bond to intended parents

One concern many intended parents have is whether a surrogate baby won't bond to them. The truth is that a surrogate baby will develop attachment to its surrogate during the pregnancy. This can be confusing for intended parents, and it is often difficult to navigate the situation immediately following delivery. To alleviate this problem, the intended parents should prepare for the emotional transfer before and after delivery.

The intended parents should spend time with their surrogate after the delivery. This way, they can see and hold the child. This helps the surrogate feel more comfortable and allows the baby to bond with both of them. For example, parents can record messages for the surrogate and play these messages on tiny speakers to the baby. Messages can include favorite books and songs. This regular exposure to the baby's voice will help the baby recognize the voice of the parent.

It is essential for the intended parents and surrogate to maintain a healthy emotional connection with the surrogate. Although there are no strict guidelines for post-birth interaction, some parents maintain regular contact with the surrogate and send photos or visit her. Others choose not to maintain a relationship with their surrogate.

Even when another woman is carrying the child, intended parents can form bonds with their child.

The person who cares for a child after delivery is more important when forming a link with them than who is carrying them. After the baby is delivered, many expectant parents easily bond with their baby.

7. Myth: You can't breast feed a surrogate baby

In a surrogacy arrangement, breastfeeding is not only possible but also strongly advised. By prescribing the right hormones and stimulating lactation, a fertility specialist can assist mothers who want to nurse their children. The same as any other mother, intended mothers can effectively breastfeed their child if they put in the time and effort to induce lactation.the process can be made easier by using medications that induce lactation. These medicines must be introduced in a timely fashion to help the baby produce milk. The medications are prescribed by a doctor. The woman may be given birth control pills, which produce hormones in her body that fool the body into thinking she is pregnant. The pregnancy hormones help the mother's body produce milk.

If the intended parents feel strongly about not breast feeding their surrogate baby, they should talk to a counsellor to discuss their feelings. Some surrogates will continue to express breast milk for a few months after giving birth, while others will stop. This decision may depend on whether the intended parents are close to the surrogate or not.

Breastfeeding a surrogate baby is not the same as breastfeeding a baby born from a pregnancy, but there are still many advantages. Breastfeeding provides the new-born with important nutrients and can help protect the baby from diseases.

8. Myth: Surrogacy is selfish, adopt instead

As previously noted, a lot of intended parents consider surrogacy as a last resort to have a child that is biologically related to them. Some of the embryos from earlier IVF treatments may still be in their possession, and they don't want them to be wasted.

The majority of people have an innate desire to have a child who is genetically linked to them, regardless of their infertility success or failure. That desire is entirely reasonable and understandable. Are the parents who are naturally able to produce biological children likewise selfish for choosing adoption instead? Of course not, and the intended parents who decide to use a surrogate are not either. Since not everyone is a good candidate for adoption, the choice of how to start a family must ultimately be made by the individual.

9. Myth: I can't afford surrogacy

Most intended parents cannot afford the full $150,000 fee for surrogacy, but there are now options that allow them to finance the procedure. Many will use a bank loan, home equity line of credit, or second mortgage to cover the costs. Others may borrow from family members or put the costs on their credit cards. However, these methods of financing are considered risky. You should consider all available options and set aside a portion of your monthly income toward the cost of surrogacy.

Many surrogacy agencies offer a range of services, including medical screening and legal assistance. You'll need to evaluate the fees of each agency based on the services it offers before choosing one. Some agencies provide more than others, so you should compare their services to determine which one fits your needs and budget.

The costs for surrogacy vary widely. The average cost is around $110,000 in the United States. This price is often the biggest concern for middle class families, but there are various ways to reduce costs. Many surrogacy agencies have financial resources to help families obtain financing. There are also grant funds for surrogacy, loans, and fundraising opportunities.

How to Finance Your IVF & Surrogacy Abroad

Where to start

Before embarking on your surrogacy journey it is essential to have an abundance of support. If you or someone you know is considering fertility treatments, IVF, or surrogacy abroad, contact MyMedGlobal, the leading agency in Medical Tourism since 2014. This free service will help you match with a clinic abroad that specifically meets your needs, can provide free quotes, facilitate the transfer of medical records, arrange travel accommodation and more. MyMedGlobal boasts a database of over 1,500+ qualified and vetted doctors and surgeons abroad. Match with a Clinic, Find Financing Options, or Get a No-Obligation Quote today.

We can offer you with information regarding a high-quality reliable fertility clinic. Throughout the duration of your surrogacy journey, your MyMedGlobal Patient Manager will be a constant source of assistance.

Deciding if surrogacy is right for you is the beginning of a long process. You can find more resources to help you below:

3 Top LGBT Friendly Countries for Surrogacy

Different Types of Surrogacy Explained

How Does Surrogacy Work? Your Essential Guide

How Long Has Surrogacy Been Around? The History of Surrogacy

How Much Does Surrogacy Cost? Comparison by Country

How to Finance Your IVF & Surrogacy Abroad

How to Match with the Best Surrogate for Your Family

Surrogacy - Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

Surrogacy In Colombia - Frequently Asked Questions

Surrogacy in Mexico - Your Step by Step Guide

The Cheapest Countries for Surrogacy

Why Surrogacy in Colombia is Booming for all Couples, LGBTQ+ included

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AI's Role in Shaping the Future of Medical Tourism

11 Oct, 2023

In the wake of global challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic and geopolitical disruptions, the medical tourism industry is embracing artificial intelligence (AI) . This technology promises to enhance the user experience, drive efficiency, and foster growth in the sector. Medical Tourism: A Snapshot Approximately 14 million people annually explore healthcare solutions abroad. While traditionally a niche market, medical tourism's estimated worth is projected to rise to $27.6 million by 2024, up from $16.8 million in 2018. The escalating healthcare costs globally, coupled with factors like cultural familiarity, recommendations, and combining medical care with vacation, propel this growth. How AI Transforms Medical Tourism: Data Analysis & Personalized Content: With vast amounts of user data shifting online, AI can analyze patient preferences and behaviors. This enables practitioners and agencies to deliver tailored medical content , enhancing user engagement and boosting medical tourism numbers. Travel & Health Packages Booking: Gone are the days of traditional travel agencies. AI-powered chatbots and assistants now streamline the booking process, encompassing flights, accommodations, and health packages. AI ensures that potential medical tourists access services faster and more efficiently. Advanced Healthcare Solutions: From foundational aspects like machine learning to high-end utilities like computer vision and decision-making, AI augments various healthcare processes. This includes patient management, diagnosis, surgery planning, and more. Global AI Innovations in Medical Tourism: Turkey: A hub for medical tourism, with 45+ hospitals accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). UAE: Leading the charge in AI integration, with initiatives like the UAE Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the appointment of the world’s first AI-focused Minister of State. The Future & Concerns: While researchers affirm that AI is central to the industry's future, concerns surrounding security, societal implications, and economic factors do exist. The JCI, although monitoring AI's implications, currently has limited visibility into its exact application within medical tourism. Furthermore, while the promise of AI is significant, a 2023 study indicates that comprehensive data on patients traveling for medical care remains scarce. Thus, there's an opportunity for providers to centralize and leverage this data, further enhancing AI's potential. Medical tourism, already on an upward trajectory, stands at the cusp of an AI-driven revolution. Şebnem Akman Balta from Medulux Health suggests, “Thanks to AI technology, the future of medical tourism will see accelerated growth.” With its potential to improve accessibility, affordability, and user experience, AI is undeniably reshaping the medical tourism landscape.

How Georgia's Surrogacy Ban Could Change Everything

11 Oct, 2023

For aspiring parents exploring international surrogacy , Georgia has often been the first port of call. Yet, recent developments threaten to reshape the surrogacy landscape. The Georgian government is on the brink of a groundbreaking decision that could see foreign couples barred from the promising world of commercial surrogacy within its scenic confines. Impending Changes in Georgia's Surrogacy Laws A clarion call to prospective parents! Georgia's administration has unveiled intentions to introduce legislation prohibiting surrogacy for non-residents starting January 1, 2024. This move, when cemented, would make violations a criminal transgression. As the proposal currently stands in draft mode, a haze surrounds multiple aspects of surrogacy services in Georgia, especially concerning the legitimacy of pre-existing contracts. Those considering venturing into surrogacy agreements are advised to tread cautiously; unforeseen circumstances may render refunds an impossibility, and children born under unauthorized terms may find themselves unable to depart from Georgian shores. Always prioritize securing independent legal guidance before venturing into surrogacy in Georgia or elsewhere. Elena's Surrogacy Chronicle in Tbilisi Tbilisi's winding lanes have borne witness to countless tales like Elena's. For her and many others, surrogacy isn't merely an occupation; it's a beacon of hope. Her journey to surrogate motherhood, spurred by her daughter's medical challenges, encapsulates the blend of emotional and financial significance of surrogacy in Georgia . A Protective Stance? Georgia's Legislative Perspective A protective umbrella for surrogate mothers and the innocent lives they bring forth – this resonates as the guiding ethos behind Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili's endorsement of the prospective ban. Charting a course away from commercial undertakings, the envisioned surrogacy paradigm extols the virtues of altruism. European Surrogacy Tourism in Flux: The Ukraine Catalyst The mosaic of global surrogacy tourism felt a jolt with the turmoil engulfing Ukraine. As the nation, a pivotal hub for surrogacy in Europe, grappled with uncertainties following Russia's intervention, many surrogate mothers found solace in alternative havens like Georgia. Delving into Georgia's Surrogacy Conundrum: Expert Viewpoints Renowned analyst Polina Vlasenko unravels the layered narrative of Georgia's surrogacy debate . Through her lens, the anticipated ban seems deeply entrenched in the nation's conservative fabric, potentially pushing surrogate mothers into precarious terrains. International Ripples: Surrogacy Scandals and Georgia Recent tremors from a scandal involving a Greek fertility establishment, implicated in exploiting surrogate mothers, some from Georgia, inject fresh perspectives into the surrogacy debate, emphasizing the intricacies of international surrogacy . Shifting Tides in Surrogacy: Adapting to Global Shifts Sam Everingham illuminates the ever-changing topography of international surrogacy. With Ukraine's challenges sending shockwaves, a significant clientele has recalibrated their focus towards Georgia, highlighting the fluidity of global surrogacy trends. Commercial Surrogacy's Price Tag: An International Overview From its American roots, commercial surrogacy's voyage has navigated a labyrinth of legal quandaries across Europe. Even in the face of geopolitical adversities like those in Ukraine, established clinics exemplify resilience, though surrounded by multifaceted challenges. A Surrogate’s Gaze Beyond Georgian Horizons Elena's narrative offers profound insights into the potential ramifications of Georgia's surrogacy legislation. Should the draft transform into law, she foresees numerous Georgian women setting their sights on surrogacy prospects abroad, challenging the potential law's inherent biases.

Greece's First Openly Gay Leader, Stefanos Kasselakis, Plans for Surrogacy

11 Oct, 2023

Historic Leadership Sets the Stage Stefanos Kasselakis recently etched his name into the history books by becoming Greece's first openly gay political leader, leading the Syriza party. However, he's not stopping at just that. During a conversation with Alpha TV, Kasselakis made another significant revelation about his personal life. Kasselakis's Surrogacy Vision With his partner, Tyler McBeth, Kasselakis has plans to welcome children via surrogacy. Expressing his vision passionately, he stated, “As a society, we need to provide complete equality.” This sentiment underscores a broader societal transition, where the progressive movement's focus is expanding from traditional areas of concern to deeply personal rights like family creation and reproduction. The Biological Hurdle At the heart of their decision to opt for surrogacy is a basic biological fact: two men can't reproduce together. Yet, Kasselakis's perspective points towards a world where societal advancements and acceptance can provide avenues to challenge and potentially overcome such boundaries. Surrogacy: A Push for Societal Equality "Providing complete equality" in the realm of surrogacy could mean societal and legal acceptance of using third-party gestation. Given Kasselakis's background—a shipowner and an ex-Goldman Sachs financier—it's evident that his battle is more about societal recognition rather than the financial aspects. Women in the Surrogacy Conversation However, with discussions around surrogacy and equality, there emerges a pertinent critique. Does this drive towards 'complete equality' in reproduction inadvertently reduce women to mere biological contributors? The ethical dimension of surrogacy cannot be ignored, especially when it comes to potential commodification. The Evolving Values of the Left The transformation in Syriza's leadership brings to light a broader debate around the evolution of leftist values. Once a strong adversary of austerity, Syriza now finds itself led by someone closely associated with the financial institutions they once stood against. A New Direction or a Reflection? While Kasselakis's leadership might symbolize a fresh trajectory for Syriza, it also serves as a mirror, reflecting the changing paths and objectives of progressive movements globally. The challenge lies in harmonizing foundational principles with the ever-changing nuances of societal progress.

Chrissy Teigen & John Legend Welcome Baby #4 Via Surrogacy

11 Oct, 2023

Popular model Chrissy Teigen and acclaimed singer John Legend introduced their fourth child to the world, a birth realized through surrogacy. Taking to Instagram, Teigen shared that their baby boy, named Wren Alexander Stephens, came into the world on June 19th. Teigen's heartfelt post reflected on her long-held dream of having four children. Recalling their unfortunate loss of their son, Jack, at 20 weeks in 2020, the celebrity couple sought the possibility of twin surrogates, aiming for the joyous arrival of a baby boy and girl. While contemplating surrogacy, Teigen also resumed her IVF journey, which culminated in the birth of their daughter, Esti Maxine Stephens, earlier this year. During her own pregnancy, Teigen bonded with Alexandra, a surrogate she described as incredibly loving and compassionate. As Teigen gracefully mentioned, "Wren's name will forever echo the bond we share with Alexandra. Our gratitude for her immeasurable contribution is beyond words." The proud mother expressed her elation at their family's growth, feeling that their household is now joyfully complete. She also paid tribute to their late son, Jack, emphasizing his celestial presence in their lives. John Legend didn't hold back his happiness either, sharing an adorable photo set of baby Wren on Instagram, captioning it, "Wren Alexander Stephens, our new love." It's noteworthy that the couple's family includes their daughter Luna, aged 7, and son Miles, aged 5.

Italy's Shocking New Move Against Surrogacy: What You Need to Know

11 Oct, 2023

The Italian parliament is taking significant steps against surrogacy, introducing a bill that criminalizes Italians seeking these services abroad. The decision has sparked varied reactions. Unraveling The Proposed Law: What's At Stake? A recent bill, which garnered 166 votes in favor versus 109 against, seeks to penalize Italians venturing abroad for surrogacy services. The stakes? Fines reaching up to €1m and potential imprisonment for up to two years. Extending Domestic Views Globally: Surrogacy Under the Lens In a nation where surrogacy remains illegal and IVF restricted to heterosexual couples, the proposed bill marks an intensified push against international surrogacy tourism. The "Brothers of Italy" party, steering the current government in tandem with their ally "the League," champions this policy. A Waiting Game: Next Steps for the Bill With its foundation laid in the chamber of deputies, the bill now looks to the Italian senate for final endorsement. Defending Rights or Restricting Choices? Italy's Dual Battle Families Minister Eugenia Roccella perceives the move as Italy's leadership stance in safeguarding women and children's rights globally. Yet, the broader sentiment is divided. Many Italians, primarily heterosexual, discreetly opt for surrogacy abroad. However, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government has gained notoriety for sidelining same-sex parents. Opposing Perspectives Alessandro Zan of the Democratic party critiques the bill as a possible deflection from graver national challenges. Concurrently, Riccardo Magi from Più Europa warns of Italy's potential friction with international legal norms. LGBTQ+ Community on Edge: Rights at a Crossroads Meloni's conservative ethos, emphasizing traditional parenting paradigms, stokes apprehensions within Italy's LGBTQ+ community about potential rights erosion. Conclusion: Italy's Surrogacy Stance in the Global Landscape As Italy recalibrates its approach to surrogacy, both locally and internationally, the global surrogacy tourism sector watches closely. The unfolding narrative will spotlight the balance between national policy, international surrogacy tourism trends, and diverse community rights.

An image representing the complexities and challenges of surrogacy regulation in Portugall

Portugal Surrogacy Regulation - Three Parents and Repentance

16 May, 2023

Discover the latest developments in Portugal's surrogacy regulation, including the proposal to allow three parents and the challenges surrounding the repentance period. Stay informed on the evolving landscape of surrogacy in Portugal.

Thailand Cracking Down on Illegal Surrogacy - New Penalties

16 May, 2023

Thailand is cracking down on illegal surrogacy with full force. The Department of Health Service Support (DHSS) is leading the charge to put an end to this problem. They are working on changing the law, known as the "Protection of a Child Born by Medically Assisted Reproductive Technology Act, B.E. 2558 (2015)," to make the penalties tougher for people involved in illegal surrogacy, like middlemen and women hired as surrogates. The head of DHSS, Sura Wisetsak, is very worried about the increasing number of illegal surrogacy cases in the country. They are teaming up with the Royal Thai Police's investigators to find out if criminals are taking advantage of legal loopholes with the help of foreign criminal groups. The Bangkok Post has reported on this issue. Although the exact details are still being worked out, the proposed changes will mean harsher punishments. People found guilty of being middlemen or hired surrogates will face bigger fines and longer prison sentences. Sura Wisetsak has confirmed that the process of making these changes is still ongoing. Illegal surrogacy has become a big problem in Thailand, especially during the pandemic. Because of closed borders, many surrogates couldn't give birth in other countries, so babies were born in Thailand and left behind. Last year, the Department of Special Investigation found out that at least 19 children were born in the country through illegal surrogacy arrangements. These children are now being taken care of by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Akom Praditsuwan, the deputy head of DHSS, said that there are 108 care units in Thailand where assisted reproductive technology is offered. These units are in both public and private hospitals. The success rate of these services is quite high, at 46%. There have been 20,000 cases of in-vitro fertilization and 12,000 cases of artificial breeding. The goal of the proposed changes to the law is to tackle the issue of illegal surrogacy while making sure that legitimate reproductive services can still be provided in the country. Not all surrogacy arrangements are illegal. At MyMedGlobal, we are proud to be a leading medical tourism platform dedicated to facilitating the process of creating new life while ensuring the safety and well-being of intended parents and surrogates. We have established a vast network of reputable fertility clinics across various countries, including Colombia, Georgia, Cyprus, Greece, and more, all of which have demonstrated remarkable success rates. You may also like: Legal Countries for Surrogacy: A 2023 Guide for Intended Parents

India's Surrogacy Law Criticized by Karnataka High Court

03 May, 2023

India's Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, which permits altruistic surrogacy while prohibiting commercial surrogacy, has come under scrutiny from the Karnataka High Court. The court has criticized the Act's 'genetically related' clause, stating that it defeats altruism and logic. The court's ruling came in response to a petition filed by a couple who had lost their son in a road accident and turned to surrogacy to start a family. However, the proposed surrogate mother was prohibited from having a child by way of surrogacy under the Act. The couple challenged this provision, leading to the court's decision. The ruling is significant as it highlights the debate over surrogacy laws in India. While altruistic surrogacy is permitted, the 'genetically related' clause is being criticized for inhibiting altruism by requiring a genetic connection between the intended parents and the surrogate mother. India is one of the few countries where surrogacy is legal, but the laws vary from state to state. Commercial surrogacy is prohibited, but altruistic surrogacy is permitted in some states, including Karnataka. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, introduced last year, seeks to regulate surrogacy and curb its misuse. The court's ruling will have a significant impact on surrogacy laws in India, and potential surrogacy parents will be closely watching the outcome of the petition. The ruling is likely to lead to calls for changes to the Act, with some arguing that the 'genetically related' clause is too restrictive and may discourage altruistic surrogacy. For couples considering surrogacy, it is important to understand the laws governing surrogacy in their state. Currently, altruistic surrogacy is permitted in states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat. Other states, such as Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, have more restrictive laws on surrogacy. Read: Uncovering the Truth About Children Born via Surrogacy and More Considering Surrogacy Abroad? Here are Some Legal and Safe Options As surrogacy laws in India become more restrictive, many intended parents are seeking alternative destinations where surrogacy is legal and accessible. Fortunately, there are several countries that offer favorable laws, established surrogacy industries, and experienced medical professionals. One such country is Mexico, where surrogacy is legal and regulated. Mexico has become a popular destination for surrogacy due to its favorable laws and affordable costs. The country also has experienced medical professionals who offer high-quality care to intended parents and surrogate mothers. Colombia is another option for couples seeking surrogacy abroad. The country has recently legalized surrogacy and has established regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of surrogate mothers and intended parents. The surrogacy process in Colombia is relatively affordable, and the country has a reputation for high-quality medical care. Georgia is also emerging as a popular destination for surrogacy, with a supportive legal framework and affordable costs. The country has a reputation for high-quality medical care and experienced professionals who provide comprehensive support to intended parents and surrogate mothers. While considering surrogacy abroad, it is crucial to research the legal landscape and medical options available in each potential destination. Choosing a reputable surrogacy agency that can provide comprehensive support and guidance throughout the process is also essential. Use the MyMedGlobal platform to find your clinic of choice. You may also like: International Surrogacy Calculator - For Intended Parents

Uncovering the Truth About Children Born via Surrogacy and More

19 Apr, 2023

Children born via assisted reproduction are just as psychologically well-adjusted as those born without assistance, according to a new study that followed 65 children born through egg donation, sperm donation, and surrogacy from infancy until age 20. The study found that children born through assisted reproduction had good relationships with their parents, particularly if their parents told them about their birth history before the age of 7. The lead author of the study, Susan Golombok, a professor emerita of family research and former director of the Centre for Family Research at the University of Cambridge, noted that when the study began over 20 years ago, there was concern about the potential damaging effect on the relationship between the child and the parents due to the absence of a biological link. However, the study found that having children in different or new ways did not interfere with how families functioned. It is best for parents to share the story of assisted reproduction with their children at an early age, so that it becomes a natural part of their family narrative. Clinical psychologist Rebecca Berry, an adjunct faculty member in the department of child and adolescent psychiatry at New York University’s Grossman School of Medicine, notes that children begin to ask questions about pregnancy between the ages of 3 and 4, and they will start to ask questions about where babies come from as a way of understanding why they are here. Read: Ana Obregon's Late Son's Baby Born via Surrogacy It is also important for parents to revisit the birth history from time to time, so that the conversation is ongoing, giving the child a chance to ask questions in an age-appropriate way as they grow older. Golombok notes that many of the parents in the study used children’s books specifically designed for this purpose, allowing them to bring their child’s own story into the narrative. The study found that there were no differences in maternal anxiety and depression between families formed by surrogacy, egg or sperm donation, and families with children born without assisted conception. However, mothers who had babies via donor eggs reported less positive family relationships than mothers who used sperm donation, likely due to insecurities about a lack of genetic connection to their children. Young adults conceived by sperm donation reported poorer family communication than those conceived by egg donation, possibly due to a greater reluctance on the part of fathers to disclose they are not a genetic parent. In conclusion, the study provides reassurance to parents who may have been concerned about the potential negative impact of assisted reproduction on their children. As long as parents share the story of assisted reproduction early and keep the conversation ongoing, children born through egg donation, sperm donation, and surrogacy are just as psychologically well-adjusted as those born without assistance. You may also like: Surrogacy Success Stories - Download Our Free eBook Now

A Labor of Love - Surrogacy Stories From Around the World eBook

14 Apr, 2023

Dive into the awe-inspiring world of surrogacy with this captivating, comprehensive, and heartwarming guide that brings together the voices of surrogates, intended parents, and experts from around the globe. "A Labor of Love: Surrogate Stories from Around the World" offers readers an unparalleled insight into the emotional, medical, and ethical aspects of this life-changing process, making it an essential read for anyone considering or involved in surrogacy. In this illuminating and deeply touching book, you'll explore: Personal stories of surrogates from different cultures and countries, sharing their unique perspectives, challenges, and triumphs The science behind assisted reproductive technologies, demystifying the complex procedures that make surrogacy possible The ethical debates and legal frameworks surrounding surrogacy across various cultures and countries The role of agencies, clinics, and support networks in guiding individuals and families through the surrogacy journey Post-surrogacy experiences, shedding light on the lasting bonds and new beginnings that surrogacy can create Written with warmth, empathy, and a profound understanding of the human spirit, "A Labor of Love" is the ultimate resource for anyone looking to gain a deeper appreciation of this incredible path to parenthood. Whether you're an intended parent, surrogate, or simply curious about the world of surrogacy, this book offers a compelling, informative, and uplifting exploration of love, sacrifice, and the strength of human connection. Get your copy of "A Labor of Love: Surrogate Stories from Around the World" today and immerse yourself in the remarkable stories that celebrate the beauty and resilience of those who choose to embark on this life-affirming adventure. Download your free copy below or download it on Amazon Kindle.