Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a when a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a baby for another couple. Surrogacy treatment is mainly sought by couples in whom the female partner is unable or unwilling to deliver a baby safely.

This may be because of illness or a problem with the uterus. In recent years, surrogacy has become increasingly popular with gay men wishing to start a family with the help of a surrogate and sometimes an egg donor.

There are two types of surrogacy available. Host surrogacy involves the patient-couple (intended parents) providing an embryo by IVF either using the female partner’s eggs, the surrogate’s eggs or the eggs of an egg donor which is then transferred to the surrogate mother for pregnancy and delivery. The second less common type in which the surrogate herself provides the egg which is fertilised by a semen sample via IUI.

Where can I find a surrogate?

Many couples may ask a family member or friend to become a surrogate for them, if this is not an option, the couple must then find a surrogate themselves. Unfortunately, our Fertility Centres cannot help you to find a surrogate. We suggest that patients understand the legal and complex process that is involved in surrogate treatment.

How successful is surrogacy?

The success of a surrogacy arrangement is dependent on several factors including the surrogate’s ability to carry a pregnancy and the quality of the eggs and sperm that are being used. You would need to book an initial consultation to discuss the results and the treatment options available for you.

Does the age of the surrogate matter?

The possibility of a surrogate being accepted is dependent on several factors including her age. If the surrogate will be required to use her own eggs, additional tests may be required to assess her egg reserve. Your fertility consultant will discuss the success rates you should expect from your treatment.

Surrogacy is a very complicated treatment, with so many potential challenges that most arrangements are now coordinated through a surrogate agency.
Box with initial consultation, open evening booking form and the 6 steps of fertility treatment.