Despite the procedure being beneficial for couples wishing to conceive a child, certain myths regarding surrogacy hinder its use among people. It is recommended to consult an IVF or in Vitro fertilization specialist for accurate medical advice around surrogacy and timely treatment.
Surrogacy is often characterised as “borrowing” or “renting” a womb in layman’s words. It is a procedure in which a surrogate bears a baby in her womb for a couple (intended parents) during the pregnancy and then agrees to deliver the baby to the couple after she gives birth.
When the surrogate woman is not genetically related to the baby and carries the baby in her womb, it is known as gestational surrogacy. In this process, the intended mother’s egg is combined with the husband’s sperm, and the resultant embryo is implanted in the surrogate mother’s uterus through IVF. Commonly, women with a medical history of infertility, uterus issues, or other health conditions that increase pregnancy risks are recommended to take the surrogacy route. Even same-sex couples who are medically unable to carry a baby or a single parent may adopt the procedure.
The legal age limit for a woman to become a surrogate in India is typically between 25 and 35 years old. When a couple decides to take up surrogacy, they should ensure that the surrogate is in good health, free of infectious ailments, and medically fit. The most recent surrogacy regulation bill, which takes effect on January 25, 2022, proposes to prohibit commercial surrogacy and allow only altruistic surrogacy, in which the intending parent pays for the surrogate’s medical bills and insurance coverage.
Despite the procedure being beneficial for couples wishing to conceive a child, certain myths regarding surrogacy hinder its use among people.
Myth 1: There can be a lack of emotional bonding with the baby
The most talked about myth or reservation amongst couples is regarding the differences in natural bonding between the mother and child in conventional pregnancies versus surrogacies. Though a slightly valid question, the emotional and physical involvement of intended parents from the onset of surrogacy and throughout the treatment still allows the bond to be established post-birth. In particular, the child is usually immediately handed over to his or her intended parents upon birth, which can help the baby identify its real parents and associate comfort with them.
Myth 2: The surrogate mother is the child’s biological mother
The myth is not entirely true, as two different surrogacy methods determine whether the child is biologically related to the surrogate. Surrogacy methods are of two types: traditional and gestational or in vitro fertilisation. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is also the egg donor, which does establish a genetic relation between the child and surrogate. However, largely gestational surrogacy methods are used where only the intended mother’s egg and father’s sperm, alongside the embryo, are implanted in the surrogate’s uterus using IVF or in vitro fertilization. Therefore, intended parents can be assured that the surrogate and the child share no biological relation or resemblance in commonly suggested IVF or gestational pregnancies.
Myth 3: Surrogacy options are for the privileged and rich
It is a flawed misconception that surrogacy options are utilised by the rich or even celebrities exclusively for vanity reasons or convenience. Although surrogacy can prove an expensive treatment option, it is not reserved for the rich. Importantly, the costs vary depending on planning and other factors, including health insurance, which usually covers several surrogate mothers. Therefore, intended parents can relieve themselves of additional delivery costs. Importantly, the core reasoning behind adopting alternate fertility methods is to help couples fulfil their family planning dreams.
Myth 4: The surrogate may change her mind and keep the child post-birth
Pregnancy is an emotional journey where it is natural for the surrogate mother to develop an emotional connection with the child she carries in her womb. However, since both the surrogate and intended parents are equally invested in the process, it does not mean that the surrogate mother will keep the child post-delivery. Surrogacy procedures are properly planned by fertility specialists who undertake a thorough medical and psychological assessment of both parties to determine their commitment to the treatment. In some cases, legal options are available to establish greater assurance.
Myth 5: Surrogacy is used by women who avoid pregnancies
The myth is largely flawed as often women prefer to give birth themselves as opposed to getting a surrogate, but typically cannot do so for medical reasons and doctor’s advice. Therefore, largely, surrogacy is an alternate and convenient fertility option for women wishing to embrace parenthood after struggling with infertility issues for some time.
Myth 6: Any woman can become a surrogate mother
Certain requirements must be assessed before a woman can be deemed fit to become a surrogate or carrier for example age, physical and mental criteria, lifestyle, and surrogate’s background to name a few.
Overall, certain myths surrounding surrogacy or particularly In vitro fertilization (IVF) must be dispelled to encourage its adoption amongst couples wishing to conceive a child. However, women who prefer traditional pregnancy methods must take preventive measures towards improving their fertility. Particularly, certain lifestyle factors such as a low-fat nutritious diet with fertility-recommended foods, regular physical activity, and avoidance of alcohol and smoking can minimize common lifestyle-related infertility risks. Importantly, it is recommended to consult an IVF or in Vitro fertilization specialist for accurate medical advice around surrogacy and timely treatment.
The author is Consultant, Birla Fertility & IVF
Certain myths surrounding surrogacy or particularly IVF must be dispelled to encourage its adoption amongst couples wishing to conceive a child.