Thu, 10 Oct 2024

Surrogacy has become an option for many couples who face challenges in conceiving naturally. When someone else carries a baby for the intended parents, it’s known as surrogacy. One form of this process, which is particularly valued for its ethical and compassionate nature, is altruistic surrogacy. At International Pride IVF and Research Centre, we offer this option for couples looking for a trusted, legal, and supportive environment for their surrogacy journey.

Understanding Altruistic Surrogacy

In simple terms, altruistic surrogacy in india involves a surrogate mother carrying a baby for the intended parents without seeking any financial benefit. This is different from commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate is compensated for her role. In altruistic surrogacy, the surrogate is usually a close family member or a trusted friend who agrees to help the couple become parents out of goodwill.

The surrogate receives financial support only for medical and pregnancy-related expenses. There’s no extra payment for the act of carrying the baby. This type of surrogacy in india is seen as more ethical and humane, as it removes any monetary incentive. The relationship between the surrogate and the intended parents is often based on trust, respect, and mutual understanding.

Why Altruistic Surrogacy?

Many couples choose altruistic surrogacy because it feels more natural and heartfelt. In most cases, the surrogate is someone known to the intended parents, often from their own family. This creates a stronger emotional bond between both parties, which can be helpful throughout the process. Some key reasons why couples opt for altruistic surrogacy include:

• Emotional Connection: The surrogate is usually someone emotionally connected to the couple, making the process more personal and comforting.
• Legal Simplicity: Since the surrogate isn’t paid beyond medical expenses, legal complications related to financial matters are minimized.
• Ethical Choice: Altruistic surrogacy is often considered more ethical, especially in countries like India, where laws favor this method.

At International Pride IVF, we recognize the importance of these factors and ensure that both the surrogate and the intended parents are fully supported through every step of the journey.

Legal Framework for Altruistic Surrogacy in India

India has a strong legal framework that regulates surrogacy to ensure that the process is ethical, safe, and supportive for all parties involved. In 2021, the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill was passed, which strictly bans commercial surrogacy but allows altruistic surrogacy under certain conditions.

Here are key legal points:

• Eligibility: To ensure responsible and ethical practices, specific eligibility criteria govern who can participate in altruistic surrogacy:
• Only married couples facing proven infertility issues are eligible for altruistic surrogacy.
• The intended mother must be between 23 and 50 years old, while the intended father should be between 26 and 55 years old.
• Couples must provide medical documentation to validate their infertility diagnosis.

• Citizenship Requirements: Both the intended parents and the surrogate must be Indian citizens. This restriction means that foreigners and NRIs are currently not permitted to pursue surrogacy arrangements in India, ensuring that the process is limited to Indian nationals.

• Surrogate’s Qualifications: The law outlines specific qualifications for surrogates, ensuring that they are suitable and capable of carrying the pregnancy:
• The surrogate must be a close relative of the intended parents, such as a sibling or a cousin, to ensure a strong emotional connection.
• She must be married and have at least one biological child of her own, demonstrating her ability to carry a pregnancy successfully.
• The surrogate is required to undergo comprehensive medical and psychological assessments to confirm her fitness for the surrogacy role.

• Approval Process: Surrogacy can only take place after obtaining a certificate of essentiality and eligibility from the relevant authorities.

• Legal Agreements: Clear legal agreements are crucial in the surrogacy process, protecting the rights and responsibilities of both the surrogate and the intended parents.

• A legally binding agreement must be signed by both the intended parents and the surrogate before the process begins. This agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of each party, including the scope of medical expenses covered and the rights regarding parental claims post-birth.
• Approval from relevant regulatory authorities is mandatory before any IVF procedures can commence.

• Compliance and Monitoring: Ensuring legal compliance and regular monitoring is key to maintaining an ethical surrogacy process.
• Surrogacy arrangements are subject to scrutiny by designated authorities to ensure compliance with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill.
• Regular monitoring is required throughout the pregnancy to ensure that both the surrogate and the child receive appropriate medical care and support.

• Parentage Rights: Upon the birth of the child, legal parentage is transferred to the intended parents as per the signed agreement, ensuring that their parental rights are protected and recognized under Indian law.

International Pride IVF ensures that all legal aspects of altruistic surrogacy are followed strictly. We provide guidance and help throughout the legal process so that both the surrogate and the intended parents are protected under the law.

Who Can Opt for Altruistic Surrogacy?

Not every couple may qualify for surrogacy. Altruistic surrogacy is meant for couples who face genuine medical challenges in carrying a pregnancy. At International Pride IVF, we evaluate each case carefully to ensure that surrogacy is the right option for you.

Conditions that may make a couple eligible for surrogacy include:

• Women with uterine abnormalities or absent uterus
• Repeated IVF failures
• Medical conditions that make pregnancy risky
• Severe reproductive health issues

Our specialists at International Pride IVF conduct a detailed medical assessment to determine whether surrogacy is the best course of action. If you’re eligible, we work with you to find the right surrogate, following all legal and ethical guidelines.

Also Read: IVF vs Altruistic Surrogacy in Delhi

Who Can Be a Surrogate?

In altruistic surrogacy, the surrogate is typically a relative or someone close to the intended parents. She agrees to carry the child out of love and compassion, with no financial gain involved. However, certain criteria must be met for someone to become a surrogate.

The surrogate must:

• Be a close relative of the intended parents
• Be married and have at least one child of her own
• Be physically and mentally healthy
• Fall within the age limits as prescribed by law

The role of the surrogate is crucial, and at International Pride IVF, we make sure that she undergoes thorough medical and psychological evaluations to ensure she’s fit for the responsibility. Our medical team and counselors work closely with the surrogate to provide all the support she needs.

The Altruistic Surrogacy Process at International Pride IVF

At International Pride IVF, we follow a detailed, structured process for altruistic surrogacy to ensure everything runs smoothly for both the intended parents and the surrogate.

Initial Consultation and Medical Evaluation

Both the intended parents and the potential surrogate undergo detailed medical evaluations. This helps our doctors determine whether the intended parents are good candidates for surrogacy and whether the surrogate is physically capable of carrying a pregnancy to term.

Psychological Counseling

Surrogacy is not just a medical process; it’s an emotional one. At International Pride IVF, we provide psychological counseling for both the surrogate and the intended parents. This helps ensure that everyone involved is fully prepared for the emotional aspects of the surrogacy journey.

Legal Agreements and Approval

We assist you with all the necessary legal paperwork. The intended parents and the surrogate must sign a legal agreement before the surrogacy process begins. This agreement outlines the rights, responsibilities, and expectations of both parties. Approval from the regulatory authorities is also obtained before proceeding.

The IVF Process

Once the legal aspects are in place, the IVF process begins. This involves retrieving eggs from the intended mother (or an egg donor if necessary), fertilizing them with the father’s sperm in the lab, and then transferring the resulting embryo into the surrogate’s uterus. The surrogate then carries the pregnancy to term.

Pregnancy and Birth

Throughout the pregnancy, our team at International Pride IVF closely monitors the health and well-being of the surrogate and the developing baby. Regular check-ups, ultrasound scans, and medical care are provided to ensure everything progresses smoothly. Once the baby is born, legal parentage is transferred to the intended parents as per the legal agreement.

Ethical and Emotional Aspects of Altruistic Surrogacy

Altruistic surrogacy involves more than just medical and legal procedures—it’s deeply personal and emotional for both the surrogate and the intended parents. At International Pride IVF, we are sensitive to these emotional aspects and offer full support throughout the process.

For the surrogate, carrying a baby for someone else is a selfless act. She is helping a loved one fulfill their dream of becoming parents, often strengthening the emotional bond between them. On the other hand, for the intended parents, it can be overwhelming to rely on someone else to bring their child into the world. Both sides need to be emotionally prepared and supported.

We understand the emotional challenges and provide counseling and support to ensure that everyone involved feels secure and cared for.

Financial Aspects of Altruistic Surrogacy

While altruistic surrogacy removes the aspect of financial compensation for the surrogate, it’s essential to understand that there are still costs involved. These costs are typically related to medical care, legal fees, and pregnancy-related expenses. At International Pride IVF, we ensure complete transparency about these expenses so that intended parents and surrogates are well-prepared and supported.

Here is the breakdown of typical costs associated with altruistic surrogacy:

• Medical Expenses: This covers the cost of IVF procedures, pregnancy care, hospital visits, medications, and any special care the surrogate might need during pregnancy. Altruistic surrogates are not expected to pay for any pregnancy-related expenses out of pocket, as the intended parents bear this responsibility.
• Legal Fees: Legal agreements and consultations with surrogacy lawyers are necessary to protect both the surrogate and the intended parents. This helps clarify all roles, responsibilities, and rights, ensuring the process is legally sound.
• Insurance Costs: Insurance is another critical component in the surrogacy process. The intended parents may need to cover the health insurance for the surrogate, ensuring she receives all necessary medical care during and after pregnancy.
• Miscellaneous Support: Sometimes, the surrogate may need assistance with things like travel to and from medical appointments, dietary supplements, or other special needs related to her well-being during the pregnancy. These costs are often considered part of the intended parents’ responsibility.

At International Pride IVF, we assist both parties in understanding and planning for these financial commitments to ensure a smooth process.

Success Rates and Challenges

Altruistic surrogacy, especially when carried out in a supportive environment like International Pride IVF, has high success rates (IVF success rates). However, challenges can arise during the process. Some common challenges are:

• Medical Risks: The surrogate may face complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Our doctors at International Pride IVF are highly experienced in handling such situations to ensure the safety of both the surrogate and the baby.
• Emotional Stress: Surrogacy can be emotionally taxing for both the surrogate and the intended parents. Regular counseling and support are provided throughout the process.
• Legal Complications: While the legal framework in India is clear, it’s essential to follow all guidelines carefully. At International Pride IVF, we ensure that all legal aspects are covered to avoid any future complications.

Despite these challenges, with the right medical and emotional support, altruistic surrogacy can be a deeply rewarding and successful experience for both the surrogate and the intended parents.

Conclusion

Altruistic surrogacy is a compassionate, ethical way to help couples who cannot have children naturally. At International Pride IVF and Research Centre, we are committed to offering the highest level of care and support to both the surrogate and the intended parents. Our experienced medical and legal teams guide you through each step, ensuring that the process is smooth, safe, and legally compliant.

If you are considering altruistic surrogacy or would like more information, we are here to assist you at every stage.