Surrogacy is often an option for women with medical conditions that make pregnancy unsafe, couples who have experienced repeated IVF failures, same-sex male couples, or individuals who wish to become parents but cannot carry a pregnancy.

There are two main types: gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate carries an embryo created from the intended parents’ (or donors’) egg and sperm, and traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s own egg is used (less common in clinical programs).

Surrogates undergo thorough medical, psychological, and legal screening to ensure they are healthy, emotionally prepared, and meet the program’s requirements. Matching is done carefully to align with the intended parents’ needs.

Surrogacy involves detailed legal agreements to protect the rights of both the surrogate and the intended parents. These cover aspects like parental rights, medical decisions, compensation, and post-birth arrangements, ensuring clarity for all parties.