A Little About Surrogacy

What is a Surrogate? There are two types of surrogacy - traditional and gestational.

1. A traditional surrogate is one who uses her own genetics to help another couple conceive a child. A biblical example is Sarah's servant, Hagar, who bore a child to Abraham on Sarah's behalf.
2. A gestational surrogate carries a fetus that has no genetic connection to her - either the mother's egg or a donor egg. This is only possible through the use of In Vitro Fertilization.

Who needs a Surrogate?

1. There are many couples across the world who have been unsuccessful in creating a family due to a number of infertility issues: hysterectomy, cancers, endometriosis, ovulation disorders, fibroids, thyroid problems, Cushings disease, sickle cell... these couples will often have several unsuccessful IVF cycles before turning to a surrogate.

Won't it be hard to give up the baby?

1. Most surrogates agree that because the baby is not their own that it is not difficult to give to it's parents. From beginning to end, the baby belongs to it's Intended Parents. Keeping someone else's baby... that is what would feel wrong.

Can anyone be a surrogate?

1. Potential surrogates must complete a very lengthy application and questionaire. Applicants must meet age requirements, body-weight requirements, be healthy, with a history of healthy pregnancies and uncomplicated deliveries.
2. If the application looks good, there is an interview with the agency before pursuing a match with Intended Parents.
3. After being matched, a surrogate must pass a medical screening (blood work, urine test, physical exam of the reproductive organs) and a psychological screening to examine the surrogates mental health and motives.

No, not anyone can be a surrogate.