Prepare for Controversy
Some argue that the practice is nothing more than baby selling, while others feel that a couple should have access to any methods necessary to produce offspring. Regardless of the controversy, the reality is that surrogacy is here to stay, and for many couples struggling with infertility or sterility, it may be the only solution that can help them to conceive. For those seeking a surrogate mother, there are several things that must be taken under consideration.
Historical Surrogacy
There are a number of ways that a couple can locate a potential surrogate mother. Historically, the most common (and successful) method of surrogacy was for the couple to approach a close friend or relative and ask if they would be willing to carry the baby to full term. As a matter of fact, one of the oldest known instances of surrogate motherhood is found in Genesis, the first book of the Bible, where Abraham and Sarah, unable to have the child they were so desperate for, approached Sarah’s maid, Hagar, so that they could have an heir. For those who know the rest of the story, while the immediate results were positive, “baby mamma drama” soon followed.
Surrogacy Today
Today, there are a number of different resources, clinics and surrogate agencies where potential surrogates are virtual strangers, but who are willing to provide their services, go through in-depth screening methods and abide by the rules of the contracts and agreements. In most cases, this is much more preferable than placing an ad in the classified section of the newspaper and hoping for the best. The more due diligence you perform, the lesser the chance of seeing your dream come true transform into a nightmare.
Know the Law
Surrogacy laws and case precedents vary from state to state, so it is critical to take the time out to meet with an attorney to consider potential complications and risks. It is essential that you create an airtight legal agreement to avoid the potential devastation of paying a lot of money, and going through a lot of trouble, only to have your selected surrogate opt out of the transaction and keep the baby. If the baby bears the genetic materials of both parents, there may be greater protection for the couple seeking the surrogate. However, if not, or if the surrogate’s own egg was used in the fertilization process, you can find yourself in more confusing territory. When this is the case, a legal professional and/or contract specialist can do wonders to avoid potential pitfalls in the process.
Share
Print
Save to My Bee
