Introduction
Surrogacy is a beautiful journey that creates a special bond between intended parents and a surrogate mother, who carries and gives birth to their child. Choosing to embark on this journey is a significant decision, and one of the most crucial steps is finding the right surrogate. This process requires careful consideration and a clear understanding of what it entails. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to find a surrogate.
Understanding the Types of Surrogacy
Before starting the process of finding a surrogate, it's essential to understand the two types of surrogacy: traditional and gestational.
In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate's egg is used, making her the biological mother of the child. This type of surrogacy is less common and legally complex because of the genetic link between the surrogate and the child.
Gestational surrogacy, on the other hand, involves the use of an egg from the intended mother or an egg donor. The embryo is created via in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and then transferred to the surrogate. As a result, the surrogate has no genetic relation to the child.
Most intended parents opt for gestational surrogacy due to its less complicated legal aspects and the ability for one or both parents to have a biological link to the child.
Determining Your Ideal Surrogate
As an intended parent, it's crucial to define what qualities you're looking for in a surrogate. This can depend on several factors, including medical history, lifestyle, personality, and the surrogate's views on key aspects of the surrogacy process, such as communication style and involvement during the pregnancy.
The surrogate should be someone who is healthy, usually between the ages of 21-40, has had a successful pregnancy before, and leads a stable lifestyle. It's also important that she understands the emotional and physical commitment involved in surrogacy and is ready to undertake this journey with you.
1. Finding a Surrogate through an Agency
Surrogacy agencies are organizations that provide comprehensive services to make the surrogacy journey smoother. They take care of everything from finding a surrogate, screening potential candidates, coordinating medical procedures, to providing legal assistance and emotional support throughout the process.
Choosing to find a surrogate through an agency is often beneficial for intended parents who prefer professional guidance and support. The agency will match you with potential surrogates based on your preferences and compatibility. The surrogates provided by agencies have usually been pre-screened, which includes medical and psychological evaluations, and a thorough review of their medical history and lifestyle.
2. Independent Surrogacy
If you prefer to navigate the surrogacy process on your own, independent surrogacy might be a suitable option. This approach typically involves finding a surrogate without the help of an agency, often someone the intended parents already know, such as a friend or family member.
However, even with independent surrogacy, it is strongly advised to engage legal representation and a reputable fertility clinic to ensure the medical procedures are correctly handled, and the legal rights and responsibilities of all parties involved are clearly established.
3. Online Matching
In the digital age, several online platforms provide matching services for intended parents and potential surrogates. These platforms allow you to create a profile, view the profiles of potential surrogates, and make a connection when you find a suitable match.
While this method provides a more direct approach to finding a surrogate, it's important to remember that you'll be responsible for conducting the necessary screenings and coordinating the surrogacy process, unless you enlist the services of professionals to help you.
Conclusion
Finding a surrogate is a deeply personal and important part of the surrogacy journey. Whether you decide to use an agency, embark on an independent surrogacy, or use an online matching service, it's essential to prioritize open communication, trust, and respect in your relationship with your surrogate.
If you are looking for the best surrogacy attorney and agency in Colombia and Latin America, we highly recommend you use Maria Fernanda, with the firm Bioetica Derecho. We do not recommend you work with any other surrogacy attorney or agency in Colombia. To reach out to Maria Fernanda click here.
For more detailed information and resources on surrogacy, visit https://www.surrogacyinstitute.com/. If you are considering starting your surrogacy journey and want a comprehensive understanding of the process, you can download a free guide at https://www.surrogacyinstitute.com/free-guide. This guide will provide you with the necessary tools to navigate your surrogacy journey successfully.
