A guide to surrogacy

Many couples choose surrogacy as part of their treatment journey if it is unsafe for them to become pregnant or give birth. Same sex couples may also choose to use a surrogate host to help them start a family.

What is Surrogacy?

When a woman gets pregnant through IVF or IUI and carries the child for another person or couple, it is known as surrogacy.

GESTATIONAL & TRADITIONAL SURROGACY

There are two types of surrogacy: gestational and traditional. Gestational surrogacy is more commonly practised and is where a surrogate mother becomes pregnant through IVF and is not genetically related to the child she carries.

Traditional surrogacy is when a surrogate mother becomes pregnant through IUI. She will use her own eggs and will be genetically related to the child she carries.

Common Reasons for Surrogacy

Many people turn to surrogacy to start or build their existing families for a variety of reasons, including:

• Straight couples who have experienced repeat miscarriages or multiple failed IVF or IUI attempts

• Women who are unable to carry a child

• Parents who have genetic defects or health conditions that they do not want to pass onto the unborn child

• Same-sex couples who want to have genetic links to their child

Who can be a surrogate Mother?

To become a surrogate mother, a woman must meet certain requirements. These are dependent on the fertility clinic you choose, but you can expect requirements to include being over 18, being in good health with a normal BMI and having no previous health or pregnancy problems.

A surrogate mother would, ideally, already have a family of her own and the support of her partner.

Who can help with surrogacy arrangements?

While surrogacy is legal in the UK, it is illegal for surrogate mothers to advertise their services. Couples or individuals who wish to use a surrogate are also not allowed to advertise their needs. Therefore, you may need the help of an introduction agency, who can offer you advice and support for your surrogacy journey. The below websites are a great place to start:

Brilliant Beginnings: www.brilliantbeginnings.co.uk

COTS- Surrogacy in the UK: www.surrogacy.org.uk

Surrogacy UK: www.surrogacyuk.org

If you would like further information about using a surrogate mother to help you start or continue your own family, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Nurture team by calling us on 0115 828 0246 or via our contact page.