Debunking 5 Leading Myths About Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a form of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where a woman carries and delivers a baby for other people ― intended parents (IPs). It’s helped many people all over the world grow their families. 

Despite the joy it brings, there’s a lot of controversy and misinformation surrounding surrogacy.

At Great Beginnings Surrogacy Services (GBSS) in San Diego, California, we know a thing or two about surrogacy. For more than 20 years, our team, led by Dr. Samuel Wood, has helped intended parents all over the world navigate their way through the surrogacy process, matching them with their ideal surrogates.

When it comes to myths and misconceptions, we’ve heard it all. Here, we want to debunk some of the leading myths about surrogacy.

Myth: Surrogates use their own eggs

This is true when you have a traditional surrogate, which is when the surrogate is artificially inseminated with sperm from the intended father. This means the surrogate is genetically linked to the child, which can lead to legal complications.

However, gestational surrogates don’t use their own eggs for surrogacy. Instead, an embryo created from the egg and sperm of the intended parents (or from anonymous donors) is implanted in the uterus of the gestational surrogate, who then carries and delivers the baby. 

Gestational surrogates have no genetic links to the baby, making it legally less complex than traditional surrogates.

Myth: The surrogate will keep the baby

After carrying a baby in their womb for nine months, you may have concerns that a surrogate would get emotionally attached to the baby and want to keep it. But surrogates and intended parents sign legally binding contracts that protect both parties. 

Using gestational surrogates also makes this less likely since they have no genetic link to the baby. 

Myth: Any woman can be a surrogate

No, we don’t allow just any woman to be a surrogate. Our surrogates undergo an extensive evaluation process, including a background check, medical and psychological screening, and a review of OB/GYN medical records.

We also have very strict requirements for our surrogates. We only allow women between the ages of 21 and 38 to participate in our surrogacy program. 

We only select women with a history of at least one uncomplicated pregnancy (but not more than five) who’ve had no more than three cesarean section (C-section) deliveries. And we only choose surrogates who have good overall health and stable home lives.

Myth: Surrogacy is easy money

There are many reasons women decide to become surrogates. They may want to help a friend or family member or enjoy being pregnant but have already completed their family. 

Surrogates get financial support to cover the physical, emotional, and medical costs of the pregnancy, but it’s not a quick or easy way to make money. 

Myth: Surrogacy is against the law

In the United States, no federal laws govern surrogacy, and each state has its own set of rules and regulations. When considering surrogacy for your family, it’s important to know the laws in your state.

One of our surrogacy requirements is that our surrogates live in a surrogate-friendly state like California, Nevada, or Washington, to name a few. Currently, surrogacy is prohibited by law in three states: Louisiana, Michigan, and Nebraska. 

Surrogacy is a complex but great option for individuals who are unable to bear children of their own. If you’re considering surrogacy, we can help. Call our office or book an appointment online today.