The Pros and Cons of Surrogacy For Surrogates

Previously, we discussed the pros and cons of surrogacy from an intended parent’s perspective. We explored how surrogacy can create unique friendships and families while explaining the protections and technology that are part of the process. This week, we’ll weigh the costs and benefits from a surrogate’s point of view.

For a surrogate, nothing beats the feeling of giving life for someone else’s family. But many prospective surrogates still want to be aware of the various risks and benefits that could come as a result of their decision.

The Pros of Surrogacy

Surrogacy can be a fulfilling experience

Surrogacy is fulfilling, for both the parents as well as the surrogate. For the parents, the feeling is a sense of completeness from a new family member. For the surrogate, the feeling is one of pride from having provided the parents with a baby. Surrogates at ConceiveAbilities and around the world are strong, selfless women who delight at giving hope and opportunity to growing families.

Surrogates are supported by a strong Surro-Sisterhood

Surrogacy is a singular experience, and sharing your story may be difficult when others cannot relate. Luckily, surrogates have banded together to create solid communities and sisterhoods. Many former ConceiveAbilities surrogates remain close even after their journeys, meeting at ConceiveAbilities events, picnics, and other social gatherings.

Surrogates can relive the feeling of pregnancy

All surrogates that undergo the process are already mothers and enjoy being mothers. When you become a surrogate, you have the opportunity to experience being pregnant again. Though some may shudder at the thought, many surrogates love the experience of pregnancy. Through surrogacy, mothers can relive the experience without expanding on their own family.

Surrogacy provides a fair compensation

In countries and states that support commercial surrogacy, gestational carriers are compensated for their time and risk. Approximately $43,000 to $53,000 is paid to the surrogate, although this figure can vary depending on a couple factors, namely the type of pregnancy and the number of previous pregnancies.

Legal protections cover surrogates too

Contracts don’t just protect the parents, they make sure that surrogates are covered too. These contracts ensure the gestational carriers are reimbursed for their time and contribution and absolve her of any responsibility following childbirth.

The Cons of Surrogacy

Surrogacy is physically demanding

Similar to a traditional pregnancy, surrogacy can take its toll on one’s body. Surrogates must undergo screenings, attend interviews and appointments, and carry a baby for 9 months. During this time, gestational carriers are asked not to engage in any risky or strenuous physical activity that could endanger the pregnancy. But at the end of it all, the reward of delivering a new family member surpasses any temporary inconvenience.

Surrogacy is emotionally taxing

Carrying a baby and giving birth is one of the most beautiful acts a human can do, but it can also be emotionally difficult. At times you may feel intense joy and excitement, other times you’ll need the support of your family and friends, but you’ll never be alone. You can always reach out to the ConceiveAbilities team if you need someone to talk to.

Surrogacy involves a significant time commitment

The surrogacy process, from applying online to delivering the baby, is a span of months, not weeks. If you’re planning on becoming a surrogate, you’ll have to confirm that you won’t be doing any intense activities or make any major travel plans during that time.

Further Information

If you need more information before choosing the path of surrogacy, don’t fret. The more you research, the better. Read up on our blog post, Everything You Need to Know About Gestational Surrogacy, to find out more about the process, the laws, and the costs. Check out 10 Signs You’d Make a Great Surrogate to learn more about how surrogacy could be right for you. Finally, if you’re ready to apply, fill out our secure, online application today.