Safeguarding Rights Of Donors, Surrogates Or Intended Parents

Factors for intended parents to consider about surrogacy

Surrogacy has become an increasingly popular option for hopeful parents looking for an alternative to traditional pregnancy. Like many people, you may have many unanswered questions about the process.

As you navigate your journey to becoming a parent, consider these factors affecting intended parents who are thinking about surrogacy.

How will you find a surrogate?

Finding a surrogate can be the most intimidating part of the process. How can you ensure that you find the right person? While some intended parents choose to take on this task themselves, you may want to consider working with a surrogacy professional or agency. Such professionals are typically very knowledgable about the process, provide most of the necessary services and can connect you with a vetted surrogate whose surrogacy goals and expectations align with yours.

Will you use gestational or traditional surrogacy?

With traditional surrogacy, the gestational carrier is the biological mother of the child, and a sperm donor or a male parent is the biological father.

Gestational surrogacy is more commonly used. With this method, the surrogate is not related to the child. A medical professional will implant an embryo into the carrier using in vitro fertilization. This type of surrogacy is typically considered to have fewer legal risks.

Are you familiar with California’s surrogacy laws?

California is one of the most favorable states for people considering surrogacy. As a hopeful parent, you should familiarize yourself with the specific state laws before pursuing surrogacy. Make sure you understand requirements regarding contracts, parentage and other important matters to help ensure a smooth surrogacy process.