In the U.S., surrogacy is designed to protect the well-being of the surrogate, intended parents and the new life they bring into the world together.
As the popularity of this family-building method has risen, so have questions about the prevalence of exploitation in surrogacy throughout the world.
Our agency takes every precaution to protect, empower and advocate for the surrogates that want to help others experience the joy of parenthood. To learn more about surrogacy and how our process works, reach out to us today.
Is Surrogacy Exploitative for Surrogates?
While there are documented cases of exploitation in surrogacy, they are primarily in countries that don’t have the systems in place to protect their surrogates that United States does. Surrogacy in the U.S. is regulated at the state, medical and professional level.
Each state has their own laws pertaining to surrogacy contracts and establishing parentage. Surrogacy professionals in the U.S. regulate their surrogacy processes through carefully curated practices that are designed to protect the surrogate and the child she carries.
What Does the Exploitation of Surrogate Mothers Look Like in Other Countries?
In countries where surrogates aren’t protected, surrogacy exploitation can look like:
- Being forced or coerced into the process of surrogacy
- Not being given legal representation during the surrogacy process
- Being unsure of the surrogacy process or who have not been properly informed about surrogacy
- Not being compensated for surrogacy or paying for expenses out-of-pocket
- Feeling surrogacy is their only hope for income if they are in dire financial circumstances
- Taking advantage of individuals in dire financial circumstances
- Being asked to be a surrogate by or for an authority figure abusing their power
How We Protect the Surrogates We Work With
We take steps to prepare, screen and support surrogates during each portion of their surrogacy journey. You can read more below about how surrogacy is empowering with our agency or click here to hear from surrogates who have partner with our agency.
Preparing and Educating Prospective Surrogates
By providing prospective surrogates with information and educational resources, we empower them to make informed decisions and pursue what they want with confidence.
- Any woman who is interested in surrogacy can request free information from us with no obligation to begin the process
- We have staff available to answer any questions about surrogacy
- We continuously strive to provide free articles about surrogacy to the public
Screening and Requirements
We have requirements and thorough screening processes in place that are designed to protect the safety of the surrogate and the child they will carry.
- All surrogates must meet surrogacy requirements based on standards set by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)
- Once she meets all surrogate requirements, she must successfully complete a screening process that consists of a social and medical history form, an in-home assessment and background check, psychological evaluation.
- All surrogates undergo a medical screening to ensure she is physically healthy enough to safely carry a pregnancy to term.
Learn more about our surrogate screening process.
Protecting a Surrogate’s Autonomy
Surrogates control their surrogacy journey. In addition to having a surrogacy specialist who will advocate for them every step of the way, the surrogacy process is designed to promote autonomy throughout the process by ensuring surrogates:
- Go at their own pace throughout their surrogacy journey
- Are represented by a legal professional who will help them draft a surrogacy contract in accordance with their state’s surrogacy laws
- Are matched with families that align with their surrogacy goals
- Never have to do anything they’re uncomfortable with
Comprehensive Surrogate Compensation
Surrogates are compensated for the time and effort they contribute to the amazing service they’re providing. In addition to receiving base pay, our surrogate compensation package covers:
- Medical expenses
- Legal fees
- Travel and lodging
- Lost wages
- Maternity clothes
- Prenatal vitamins
- And more
Learn more about surrogate compensation.
Becoming a surrogate is a choice and one that is made out of generosity and kindness. You can learn more about our surrogacy practices and how we protect our surrogates by speaking with our surrogacy specialists. Contact us today.