Altruistic surrogacy is a compassionate and ethical way for
intended parents to achieve their dreams of having a child.
What is Altruistic Surrogacy?
Altruistic surrogacy refers to a surrogacy arrangement where
the surrogate mother carries a baby for the intended parents without receiving
any financial compensation for her services, except for medical expenses and
other necessary costs related to the pregnancy. This form of surrogacy is based
on the principles of goodwill and support, with the surrogate mother helping
the intended parents out of compassion rather than financial gain.
Unlike commercial surrogacy, where the surrogate receives a
fee beyond the medical costs, altruistic surrogacy focuses on the emotional and
supportive aspect of the process. It is a selfless act aimed at assisting those
who cannot conceive naturally due to medical reasons or other challenges.
Altruistic Surrogacy in India
Altruistic surrogacy in India is governed by strict
regulations to ensure ethical practices and protect the rights of both the
surrogate mother and the intended parents. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act,
2021, has made commercial surrogacy illegal in India and permits only
altruistic surrogacy under specific conditions.
In India, altruistic surrogacy is available to married
couples who have been together for at least five years and face medical
infertility issues. Here are some key points about altruistic surrogacy in
India:
- Legal
and Ethical Framework: The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act aims to ensure
that all parties involved are protected. It prohibits any monetary
transaction beyond medical expenses, eliminating the possibility of
exploitation. The surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intended
parents and can only carry a baby once in her lifetime as a surrogate.
- Medical
and Emotional Support: In altruistic surrogacy, the intended parents
cover all medical costs, including prenatal care, delivery, and postpartum
care for the surrogate mother. Emotional support and counseling are also
essential components of the process to ensure the surrogate feels valued
and appreciated for her selfless act.
- Eligibility
Criteria: To opt for altruistic surrogacy in India, the intended
parents must meet specific requirements. They should be an Indian couple,
married for at least five years, and medically proven to be infertile.
Additionally, they must be able to provide proper medical and emotional
care for the surrogate throughout the process.
Benefits of Altruistic Surrogacy
Altruistic surrogacy offers several benefits, both to the
intended parents and the surrogate mother. Below are some of the most notable
advantages:
- Reduced
Costs: Since the surrogate mother is not compensated beyond her
medical expenses, the overall cost of altruistic surrogacy is much lower
than that of commercial surrogacy. This makes it a more accessible option
for many intended parents.
- Ethical
and Compassionate: Altruistic surrogacy focuses on the bond of care
and empathy between the surrogate and the intended parents. It eliminates
financial motives, ensuring that the process is guided by the best
interests of the child and the surrogate’s goodwill.
- Legal
Protection: In India, the legal framework for altruistic surrogacy
protects all parties involved, ensuring that the surrogate mother is not
exploited and that the intended parents have a legally recognized path to
parenthood.
How Does Altruistic Surrogacy Work in India?
The process of altruistic surrogacy in India
involves several steps, starting with medical evaluations and ending with the
birth of the child. Here’s a breakdown of how it typically works:
- Medical
Evaluation: Both the intended parents and the surrogate mother undergo
thorough medical evaluations to determine their suitability for the
surrogacy process. The surrogate mother must be physically and mentally
fit to carry a pregnancy to term.
- Legal
Agreement: Once the medical evaluations are complete, a legal
agreement is drafted. This agreement outlines the roles, responsibilities,
and rights of both the surrogate and the intended parents, ensuring
transparency and protection for everyone involved.
- Embryo
Transfer: In a fertility clinic, an embryo created using the intended
parents’ or donors’ sperm and eggs is transferred to the surrogate’s womb.
The surrogate then carries the pregnancy, with the medical team monitoring
her health and the baby’s development.
- Pregnancy
and Delivery: During the pregnancy, the intended parents provide full
medical and emotional support to the surrogate. Upon delivery, the baby is
handed over to the intended parents, completing the surrogacy process.
Challenges and Considerations in Altruistic Surrogacy
While altruistic surrogacy is a rewarding journey, it also
comes with its challenges:
- Emotional
Dynamics: The emotional bond between the surrogate and the intended
parents can be complex. Proper counseling and support are necessary to
navigate these dynamics effectively.
- Limited
Availability: Since altruistic surrogacy requires a close relative as
the surrogate, finding a suitable and willing surrogate may be challenging
for some couples.
- Legal
Compliance: It is crucial to comply with all legal requirements under
the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act to avoid complications. Consulting with
legal and medical professionals ensures a smooth and compliant process.
Conclusion
Altruistic surrogacy is a compassionate and legally
regulated option in India that offers a path to parenthood for couples facing
infertility challenges. By understanding what
is altruistic surrogacy and how it works within the framework of altruistic
surrogacy in India, intended parents can make informed decisions about this
life-changing journey.
If you’re considering altruistic surrogacy, consult with fertility expert or legal advisor to explore your options and navigate the process smoothly.