For most alternativesprovides a valuable gift to expectant parents is one of the most powerful and enjoyable experiences in their lives.
As this is a life-changing decision, it is important to carefully consider the pros and cons of surrogacy before embarking on this journey. While there are countless benefits to being a surrogate motherthe process also comes with challenges and risks.
Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of surrogacy for surrogate mothers.
The Advantages of Being a Surrogate Mother
Being a surrogate is incredibly selfless, but there are also many benefits for the surrogate and her family.
You can help expectant parents have a few more options
Women who decide to become a surrogate often share the belief that everyone deserves to be a parent if they want to. now, gestational surrogacy has opened up a world of opportunity for expectant parents who want a biological connection to their child but cannot have a child the “traditional” way. A surrogate helps make that dream come true.
Many surrogates add another layer of purpose and fulfillment to their surrogacy journey by partnering with intended parents who face specific cultural or physical challenges, such as LGBTQ+ parentscancer survivors, and more.
If you loved being pregnant, you can experience it again
Some women seem to float through the experience of pregnancy in a cloud of pure joy. Their pregnancies were free of complications, their symptoms (like morning sickness) were mild, and their bodies seemed to be doing what they were born to do.
They really like being pregnant—which can be a sad day when they realize their families are complete. Surrogacy gives these women the opportunity to carry another baby without adding to their own family.
You can create meaningful, lasting connections
At Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS), our surrogates not only receive help and care from a team of experienced professionals, but they also attend a monthly support group led by a licensed mental health professional. This support group helps surrogates navigate the emotional ups and downs of the process and gives them a sense of community along their journey.
Many surrogates also build extremely close relationships with their intended parents during their journey, and many remain best friends after the baby is born.
You will teach your children important lessons
As parents, we want to be good role models and highlight the importance of helping others. Of course, this is not the only reason why a woman decides to become a surrogate, but it often plays an important role. We’ve worked with hundreds of surrogates over the past 30 years, and we’ve seen the amazing impact travel can have on the whole family.
and, a recent study backs up what we already know to be true: Children of surrogate women tend to experience joy, curiosity, and pride in their mother’s decision to help another family.
This will give you financial assistance
Your compensation in return can help you take a significant financial step, such as paying off debt, starting a college fund, buying a car, or putting a down payment on a house.
At SPS, we are committed to ensuring that every surrogate in our “family” feels empowered by his or her choice to be a surrogate. We examine prospective alternatives for financial stability (for many other reasons), so it is certain that future discussions about surrogate compensation will be grounded in positivity and compatible with our values.
The Downside of Being a Surrogate Mother
Being a surrogate is an incredibly rewarding experience, but there are also some drawbacks to consider before starting the process.
Surrogacy is physically demanding
Even if your previous pregnancies were relatively easy, pregnancy is still exhausting and it’s very important that surrogates are prepared for the journey. In addition to the normal needs of pregnancy, pundergoing further tests and medical tests, fertility treatments, and more are likely alternatives.
Your surrogacy experience can be emotional
Although being a surrogate can be very rewarding, it often presents unique emotional challenges. At SPS, prospective surrogates and their partners (if applicable) undergo a psychological screening to ensure they are prepared for the potential emotional difficulties of the process. Our surrogates also attend monthly support meetings to discuss their experiences with women on the same path and receive advice and encouragement.
Surrogacy has health risks
Like any other pregnancy, there are always risks involved when you carry a child. Before embarking on this journey, you should consider whether you are willing to take these risks. Note that although it is not required, it is also recommended that you finish building your own family before you become a surrogate.
The experience requires a significant time commitment
A surrogacy journey lasts longer than nine months—starting with fertility treatment and continuing after childbirth. It’s important to really consider whether you can make this kind of commitment right now.
From doctor’s appointments to contacting the intended parent(s) (and more), a lot of time, mental focus, physical energy, and emotional stability will be required. This journey is incredibly exciting and fulfilling for women who can give what is needed without being burdened—but timing is everything.
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the pros and cons of surrogacy.
Learn More About Surrogacy at Surrogacy Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate more than 30 years of helping make dreams come true! Founded in 1990, Surrogacy Services (SPS) is a full-service surrogacy program that offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We are passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both parties and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.
