Introduction
Surrogacy is a beautiful yet often misunderstood journey. Misconceptions can create unnecessary fear or hesitation for prospective surrogates and intended parents. By addressing these myths with facts, families can better understand the reality of surrogacy and make informed decisions about this unique path to parenthood.
Myth 1: The Surrogate Will Keep the Baby
Fact: In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby. The embryo is created using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm. The surrogate’s role is to provide a safe and healthy environment for the baby to grow.
Legal contracts clearly establish parental rights, which belong exclusively to the intended parents. In addition, surrogates undergo thorough psychological screening to ensure they are emotionally prepared for this responsibility. Together, these safeguards eliminate the fear that a surrogate might try to keep the baby.
Myth 2: Surrogates Are Only in It for the Money
Fact: Surrogates do receive compensation, but financial reward is rarely their sole motivation. Most surrogates choose this path because they feel a strong desire to help others build families.
Compensation acknowledges the surrogate’s physical and emotional effort, as well as the risks involved in pregnancy. While the funds may help pay off loans or contribute to savings, what truly drives most surrogates is the priceless gift of helping intended parents achieve their dream of parenthood.
Myth 3: Surrogates Are Just “Rented Wombs”
Fact: Surrogacy is a regulated, ethical process that requires both physical and emotional commitment. Surrogates undergo medical screenings, psychological evaluations, hormone injections, and the full physical experience of pregnancy.
Calling surrogates “rented wombs” is not only inaccurate but also disrespectful. Surrogacy is a partnership between the surrogate and intended parents, often resulting in long-lasting bonds and genuine friendships.
In fact, many surrogates and families remain deeply connected long after the baby is born. For example:
- In 2018, a set of twin babies was born through surrogacy for a couple from China. When the COVID-19 pandemic broke out in 2020 and masks in the U.S. were nearly impossible to find, this couple immediately thought of their surrogate in America and mailed her protective masks from China.
- In 2020, a baby was born for a gay couple from Shanghai. Every Christmas since then, they have continued to send $500 through our agency as a heartfelt gift of gratitude to their surrogate.
These stories illustrate that surrogacy is not a mere transaction. It often creates enduring bonds of care, respect, and friendship that last a lifetime.
Myth 4: Surrogacy Is Too Risky for the Surrogate’s Health
Fact: Like any pregnancy, surrogacy carries medical risks. However, surrogates are only accepted if they are medically healthy and have a proven history of safe pregnancies.
Studies show that health risks in surrogacy are similar to those of a surrogate’s own previous pregnancies. Fertility clinics and agencies prioritize the safety of both surrogate and baby with comprehensive medical care and close monitoring. For cases that require closer oversight, surrogates may also meet with a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist—learn more in our blog post on Why Surrogates Need MFM Consultations.
If a surrogate does not already have insurance coverage, intended parents typically purchase a policy for her, along with a comprehensive life insurance plan. This ensures that surrogates receive the best care and protection throughout the journey.
Conclusion
By separating myths from facts, surrogacy becomes clearer, safer, and more approachable for everyone involved. Surrogates are not just carriers—they are extraordinary women who choose to help others experience the joy of parenthood.
At Ivy Surrogacy, we are committed to transparency, compassion, and professional guidance every step of the way. Whether you are exploring surrogacy as a potential surrogate or as intended parents, our experienced team is here to support you on your journey.
