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What Is Important to Know Before Altruistic Surrogacy Treatment?

Altruistic surrogacy is a compassionate arrangement where a woman (the surrogate) carries a pregnancy for intended parents without receiving financial compensation, beyond medical and pregnancy-related expenses. In India, this practice is legally permitted under strict regulations, making it essential for couples to understand every aspect before beginning the process.

Below are the key things you must know before starting altruistic surrogacy treatment:

1. Understand the Legal Framework

India allows only altruistic surrogacy, governed by:

  • The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021
  • The Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Act, 2021

Important points:

  • Only married Indian couples (male–female) who meet eligibility criteria can opt for surrogacy.
  • The surrogate mother must be a close relative (as defined by the law) of the intended parents.
  • Commercial surrogacy is completely banned.
  • Proper documentation and approvals from the Surrogacy Board and District Medical Board are mandatory.

Understanding these laws helps avoid legal complications later.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Intended Parents

Before beginning the treatment, ensure that:

  • The couple has been married for at least 5 years.
  • The female partner is aged 23–50 years, and the male partner 26–55 years.
  • They have a proven medical reason preventing them from carrying a pregnancy (e.g., absence of uterus, repeated IVF failures, severe medical conditions).
  • They do not have a surviving biological or adopted child, except in special cases (disabled child).

Meeting these criteria is crucial for obtaining official approval.

3. Choosing the Right Fertility Centre

The success and safety of the surrogacy process depend heavily on the clinic. Look for:

  • Government-registered ART and Surrogacy Centre
  • Experienced IVF specialists, embryologists, and a legal team
  • Transparent processes and ethical practices
  • Support for documentation and Board approvals
  • Psychosocial counselling for intended parents and surrogate

A reliable centre ensures a smooth journey from paperwork to childbirth.

4. Understanding the Medical Process

Before starting treatment, it is important to know:

  • IVF is used to create embryos using the intended parents’ gametes (eggs and sperm).
  • The surrogate undergoes medical tests, uterine evaluation, and counselling.
  • Embryo transfer is performed only after all legal approvals.
  • Throughout pregnancy, the surrogate receives regular medical monitoring.

Understanding the medical steps prepares you emotionally and financially.

5. Psychological and Emotional Preparedness

Surrogacy is not just a medical treatment—it is an emotional journey.
Intended parents must consider:

  • Trust and communication with the surrogate mother
  • Emotional attachment during pregnancy
  • Stress related to legal documentation, approvals, and medical procedures
  • Counselling support for both parties
  • Post-birth bonding and parental responsibilities

Being emotionally prepared reduces anxiety and ensures a positive experience.

6. Financial Transparency

Although altruistic surrogacy does not involve payment to the surrogate, there are still important financial aspects:

  • IVF treatment costs
  • Medical tests and scans
  • Pregnancy care expenses
  • Legal documentation and approvals
  • Delivery and postnatal care costs

Discuss all expenses clearly with the fertility centre in advance.

7. Ethical Considerations

Altruistic surrogacy is based on trust, compassion, and respect. Intended parents should ensure:

  • The surrogate participates willingly without pressure
  • Her health and dignity are prioritised
  • All decisions are made with transparency
  • No form of under-the-table payment is offered or accepted

Ethical practices protect both families and ensure legal compliance.

8. Documentation and Approvals

Before starting the treatment, be ready for:

  • Medical Board certificate of infertility
  • Surrogate eligibility approval
  • Proof of relationship with the surrogate
  • Legal agreements between both parties
  • ART and Surrogacy Board approvals
  • Identity and marriage documents

Proper documentation ensures the baby’s birth certificate is issued smoothly.

Conclusion

Beginning altruistic surrogacy is a deeply meaningful step for couples dreaming of parenthood. However, understanding the legal, medical, emotional, ethical, and financial aspects is crucial before starting the process. With the right guidance from a registered and experienced fertility centre, intended parents can navigate this journey confidently and responsibly.

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Location: Delhi, India

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