Understanding the Surrogacy Process in India
Surrogacy has turned out to be a light at the end of the tunnel for many couples dealing with infertility. As India is becoming one of the leading countries for surrogacy, it becomes very important to understand the whole process, costs involved, and legal considerations. So, this article delves into the intricacies of surrogacy, focusing on the surrogacy cost in India, the importance of a surrogacy contract, and the legal framework governing the practice.
Surrogacy Cost in India
One of the key factors, which attracts couples to have surrogacy in India, is the cost factor. Surrogacy costs in India are much cheaper than in many countries of the Western world, so it appears to be an attractive alternative for international couples. In total, it may take between INR 15 lakhs to INR 25 lakhs, amounting to around $18,000 to $30,000. Intended parents should discuss all financial costs with the chosen surrogacy center in advance to avoid unexpected expenses. For more details, you can explore surrogacy cost in India and surrogacy cost in Delhi to make informed decisions
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is an assisted reproductive
technology whereby a woman, referred to as a surrogate, carries and delivers a
child for another individual or couple. The surrogacy process can either be
gestational, where the surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended
parents' or donors' eggs and sperm, or traditional, where the surrogate's own
eggs are used.
The Surrogacy
Process in India
- Choosing a Surrogacy Center: Step
number one in the surrogacy journey is choosing the right surrogacy
centre. There are many specialized clinics across India that indulge in
surrogacy providing the whole gamut, medical care, legal, counseling -
choose a licensed center having good credentials.
- Medical Evaluation: The
two parties to the surrogacy enter into a process of medical assessments
by the selected surrogacy center, which could include screenings for
infectious diseases and psychological evaluations.
- Legal Agreements: A
surrogacy contract forms an integral part of this process. It is an
agreement that sets out clearly the rights and responsibilities that both
parties are expected to uphold, including financial arrangements, parental
rights, and confidentiality agreements. It would be good to consult a
lawyer specialized in reproductive law to make sure that the contract
sticks to Indian laws and thus protects all parties involved.
- Embryo Transfer: In
gestational surrogacy, the embryo will be produced through the mechanism
of in vitro fertilization, then transferred to the uterus of the surrogate
after finishing all medical evaluation, when they sign the contract also;
this is a very fundamental step and is most always conducted in a clinical
condition.
- Pregnancy and Delivery: After the transfer of the embryo, the surrogate is followed up regularly to monitor the pregnancy. After birth, legal procedures are then used to ensure that the intended parents are recognized as the child's legal guardians.
Is Surrogacy Legal in India?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in India. In
fact, it is allowed and regulated under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020,
which aims at providing a legal framework for it. The law stresses that the
practice be ethical as it makes it mandatory for the parents who intend to have
surrogacy to have married for at least five years. Moreover, the medical
condition must justify the need for surrogacy.
Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the different types of
surrogacy available?
Ans: There are two main types: gestational surrogacy and traditional surrogacy
2. How long does the surrogacy
process take?
Ans: The whole surrogacy process can take anywhere from 12
to 18 months, depending on the health of the
surrogate and the success of the embryo transfers.
3. Can foreign couples undergo
surrogacy in India?
Yes, foreign couples can opt for surrogacy in India. However, they must comply
with local laws and regulations, and the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill outlines
specific guidelines for international intended parents.
4. What happens if the surrogate has
medical complications during pregnancy?
Ans: The surrogacy contract should outline who will be
responsible for any medical complications,
including medical expenses and decision-making regarding her health.
5. Are surrogates provided with
health insurance?
Ans: Most surrogacy centers provide health insurance for their surrogates,
covering complications or health issues that could arise during
Conclusion
The
surrogacy process in India offers hope and possibility for many couples seeking
to build their families. While navigating this complex journey, understanding
the costs involved, the importance of a surrogacy contract, and the legal
framework is crucial for a smooth experience. By doing thorough research and
working with reputable surrogacy centers, intended parents can embark on their
journey with confidence.