A guide for single parents looking to have a child through Surrogacy for Singles in Kenya.
Surrogacy is an option for singles in Kenya who want to have a child. This guide provides information on the process of surrogacy in Kenya and what to expect.
Being an international parent, you must pay special attention to your itinerary for the surrogacy journey and surrogacy agency in Georgia. By doing that, you can easily plan and decide on the most important aspects towards your parenthood goals.
Moreover, intended parents must understand that their surrogacy journey is highly dependent on various factors, including medical diagnosis and procedures, legal processes, and individual circumstances. However, with a clear vision and planning, you can always make the most out of it without any challenges or issues.
Day 1: Arrival in Georgia
The first day in Georgia would include your arrival via flight and a short meet-up with the representative of the surrogacy agency in Georgia (optional). On this day, you will also be moving to your pre-booked accommodation and will further be guided about your itinerary for the surrogacy journey in the country.
Meet with your surrogacy agency or clinic to review your itinerary, discuss any necessary paperwork, and go over the overall plan. Also, you may be proceeding with the initial consultation with the professional from the surrogacy agency in Georgia. During the conversation, you may be briefed about the future proceedings of your surrogacy journey along with any tests or diagnoses required.
Days 2-3: Medical Assessments and Consultations
You will then undergo the required medical tests and evaluations, including fertility assessments, at the designated IVF clinic. Moreover, you may also meet with fertility specialists to discuss treatment options and determine the most suitable approach for your parenthood aspirations
On the other hand, you will also consult with medical professionals from the agency to ensure that you and your surrogate are physically and mentally prepared for the process.
Days 4-7: Legal Procedures and Contracts
You will be meeting up with your legal team to review and finalize the surrogacy agreements and contracts. The meeting is to ensure that all legal aspects, including parental rights and obligations, are addressed and properly documented.
Besides, you will also seek legal guidance to understand the steps required to establish your parental rights in Georgia. During the meeting, you can ask random questions and concerns regarding surrogacy laws in Georgia with legal professionals.
Days 8-14: Surrogate matching and Selection
You will now be working closely with your surrogacy agency in Georgia or clinic to select a surrogate who matches your preferences and requirements. Moreover, this would include reviewing random surrogate profiles, including their medical history and background information.
Besides, the agency may schedule your meeting with the potential surrogate mother (if desired) to establish a connection and make a final selection.
Once done, the surrogacy agency in Georgia would match the surrogate as per your requirements and initiate further procedures regarding treatment and diagnosis. Also, the surrogate would sign a contract with the intended parents that would involve key elements like her expenses, accommodation, medical care and surrogacy cost in Georgia.
Days 15-30: Tests and Fertility Treatments
The surrogate mother would then undergo the required tests and diagnosis. If necessary, she would also undergo fertility treatments, such as egg retrieval and embryo transfer, in preparation for the surrogacy process.
This is where the intended parents must coordinate with their surrogate’s medical team to ensure proper synchronization and timing of the procedures. This is highly required given the fact that intended parents want their future child to be free from any health issues or illness.
Days 31-60: Pregnancy Monitoring and Support
The intended parents would regularly attend medical appointments to monitor the progress of the pregnancy and the well-being of the surrogate. This is where you need to stay in touch with your surrogate and maintain open communication throughout the pregnancy.
Moreover, you can seek emotional support and counselling as needed during this stage while getting in touch with the counsellors of the surrogacy agency in Georgia.
Days 61-270+: Anticipating the Birth and Legal Procedures
The intended parents would now prepare for the birth of their child while planning their presence during this time. Moreover, you must coordinate with your surrogacy agency, clinic, and legal team to ensure all necessary paperwork and legal processes are in place for the birth.
Besides, you must also be present for the birth of your child and establish legal parentage as per Georgian laws. Also, please note that the timeline provided is a general guide and can vary significantly based on your individual circumstances, medical requirements, legal processes, and any unforeseen events. Hence, it is crucial to work closely with your surrogacy agency, medical professionals, and legal team to create a personalized itinerary that suits your specific situation and requirements.
As you kick start your surrogacy journey in the country of Georgia, you need to figure out a few things in advance. Being a stranger to the country, you may need due support and assistance all along your surrogacy journey.
Hence, it is highly recommended to connect with a trusted surrogacy agency in the country. That said, there are a few ways to ensure working with the best surrogacy clinic in Georgia:
Check out their background and experiences
Every surrogacy clinic comes along with some experience in the ART industry. Hence, you must check and verify the same while short-listing the best in the business. This way, you can ensure the best and most desirable results in your particular case.
Services and facilities
A trustworthy organization should offer complete support to intended parents and surrogates. Besides, it should provide the required counselling and assistance to the parties when and wherever required. So, being an intended parent, you must check and analyze their provided facilities and services before making a step forward.
Verify References and Testimonials
Ask the agency for references or client endorsements. Also, make contact with former agency workers to find out more about their experiences. Besides, getting advice from those who have gone through the process before can help you make decisions and provide you with useful information.
The decision to pursue surrogacy or become a surrogate is a significant one. So, it’s important to work with a reputable organization that prioritizes everyone’s well-being. Besides, the surrogacy experience will be easier and more satisfying if precautions are taken, professional advice is sought and open communication is practised by everyone involved.
Thailand is a country that used to be the preferred surrogacy hub for most international parents from Asia. Even though surrogacy is banned for international citizens as of now, you may come across many surrogacy agencies that offer personalized surrogacy plans and programs, even for same-sex surrogacy in Thailand.
That said, we won’t advise you to go ahead with these plans or programs until you are dealing with a reputed surrogacy agency in Thailand.
As mentioned earlier, Thailand used to be the most preferred surrogacy destination for numerous international parents. While cheap surrogacy options came as one big reason, it gained further popularity due to the following aspects:
Absence of Surrogacy laws: There was a time when Thailand didn’t have many regulations regarding surrogacy or even same-sex surrogacy in Thailand. Moreover, given the absence of these regulations, commercial surrogacy agreements were relatively simple to set up. On the other hand, parents from other countries saw this as an opportunity to realize their parenthood goals at a much more affordable rate.
Easy availability of Surrogates: There were many potential surrogate mothers in Thailand who were willing to carry a child for international parents. Moreover, this is due to various reasons like financial situation, cultural expectations, and a desire to aid others.
On the other hand, intended parents who were unable to find surrogates in their country of origin were drawn to the availability of willing surrogates in Thailand.
Also, given the easy availability of surrogates for same-sex surrogacy in Thailand, the country became a top choice for most same-sex intended parents.
Lower surrogacy cost: Compared to other developed countries like the UK, USA or Canada, surrogacy cost in Thailand was way lower. So, intended parents who couldn’t afford the high costs associated with surrogacy in their home countries found Thailand to be an appealing option. Moreover, this was due to the lower cost of medical procedures, fertility treatments, and surrogate compensation.
Again, we know that surrogacy for same-sex in Thailand demands higher costs than usual. Still, the low-cost surrogacy options offered by the surrogacy agency came as a big respite for many in the same regard.
Standardized medical infrastructure: Thailand had a well-developed medical infrastructure, as well as skilled medical personnel and fertility clinics with years of experience in assisted reproductive technologies. Moreover, the availability of a top-notch medical infrastructure gave the intended parents peace of mind regarding the security and standard of care during the surrogacy procedure.
That said, it’s crucial to stress again how much the surrogacy landscape in Thailand has changed. Besides, the Thai government has put in place stricter laws, including a ban on foreigners using commercial surrogates currently. Also, these modifications were brought about by concerns and doubts about surrogate exploitation, moral dilemmas, and the requirement to safeguard the rights and welfare of all parties. Therefore, if you are thinking about surrogacy in Thailand or any other country, it is essential to take into account the current legal system and speak with legal professionals.
Although there have been discussions and proposals to regulate surrogacy in Thailand, no concrete steps have been taken to make it legal for foreigners. Besides, the surrogacy landscape can change quickly, so there may have been changes since then. That said, the following suggestion may come fruitful in legalizing surrogacy in Thailand in the future.
Drafting well-defined Surrogacy Laws
In order to make surrogacy legal, a nation usually creates extensive legislation that spells out the legal obligations, rights, and safeguards of all parties involved, including intended parents, surrogates, and the children born through surrogacy. Furthermore, these laws may cover topics like eligibility requirements, medical and psychological evaluations, contract terms, payment, and the determination of legal parentage.
Just like that, even Thailand requires proposing similar laws to regulate surrogacy within its legal territories. Besides, it can bring special provisions for aspects like Gay surrogacy in Thailand.
Establishing Regulatory Bodies
Thailand should establish regulatory organizations or departments with the mandate to supervise surrogacy agreements, guarantee legal observance, and safeguard the interests of all parties concerned. That said, these organizations may establish regulations, keep an eye on surrogacy clinics or agencies, and deal with any potential legal problems or disputes.
Protecting the Rights of Children and Surrogates
The rights and welfare of surrogate mothers and children should come first in the legal framework for surrogacy. That said, it might include guidelines for surrogate screenings for physical and mental health issues, informed consent practices, access to quality healthcare, support services, and legal safeguards against exploitation or abuse. On the other hand, procedures for establishing legal parentage and securing citizenship or nationality for children born through surrogacy may also be established by law.
International Coordination and Cooperation
Thailand may set up systems for global coordination and cooperation in surrogacy agreements. Additionally, this can entail information exchange, working together on legal frameworks, and making sure that cross-border surrogacy cases abide by established laws and safeguards.
Intended parents must understand that the current regime may not support their parenthood goals to the core. So, they must wait for some future amendments in the existing laws and regulations before taking any key decision in the same regard.
Considering the existing laws and ethical issues, there are some reasons why surrogacy in Thailand may not be advised for foreign parents.
Legal Uncertainty: Thailand used to be a popular destination for foreign couples looking for surrogacy arrangements because of its relatively lax attitude toward commercial surrogacy. Still, there were problems with the law and complications and no clarity was provided even by the government. Moreover, a law prohibiting commercial surrogacy for foreigners was passed in Thailand in 2015, which caused uncertainty and confusion for those involved.
So, as of now, you may not be able to pursue surrogacy being an international parent in the country. Besides, the rule asks one of the intended parents to be a Thai citizen.
Complicated regulations: Thailand has made significant changes to its surrogacy policy over the past few years. That said, the nation has been focusing on protecting the rights and welfare of surrogate mothers and children while enforcing stricter regulations. Besides, international parents may find it challenging to navigate the process due to Thailand’s changing legal climate, which may deter them from using surrogates there.
Ethical issues: Surrogacy-related cases in Thailand have often led to exploitation and violations of human rights. Moreover, due to unclear legal frameworks, some reports highlighted instances in which surrogates were mistreated, contracts were broken, or children were left stateless. That said; these concerns have prompted ethical issues and prompted a more circumspect attitude toward surrogacy in Thailand.
The surrogacy cost in Thailand is still lower than many countries around the world. Still, given the uncertainty around the regulations, we would advise you to consult with a reputed surrogacy agency in the country.
Opting for surrogacy as a single mother at the age of 40 can evoke a range of emotions and experiences. While each individual’s journey is unique, there are common aspects that single women may encounter during the process.
On the other hand, surrogacy for singles in the USA is duly supported by the legal framework in the country. Still, one must know that surrogacy laws in the USA vary on state to state basis. So, regardless of whether you are searching for the best surrogacy for singles or surrogacy or gay couples in the country, you have to stay cautious and clear with your choices. That said, we explore some potential feelings and experiences that can arise during single-parent surrogacy for a female aged 40 years.
Choosing surrogacy for singles as a single mother at 40 may come after a long and challenging journey to conceive. That said, the decision to pursue surrogacy often brings a renewed sense of hope and excitement. So, being a single mother, you could sense that much-awaited joy in your own arms for the rest of your life. Moreover, it represents an opportunity to fulfil the desire for motherhood and experience the joys of raising a child.
Opting for surrogacy for singles can be a profoundly empowering choice for a single mother aged 40 years. Besides, it allows women to take control of their reproductive journey, regardless of their relationship status or age. Also, it reflects a commitment to building a family on their own terms and embracing the challenges and rewards that come with it.
The surrogacy process can be emotionally intense, regardless of one’s marital status or age. Moreover, for single mothers at 40, there may be added layers of emotions related to their age and the unique circumstances of their journey. That said, it is common to experience a mix of excitement, anxiety, and anticipation throughout the process.
Regardless of whether you are pursuing single-parent surrogacy in USA or surrogacy for singles in Argentina, it may come as a significant financial commitment. Moreover, single mothers may need to carefully consider the financial aspects involved.
That said, funding the surrogacy journey, including medical procedures, legal expenses, and compensating the surrogate, can be a challenge. Also, single mothers may need to plan and budget accordingly to ensure they can provide the necessary support for themselves and their children.
Building a strong support system is crucial for single mothers undergoing surrogacy in the USA or any other country. Additionally, emotional support from family, friends, and professionals can help navigate the various stages of the process. That said, joining support groups or seeking counselling services specifically tailored to single mothers by choice can provide invaluable guidance and camaraderie.
Single women who choose surrogacy at an older age may face societal judgments and misconceptions. Besides, some may question the ability of a single mother to provide a stable and nurturing environment for a child. Hence, it is important to develop resilience and surround oneself with a supportive network that understands and respects the decision made.
On the other hand, she need not pay much heed to all such misconceptions and social judgments at the same time. They must know that surrogacy is a godsend to them and they have been blessed with the most awaited happiness of their life.
The journey of surrogacy offers an opportunity for single mothers to develop a unique bond with their children. During the pregnancy, participating in ultrasound appointments, attending medical check-ups, and maintaining open communication with the surrogate can help foster a connection with the baby. Moreover, after birth, single mothers have the opportunity to develop a strong and loving relationship with their children, regardless of the method of conception.
Ultimately, choosing surrogacy as a single mother at the age of 40 can be a transformative and rewarding experience. While it may come with its own set of challenges and emotions, it also presents an opportunity for personal growth, resilience, and the fulfilment of the desire to become a parent. Building a strong support system and embracing the journey with an open heart can contribute to a positive and fulfilling experience as a single mother through surrogacy.
Being a female opting for a sperm donor during single-parent surrogacy is a crucial decision to make. Hence, you must consider the following factors before making a key decision in the same regard.
Personal expectations: Being an intended mother, you may come with certain expectations from the sperm donor in regard to his character, background, health and so on. So, it’s really important to make a list beforehand as you kick-start your search for the best-suited sperm donor.
Health and Medical History: It is really important to analyse the physical and mental health of the sperm donor. This is because the health of the donor is going to eventually impact the health of your future child.
Genetic Compatibility: You may also look for likewise genetic traits in the sperm donor. While doing that, make sure you have scrutinized his medical records and background. In order to find the right fit, always consult with the best medical expert in your area.
Reviewing Donor’s Profile: You must further review the donor profile made available by the sperm bank or agency. This may include details regarding his height, weight, key characteristics, medical background and related details. Take time to consider how important these factors are to you and whether they align with your preferences and aspirations for your child.
Anonymity vs. Identity Disclosure: Decide whether you prefer an anonymous donor or one who is open to a potential contact in the future. Moreover, some sperm banks offer the option for donors to agree to identity disclosure once the child reaches a certain age. Hence, consider the potential emotional and legal implications of anonymity or disclosure and determine which option is best suited to your family’s needs and desires.
Donor’s Motivations: Explore the donor’s motivations for becoming a sperm donor. Some donors may have personal reasons or a desire to help others, while others may be primarily motivated by financial compensation. Hence, understanding the donor’s motivations can provide insight into their commitment to the process and their level of responsibility during surrogacy for singles.
Professional Assistance and Guidance: Seek guidance from professionals in the field of assisted reproductive technologies. Moreover, consult with fertility specialists, reproductive endocrinologists, or counsellors who can provide expert advice based on your specific circumstances and help you navigate the process of choosing a sperm donor.
No matter whether you are looking for a surrogacy agency for singles or a sperm donor bank, do remember that it is a highly personal decision. Hence, take the time to reflect, ask questions, and seek professional advice to ensure that your choice aligns with your values, preferences, and aspirations for your future child.
Surrogacy has become the most sought-after option for all childless couples across the globe. Even while being cost-effective, its benefits have attracted millions of couples in cherishing the most awaited happiness of their lives.
Still, there is a big variation in regard to countries that permits or prohibits surrogacy within their legal territories. About surrogacy options in France, a country known for its strict regulations on reproductive technologies, has implemented a complete ban on surrogacy. That said, the following parts of this blog examine the current state of surrogacy in France, delving into the legal framework, ethical considerations, and social implications associated with this controversial topic.
Surrogacy in France currently stands as illegal as per the rule of law in the country. Talking about the surrogacy laws in France, according to Article 16-7 of the civil code, any surrogacy agreement in relation to surrogacy in the country stands as null and void.
This further means that any surrogacy contract, no matter if it is commercial or altruistic, stands as unenforceable within the legal territories of the country. On the other hand, the legislation related to surrogacy in the country takes surrogacy as a strict violation of public order, emphasizing the importance of protecting the integrity of the family and the child’s best interests. That said, surrogacy-related acts, such as advertising or brokering services, are also criminalized.
The surrogacy process in France got banned due to certain ethical and social reasons in France. That said, the following aspects were further considered by the government before prohibiting surrogacy-related practices in the country.
The exploitation of surrogate mothers: France aims to prevent the potential exploitation of women involved in surrogacy arrangements. That said, concerns are raised about the possibility of vulnerable women being coerced or manipulated into becoming surrogates due to financial desperation or other factors. Besides, the ban seeks to protect women from being commodified, reducing the risk of their bodies and reproductive capacities being treated as commodities.
Child’s Best Interests: French law prioritizes the well-being of the child and emphasizes the importance of stable family structures. This is where surrogacy arrangements involving multiple parties, especially when they are of different nationalities, can create complex legal and emotional situations for the child. Hence, the ban on surrogacy is intended to avoid potential conflicts and challenges that might arise from these intricate family dynamics.
Non-Commercialization of Reproduction: The ban on surrogacy reflects France’s stance against the commercialization of reproduction. Moreover, it aims to prevent the practice of treating childbirth as a market transaction where money is exchanged for the services of a surrogate mother. That said, this approach aligns with the belief that human reproduction should not be driven by financial motives, but rather by the natural and emotional bonds within a family.
Ethical concerns: it was believed that surrogacy in France would lead to several ethical issues related to assisted reproduction techniques. As surrogacy involved various procedures, experts feared that there is no clarity on the protection of the rights of surrogate mothers and donors. It was been further stated that various surrogacy agencies are illegally carrying out this practice with the help of international surrogate mothers and donors.
Given all such allegations, the government were forced to bring on certain regulations and guidelines to ban any related practice in the country.
The prohibition of surrogacy in France has both intended and unintended social consequences. Moreover, few supporters of the ban argue that it preserves traditional notions of family and protects children’s rights by avoiding potential conflicts arising from complex family structures. Additionally, the ban ensures that the focus remains on adoption and other forms of family building that do not involve third-party reproduction.
However, the ban has resulted in French citizens seeking surrogacy services abroad, particularly in countries where it is legally permitted. This phenomenon, often referred to as “reproductive tourism,” raises questions about equitable access to reproductive technologies and the potential exploitation of women in countries with less stringent regulations. On the other hand, it also highlights the need for a comprehensive discussion on surrogacy within the French context to address the complex ethical, legal, and social aspects of the practice.
Advocates for reform argue that the absolute ban on surrogacy in France may need to be revisited to accommodate the changing societal landscape. Besides, proposals have been put forth for the introduction of regulated and ethical surrogacy agency in France, such as the establishment of a system similar to altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate is not financially compensated beyond reimbursement of expenses. This approach aims to address ethical concerns while allowing individuals the option to pursue surrogacy within a regulated framework.
Additionally, proponents suggest the development of comprehensive legislation that protects the rights and interests of all parties involved. Such legislation could include safeguards against exploitation, strict eligibility criteria for intended parents, and the establishment of legal contracts that clearly outline the rights and responsibilities of all parties. That said, this approach would aim to strike a balance between protecting women, respecting reproductive autonomy, and safeguarding the well-being of the child.
On the other hand, intended parents can look forward to countries like Georgia, Ukraine and Cyprus in order to pursue their parenthood aspirations. Besides offering affordable surrogacy options, these countries further ensure full protection of the intended parent’s rights.
Surrogacy in France remains a contentious issue, with a complete ban in place due to legal, ethical, and social concerns. While proponents of the ban argue that it protects against the commodification of children and the potential exploitation of women, critics argue for a more nuanced approach that allows for regulated and ethical surrogacy.
That said, as societal attitudes continue to evolve and reproductive technologies advance, it is essential to engage in a comprehensive and open dialogue to address the complexities surrounding surrogacy and its potential place within French society.
Surrogacy laws in Asia vary from country to country. While a country allows surrogacy for only local citizens, china, on the other hand, completely bars the practice within its legal territories. That said, we will take you through the legal aspects of surrogacy in various Asian countries in the following sections of the blog.
The existing laws regarding surrogacy in India only permit local citizens to practice surrogacy in the country. Besides, it puts a ban on the practice by international couples or individuals. On July 15, 2019, Dr Harsh Vardhan, Minister of Health and Family Welfare, introduced the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2019 in the Lok Sabha. The Bill defines surrogacy as a practice in which a woman bears a child for another person with the intention of later giving the child to the intended parents.
Surrogacy in China is currently prohibited under the ruling issued by the existing government. Moreover, any type of surrogacy-related practice is banned under the law. So, anyone violating the same would be subject to harsh legal punishments.
While surrogacy in China is banned, people are forced to choose other destinations while analyzing the existing surrogacy laws in Asia.
The development of surrogacy technology has given hope to families affected by reproductive disorders. The country’s current surrogacy laws show how vehemently opposed China has always been to surrogacy, but it is still widely practised. Besides, the departmental surrogacy policy has a legal loophole because it’s not clear what will happen if anyone breaks the rules. On the other hand, a developed hierarchy for supervision and implementation is still lacking in China.
Moreover, the administrative special rectification component of the surrogacy monitoring system is all that is in place; there is no deterrent or prevention system. This is where most of the experts examine illegal surrogacy in China, review the nation’s current surrogacy regulatory framework from the perspectives of legislation and supervision, and make some suggestions for amendments in order to address the legal issues raised by surrogacy.
Surrogacy is legal in Thailand, but only for heterosexual couples who are regarded as legally wed in that country. However, undergoing international surrogacy in Thailand requires a minimum of three years of marriage in cases of international marriage.
Moreover, if you are an international citizen and planning to pursue surrogacy in Thailand, you have to legally wed a local citizen before getting along with your surrogacy plans. If that’s not a possibility, you may switch to other destinations where surrogacy is permitted in Asia.
Congress approved the “Protection of Children Born Through Assisted Reproductive Technologies Act” (B.E. 2558) in November 2014, and it was published in the Royal Gazette in May 2015 before going into effect on July 30th, 2015 (Whittaker 2016). According to the new law:
In November 2016, the Cambodian ministry published a Prakas announcing the country’s new ban on embryo transfer surrogacy. Moreover, legal experts claim that the current ban falls short of the actual surrogacy laws. That said, surrogacy has been completely banned in Cambodia. Moreover, the declaration made by the Cambodian Ministry bans additional ART infertility treatments that involve surrogacy.
For instance, IVF procedures may continue, oocytes may be imported or exported from the nation, embryos may be produced, and they may be transferred to the intended mother. However, it is not permitted to transfer embryos to a surrogate mother.
In Laos, there is no surrogacy legislation as of now. As a result, surrogacy is still practised in this part of the world with the help and support of various surrogacy agencies. Moreover, due to the ban on commercial surrogacy in Thailand and Cambodia, Laos has emerged as the preferred location for intended parents to schedule surrogacy. On the other hand, gay couples typically choose surrogacy in Thailand or Laos when they are from nearby Asian nations.
That said, in Laos, the cost of surrogacy — including IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy services — ranges from $60,000 to $80,000.
Surrogacy laws in Asia certainly speak volumes about the strict regulations put through by the respective nation’s governments. So, if you are an intended parent pursuing surrogacy in any of these Asian countries, we would recommend you consult with a trusted surrogacy agency.
Surrogacy in Thailand for foreigners used to be the most preferred alternative among medical tourists a few years back. Moreover, due to its expertise in gender affirmation surgery and later cosmetic surgery, Thailand became the centre point for medical tourism as early as the 1970s.
Also, Thailand became a leading Asian country in the global medical tourism industry, Malaysia, and Singapore, after the privatization of its healthcare system in the late 1990s. This was made possible by “a Thai way” of excellent service and medical knowledge.
Furthermore, Thailand has a reputation for having cutting-edge knowledge in reproductive technology thanks to the 1987 birth of “Mung Ming,” the nation’s first dek lord kaew (Test tube child) baby, who was conceived via IVF at Chulalongkorn Hospital. As it was connected to thansamai (modernity), nationalistic pride in Thai science and medicine, as well as Buddhist beliefs and the elevating of procreation and the birth of new life, assisted reproduction was quickly accepted by Thai society.
The first gestational surrogacy arrangement utilizing IVF happened at the same prestigious hospital in Bangkok in 1991, just four years after “Mung Ming” was born. Up until that point, surrogacy in Thailand for foreigners had only been an altruistic, familial activity shared by sisters and other close relatives. However, thanks to new technology that allowed for the separation of genetics and gestation, surrogacy may now also be commercialized in Thailand.
As Thailand became a top destination for reproductive tourism in the early 2000s, with an increase in clinics offering ART treatment to both Thais and foreigners, what had initially been a quiet business with little publicity grew. Besides, Thailand’s advanced medical and hospital services, expertise in ART, and reasonably priced prices when compared to the United States and Europe are all contributing factors to the country’s rising popularity as a location for reproductive services. Moreover, the nation’s tourism industry is also well established, making it a “safe” and alluring location for medical travel.
Surrogacy agreements were not clearly regulated by Thai law prior to 2015, and commercial surrogacy was neither permitted nor prohibited. However, the police’s arrest of the Taiwanese brokering firm “Baby 101” in Bangkok in February 2010 brought to light the need for ART legislation.
In order to deliver babies to foreign clients for payment, they had locked up 15 Vietnamese women who had been trafficked. Eventually, the Thai Cabinet approved the draft ART Bill number 167/2553, which forbade commercial surrogacy, in May 2010, but the National Assembly did not ratify it because of the political unrest of the time.
On the other side, due to the legal ambiguity surrounding commercial surrogacy, third-party reproduction could continue to be commercialized. Besides, the number of foreigners travelling to Thailand for IVF and surrogacy services increased significantly between 2010 and 2014, leading to the establishment of a number of new private clinics and surrogacy agencies in Bangkok. Up until 2015, hundreds of surrogate births were reportedly performed annually in Thailand, according to officials. Also, many male gay couples and single men seeking reproductive services turned to Thailand, which was promoted by a number of surrogacy agencies as offering “gay-friendly” services, after new surrogacy regulations were implemented in January 2013 and restricted access to married heterosexual couples only.
However, in August 2014, there were two additional significant surrogacy scandals that brought international attention to Thailand’s surrogacy industry and resulted in the termination of transnational surrogacy contracts. The “Baby Gammy” case came first. According to reports, David and Wendy Farnell, who are from Australia, abandoned a baby boy with Down syndrome in Thailand.
In the Thai media, Gammy’s Thai surrogate mother, 21-year-old Pattharamon Chanbua, explained that she needed financial assistance to pay for Gammy’s medical expenses. So, in order to pay off family debts, Chanbua, a mother of two, agreed to act as a surrogate mother. Besides, she had been promised about 350,000 (roughly €8,400 at the time).
Moreover, she was soon found to be expecting twins, and several months into the pregnancy it was learned that one of the children had Down syndrome. Chanbua claims that the intended parents pressured her into having an abortion, but the Farnells and the agency both denied this, and Chanbua refused because of her Buddhist beliefs. Following the birth of the twins, the intended parents returned to Australia with Gammy’s sister, who did not have Down syndrome, leaving Gammy in the care of Chanbua and her family.
Further research revealed that David Farnell had previously been found guilty of 22 instances of sexual assault against girls under the age of 13 in the 1980s and had received a total prison term of four and a half years.
This raised concerns about Gammy’s sister’s safety and sparked a contentious debate about surrogacy not only in Thailand and Australia but also globally. The media condemned the couple and demanded that commercial surrogacy be outlawed. Despite what the surrogate mother and the media claimed, the Farnells did not intentionally abandon Gammy, according to the Australian court’s investigation.
A few weeks later, the “baby factory” case—the second prominent surrogacy scandal—made headlines. As news of Baby Gammy’s case spread, Thai police got a tip that led to a raid on an upscale Bangkok apartment.
There, they discovered nine surrogate children (ranging in age from two weeks to two years), seven nannies, and a pregnant surrogate mother.
Moreover, the apartment was associated with Mitsutoki Shigeta, 24, the son of a Japanese billionaire, who was initially under investigation for child trafficking and child exploitation but was never charged with any crime. Besides, four sets of twins were among the 13 children that Shigeta had paid for to be carried by a surrogate in Thailand.
Also, he had previously been given custody of four surrogate children and had fathered 17 children in Thailand through surrogacy.
It was not illegal at the time to have many children through surrogacy, but it did show how “the industry lacked accountability or any means of monitoring how many surrogates were being used by any one individual.
These cases took place as Thailand was experiencing political unrest. The NPOC launched a campaign against commercial surrogacy in response to the Baby Gammy and Shigeta cases and the international criticism of Thailand’s unregulated surrogacy market, closing 12 clinics, publicly apprehending doctors involved in surrogacy, and forbidding foreigners from leaving the country with children born through surrogacy in Thailand. After that, the NPOC amended and resurrected the 2010 draft ART Bill, which went into effect in July 2015. That said, the 2015 bill restricts eligibility for surrogacy to non-commercial arrangements, forbids intermediaries or brokers for surrogacy arrangements, and limits surrogacy to only the local Thai citizens subject to fulfilment of certain criteria.
Gestational surrogacy is a process in which a woman carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple. This type of surrogacy is achieved through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), in which the intended parents’ eggs and sperm are fertilised in a laboratory to create an embryo, which is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus for pregnancy.
Gestational surrogacy gives people or couples who can’t have children on their own a chance to start a family. But it’s important to know that surrogacy is a complicated and emotional process with many legal, medical, and emotional factors to think about. This guide gives an in-depth look at gestational surrogacy. It talks about the different kinds of surrogacy, who can be a surrogate, the surrogacy process, legal issues, and the emotional side of surrogacy.
Definition of Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) in which a woman carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple.
Overview of the process of Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy involves a number of steps, such as finding a surrogacy agency or lawyer, matching with a surrogate, making legal agreements, going through medical procedures like fertility treatments and implantation, giving birth, and taking care of the baby after birth. Throughout the process, there are also several legal and emotional considerations that must be taken into account. The blog will provide a comprehensive overview of each of these steps and considerations.
Traditional Surrogacy
Traditional surrogacy is a type of surrogacy in which the surrogate is also the biological mother of the child. This is done through artificial insemination, which can be done with the father’s sperm or the sperm of a donor.
Gestational Surrogacy
In gestational surrogacy, on the other hand, the surrogate carries an embryo made from the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or a donor. The surrogate is not the biological mother of the child.
Comparison of the two types
The main difference between traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy is the biological relationship between the surrogate and the child. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is the biological mother, while in gestational surrogacy, she is not. Also, gestational surrogacy usually involves more complicated medical procedures and a higher level of emotional and legal concerns. It is important for intended parents to understand the differences between the two types of surrogacy and to consider which option is right for them.
Requirements for intended parents
Intended parents may be eligible for gestational surrogacy if they are unable to conceive a child on their own due to medical reasons or other factors. In some cases, same-sex couples or individuals may also use gestational surrogacy to build their families.
Requirements for surrogates
To be eligible to become a surrogate, a woman must generally be in good health, have a history of successful pregnancies, and meet certain age and lifestyle requirements. She must also undergo a comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation to ensure that she is physically and emotionally fit to carry a child.
Medical and psychological evaluations
Medical evaluations for intended parents and surrogates typically include assessments of their overall health, fertility, and any underlying medical conditions. Psychological evaluations are also important to assess the emotional readiness and stability of all parties involved. These evaluations are critical to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the surrogate and the resulting child.
Finding a surrogacy agency or attorney
The first step in the gestational surrogacy process is to find a surrogacy agency or attorney who can help guide you through the process and ensure that all legal requirements are met. A surrogacy agency can provide a range of services, including matching intended parents with a surrogate, providing medical and psychological support, and handling all legal and financial aspects of the surrogacy arrangement.
Matching with a surrogate
Once you have found a surrogacy agency or attorney, the next step is to match with a surrogate who is a good fit for you and your family. This means taking into account things like the surrogate’s medical history, lifestyle, and personality to make sure the relationship is good and helpful. The surrogate and intended parents may have the opportunity to meet and get to know each other before proceeding with the surrogacy arrangement.
Legal agreements and contracts
Before the medical procedures can begin, it is important to have a clear and legally binding agreement in place between the intended parents and the surrogate. This agreement should clearly define the responsibilities and expectations of all parties involved, including compensation for the surrogate, medical expenses, and any other arrangements.
Medical procedures (fertility treatments, implantation, prenatal care, etc.)
After the legal agreements have been made, the next step in gestational surrogacy is to go through the medical procedures. This may include fertility treatments to make an embryo, putting the embryo in the surrogate’s uterus, and prenatal care to make sure the surrogate and the developing child are healthy and safe.
Birth and post-birth process
The final step in the gestational surrogacy process is the birth of the child and the post-birth process. The surrogate will give birth to the child, and once the intended parents are legally recognized as the parents, they will take care of the child. After the baby is born, the next step may be to settle any remaining financial or legal issues and continue to help and care for the surrogate.
Surrogacy laws
The rules about surrogacy vary from country to country and state to state, so it’s important to know what the rules are in your area. In some countries, surrogacy is illegal or limited, but in others, it is legal as long as certain rules are followed.
Legal recognition of parentage
Setting up legal parenthood is one of the most important legal issues in gestational surrogacy. In most cases, this process involves getting a court order that names the intended parents as the legal parents of the child. This may be needed for things like getting the child a birth certificate and citizenship.
Pre-birth orders
In some places, you can get a pre-birth order that makes the intended parents the legal parents of the child before the child is born. This can make it easier to prove who the child’s parents are and help make sure the child has an easy time after birth.
Surrogacy agreements
The surrogacy agreement between the intended parents and the surrogate is another important legal thing to think about. This agreement should make it clear what everyone’s responsibilities and expectations are, including how much the surrogate will be paid, who will pay for her medical care, and any other arrangements. It is important to have a well-written surrogacy agreement to protect everyone’s interests and make sure that everyone knows what their rights and responsibilities are.
Legal representation
During the surrogacy process, it’s important to have a lawyer who knows how to handle the complicated legal issues that come up. An attorney who specialises in surrogacy law can provide valuable advice and guidance, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected every step of the way.
The role of the surrogate
During gestational surrogacy, the relationship between the surrogate, the intended parents, and the child is special and close. The surrogate is a very important part of bringing the child of the intended parents into the world, and what she does and decides can have a big effect on everyone.
Building trust and communication
For surrogacy to work, the intended parents and the surrogate need to be able to trust each other and talk to each other openly. This means talking about everyone’s hopes and fears openly and making sure that everyone is on the same page throughout the process.
Support and resources
The emotional aspects of surrogacy can be challenging, and it is important to have support and resources to help you through this journey. This may include support from friends, family, and a professional counsellor, as well as access to online forums and support groups where you can connect with others who have gone through the surrogacy process.
The bond with the child
For intended parents, the gestational surrogacy experience can be both j and emotional. They may feel a strong bond with the child from the moment of conception and may face challenges as they navigate their new roles as parents. It is important to have support and resources to help you through this transition and to develop a positive and healthy relationship with your child.
Understanding and addressing emotional challenges
While the gestational surrogacy experience can be incredibly rewarding, it can also be emotionally challenging. To make sure that everyone has a positive and fulfilling experience, it is important to understand and deal with any emotional problems that may come up, such as feelings of guilt or loss. With the right support and resources, intended parents and surrogates can work through these challenges and create a strong and loving family dynamic.
Gestational surrogacy is a complex and emotional process that involves many legal, medical, and emotional considerations. But with the right planning and help, intended parents and surrogates can work together to bring a child into the world and build a loving family.
At Become Parents, we are committed to giving our patients complete and kind care throughout their surrogacy journey. Our team of experienced professionals is made up of lawyers, surrogacy experts, and support staff. They all work together to make sure that everyone has a positive experience. If you are thinking about gestational surrogacy, please contact us to learn more about the services and resources we offer.
There are many myths and misconceptions dong around on the internet regarding surrogacy in Thailand. While most of those are mere rumors, the intended parents must always check and verify all the information that comes at their disposal beforehand.
In this blog, we will talk about all the legal, financial, and social aspects of surrogacy in Thailand that can come crucial to your surrogacy journey in the country.
Making your first move towards surrogacy in the USA does require some deep thinking. Especially, if you are an intended parent who has tried and tested every other method to achieve parenthood in the past without any success, you will surely be surrounded by a lot of doubts and questions.
That said, it is always advisable to get in touch with a renowned surrogacy agency in USA to get the best and most appropriate answers to all such questions. Moreover, you can go ahead with your own research and analysis in the same regard while referring to the below-mentioned points regarding surrogacy in the USA.
