The Physical And Emotional Risks Of Surrogacy
Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman carries a child for another individual or couple. It is a complex process that involves various medical procedures, emotional investment, and legal complexities. While surrogacy can be a blessing for couples who cannot conceive, it also comes with its share of physical and emotional risks that both the surrogate mother and intended parents must consider.
Surrogacy: Physical risks for surrogate mothers
The physical risks associated with surrogacy can vary depending on the type of surrogacy that is being used. The two main types of surrogacy are traditional surrogacy and gestational surrogacy.
Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate mother providing her own egg, which is fertilized by the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm. In contrast, gestational surrogacy involves the surrogate carrying an embryo created by the intended parents or through egg donation and sperm donation.
Regardless of the type of surrogacy, there are some physical risks that can arise. Some of the most common risks include:
Ovarian hyper stimulation syndrome (OHSS)
OHSS is a condition where the ovaries become swollen and painful due to the use of fertility drugs during the IVF process. This can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and in severe cases, kidney failure.
Multiple pregnancies
Multiple pregnancies are common in surrogacy, and they can increase the risk of complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays.
Miscarriage
Miscarriage is a risk for any pregnancy, including those achieved through surrogacy.
Birth complications
The surrogate may be at risk for complications during delivery, such as bleeding or infection. In some cases, a caesarean section may be necessary.
Surrogacy: Emotional risks for surrogate mothers
Surrogacy can be emotionally challenging for both the surrogate mother and intended parents. It involves a significant emotional investment, and there are some emotional risks that can arise.
Attachment issues
The surrogate mother may become attached to the child she is carrying, which can make it difficult for her to give up the child after birth.
Relationship strain
Surrogacy can put a strain on the surrogate’s relationship with her partner or family members, as well as her relationship with the intended parents.
Psychological stress
Surrogacy can be a stressful process, and the surrogate may experience anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues.
Surrogacy: Physical risks for intended parents
While the intended parents are not carrying the child, they are still at risk for some physical complications during the surrogacy process.
Fertility issues
The intended parents may have fertility issues that can impact the success of the surrogacy process.
Multiple pregnancies
As mentioned earlier, multiple pregnancies are common in surrogacy, and they can increase the risk of complications for both the surrogate mother and the child.
Birth defects
There is a small risk of birth defects in any pregnancy, including those achieved through surrogacy.
Surrogacy: Emotional risks for intended parents
Financial stress
Surrogacy can be a costly process, and the intended parents may experience financial stress as a result.
Uncertainty
Surrogacy is a complex process, and there are many uncertainties involved. The intended parents may feel anxious or uncertain about the outcome.
Attachment issues
The intended parents may struggle with attachment issues, particularly if they have had difficulty conceiving. They may worry about their ability to bond with the child or the surrogate mother’s attachment to the child.
Conclusion
Surrogacy can be a wonderful option for couples who cannot conceive, but it is not without its risks. Both the surrogate mother and intended parents must carefully consider the physical and emotional risks involved before embarking on the surrogacy journey.
