How Surrogate Works: Step-by-Step Surrogacy Process Explained
Blog How Surrogate Works Surrogacy is a modern way to help people become parents when pregnancy is not possible or safe for them. It may sound complicated at first, but the entire process is well-organized, guided by doctors, and built on trust. Understanding how surrogate works helps families feel more confident and comfortable as they begin this special journey. If you prefer reading this topic in Hindi, you can explore our Hindi article here: सरोगेसी प्रक्रिया क्या है? Understanding What Surrogacy Means Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman—known as a surrogate mother—agrees to carry and deliver a baby on behalf of intended parents. These intended parents may be individuals or couples who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. Unlike traditional pregnancy, surrogacy typically uses medical assistance through IVF. In most cases, the surrogate does not use her own egg. Instead, doctors create an embryo using: The intended mother’s egg and intended father’s sperm, or Donor egg and/or donor sperm. This embryo is then transferred into the surrogate’s uterus. When the surrogate has no genetic connection to the child, this method is known as gestational surrogacy, which is the most commonly practiced form today because it is medically safer and legally clearer for all parties. Who Can Benefit From Surrogacy? Surrogacy helps a wide range of people who cannot carry a pregnancy on their own. It is often recommended for: Women unable to carry a pregnancy due to medical issues such as heart disease, uterine abnormalities, or severe hormonal disorders. Women without a uterus, either from birth or due to surgery. Women with repeated IVF failures, where embryo implantation does not occur naturally. Individuals with high-risk medical conditions, where pregnancy may endanger their life. Same-sex male couples, who require a surrogate to carry their biological child. Single men who wish to become parents through assisted reproductive technology. For these families, surrogacy becomes not just an option but a life-changing possibility Types of Surrogacy Used in Modern IVF Gestational Surrogacy In this method, the surrogate carries an embryo created through IVF. She does not contribute her own egg, meaning she has no biological connection to the baby. This method is medically and legally straightforward, making it the preferred form of surrogacy worldwide. Traditional Surrogacy Here, the surrogate uses her own egg, making her genetically related to the baby. Fertilization is often done through artificial insemination. Due to emotional, ethical, and legal complications, traditional surrogacy is rarely practiced and is restricted in many countries. How Surrogate Works From Start to Finish Medical Steps in the Surrogacy Process Screening and Tests: Both the surrogate and intended parents undergo medical evaluations to ensure suitability for the process. IVF to Create Embryos: Eggs and sperm are fertilized in a lab to create embryos. Preparing the Surrogate’s Uterus: Hormonal medications help thicken the uterine lining to support embryo implantation Embryo Transfer: A selected healthy embryo is gently placed into the surrogate’s uterus. Pregnancy Monitoring: Regular scans, checkups, and medical supervision continue throughout pregnancy. Delivery: The baby is delivered safely under medical care and handed to the intended parents. Emotional and Supportive Stages of the Journey Surrogacy involves emotional cooperation and understanding. Surrogates receive counseling to prepare mentally. Intended parents are guided throughout the process. Healthy communication builds trust and support between both parties. Legal Protection and Agreements in Surrogacy Surrogacy requires legal agreements outlining: Roles and responsibilities Medical decisions Parental rights Baby handover These documents ensure that the process is transparent, safe, and conflict-free. How IVF Creates Embryos for Surrogacy The IVF procedure includes several stages: Egg stimulation: Medicines help mature multiple eggs. Egg retrieval: Eggs are collected from the ovaries safely. Sperm collection: Performed from the intended father or a donor. Fertilization: Eggs and sperm are combined in the lab. Embryo growth: Embryos develop for 3–5 days. Embryo selection: The healthiest embryo is chosen for transfer. This advanced process ensures the best possible chances of pregnancy. Start Your Surrogacy Journey With Expert Guidance Book a consultation at Lifeline IVF Panvel to understand how surrogate works and explore safe, legal surrogacy options. Book An Appointment Preparing the Surrogate for Embryo Transfer The surrogate undergoes: Hormonal treatments Ultrasounds Blood test Uterine lining preparation A well-prepared uterus increases the chance that the embryo will implant successfully. Pregnancy Care and Monitoring in the Surrogacy Journey Throughout the pregnancy, the surrogate receives: Regular ultrasound scans Routine health checkups Nutrition and lifestyle guidance Emotional support Intended parents often stay in touch and participate in important appointments. Delivery Day: What Happens When the Baby Arrives On delivery day: Doctors ensure a safe childbirth The newborn is handed to the intended parents Legal formalities are completed The surrogate receives proper recovery care This emotional moment marks the completion of the surrogacy journey. Why the Surrogate Process Works for Many Families Surrogacy is successful because it: Allows genetic connection Eliminates pregnancy risks for intended mothers Provides high IVF success rates Supports same-sex couples and single parents Ensures medical experts guide each step Is Surrogacy Safe? Understanding Health and Risks Safety is maintained through: Strict medical screening Controlled IVF techniques Regular monitoring Professional pregnancy care These steps make surrogacy a reliable and safe reproductive choice. How Surrogate Works in India Under Legal Guidelines India regulates surrogacy strictly: Only altruistic surrogacy is allowed Surrogate must have her own child She cannot be paid commercially Legal agreements are compulsory Procedures must be done in registered clinics These rules ensure ethical and safe practices. Emotional Connections Built Through Surrogacy Surrogacy creates bonds of: Respect Trust Gratitude Shared purpose It is a journey that brings deep emotional meaning to both surrogate and intended parents. Cost Factors Involved in Surrogacy Treatment Surrogacy costs vary depending on: IVF procedures Medications Medical monitoring Pregnancy care Delivery charges Legal documentation Costs change based on individual medical needs. Common Myths About Surrogacy and the Truth Behind Them Myth: The surrogate is the baby’s mother. Truth: In gestational surrogacy, she is not biologically related. Myth: Surrogacy is unsafe. Truth: Proper
Surrogacy Types Explained: Safe & Legal Options for Infertile Couples
Blog Surrogacy Types Explained: A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Surrogacy Option Surrogacy has become a life-changing option for many couples who dream of becoming parents but face medical challenges. While most people understand the word “surrogacy” at a basic level, very few truly understand the different surrogacy types and how they are different from each other. Choosing the right surrogacy type is extremely important because it affects medical treatment, legal safety, emotional comfort, and long-term peace of mind. This blog explains surrogacy types in the simplest possible way, without confusing medical terms, so that anyone especially first-time readers can understand it clearly. What Exactly Does Surrogacy Mean? Surrogacy means an arrangement where a woman (called a surrogate mother) carries and delivers a baby for another individual or couple, known as intended parents. After birth, the baby is legally handed over to the intended parents. Surrogacy is usually chosen when: A woman cannot safely carry a pregnancy There are repeated IVF failures There is no uterus or serious medical condition Pregnancy could risk the mother’s life Understanding surrogacy types helps families make safe, legal, and emotionally balanced decisions. What Are the Major Surrogacy Types? There are several surrogacy types, but not all are allowed everywhere. These types are classified based on biological connection, payment structure, and arrangement method. The major surrogacy types include: Traditional surrogacy Gestational surrogacy Altruistic surrogacy Independent surrogacy Each type has different medical, legal, and emotional aspects. How Are Surrogacy Types Different From Each Other? Surrogacy types differ mainly in three areas: Whose egg is used Whether payment is involved How the surrogate is arranged Some surrogacy types involve the surrogate’s own egg, while others do not. Some types are strictly regulated by law, while others are no longer allowed in India. Understanding these differences avoids confusion and legal trouble later. What Is Traditional Surrogacy? Traditional surrogacy is one of the oldest surrogacy types. In this method, the surrogate uses her own egg, which is fertilised using the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm. This means: The surrogate is the biological mother IVF may or may not be used Emotional and legal risks are higher Because of these challenges, traditional surrogacy is not commonly recommended today, especially in India, where laws focus on safer alternatives. Looking for Expert Guidance to Choose the Right Surrogacy Type? Book An Appointment What Is Gestational Surrogacy? Gestational surrogacy is the most widely accepted and medically preferred surrogacy type today. In this method: The surrogate does not use her own egg The embryo is created using IVF The baby has no genetic relation to the surrogate This surrogacy type is safer, emotionally clearer, and legally simpler. That is why gestational surrogacy is the most recommended option for infertile couples. Why Gestational Surrogacy Is the Preferred Surrogacy Type Gestational surrogacy is chosen because it: Reduces emotional attachment issues Offers higher IVF success rates Is legally safer Allows better medical planning Most fertility specialists recommend gestational surrogacy for couples who want a structured and secure journey. What Is Altruistic Surrogacy? Altruistic surrogacy means the surrogate carries the baby without receiving payment for the act of surrogacy. However, all medical expenses, insurance, and pregnancy care costs are covered. In India: Only altruistic surrogacy is allowed Commercial payments are illegal The surrogate is often a relative This approach protects women from exploitation and keeps surrogacy ethical and respectful. What Is Independent Surrogacy? Independent surrogacy refers to arrangements made directly between intended parents and a surrogate, without a commercial agency in between. In medical settings: Clinics manage medical and legal processes Agreements follow government guidelines Safety protocols are strictly followed Independent surrogacy must still follow Indian surrogacy laws and medical standards. Who Uses Surrogates? Surrogacy is not a casual choice. It is used by people with genuine medical needs. Common groups who opt for surrogacy include: Women without a uterus Women with repeated pregnancy loss Women with severe heart or kidney disease Couples facing long-term infertility Women advised against pregnancy for health reasons Surrogacy offers these individuals a chance to become parents safely. Who Should Go for Gestational Surrogacy? Gestational surrogacy is best suited for: Women unable to carry pregnancy Couples with multiple IVF failures Women with uterine abnormalities Medical conditions where pregnancy is unsafe Because of its safety and clarity, it remains the gold standard among all surrogacy types. Which Surrogacy Type Is Best for Infertile Couples? For infertile couples, gestational surrogacy combined with altruistic surrogacy is usually the best option. This combination: Offers medical safety Follows Indian legal rules Protects emotional well-being Provides higher success rates Fertility experts generally recommend this approach after detailed evaluation. How Is a Surrogate Mother Arranged? Arranging a surrogate mother involves: Medical screening Psychological assessment Legal verification Informed consent The surrogate must be physically healthy, emotionally stable, and fully aware of her role. Clinics ensure ethical selection and proper care throughout pregnancy. Emotional Understanding of Surrogacy Types Surrogacy is not only medical it is emotional. Each surrogacy type affects feelings differently. Intended parents experience hope, anxiety, and joy Surrogates require emotional strength and support Proper counselling creates trust and comfort Understanding surrogacy types emotionally helps families prepare better. Legal Clarity About Surrogacy Types in India Indian surrogacy laws focus on: Altruistic surrogacy only Married heterosexual couples One-time surrogacy for women Full medical and legal transparency Fertility centres help families follow every regulation properly. Why Choose Lifeline IVF Hospital Panvel for Surrogacy Treatment? Lifeline IVF Panvel is known for ethical, transparent, and compassionate fertility care. The centre follows Indian surrogacy laws strictly while offering advanced medical technology and personalised treatment plans. Patients receive clear explanations in simple language so there is no confusion at any stage. From choosing the right surrogacy types to IVF treatment and pregnancy monitoring, every step is managed by experienced specialists. Emotional support, privacy, and medical safety are always prioritised, helping families feel confident throughout their journey. Conclusion Understanding surrogacy types is the first and most important step toward safe and successful parenthood through surrogacy.
Surrogacy Process in India: Step-by-Step Guide for Intended Parents
Blog Surrogacy Process: A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide for Intended Parents in India Starting a family is a dream for many couples, but for some, natural pregnancy is not medically possible. In such cases, the surrogacy process becomes a hopeful and meaningful path to parenthood. While the term “surrogacy” may sound complex or intimidating, the process itself follows clear medical, legal, and emotional steps designed to keep everyone safe and supported. What Is the Surrogacy Process? The surrogacy process is a medical and legal arrangement where another woman, called a surrogate mother, carries a baby for intended parents. The baby is born for the intended parents, who become the legal and biological parents after birth. In most modern cases, gestational surrogacy is used. In other words, the surrogate does not use her own egg. Instead, an embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents (or donors, if needed) through IVF and placed into the surrogate’s uterus. In simple terms, the surrogacy process includes: Medical evaluation IVF treatment Embryo transfer Pregnancy care Delivery of the baby Each step is carefully planned and monitored to ensure safety, health, and transparency. Who Can Opt for Surrogacy in India? Not everyone needs or qualifies for surrogacy. In India, the surrogacy process is meant for people who have genuine medical reasons for being unable to carry a pregnancy. Surrogacy may be an option for: Women without a uterus Women with repeated IVF failure Women with serious illnesses that increase the likelihood of pregnancy Couples facing recurrent miscarriages Certain infertility conditions where pregnancy is unsafe Indian law allows surrogacy only for medical necessity, not for convenience or personal preference. Who Is Legally Eligible for the Surrogacy Process in India? According to Indian regulations, only specific individuals are allowed to opt for surrogacy. Eligibility of Intended Parents Married heterosexual couples Indian citizens Couples with proof of infertility or medical conditions Eligibility of the Surrogate Mother She must be a married woman She needs to have at least one child of her own who is healthy She must be medically and psychologically fit She can act as a surrogate only once All legal approvals are completed before starting the surrogacy process to protect the surrogate, the baby, and the parents. What Are the Steps in the Surrogacy Process? The steps in the surrogacy process follow a clear and organised path. While timelines may vary, the structure usually remains similar. Medical Evaluation and Counselling Both intended parents and the surrogate undergo medical tests. These include blood tests, hormone evaluations, scans, and fitness checks. Psychological counselling is also provided to make sure everyone understands the emotional aspects of surrogacy. Legal Documentation Legal agreements are prepared and reviewed. These documents clearly state: Parental rights Responsibilities of the surrogate Medical and insurance arrangements This step ensures legal safety for all parties. IVF and Embryo Creation Eggs and sperm are collected and fertilised in the lab using IVF. The healthiest embryo is selected for transfer. Embryo Transfer to Surrogate The embryo is gently transferred into the surrogate’s uterus. This is a painless medical procedure. Pregnancy Care and Monitoring Once pregnancy is confirmed, the surrogate receives regular antenatal care, scans, and medical support. Delivery and Parenthood Looking for Safe, Legal, and Compassionate Surrogacy Guidance? Get expert support for the surrogacy process with ethical care and personalised treatment. Book An Appointment How Long Does the Entire Surrogacy Process Take? The complete surrogacy process timeline usually takes 12 to 18 months. Medical tests and legal approvals: 2–3 months IVF and embryo transfer: 1–2 months Pregnancy: around 9 months Delays can happen if extra IVF cycles are required or if legal documentation takes longer. However, fertility centres guide families throughout the journey to reduce stress and uncertainty. Average Cost of Surrogacy in India The average cost of surrogacy in India varies based on medical needs and treatment complexity. Costs may include: IVF procedures Surrogate medical care Pregnancy monitoring Legal documentation Hospital delivery Medications and tests Overall, surrogacy in India is more affordable compared to many other countries, while still maintaining high medical standards. Is Commercial Surrogacy Allowed in India? No. Commercial surrogacy is not allowed in India. Only altruistic surrogacy is legal. This means the surrogate is not paid money for carrying the baby. However, her medical expenses, insurance, and pregnancy-related care are fully covered. This rule protects women from exploitation and ensures surrogacy remains an ethical medical practice. Can We Choose the Surrogate? Under current Indian regulations, intended parents cannot freely choose a surrogate from a list or database. Most often: The surrogate is a close relative She meets legal and medical guidelines The clinic ensures suitability and safety The focus is on ethical practice and medical suitability rather than selection preferences. What Is the Surrogacy Success Rate? The surrogacy success rate depends mainly on IVF success. Factors that affect success include: Age and health of the egg provider Embryo quality Uterine health of the surrogate Medical expertise of the fertility centre On average, gestational surrogacy has a high success rate, often higher than standard IVF because the surrogate is carefully screened for a healthy uterus. Emotional and Psychological Aspects of the Surrogacy Process Surrogacy is not just a medical journey, it is also an emotional one. Intended parents may feel: Anxiety while waiting Fear of failure Deep hope and excitement Surrogates may experience emotional attachment and physical stress. Counselling and emotional support play a very important role throughout the process, helping everyone stay mentally healthy and confident. Why Choose Lifeline IVF Hospital Panvel for the Surrogacy Process? Lifeline IVF Panvel is known for providing ethical, transparent, and medically advanced care throughout the surrogacy process. IVF, prenatal care, and fertility testing are all carefully supervised by the facility’s qualified reproductive specialists. Each surrogacy plan is created based on medical needs, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Clear explanations are provided in simple language so intended parents always understand what is happening and why. The hospital follows Indian surrogacy laws strictly, ensuring legal safety,
Egg Donation for IVF – Process, Benefits & Success Rates
Blog Egg Donation for IVF: A Comprehensive Guide for Optimistic Parents Parenthood is a dream for many couples, but sometimes the journey becomes challenging due to medical or age-related reasons. In such cases, modern fertility treatments offer safe and effective solutions. Among these is egg donation for in vitro fertilisation (IVF), a procedure that has enabled thousands of families to have a healthy child. What Is Egg Donation for IVF and Who Needs It? Egg donation for IVF is a fertility treatment where a healthy woman (the egg donor) donates her eggs to help another woman conceive through IVF. In this process: The donor provides healthy eggs The eggs are fertilised with sperm in the lab The embryo is transferred to the recipient’s uterus The baby grows inside the recipient’s womb, meaning she carries and delivers the child, even though the egg comes from a donor. Egg donation for IVF is mainly used when a woman cannot produce healthy eggs of her own. When Does One Need an Egg Donor? Doctors may suggest egg donor IVF in several situations. Egg donation is often recommended when: A woman has very low egg quality Ovaries are not producing eggs The woman has entered early menopause Previous IVF cycles have failed due to poor eggs Genetic conditions need to be avoided Age-related fertility decline affects egg health The uterus can still support pregnancy, but the eggs are no longer healthy enough to result in a successful IVF. When Is Egg Donation Recommended in IVF Treatment? Egg donation for IVF is usually recommended after careful testing and evaluation. Doctors do not suggest it as a first option. It is commonly advised when: Multiple IVF cycles using own eggs have failed Hormone levels show poor ovarian reserve Egg quality declines with age Genetic risks may transfer to the child Process of IVF With Donor Eggs Explained Simply The IVF with donor eggs process follows clear and careful steps. Step 1: Selecting an Egg Donor A donor is chosen based on health, age, and medical history. Step 2: Preparing the Donor The donor receives hormone injections so multiple eggs can mature. Step 3: Egg Retrieval Eggs are collected safely from the donor. Step 4: Fertilisation The donor eggs are fertilised with sperm in the IVF lab. Step 5: Embryo Transfer Healthy embryos are transferred into the recipient’s uterus. Step 6: Pregnancy Test After two weeks, a pregnancy test confirms success. Start Your Egg Donation IVF Journey Today Book An Appointment Types of Egg Donors There are different types of egg donors used in IVF. Anonymous Egg Donor The donor’s identity is confidential, and the recipient does not know personal details. Known Egg Donor A family member or friend donates eggs voluntarily. Database-Selected Egg Donor Egg donors are selected through registered IVF centres under legal guidelines. In India, strict medical and legal rules ensure ethical egg donation. Where Can One Find Egg Donors? Egg donors are found only through registered fertility centres. At authorised IVF hospitals: Donors are medically screened Background checks are done Psychological counselling is provided This ensures safety for both donor and recipient while following legal standards. What Are the Problems One Might Face With Egg Donation? While egg donation for IVF is safe, some challenges may arise. Possible concerns include: Emotional adjustment to using a donor egg Waiting period for donor matching Fear or anxiety about treatment success These challenges are usually addressed through counselling, clear communication, and ongoing support. Emotional and Psychological Support During Egg Donation IVF Egg donation is not only a medical process—it is an emotional journey. Some couples feel: Fear about genetics Worry about bonding with the baby Stress about treatment success Good fertility centres provide counselling and emotional guidance so couples feel confident and reassured. Carrying the baby, experiencing pregnancy, and nurturing the child help create a strong emotional bond. What Are the Benefits of Using an Egg Donor for IVF Treatment? Egg donation for IVF offers many advantages. Some major benefits include: Higher IVF success rates Healthier embryos Reduced risk of genetic disorders Greater chance of pregnancy in older women Hope for couples who failed previous IVF cycles Because donor eggs come from young, healthy donors, outcomes are often very positive. What Is the Success Rate of Egg Donation for IVF? The success rate of egg donor IVF is generally higher than standard IVF. Many centres report success rates between 60% and 70%, depending on: Uterine health of the recipient Embryo quality Medical care and lab expertise Since donor eggs are healthy, implantation is more likely than with poor-quality eggs. What Is the General Cost of Egg Donor IVF? The cost of egg donation for IVF varies based on: Medical procedures involved IVF laboratory technology Donor screening Medications and monitoring In India, egg donor IVF costs are lower compared to many other countries, making treatment accessible while maintaining quality standards. Doctors always explain costs clearly before treatment begins. Is Egg Donation Legal in India? Yes, egg donation is legal in India, but it is strictly regulated. According to Indian laws: Egg donors must meet age and health criteria Commercial exploitation is prohibited Donor identity is kept confidential IVF centres must be registered These regulations protect donors, recipients, and children. Why Choose Lifeline IVF Hospital Panvel for Egg Donation for IVF? Choosing the right IVF centre is very important for egg donation treatment. At Lifeline IVF Hospital Panvel, patients receive evidence-based care, complete transparency, and emotional support throughout the journey. The facility features cutting-edge IVF labs, skilled fertility specialists, and moral treatment procedures. Every patient is guided step by step using simple explanations, so they always know what is happening. Strict donor screening protocols ensure safety and legal compliance, while personalised treatment plans help improve IVF success rates. Lifeline IVF Panvel also focuses on patient comfort, privacy, and long-term follow-up care. Conclusion Egg donation for IVF is a life-changing solution for couples who cannot conceive with their own eggs. With modern medical science, expert guidance, and emotional