It is said that parenthood helps to complete a family. Today with the help of advanced medical sciences, it is easier for couples who struggle with infertility or other health issues to still have children.

These couples can turn to surrogacy or other alternative methods. They no longer have to feel helpless in their quest to become parents. But, the primary question is, how and where do you start your search for a surrogate mother?

How Surrogacy Work?

Surrogacy is the process where a woman agrees to carry a child for someone else. After the baby is born, the intended parents receive custody of the child.

Becoming a parent through surrogacy is an emotional and rewarding process. Couples from different backgrounds choose surrogacy to complete their families. Usually, it’s couples who have issues with infertility, but it can also be for other reasons, including:

● Parents with a genetic disorder that do not want to pass it on to their child.

● Intended mothers with health issues that could affect their newborn

● Who want to have children

Surrogacy includes several legal and medical steps. Intended parents are advised to seek medical and legal advice before making a final decision. Also, having a strong support network of friends and family makes the journey more rewarding.

How Can a Couple Search for a Surrogate Mother?

While some aspects of the surrogacy process can feel like an unlimited number of items to mark off a checklist, searching for a surrogate mother can be one of the most exciting pieces.

Couples should remember choosing that a surrogate is an entirely personal process. It’s important to balance your list of preferences and dislikes while remaining objective and remembering that your ultimate goal is to raise your child.

One of the most crucial things for intended parents is to have a trusting relationship with their surrogate. Without trust, it will be hard for anyone to carry through the process. Having an open and honest relationship with your surrogate is for the benefit of everyone involved.

The 4 Steps to Finding a Surrogate Mother

The basic idea of finding a surrogate is to find someone whose goals align together. It may sound complex and a bit tricky, but when you have the right kind of support behind you, it becomes manageable.

Step 1: Choose Where You’ll Start Your Search

Where you want to start your search is up to you. You can look for someone who lives in your city, or you can search for a surrogate in another part of the world. Many parents have been able to maintain long-distance relationships with their surrogates. The choice is yours.

Step 2: Select the Method for Your Search

The second step is the means you’ll use to find your surrogate. Some parents may choose to work with an agency while others may go at it alone. There benefits and disadvantages to each, but once again, it’s a personal choice.

Working without an Agency

Parents who choose this route may use their connections or find other ways to find a surrogate. Some may put up ads or find other means to find someone who wants to be a surrogate.

These parents can have a verbal agreement, but it is still advisable to have an attorney and have a legal contract. Working without an agency should only be reserved for those parents who have experience in this area. Choose this method only if you access to professionals and resources who can help.

Working with an Agency

Working with a surrogacy agency makes the process much easier by narrowing down the search to only those candidates who have signed up with that agency. The agency does all the work of finding and qualifying those who wish to become a surrogate.

Therefore, there is no need for intended parents to qualify these women on their own. Parents can look through the profiles of all the surrogate candidates and choose the one that’s right for them. Also, an agency is there to guide both parents and surrogates through the entire medical and legal process. Most parents choose to work with an agency because it’s more convenient.

Step 3: Create a Plan

After you’ve chosen your surrogate, the next step is to create a plan. you’re working with an agency, they will help you create a plan that details all the steps from start to finish. Your plan should include everything, from medical procedures to legal contracts. It should also include arrangements for finances and expenses.

Step 4: Start the Journey

The last step is the beginning of an amazing journey. Now it’s about making everything happen and ensuring that your surrogate carries out a successful pregnancy.

It also happens to be the most important time for all of you. Be supportive and respectful of your surrogate. While agencies usually compensate their surrogates thousands of dollars, don’t assume that they are only in this for the money. The truth is that altruism and a sense of duty to help others is the real reason behind their motivation.

Searching for a surrogate can seem like a monumental thing. But parents who are motivated to achieve their dreams of parenthood shouldn’t be dismayed by the challenge. Remember, big rewards don’t come easy. It’s a big decision, but it’s also one with big rewards.