Misconception 1: Surrogacy is the same as adoption.
Adoption is a legal process that involves taking on the parental rights of a child who is not biologically related to the adoptive parents. Surrogacy, on the other hand, involves using the intended parents' own biological material, such as sperm and eggs, to create an embryo that is then carried by the surrogate mother.
Misconception 2: Surrogates are always financially motivated.
While financial compensation is an essential aspect of surrogacy, it is not the only reason why women choose to become surrogates. Most surrogates are motivated by the desire to help others fulfill their dreams of having a child. Surrogates often form strong bonds with the intended parents and feel a sense of fulfillment in knowing that they have helped create a family.
Misconception 3: Surrogacy is only for the wealthy.
Surrogacy can be expensive. However, there are options available for individuals and couples with different budgets. For example, some surrogacy agencies offer financing options or payment plans to help make surrogacy more accessible and the state that the surrogate lives in and her insurance coverage can also lower the costs dramatically.
Misconception 4: Surrogacy is illegal in most countries.
Surrogacy is legal in many countries, including the United States, Canada, Ukraine, and Russia, among others. However, the laws surrounding surrogacy can vary widely between countries and even states. It is important to research the laws in your area before embarking on a surrogacy journey.
Misconception 5: The surrogate will want to keep the baby.
One of the biggest fears of intended parents considering surrogacy is that the surrogate will want to keep the baby. However, this is extremely rare. Surrogates undergo rigorous screening to ensure that they are emotionally and mentally prepared to carry a child for someone else. Additionally, most surrogacy agreements include legal contracts that outline the intended parents' rights to the child.
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