Most people have heard about surrogacy, even before they have understood how it works. The topic comes up in conversations, in films, or even during a doctor’s visit.
What surrogacy is is the first question that comes up in an individual’s mind.
Many couples choose this option after trying different treatments. And for some, this is the only hopeful option if they want a baby.
Other questions arise when people start googling more about it:
- Wait, how does this even work?
- And is this legal here in India?
These are normal questions.
Couples often have second thoughts at the start of the process, but with the right treatment, they become calmer.
What is Surrogacy
Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman carries a pregnancy for someone else. This is the simple version of the meaning of surrogacy.
But when you speak to people exploring it, you realise they’re not just looking for a definition. They want surrogacy explained in a way that feels human and not medical.
Surrogacy works because two sides come together with different roles but the same intention. The intended parents bring the hope. The surrogate brings her ability to carry the baby. And the medical team connects everything in between.
Some couples choose this path because the mother cannot carry a safe pregnancy.
While others decide to go with surrogacy after facing loss or many failed treatments. It’s not an easy step. It is a thoughtful one that many families consider when evaluating how surrogacy is done in real-life scenarios.
Types of Surrogacy
People often feel confused about the different types of surrogacy, and it’s understandable because the terms sound technical. Once broken down, they make complete sense.
Altruistic Surrogacy
This is the only legal form of surrogacy in India. Many intended parents search for altruistic surrogacy meaning because it isn’t a term we use in day-to-day life. In what is altruistic surrogacy, the surrogate is not paid beyond medical and pregnancy-related expenses. She helps the couple out of empathy, family bond, or personal intention. And once people hear this, they understand the emotional depth behind this form.
Commercial Surrogacy
Commercial surrogacy actually involves compensation. It existed before, but now it is no longer legal in India. The medical process is the same in nations that still permit commercial models, but the legal structure is entirely different. India had stopped commercial surrogacy to protect women from exploitation and to maintain ethical standards.
The Process
Most couples want a clear picture of what happens in surrogacy before considering it. And that’s a good thing because understanding the surrogacy process removes fear and confusion.
Here is what is surrogacy process is in simple steps:
a. Medical Evaluation
Doctors assess the intended parents. They also ensure the surrogate is fit to carry a pregnancy. This step matters because every surrogacy journey needs a healthy foundation and clear screening.
b. Legal and Emotional Counseling
Both sides meet with counselors to understand responsibilities, expectations, and emotional aspects. Legal teams explain what is the procedure of surrogacy, what documents are require,d and how rights are protected throughout the journey.
c. IVF and Embryo Transfer
Eggs and sperm are fertilised in the lab. The embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. Some couples hope it works in one cycle. Sometimes it does. Sometimes it takes more than one attempt.
d. Pregnancy Monitoring
Throughout the pregnancy, the surrogate attends regular checkups, scans, and consultations. Families stay updated on the baby’s growth, and clinics offer emotional and nutritional support because carrying someone else’s child requires sensitivity.
e. Delivery
After birth, legal formalities confirm parentage and transfer rights smoothly. Hospitals ensure the process is respectful and emotionally supported for everyone.
Choosing a surrogate
Surrogates are healthy married women with at least one biological child. Clinics screen them in medical and emotional health, and couples choose them through a regulated, authorised selection system.
How Does Surrogacy Work
People often expect a complex answer, but how surrogacy works is simpler than it seems. Science, intention, and legal systems come together with a shared goal. Sometimes parents use their own eggs and sperm. Sometimes donors are involved. The embryo is created and placed inside the surrogate. From that point, pregnancy follows a normal biological path.
There are emotional layers, too. Parents feel both excitement and fear. The surrogate feels responsible. Doctors guide everyone through appointments and updates. Many say the journey becomes easier once they accept that this is a shared effort.
Legal Aspects of Surrogacy in India
This part makes many people nervous because laws can feel overwhelming. The most common query is whether surrogacy is legal in India. Yes, it is legal, but only when done under the altruistic model as defined in the Surrogacy Regulation Act, 2021.
Legal counseling is crucial. It protects the surrogate, offers clarity to parents, defines rights, and avoids misunderstandings later.
Benefits and Considerations
Benefits
- Couples can have a biological child even when pregnancy isn’t medically possible.
- The surrogacy process is doctor-supervised from start to finish.
- Parents stay involved throughout the journey and remain updated.
- Many couples find emotional relief because this becomes their final path after years of attempts.
Considerations
- Medical steps may take time and patience.
- Legal clarity is essential for a smooth journey.
- Emotional involvement is deep, and counseling helps.
- Both parents and the surrogate must be committed and aligned.
Choosing the Right Clinic
A trusted clinic plays a major role. Surrogacy is not something you choose casually. You need a place offering medical, legal, and emotional support under one system.
If you are starting your research, you may consider exploring a Surrogacy Clinic in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for professional and structured guidance.
Parents usually look for:
- Clear explanations of the surrogacy process
- Strong IVF success rates
- Ethical surrogate screening
- In-house legal support
- Consistent follow-up care
If you are just beginning your research, you can explore the Surrogacy Clinic in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, for professional guidance.
Most parents say they feel a sense of comfort when they finally find a team they can trust. It changes everything.
FAQs – What Is Surrogacy and How Does It Work
How long does the surrogacy process take
Usually between 12 to 18 months, depending on assessments, legal steps, and embryo transfer success.
Difference between altruistic and commercial surrogacy
Altruistic surrogacy allows only medically related reimbursements. Commercial surrogacy involves payment and is not allowed in India.
Can a surrogate change her mind
Counseling and clear legal agreements help prevent this situation. Clarity before starting reduces emotional confusion.
How safe is the procedure of surrogacy
When supervised by trained and certified teams, the process is safe for both the surrogate and the baby.
Conclusion
For some couples, surrogacy is the answer. It’s not easy, and it’s definitely not cheap—but sometimes it’s the only way forward. Look, before you jump into anything, just make sure you understand what you’re getting into. What is surrogacy, really? How does it work? What are your options? The last thing you want is to be confused or overwhelmed halfway through.
And honestly, having good people around you matters more than you’d think. This isn’t just a medical procedure—it’s emotional, it’s complicated, and you need support that actually feels real. If you’re in Ahmedabad and thinking about surrogacy, finding a clinic you can trust is step one. Just go have a conversation. See how it feels. Every family gets here differently. Your story matters, and you deserve people who’ll listen without rushing you.
