Surrogacy has emerged as a viable and increasingly popular option for couples facing various challenges in conceiving or carrying a pregnancy. It offers hope and the opportunity to experience the joys of parenthood to individuals who might otherwise struggle to have a biological child. Surrogacy involves the assistance of a gestational carrier who carries the pregnancy on behalf of the intended parents, allowing them to have a child genetically related to one or both of them.

Statistics reveal the growing significance of surrogacy as a family-building option. According to a report by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), the number of babies born via gestational surrogacy in the United States has significantly increased over the years. In 2019, there were approximately 3,200 gestational carrier cycles, resulting in the birth of over 2,000 babies. This represents a substantial increase compared to previous years, highlighting the growing demand for surrogacy services.

Several factors contribute to the decision of couples to pursue surrogacy as a means to have a baby. Understanding these reasons provides valuable insights into the diverse circumstances and needs that lead individuals to choose this path. From infertility and medical conditions to same-sex couples and genetic considerations, there are various motivations driving couples towards surrogacy. By exploring these reasons, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact that surrogacy can have on individuals’ lives and the unique challenges it helps overcome.

In this article, together with experts from the surrogacy agency Pons Medical Group we will delve into seven key reasons why couples turn to surrogacy to have a baby. Each of these reasons sheds light on the different circumstances that can lead individuals to choose this remarkable path to parenthood. By exploring these motivations, we aim to highlight the importance and benefits of surrogacy in addressing a range of fertility challenges and enabling individuals to realize their dreams of becoming parents.

1. Infertility: One of the most common reasons couples turn to surrogacy is infertility. If one or both partners are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term, surrogacy offers them an alternative way to have a biological child.
2. Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or treatments may make it unsafe or impossible for a woman to carry a pregnancy. For example, women with uterine abnormalities, repeated pregnancy loss, or a history of serious medical conditions may choose surrogacy as a solution.
3. Same-Sex Couples: Same-sex couples, particularly male couples, often require the assistance of a surrogate to have a biological child. Surrogacy allows them to use their own genetic material and experience the joys of parenthood.
4. Genetic Disorders: If a couple has a high risk of passing on a genetic disorder to their child, they may opt for surrogacy. By using a surrogate, they can ensure that the child is not affected by the disorder and still have a biological connection to the child through their genetic material.
5. Age-related Issues: As women age, the chances of successful conception and pregnancy decrease. Couples who are older may choose surrogacy as a safer and more reliable option to have a baby without the risks associated with advanced maternal age. In fact. the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth is higher in people who are over 35.
6. Previous Pregnancy Complications: Couples who have experienced complications in previous pregnancies, such as preterm labor, preeclampsia, or placenta-related issues, may choose surrogacy to avoid the potential risks and ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery for their child.
7. Personal Choice: Some couples may simply prefer surrogacy as their preferred method of starting a family. They may have personal or cultural reasons for choosing this path and find that surrogacy aligns with their values, beliefs, or desires for their family-building journey.

It’s important to note that each couple’s decision to pursue surrogacy is unique, and the reasons can vary significantly. Surrogacy provides an alternative means for couples facing various challenges to fulfill their dream of having a child and building a family.