The term “SURROGATE” refers to the woman who will undergo an embryo transfer procedure utilizing an embryo(s) created with the sperm of a man and the egg(s) of another woman and carry the resulting pregnancy to term for birth and delivery of the baby (ies) to the parents.

There are two types of surrogacy;

1. Traditional surrogacy.
2. Gestatational surrogacy.

Indications of using a Surrogate mother

• Any pre-existing or anticipated condition that may jeopardize the health of the mother/ baby
• Irreversible uterine pathologies (Severe adenomyosis & endometriosis)
• Uterine conditions that have no current treatment but known to affect the success of an IVF cycle. E.g. fibroids.
• Congenital absence of the uterus.
• Severe Asherman’s syndrome.
• Recurrent IVF failure.
• Several Caesarean deliveries.

Requirements of a potential Surrogate mother at Bethany

The prospective surrogate mother should have;

• Have given birth, with these past pregnancies having no complications.
• Have no more than five live births and no more than two C-sections.
• Must agree to medical and psychological screenings.
• Not using any family planning methods.
• Be willing to undergo a caesarean delivery for the baby (babies) she will be carrying.
• Must undergo a background check.
• Lead a healthy, responsible lifestyle.
• Have a Body Mass Index within normal range.
• Have no history of mental illness.
• Be aged between 25 and 35.
• Be of single marital status.

Why do we screen Surrogates?

Surrogacy is a serious commitment and many women express interest in surrogacy before they truly are ready to commit to the process. Bethany hospital plays a key role in helping both the commissioning parents and the potential surrogate to make an informed decision.

All the other requirements of the commissioning parents and the potential surrogate are well stipulated in the surrogate agreement.