Surrogacy is a well-established reproductive solution that helps couples and individuals have children when pregnancy is not an option. Despite its success worldwide, myths and misunderstandings continue to surround the process, often discouraging intended parents from considering it.
SILK Medical, a fertility clinic in Georgia, specializes in legal and affordable surrogacy programs for international patients. With a strong legal framework and access to advanced reproductive technologies, the clinic provides a clear and structured process for those looking to expand their families through surrogacy. Below are six of the most common myths about surrogacy, along with the facts that counter them.
Myth 1: Surrogates Can Change Their Minds and Keep the Baby
A common fear among intended parents is that a surrogate mother may become emotionally attached to the baby and refuse to hand the child over after birth. This misconception is fueled by dramatic media portrayals and cases from countries with weak legal protections.
Reality: In Georgia, the law clearly states that the intended parents are the legal parents from birth. The surrogate has no parental rights and no legal standing to claim custody. Contracts signed before the medical process begins outline this arrangement, ensuring there is no ambiguity.
At SILK Medical, surrogates undergo thorough medical and psychological screening before being accepted into the program. They enter the arrangement fully informed and agree to the legal terms before conception occurs. This structure provides security for all parties involved.
Myth 2: Surrogacy is Only for the Wealthy
Many assume that surrogacy is financially out of reach for most people, reserved for celebrities or ultra-wealthy individuals.
Reality: Costs vary significantly depending on the country. In the United States, surrogacy can range from $100,000 to $150,000, often making it inaccessible for many families. In contrast, surrogacy programs in Georgia start at $38,900, making it a far more affordable option.
SILK Medical offers several surrogacy packages, including options with multiple embryo transfers, donor eggs, and legal support, ensuring that intended parents can choose a program that aligns with their financial situation. This affordability, combined with high medical standards, has made Georgia one of the leading destinations for surrogacy worldwide.
Myth 3: The Surrogate Uses Her Own Eggs
One of the most persistent misconceptions is that the surrogate is biologically related to the baby she carries.
Reality: Gestational surrogacy, the standard practice at SILK Medical, means the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby. The embryo is created using the intended mother’s egg (or a donor egg) and the intended father’s sperm (or donor sperm) through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The surrogate’s role is purely to carry the pregnancy.
Some countries still allow traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate’s own egg is used, but this method raises ethical and legal concerns and is not practiced in Georgia. The use of gestational surrogacy ensures a clear distinction between the surrogate and the baby, eliminating legal complications and emotional conflicts.
Myth 4: Surrogacy is Only for Couples with Fertility Issues
Many believe that surrogacy is strictly for couples who have exhausted all other options after struggling with infertility.
Reality: While surrogacy is often used by couples facing medical complications, it is also chosen for other reasons, including:
- Medical conditions that make pregnancy dangerous, such as heart disease or severe endometriosis.
- Single parents, though in Georgia, surrogacy is only available to legally married couples. However, in SILK Medical’s Armenia branch, single men and women can pursue surrogacy.
- LGBTQ+ families in countries where surrogacy laws support same-sex couples.
Surrogacy is not just a last resort—it is a practical and medically supported option for those who cannot or prefer not to carry a pregnancy themselves.
Myth 5: The Process is Legally Complicated and Risky
Some assume that surrogacy is a legal gray area, with complicated processes that could lead to disputes or custody battles.
Reality: Georgia has one of the clearest and most supportive surrogacy laws in the world. The law explicitly recognizes intended parents as the baby’s legal guardians from birth, with no parental rights given to the surrogate. The process for obtaining birth certificates is straightforward, and legal contracts are prepared before any medical procedures begin.
At SILK Medical, legal professionals guide intended parents through every step of the process, ensuring compliance with local regulations and securing all necessary documentation. Unlike countries where surrogacy laws are unclear or inconsistent, Georgia provides a structured and legally protected environment for intended parents.
Myth 6: Surrogacy is Unethical
Some critics argue that surrogacy exploits women, turning pregnancy into a financial transaction. Others raise concerns about the medical and psychological impact on surrogates.
Reality: Ethical surrogacy programs prioritize the health, rights, and well-being of surrogates. At SILK Medical, all surrogates:
✔ Undergo comprehensive medical and psychological evaluations before being accepted into the program.
✔ Receive full legal protection, with detailed contracts ensuring informed consent.
✔ Are fairly compensated for their time, medical expenses, and effort.
Surrogates participate voluntarily and are provided with ongoing medical care, support, and financial compensation throughout the pregnancy. They are not left to navigate the process alone but are supported by medical professionals and coordinators.
By following strict medical, legal, and ethical guidelines, surrogacy programs can provide a safe and fair arrangement that benefits both surrogates and intended parents.
Final Thoughts: Facts Matter
Surrogacy is a medical and legal process that helps people build families. Many of the myths surrounding it come from outdated information, cultural biases, or legal cases in countries with unclear regulations. In places like Georgia, where surrogacy laws are clear and protective, the process is structured, transparent, and secure.
SILK Medical provides legal, medical, and emotional support throughout the surrogacy process. For those considering surrogacy, understanding the facts is the first step toward making an informed choice.
For more details on available surrogacy programs, contact SILK Medical today to discuss options that best fit your circumstances.
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