Best Surrogacy Centres in Chennai 2026 | Govt Approved & Licensed

The journey to parenthood is a profound and deeply personal one. For many couples, the dream of holding their own child is a fundamental aspiration. However, when faced with infertility, this path can become challenging and emotionally taxing. Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (or after 6 months for women over 35), affects millions worldwide. (Source: WHO)

Modern medicine offers hope through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), a suite of advanced medical procedures designed to help individuals and couples achieve pregnancy. These techniques provide safe, efficient, and increasingly accessible pathways to parenthood. Among these options, surrogacy stands as a beacon of hope for those for whom conventional treatments are not viable or successful.

Surrogacy involves a woman, known as a surrogate mother or gestational carrier, carrying a pregnancy for another person or couple (the intended parents). This arrangement allows intended parents to have a biological child when they are unable to carry a pregnancy themselves due to medical reasons, such as uterine issues, recurrent pregnancy loss, or other health conditions.

In India, surrogacy is governed by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, which permits altruistic surrogacy for Indian married couples and Indian-origin couples, where the surrogate mother is a close relative. This legal framework ensures ethical practices and safeguards the rights of all parties involved. Choosing a government-approved and licensed surrogacy center in Chennai is paramount to navigating this process legally and successfully, ensuring the highest standards of medical care and ethical conduct.

Key Takeaways: Surrogacy in Chennai

• The cost of surrogacy in Chennai typically ranges from INR 10 to 18 Lakhs.
• Surrogacy in India is strictly altruistic and regulated by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.
• The surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intended parents.
• Only gestational surrogacy is permitted, meaning the surrogate has no genetic link to the baby.
• Sex selection is prohibited, except for specific medical reasons to prevent genetic diseases.
• The entire surrogacy process, from consultation to birth, can take 12 to 18 months or longer.

What is Surrogacy and How is it Regulated in India?

Surrogacy is an advanced assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedure where a woman, known as the **gestational carrier** or surrogate mother, carries a pregnancy and gives birth to a baby for another individual or couple (the intended parents) who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term themselves. This inability can be due to various medical reasons, even after attempting other fertility treatments like **IVF** (In Vitro Fertilization) or IUI (Intrauterine Insemination). After the baby is born, it is legally entrusted to the intended parents, completing all necessary legal formalities.

Surrogacy is a complex process that involves significant medical, emotional, and legal considerations. Before deciding on surrogacy, intended parents should always seek comprehensive professional advice from fertility specialists and legal experts.

In India, **altruistic surrogacy** is legal and regulated by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. Under this law, the surrogate mother must be a close relative of the intended parents.

Key provisions of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, include:

• Altruistic Nature: No monetary compensation is permitted for the surrogate mother, beyond covering her medical expenses, insurance, and other specified expenses directly related to the pregnancy.
• Eligibility: Specific criteria must be met by both the intended parents and the surrogate mother. Intended parents must be Indian citizens, married, and have a medical indication for surrogacy. The surrogate must be a married woman with a child of her own, aged between 25 and 35 years, and can only be a surrogate once.
• Parental Rights: After delivery, the child is legally considered the biological child of the intended parents, and the surrogate mother has no parental rights.

Surrogacy can be broadly categorized into two main types:

1. Gestational Surrogacy:

This is the most common and legally permissible type of surrogacy in many regions, including India. In gestational surrogacy:

• Eggs are retrieved from the intended mother (or an egg donor) and sperm from the intended father (or a sperm donor).
• These are fertilized in a laboratory using IVF to create an embryo.
• The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus of the surrogate mother.
• The gestational surrogate carries the pregnancy to term, but she has no genetic link to the baby because her own eggs were not used. The child is genetically related to the intended parents (or donors). Gestational surrogacy is medically overseen by fertility specialists and inherently involves In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

   

2. Traditional Surrogacy:

In traditional surrogacy:

• The surrogate mother's own egg is fertilized, typically through artificial insemination, using sperm from the intended father or a sperm donor.
• This means the surrogate mother is the biological mother of the child, sharing a genetic link.
• Due to the genetic connection between the surrogate and the child, traditional surrogacy often leads to complex legal and emotional challenges regarding parental rights and is largely prohibited or highly restricted in many countries, including India. Traditional surrogacy is generally not practiced or permitted under current Indian law due to these complexities.

Surrogacy At Vinsfertility

At **Vinsfertility**, we are dedicated to helping intended parents fulfill their dream of having a child. We connect you with leading **Surrogacy** centers in your city, offering comprehensive treatment options and support. Our goal is to provide accessible packages with a strong focus on clinical excellence and patient care.

We have an in-house team of experienced consultants and doctors who guide you through every step of the surrogacy journey, from initial consultation to post-delivery support. We believe in proactive communication, ensuring you are well-informed and comfortable throughout the process. By understanding each person’s individual needs, we provide tailored solutions and strive to be a beacon of hope, working together to achieve the ultimate goal of welcoming a child into your family.

**Vinsfertility** offers various surrogacy options, depending on your specific medical requirements:

• **Surrogacy** with your own eggs and partner's sperm
• **Surrogacy** with donor eggs
• **Surrogacy** with frozen embryos
• **Surrogacy** with frozen eggs
• **Surrogacy** with donor eggs and donor sperm

Surrogacy Packages Provided By Vinsfertility

**Vinsfertility** has designed comprehensive surrogacy packages in Chennai, typically ranging between INR 10 to 18 Lakhs. The exact cost can vary based on individual medical conditions, specific treatment protocols, and the chosen center. Our packages are structured to be transparent and cover all legally permissible expenses under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.

Our packages typically include:

• **IVF Cost:** Expenses related to the In Vitro Fertilization process, including medication, egg retrieval, embryo creation, and embryo transfer.
• **Surrogate Mother's Medical and Living Expenses:** This covers medical check-ups, medication, nutrition, accommodation, and other essential support for the surrogate mother throughout the 9 months of pregnancy, as mandated by Indian law.
• **Complete 9 Months Insurance:** Comprehensive insurance coverage for the surrogate mother, covering any pregnancy-related complications.
• **Legal Documentation:** Expert legal assistance for drafting and finalizing all necessary legal documents in strict accordance with the guidelines stated by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. These legal documents are signed by all involved parties to ensure clarity and protection.

At **Vinsfertility**, we ensure complete transparency in all financial aspects, with no hidden charges at any stage of the treatment beyond the package discussed during your initial consultation.

Best Surrogacy Centres In Chennai With High Success Rate

1. Chennai Fertility Centre 
2. Kiran Infertility Centre, Chennai 
3. Iswarya Fertility Centre, Adyar (Chennai)
4. Srushti Fertility Centre 
5. Jananam Fertility Centre 

1. Chennai Fertility Centre, Chennai

  Chennai Fertility Centre , established in 2010 by Dr. V M Thomas, is recognized as a leading fertility and surrogacy center in Chennai. The clinic is dedicated to offering hope and advanced reproductive solutions to couples facing infertility challenges. It is known for its patient-centric approach and commitment to achieving successful outcomes, supported by a team of highly qualified specialists. Chennai Fertility Centre provides a comprehensive range of fertility services under one roof.

Understanding the emotional journey of infertility, the center also offers psychological counseling and support to patients, helping them navigate the stress and emotional aspects of fertility treatments. Institutions like the Mayo Clinic emphasize the importance of such support during fertility journeys. Dr. V M Thomas, a distinguished expert in Clinical Embryology and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), serves as the Institute Director of Chennai Fertility Centre. He also directs the Embryogenesis International School of Embryology, Chennai, and is the Institute Chief of Dr. Thomas Fertility Centre and Healing Centre, Pondicherry, bringing extensive experience and leadership to the field of reproductive medicine.

SERVICES OFFERED

• Surrogacy
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer (IVF & ET)
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
• Embryo Cryopreservation / Vitrification
• Donor Oocyte / Embryo Programme
• Laparoscopy
• Hysteroscopy
• Blastocyst Culture
• Assisted Hatching
• Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI)
• Frozen Embryo Transfer

ESTEEMED PANEL OF DOCTORS

• Dr. V. M. Thomas

ADDRESS: No. 79/129, Nelson Manickam Road, Rajaram Mehta Nagar, Aminjikarai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600029

RATING: 4.7/5 (395 Reviews)

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2. Kiran Infertility Centre, Chennai

Kiran Infertility Centre, Chennai, stands as a prominent surrogacy and fertility centre in Chennai, building on the Kiran Group’s four decades of experience in infertility treatment. Their core mission is to empower individuals and couples to achieve their dream of parenthood. The centre is equipped with advanced technology and supported by a dedicated team of specialists proficient in a wide range of fertility treatments. Their medical professionals specialize in Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, offering comprehensive care.

The clinic's doctors are actively involved with several prestigious international and national organizations, ensuring they stay updated with the latest advancements in reproductive science. These include:

• A.S.R.M. (American Society for Reproductive Medicine): A leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of reproductive medicine.
• E.S.H.R.E. (European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology): An international non-profit organization promoting research and education in reproductive biology and medicine.
• I.S.A.R. (Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction): The official body representing IVF specialists and infertility experts in India.
• C.O.G.I. (Controversies in Obstetrics, Gynecology & Infertility): An international forum for discussing and debating current controversies in women's health.

Dr. J. Kavya is a highly experienced Infertility Consultant and a fellow in reproductive medicine, bringing over 10 years of expertise to the centre. She completed her training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the esteemed Bangalore Medical College. Dr. Kavya possesses advanced training in various specialized procedures, including laparoscopic and hysteroscopic surgery, gynaecological and obstetric ultrasound, and embryology.

Her clinical involvement spans comprehensive patient counselling, performing hysteroscopy and laparoscopy surgeries for diagnosing and treating reproductive issues, conducting egg retrieval procedures for assisted reproductive technologies (ART), executing embryo transfers, and providing essential antenatal care throughout pregnancy.

SERVICES OFFERED

• Surrogacy: A process where a woman carries a pregnancy for another individual or couple, in accordance with legal and ethical guidelines.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A complex series of procedures used to help with fertility or prevent genetic problems and assist with the conception of a child. It involves retrieving eggs and a sperm sample, and manually combining them in a lab dish. (Source: CDC)
• Fertility Assessment & Diagnosis: Comprehensive evaluation for both partners to identify causes of infertility.
• Male Infertility Treatment: Addressing issues such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or blockages.
• Female Infertility Treatment: Solutions for conditions like ovulatory disorders, fallopian tube blockages, or uterine abnormalities.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A fertility treatment that involves placing sperm inside a woman's uterus to facilitate fertilization.
• Egg Donation: Utilizing eggs from a donor to assist infertile women in achieving pregnancy.
• Oocyte and Embryo Donation: Donation of either eggs (oocytes) or embryos to help intended parents.
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A specialized form of IVF where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Blastocyst Transfer: Transferring an embryo into the uterus on day 5 or 6 after fertilization, when it has developed into a blastocyst stage.
• Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation): A method to preserve a woman's fertility by freezing her eggs for future use.
• PCOS Treatment: Comprehensive management for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Understand how Myo-inositol can help with PCOS.
• Varicocele Treatment: Surgical or non-surgical options to treat varicoceles, which can affect male fertility.
• Assisted Hatching: A laboratory technique used in IVF to help the embryo hatch from its outer shell (zona pellucida) for implantation.
• Advanced Hysteroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine and treat conditions inside the uterus.

ESTEEMED PANEL OF DOCTORS

• Dr. J. Kavya

ADDRESS: 2nd Floor, Ambica Complex, No. 32, Arcot Road, Above McRennett, Trustpuram, Kodambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600024

RATING: 4.9/5 (80 Reviews)

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3. Iswarya Fertility Centre, Adyar (Chennai)

Established in 1986, Iswarya Fertility Centre is a well-regarded fertility hospital chain in India. With over 20 clinics nationwide and plans for further expansion, it offers comprehensive infertility treatments leveraging experienced specialists and modern infrastructure. The center provides a range of advanced fertility solutions, including surrogacy, IVF, ICSI, and donor programs, aiming to deliver high-quality and accessible care.

Dr. Chandralekha (Tamil Nadu Medical Council Reg. No. 41293, 1986) is a distinguished Infertility Specialist, Obstetrician, and Gynecologist with over 35 years of clinical experience. She earned her MBBS from Madras University, Chennai, India, in 1986, and her DGO from The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University (TNMGRMU) in 1990. Dr. Chandralekha's expertise is recognized through her memberships in prestigious organizations such as ISAR, TAPISAR, ESHRE, IMA, and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, reflecting her commitment to advancing reproductive medicine.

SERVICES OFFERED

• Surrogacy: A process where a woman (the surrogate) carries a pregnancy for another person or couple (the intended parents). In India, altruistic surrogacy is legally permitted for eligible Indian couples under specific regulations.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A fertility treatment that involves placing specially prepared sperm directly into the woman's uterus around the time of ovulation to increase the chances of fertilization.
• In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): A widely used fertility treatment where eggs are retrieved from the ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the uterus. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A specialized IVF procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. This technique is often used for male infertility factors or when fertilization issues arise during conventional IVF. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Ovulation Induction: Medical treatment involving medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce and release eggs, typically for women experiencing irregular or absent ovulation. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Egg Donation: A process where a woman donations her eggs to another woman or couple to help them achieve pregnancy, often used when the intended mother's own eggs are not viable. (Source: NIH)
• PGD / PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis / Screening): Advanced genetic testing performed on embryos created through IVF before they are implanted into the uterus. This helps identify genetic abnormalities (PGD) or chromosomal disorders (PGS, now often called PGT-A). (Source: CDC)
• Azoospermia Treatment: Comprehensive management and treatment options for men who have no sperm in their ejaculate, which may involve surgical sperm retrieval techniques such as TESE or micro-TESE. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Male Infertility Treatment: A broad range of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches addressing various causes of male infertility, including medical management, lifestyle changes, and advanced reproductive technologies. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

ESTEEMED PANEL OF DOCTORS

• Dr. Arun Muthuvel
• Dr. S. Chandralekha
• Dr. Manipriya Arun
• Dr. G. Amutha Rani
• Dr. Rijaphin

ADDRESS: No. 13, 1st Main Road, Kasturbai Nagar, Opposite Sangeetha Hotel, Adyar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600020

RATING: 4.7/5 (743 Reviews)

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4. Srushti Fertility Centre, Chennai

Srushti Fertility Centre has established itself as a leading institution in Chennai, providing comprehensive fertility services for over 25 years. Their dedicated team of specialists brings extensive experience in Reproductive Medicine, supported by efficient management and state-of-the-art infrastructure. To date, Srushti Fertility Centre has successfully helped more than 4500 couples achieve their dream of parenthood.

The centre is committed to providing reliable, high-quality, and personalized care to all patients, utilizing advanced technologies in fertility treatment. They report a 52% success rate in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures, demonstrating their capability to facilitate pregnancies, including for women above 45 years of age. It is important to remember that individual success rates can vary based on various factors.

Dr. Samundi Sankari (22619 Tamil Nadu Medical Council, 1972) holds an MBBS, MD in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, DGO, and a Diploma in Anesthesiology.

With an impressive 50 years of overall experience, Dr. Sankari is a distinguished Infertility Specialist, Gynecologist, Obstetrician, Reproductive Endocrinologist (a specialist in hormonal disorders affecting fertility), and Laparoscopic Surgeon (Obs & Gyn). Her significant contributions to the field of fertility were recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award from His Excellency, The Governor of Tamil Nadu – Dr. Rosiah. She is an active member of several esteemed organizations, including the Indian Medical Association (IMA), the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI), the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

SERVICES OFFERED

• Surrogacy: Comprehensive support and procedures for gestational surrogacy, adhering to all legal and ethical guidelines in India.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A procedure where sperm are directly placed into the uterus to increase the chances of fertilization. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A process where eggs are fertilized by sperm outside the body in a laboratory setting. (Source: CDC)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A specialized IVF procedure where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. (Source: NCBI)
• Laser-Assisted Hatching (LAH): A technique used to create a small opening in the outer shell of an embryo to aid implantation.
• Blastocyst Transfer: The transfer of embryos to the uterus at the blastocyst stage (5-6 days after fertilization).
• PGD / PGS (Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/Screening): Genetic testing of embryos before implantation to identify chromosomal abnormalities or specific genetic diseases. (Source: ACOG)
• Hysterolaparoscopy: Minimally invasive surgical procedures used for diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the uterus and other reproductive organs.
• Donor Programmes: Options for using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos for fertility treatment.
• Cryopreservation: The process of freezing and storing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use.
• Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): A procedure where a cryopreserved (frozen) embryo is thawed and transferred to the uterus.

ESTEEMED PANEL OF DOCTORS

• Dr. Samundi Sankari
• Dr. Divya Sivaraman

ADDRESS: 2, Dhandayudhapani Nagar, 2nd St, Kotturpuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600085

RATING: 4.5/5 (68 Reviews)

For Enquiry, Contact Here

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5. Jananam Fertility Centre, Chennai

Jananam Fertility Centre is a modern, state-of-the-art fertility centre located in Chennai, committed to helping couples achieve their dream of parenthood. The centre holds prestigious ISAR (Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction) and ISO 9001 certifications, reflecting its adherence to high standards in quality management and reproductive healthcare practices. Jananam Fertility Centre continuously integrates advanced technologies and innovative treatment protocols, which contributes to its consistently improving success rates. The centre prides itself on a team of highly qualified specialists and a supportive, friendly staff dedicated to providing comprehensive care and emotional support to patients throughout their fertility journey. Dr. Vani Sundarapandian (47055 Tamil Nadu Medical Council, 1990) is the Medical Director at Jananam Fertility Centre. With 28 years of experience, she is a distinguished Infertility Specialist. Dr. Sundarapandian earned her MD in Obstetrics & Gynaecology from Kuvempu University in 1993 and subsequently completed her MRCOG(UK) from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, London, in 1999. She remains an active member of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG).

SERVICES OFFERED

• Surrogacy: A reproductive arrangement where another woman (the surrogate) carries a pregnancy for an intended parent or couple.
• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): A process involving fertilization of an egg by sperm outside the body, in a laboratory dish. The embryo is then transferred to the uterus. (Source: CDC)
• Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A specialized form of IVF where a single sperm is injected directly into an egg to aid fertilization. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
• Physiological Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (PICSI): An advanced sperm selection technique used in conjunction with ICSI, where sperm are selected based on their maturity and ability to bind to a hyaluronan gel.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): A fertility treatment that involves placing sperm directly into a woman's uterus around the time of ovulation. (Source: ACOG)
• Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET): A procedure where cryopreserved (frozen) embryos from a previous IVF cycle are thawed and transferred into the uterus.
• TESA / PESA: Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) and Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) are minor surgical procedures used to retrieve sperm directly from the testes or epididymis for use in IVF/ICSI, often for men with obstructive azoospermia.
• Donor Programmes: Options for using donor sperm, donor eggs, or donor embryos when personal gametes are not viable or suitable.
• Cryopreservation: The process of freezing and storing eggs, sperm, or embryos for future use, preserving fertility.
• PGD / PGS: Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) screens embryos for specific genetic disorders, while Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS), now often called PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy), screens for chromosomal abnormalities. (Source: NCBI)

ESTEEMED PANEL OF DOCTORS

• Dr. Vani Sundarapandian
• Dr. Mangalam

ADDRESS: 22, 10, 11, 1st St, Kazura Garden, Neelankarai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600115

RATING: 4.9/5 (667 Reviews)

For Enquiry, Contact Here

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To know about the Cost of Surrogacy in Chennai, click here. Not only surrogacy, Chennai has gained immense popularity in terms of IVF also, it provides a list of Best IVF centres in Chennai and IVF cost in Chennai is affordable as well. You can visit Vinsfertility for detailed information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is surrogacy pregnancy risky?

Ans: Surrogacy pregnancy, like any pregnancy, carries potential risks for the gestational carrier. These can include common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, morning sickness, swelling, and fatigue. Additionally, the fertility medications used during the IVF process for embryo transfer may have side effects. Potential medical complications that can arise during any pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure), or anemia, require diligent medical monitoring to identify and manage promptly. There can also be an increased risk of multiple pregnancies if more than one embryo is transferred, which carries higher risks for both the surrogate and the babies. The Mayo Clinic highlights various potential risks during pregnancy. Regular and comprehensive prenatal care is crucial to ensure the health and safety of the surrogate throughout the journey.

2. Is surrogacy good for the baby?

Ans: Yes, babies born through a properly managed gestational surrogacy pregnancy are generally as healthy as those conceived through traditional methods. The health and development of the baby primarily depend on several key factors, including the quality of the embryo transferred, the overall health of the surrogate mother, the standard of prenatal care received, and appropriate medical supervision throughout the pregnancy. Studies published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirm that children born via surrogacy have comparable health outcomes to those born via other assisted reproductive technologies. With comprehensive medical care, babies can develop normally and thrive.

3. What is the best surrogate age?

Ans: The eligibility requirements for a surrogate are strictly determined by applicable Indian laws and medical guidelines. While specific legal age ranges must be adhered to, medically, fertility specialists often recommend that a gestational carrier be between 25 and 35 years of age. This age range is generally associated with optimal pregnancy outcomes and lower risks of complications for both the surrogate and the baby. A prospective surrogate should also have a history of at least one previous healthy pregnancy and delivery without major complications. Medical and legal eligibility must be thoroughly confirmed by a qualified fertility specialist and legal counsel before proceeding with any surrogacy arrangement.

4. Can you choose gender in surrogacy?

Ans: No. Sex selection, also known as gender selection, is strictly prohibited in India under the prevailing Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. Medical procedures such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy cannot legally be used for the purpose of selecting a baby's sex. The only exceptions are specific medical situations where gender selection is permitted to prevent the transmission of a serious genetic disease linked to a particular sex, as outlined and regulated by the competent authority.

5. How successful is surrogacy in India?

Ans: The success rate of surrogacy in India, as in other parts of the world, is highly variable and depends on numerous factors. These include the age and overall health of the intended parents, the quality of the embryos used (which is influenced by the age of the egg provider), the success rates of the IVF cycle, and the medical condition and uterine receptivity of the gestational carrier. While many couples achieve successful pregnancies through surrogacy, individual outcomes can differ significantly. Patients should have an open and detailed discussion with a qualified fertility specialist to understand their specific chances of success based on their unique medical profile.

6. How long does the surrogacy process take?

Ans: The complete surrogacy journey is a multi-stage process that can take several months, often ranging from 12 to 18 months or even longer, from initial consultation to the birth of the baby. The timeline includes:

• Initial Consultations and Screening: 1-3 months for medical assessments, psychological evaluations, and legal counseling for both intended parents and the potential surrogate.
• Legal Formalities: 1-3 months for drafting and finalizing the surrogacy agreement and obtaining necessary court orders as per Indian law.
• IVF Treatment and Embryo Transfer: This phase, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, and embryo transfer, typically takes 1-2 months.
• Pregnancy and Prenatal Care: Approximately 9 months of gestation, during which the surrogate receives regular medical monitoring and support.
• Delivery and Post-birth Formalities: The birth of the child, followed by legal documentation to establish parentage.

The exact timeline is highly dependent on individual medical and legal circumstances, as well as the efficiency of the chosen surrogacy centre and legal processes.

 

7. What medical tests are required for a surrogate?

Ans: A prospective surrogate must undergo a comprehensive series of medical and psychological evaluations to ensure she is physically and mentally fit for pregnancy. These typically include:

• General Health Check-up: Complete physical examination, blood pressure, and body mass index (BMI) assessment.
• Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC), blood group, and screening for infectious diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, and Rubella.
• Hormone Levels: Assessment of various hormone levels to check reproductive health.
• Uterine Evaluation: Ultrasound to assess the health and receptivity of the uterus, sometimes followed by a hysteroscopy to rule out any abnormalities.
• Psychological Evaluation: Assessment by a mental health professional to ensure emotional stability and understanding of the surrogacy process.
• Drug Screening: Tests to ensure the surrogate is free from recreational drugs.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines on essential screenings for reproductive health. The exact battery of tests will depend on medical requirements and the specific regulations governing surrogacy in India.

 

8. Is IVF required for surrogacy?

Ans: Yes. In India, under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, only gestational surrogacy is permitted. Gestational surrogacy inherently involves In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). In this process, an embryo is created using the egg and sperm of the intended parents or legally permitted donors in a laboratory setting. This embryo is then transferred into the uterus of the gestational carrier, who carries the pregnancy to term. The gestational carrier has no genetic link to the baby. The specific IVF treatment plan is tailored to the medical circumstances of the intended parents.

9. What documents are required for surrogacy?

Ans: The documentation required for surrogacy in India is extensive and depends on the circumstances of the intended parents and the surrogate, as well as the strict provisions of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. Key documents typically include:

• Identity and age proofs for intended parents and the surrogate.
• Marriage certificate of the intended parents (if applicable, as surrogacy is for married couples in India).
• Medical reports confirming the infertility of the intended parent(s) and the medical fitness of the surrogate.
• Eligibility certificates issued by the competent authority.
• Court order permitting surrogacy.
• Affidavits and consent forms from all parties involved.
• Insurance coverage documents for the surrogate.
• Other documents as mandated by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, and its rules.

It is crucial to consult with a legal expert specializing in surrogacy law in India to ensure all required documentation is correctly prepared and submitted.

 

10. How can intended parents find a surrogate?

Ans: Under the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, altruistic surrogacy is permitted in India. This means that the gestational carrier must be a close relative of the intended parents. Intended parents cannot directly pay the surrogate for carrying the child, beyond covering her medical expenses and insurance. Therefore, intended parents must approach a legally authorized fertility or surrogacy facility that strictly adheres to the applicable Indian laws and regulations. The clinic will guide them through the process of identifying a close relative who meets the prescribed medical and legal eligibility requirements, including age, health, and previous obstetric history, and who has undergone the necessary screening and counseling before any treatment begins. The facility ensures that all procedures are conducted ethically and legally.