Written By: Sienna Chan
Introduction
Surrogacy, a complex and modern procedure, enables parents who are unable to conceive or carry out a pregnancy to have a child through the help of a surrogate woman. Surrogates are paid by the intended parents for their time and efforts in carrying out the pregnancy. Although there are some controversies around this topic, it is still a sought-after option when natural pregnancy poses difficulties.
Infertility
Infertility is the primary factor behind the need for surrogacy. Infertility is a medical condition that affects both the male and female reproductive system, characterized by the inability to get pregnant after trying for a child for over 12 months. It is estimated that in every 8 couples, 1 couple has trouble sustaining pregnancy or becoming pregnant, amounting to roughly 13% of married women. Approximately one-third of infertility problems are attributed to the female partner, one-third to the male partner, and one-third are caused by a combination of both partners or are unknown. Possible causes of female infertility include high levels of prolactin, an indicator of deep hormonal issues, and hostile cervical mucus, often known as a hostile uterus. Additionally, Hashimoto’s disease, a thyroid disease, can also make pregnancy difficult and is linked to infertility because of the decreased levels of thyroid hormones which can interfere with and affect ovulation.
Types of Surrogacy
Nowadays, combating infertility is easier than ever, thanks to new and improved advancements in medical technology. The two main types of surrogacy are traditional and gestational surrogacy.
Inseminated with the intended father’s sperm (or donor’s sperm), the egg from the surrogate mother is fertilized artificially. The surrogate then becomes both the biological and gestational mother of the child. The critical thing about traditional surrogacy is that the surrogate mother uses her own egg in the procedure.
Conversely, gestational surrogacy uses in-vitro fertilization (IVF), where the embryo is created using the intended parents' or donors' egg and sperm. The resulting embryo is then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus, who carries out the pregnancy with no genetic connection to the child. This method is becoming increasingly popular and is often linked to genetic engineering.
Selection and Screening
A critical step in surrogacy is the selection and screening procedure. When selecting a potential surrogate, intended parents may consult a fertility clinic or surrogacy agency. Surrogates go through a thorough evaluation that includes medical and psychological assessments, as well as a comprehensive study of their reproductive and obstetric history to ensure a smooth procedure for the surrogate. Factors such as the health, age, and lifestyle of the surrogate are considered when intended parents are choosing the right candidate for them.
General Legal Considerations
Surrogacy laws vary around the world. It is essential for surrogates and intended parents to understand and comply with the legal requirements for surrogacy in their jurisdiction. Surrogacy is fully regulated and legal in certain countries, however, it can be restricted or banned in others.
Surrogacy in Taiwan (代孕)
Unfortunately, surrogacy (代孕) isn’t allowed in Taiwan due to law restrictions. Many people in Taiwan are eager to access surrogacy, but it is currently not possible legally. Currently, the Artificial Reproduction Acts in Taiwan prohibits the practice of surrogacy within the country. Some have been urging the Taiwanese government to legalize surrogacy to address the challenges faced by intended parents and to mitigate potential disputes.
Surrogacy Wrapped Up
Individuals and couples facing infertility or other medical conditions that prevent them from carrying out a pregnancy should consider surrogacy, a significant breakthrough in medicine in recent years. While surrogacy offers hope and opportunity to create a family, it is important for everyone to approach this technology with empathy, an open mind, commitment to open communication, discussion, and respect.
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