Surrogacy is an assisted reproductive technology that has brought hope to many couples struggling with infertility. In Chandigarh, surrogacy has become a viable option for individuals and couples looking to expand their families, and Carewell 360 plays a pivotal role in guiding families through this journey. However, the process, legal framework, and costs involved in surrogacy can be overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into surrogacy in Chandigarh, helping you understand the key factors, regulations, and what to expect when considering this path to parenthood.
What is Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman (the surrogate) carries and gives birth to a child for another individual or couple. There are two primary types of surrogacy:
- Traditional Surrogacy: In this method, the surrogate mother is genetically related to the child as her own eggs are used for fertilization. This type of surrogacy is relatively less common today due to legal complexities and ethical considerations.
- Gestational Surrogacy: This is the most common form of surrogacy, where the surrogate mother carries an embryo that is not genetically related to her. The embryo is typically created using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors.
Surrogacy Laws in India and Chandigarh
India was once a popular destination for international surrogacy due to relatively low costs and flexible laws. However, the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act of 2021 has brought significant changes to the practice of surrogacy in India, including Chandigarh.
Key provisions under the law include:
- Altruistic Surrogacy Only: The new law allows only altruistic surrogacy, meaning surrogates can only carry a child for others on a voluntary, non-compensatory basis. Surrogates are not paid beyond medical and insurance costs.
- Eligibility Criteria: The law restricts surrogacy to Indian couples who have been married for at least five years. Additionally, the couple must be infertile, and at least one partner should be genetically related to the child.
- Age Limits: The intended mother should be between the ages of 23 and 50, while the surrogate should be between 25 and 35 years of age.
- Surrogate Mother’s Rights: The surrogate mother must undergo thorough medical and psychological screening. Once the surrogacy contract is signed, she has legal rights, including the right to change her mind during the pregnancy.
- Ban on Commercial Surrogacy: The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act prohibits commercial surrogacy, meaning clinics can no longer offer paid surrogacy services, which were previously available.
The Surrogacy Process in Chandigarh
If you’re considering surrogacy in Chandigarh, it’s important to understand the process involved. Here is a general overview:
- Choosing a Surrogacy Clinic: Start by selecting a reputable surrogacy clinic in Chandigarh. Look for clinics with experienced fertility specialists, legal advisors, and ethical practices. Clinics should help with medical screening, psychological support, and the legal aspects of surrogacy.
- Medical and Psychological Screening: Both the intended parents and the surrogate mother undergo extensive medical testing. This includes fertility tests for the intended mother, sperm tests for the intended father, and a health checkup for the surrogate to ensure she is physically fit to carry the pregnancy.
- Surrogacy Agreement: A surrogacy agreement is a legal contract that outlines the responsibilities, expectations, and financial matters between the intended parents and the surrogate mother. It is crucial to have a lawyer involved to ensure that the terms are fair and legally binding.
- Embryo Transfer and Pregnancy: Once the surrogate is medically prepared, embryo transfer is carried out. If the pregnancy is successful, the surrogate will carry the baby to term under the supervision of doctors, who will ensure the health of both the surrogate and the baby.
- Delivery and Parental Rights: After the baby is born, the intended parents are recognized as the legal parents. The surrogate mother has no parental rights over the child, and the intended parents can take custody of the child shortly after birth.
Cost of Surrogacy in Chandigarh
The cost of surrogacy in Chandigarh can vary depending on the clinic, the complexity of the treatment, and whether egg or sperm donation is involved. Generally, surrogacy in Chandigarh can range from ₹10,00,000 to ₹20,00,000, including all medical, legal, and insurance costs. However, since commercial surrogacy is no longer permitted under the new law, surrogacy will now involve costs related to medical procedures and surrogate compensation, which are capped by regulations.
Conclusion
Surrogacy in Chandigarh offers hope to couples who cannot conceive naturally. With the evolving legal framework and a robust healthcare system, the city is well-equipped to handle surrogacy arrangements. Carewell 360 ensures that families receive the best possible support during this journey. While the process can be emotionally and financially taxing, the joy of parenthood that comes at the end of this journey makes it a fulfilling choice for many families.