Becoming a surrogate is a fantastic experience for many, but it's essential to be aware of the risks before you make your decision to embark on this journey. While most surrogates have healthy pregnancies and happy outcomes, there are some potential risks involved with being a surrogate, many of them present in all pregnancies. We will discuss the most common risks associated with surrogacy with ways to minimize those risks.

Health risks

Risk of miscarriage: One of the most significant risks associated with surrogacy is the risk of miscarriage. This risk typically occurs in the early stages of pregnancy, so it's essential to be vigilant about watching for any signs of trouble. If you are experiencing any cramping, bleeding, or other issues, be sure to contact your doctor right away.

Fortunately, the risks of having a miscarriage are minimized by your surrogacy clinic thanks to IVF best practices and a highly qualified fertility specialist. If you are considering becoming a surrogate, be sure to discuss all risks with your doctor or fertility specialist. Taking these precautions can help ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Risk of preterm birth: Another potential risk associated with surrogacy is preterm birth. Working with qualified fertility specialists and following their instructions helps reduce this risk.

Risk of pregnancy-related complications: There is also a risk of pregnancy-related complications, such as: 

• Gestational diabetes
• High blood pressure
• And placental abruption

Staying healthy and keeping all appointments with your fertility specialist helps reduce the risk of pregnancy-related complications.

Risk of cesarean section: As with all pregnancies, you face the risk of having to deliver the baby via cesarean section. However, as a surrogate, you’re required to have a previous successful pregnancy, so this risk is reduced. 

Emotional risks of surrogacy

There are also emotional risks involved in surrogacy. One is the risk of feeling attached to the baby. Although these feelings are very real and valid, many surrogates recognize that because they are not the biological mother, they do not struggle to accept the transition. 

However, if you are experiencing feelings of sadness, depression, or regret after your surrogacy experience, it is essential to talk to your doctor or therapist about it. They can help you work through your feelings. Additionally, surrogacy clinics like Hatch offer care coordinators that will check in with you for as long as you need after the birth, as well as support groups and therapy resources.

Legal Risks of Surrogacy

There are also a few legal risks involved in surrogacy. If you do not pursue surrogacy through a verified program, there is a risk of not being paid. Legal risk is a rare occurrence, but it can happen. Make sure that you are working with an established surrogacy agency and have a detailed contract in place that protects all your rights and needs.

Get started with Hatch Fertility, Egg Donation & Surrogacy

By knowing the risks involved in surrogacy and taking steps to reduce them, you can minimize the risks to yourself and the baby. Surrogacy is a beautiful gift when all precautions are taken into account. Make sure that you are fully informed about what you are getting into before you decide to become a surrogate.

At Hatch Egg Donation and Surrogacy, we have been making miracles happen since 1991 and we care for all the surrogates we partner with. If you are ready to start the journey, fill out our application form and get started today.