What is Identified Surrogacy – Working with a Surrogate You Know

Surrogacy has become a popular option for individuals and couples who are unable to conceive or carry a child on their own. However, the traditional process of surrogacy has often been viewed as impersonal and disconnected, with the use of anonymous donors and surrogates. Let’s dive into what is identified surrogacy and how it is different from agency surrogacy.

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In recent years, a new form of surrogacy known as “identified surrogacy” has emerged, where the intended parents work with a surrogate they already know and have a personal connection with. This method has gained attention and popularity due to its unique and intimate nature.

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In this article, we will explore the concept of identified surrogacy and how it differs from traditional surrogacy. We will also discuss the benefits and challenges of working with a surrogate you know and provide valuable insights from professionals in the field.

Whether you are considering surrogacy as an option or simply interested in learning more about this alternative method, this article will provide a comprehensive overview of identified surrogacy and its impact on modern family building.

What is independent surrogacy?

Here is an explanation of independent surrogacy:

Independent surrogacy is an arrangement where intended parents work directly with a surrogate they know, without going through an agency. Typically it would be a sister, close friend, or someone else in their community who has volunteered to carry their baby.

Some key things to know about independent surrogacy:

• Screening & Vetting – Without an agency, the intended parents take on the responsibility of vetting a surrogate themselves by having her complete medical exams, psychological evaluations, background checks, etc.

• Legal Contracts – Independent arrangements still require experienced surrogacy lawyers to draft contracts protecting all parties’ rights since there is no agency safeguard.

• Managing Finances – Intended parents must directly handle all finances around compensation, IVF medical bills, insurance policies, etc rather than going through an agency escrow account.

• Emotional Support – An agency often provides counseling and guidance around this emotionally intense experience. Without one, intended parents and surrogates must rely more on personal support systems.

• Conflict Resolution – Troubleshooting conflicts that emerge are handled directly between friends/family rather than with an agency acting as a neutral mediator.

Overall independent surrogacy can work smoothly with the right forethought, screenings, and great legal help. The close relationships of all involved simply shift more coordination effort to the intended parents. Understanding differences from agency surrogacy empowers smart decisions.

Benefits of working with a known surrogate

One of the primary benefits of working with a known surrogate in the process of identified surrogacy is the potential for a stronger emotional bond and a greater sense of trust between the intended parents and the surrogate.

Unlike traditional surrogacy arrangements where the surrogate is typically anonymous, in identified surrogacy, the intended parents have the opportunity to establish a personal relationship with the surrogate before embarking on the surrogacy journey.

This familiarity and connection can provide a solid foundation for open and honest communication throughout the process, allowing all parties involved to navigate potential challenges and decisions together with a higher level of understanding and compassion.

Additionally, a known surrogate may also feel more invested in the outcome of the pregnancy, as she personally knows and cares for the intended parents, which can contribute to a smoother and more supportive surrogacy experience overall.

Benefits of Known Surrogacy

1. Established trust and communication
2. Shared values and beliefs
3. Comfort and familiarity for both parties
4. Potential for an ongoing relationship
5. Familiarity with medical history
6. Emotional support and understanding from the surrogate

Legal considerations for identified surrogacy

When engaging in identified surrogacy, where the intended parents and surrogate have an existing relationship, it is crucial to address the legal considerations involved.

Clear and comprehensive legal agreements should be drafted with the assistance of experienced attorneys specializing in reproductive law.

These agreements should outline the rights, obligations, and expectations of all parties involved, including issues such as parental rights, financial arrangements, medical decision-making, and custody arrangements. It is essential to ensure that the legal framework adequately protects the rights and interests of both the intended parents and the surrogate, as well as any potential child born through the surrogacy arrangement.

Additionally, it is important to be aware that legal requirements and regulations regarding surrogacy can vary significantly from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so it is crucial to consult with legal professionals who are knowledgeable about the laws in the relevant jurisdiction and to ensure compliance with all legal requirements throughout the process.

By carefully addressing the legal considerations involved in identified surrogacy, intended parents and surrogates can establish a solid foundation that safeguards everyone’s rights and promotes a smooth and successful surrogacy journey.

Legal Considerations

1. Written surrogacy agreement
2. A clear understanding of parental rights
3. Consent for medical procedures
4. Financial compensation details
5. Informed consent for confidentiality
6. Insurance coverage for the surrogate and baby

Building a strong relationship

Building a strong relationship is paramount when embarking on the journey of identified surrogacy.

While the existing relationship between intended parents and their chosen surrogate may provide a foundation of trust and understanding, it is essential to invest time and effort into nurturing and strengthening that bond.

Regular and open communication is key, allowing all parties to express their thoughts, concerns, and expectations throughout the surrogacy process.

This includes discussing personal boundaries, establishing a support system, and addressing any potential conflicts that may arise. Building a strong relationship based on mutual respect and empathy will not only contribute to a smoother surrogacy journey but also lay the groundwork for a positive ongoing connection beyond the birth of the child.

Relationship Building Tips

1. Communication is key
2. Trust each other’s decisions
3. Show appreciation and gratitude
4. Be understanding and patient
5. Spend quality time together
6. Resolve conflicts and disagreements peacefully

Communicating boundaries and expectations

In working with a surrogate you know, it is crucial to establish clear and open lines of communication regarding boundaries and expectations.

This involves having honest conversations about what each party is comfortable with and where personal limits may lie. These discussions can cover various aspects, such as medical procedures, involvement in the pregnancy, and decisions regarding the birthing process.

By openly discussing and respecting these boundaries, all parties can ensure that the surrogacy journey remains a positive and harmonious experience. Regular check-ins and ongoing communication throughout the process will also enable any adjustments or changes to be addressed promptly, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration between the intended parents and the surrogate.

Boundaries and Expectations

1. Clear communication is key
2. Establish mutual understanding
3. Respect each other’s boundaries
4. Set realistic expectations
5. Regular check-ins and open dialogue
6. Be willing to compromise and adjust as needed

Ensuring proper medical care throughout the journey

Throughout the journey of identified surrogacy, it is vital to prioritize and ensure proper medical care for both the surrogate and the intended parents.

This includes selecting a reputable and experienced medical professional or fertility clinic that specializes in surrogacy. It is crucial to thoroughly research and evaluate their credentials, success rates, and reputation within the surrogacy community. Regular medical check-ups, screenings, and monitoring should be scheduled to ensure the surrogate’s health and well-being throughout the pregnancy.

Additionally, the intended parents need to maintain open lines of communication with the medical team to stay informed about the surrogate’s progress, and any potential complications, and to discuss any necessary medical interventions.

By prioritizing proper medical care, all parties involved can have peace of mind knowing that the surrogacy journey is being professionally managed, minimizing risks and maximizing the chances of a successful and healthy pregnancy.

Medical Care Checklist

1. Create a comprehensive birth plan with the medical team
2. Schedule regular prenatal appointments with the surrogate and doctor
3. Discuss contingency plans with medical professionals in case of emergency
4. Keep copies of all medical records and test results
5. Communicate openly and frequently with the surrogate and medical team
6. Provide necessary medical supplies and medications as recommended by a doctor.

Additional guide for intended parents:

Best surrogacy agency in India

Best surrogacy agency in Mexico

Best surrogacy agency in Colombia

Best surrogacy agency in Argentina

Best surrogacy agency in Georgia

Best surrogacy agency in the USA

Best surrogacy agency in Ukraine

Best surrogacy agency in Armenia

Conclusion

In conclusion, identified surrogacy can be a beneficial option for those seeking to start a family through surrogacy. By working with a surrogate you know, you can establish a strong and trusting relationship, providing a sense of comfort and security throughout the process.

It is important to carefully consider all aspects of identified surrogacy and to work closely with a reputable agency to ensure a smooth and successful journey for all parties involved. With the proper support and guidance, identified surrogacy can be a rewarding and fulfilling path to parenthood.

If you’d like to learn more about IVF, Egg Donation, or surrogacy services globally, check out the rest of our website at  Complete Surrogacy Agency. We offer legally secure and affordable surrogacy consulting services for FREE.

For more resources on IVF and Surrogacy, browse our other web page- IVF Conceptions.

For more resources on IVF and Surrogacy, browse our other web page- Georgia Surrogacy Agency.

Our team has over 13 years of experience facilitating surrogacy arrangements, egg donation, and serving as an advocacy resource for infertile couples and LGBTQ individuals seeking to build families.

Our founder and chief surrogacy consultant, Neelam Chhagani, passionately helps couples struggling with fertility challenges. Since starting our surrogacy consulting agency in 2013, we’ve helped welcome over 500 babies for intended parents nationwide.

Our team includes experts from diverse backgrounds with leading reproductive attorneys, professionally trained top fertility doctors, former surrogacy case managers, experienced and kind surrogate mother and egg donor coordinators, mental health professionals specializing in infertility counseling, and a logistic support team to assist you in your chosen surrogacy country.

References used: 

• https://resolve.org
• https://www.asrm.org/

FAQs for What is Identified Surrogacy

What are the potential advantages and disadvantages of working with a surrogate you know personally in identified surrogacy?

• Working with a surrogate you know personally in identified surrogacy can have several potential advantages.
• Firstly, there may be a greater level of trust and understanding between you and the surrogate, which can lead to better communication and cooperation throughout the process.
• Additionally, you may feel more comfortable discussing personal details and making decisions together.

On the other hand, a potential disadvantage is that personal relationships can sometimes become complicated or strained when mixed with the complex emotions and expectations involved in surrogacy.

• There may be challenges in navigating boundaries and maintaining a professional dynamic.
• It is important to carefully consider the potential impact on the relationship before proceeding with a known surrogate.

How does the relationship between the intended parents and the surrogate change when they have a pre-existing personal connection?

When intended parents and a surrogate have a pre-existing personal connection, such as being friends or family members, their relationship may become more intimate and supportive during the surrogacy journey.

The trust and understanding already established can lead to easier communication, increased emotional support, and a deeper sense of shared purpose.

This connection can help navigate challenges and conflicts more effectively, while also fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.

However, it is important for all parties involved to maintain open and honest communication, establish clear boundaries, and address any potential emotional complexities that may arise to ensure a successful surrogacy experience.

What are some ethical considerations that arise when working with a surrogate you know in identified surrogacy?

When working with a surrogate you know in identified surrogacy, there are several ethical considerations that arise.

Firstly, it is important to ensure that the surrogate fully understands the emotional and physical risks involved, while also considering her autonomy and consent throughout the process.

Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the potential for exploitation or coercion, especially if there is a pre-existing relationship between the surrogate and intended parents.

It is crucial to establish clear boundaries, informed consent, and legal agreements to protect all parties involved.

Transparency, open communication, and respect for the surrogate’s well-being are essential to navigating these ethical considerations.

How does the legal process differ when using a surrogate you know compared to using a surrogate through an agency?

The legal process when using a surrogate you know compared to using a surrogate through an agency can differ in several ways.

When using a known surrogate, the parties involved may have a pre-existing relationship, which can impact the level of trust and communication throughout the process.

In terms of legal procedures, using a known surrogate may require the involvement of lawyers to draft and negotiate a detailed surrogacy agreement, outlining the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.

On the other hand, when using a surrogate through an agency, the agency typically takes care of the legal aspects, including screening and matching surrogates, as well as handling the necessary contracts and legal procedures.