Introduction

Surrogacy is an assisted reproductive technique in which a woman (the surrogate mother) carries and delivers a child for another person or couple who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves. This method is an option for couples facing infertility, same-sex couples, and individuals with medical conditions that prevent them from carrying a pregnancy. Iran has become a popular destination for surrogacy due to its advanced medical expertise, affordable costs, and specialized fertility centers.

Types of Surrogacy

• Gestational Surrogacy: The surrogate carries an embryo created using the intended parents’ or donors’ gametes, meaning she has no genetic link to the baby.
• Traditional Surrogacy: The surrogate is also the biological mother, as her own egg is fertilized using sperm from the intended father or a donor (less common and legally complex).

Eligibility Criteria for Surrogates

A surrogate must meet the following conditions:

• Be in good physical and mental health
• Be between 21 and 40 years old
• Have had at least one successful pregnancy
• Pass medical, psychological, and genetic screenings
• Have a stable living environment and strong support system

Treatment Duration

The surrogacy process typically takes between 12 to 14 months, depending on legal requirements, medical evaluations, and successful embryo implantation.

Step-by-Step Treatment Process

1. Selection of a Surrogate Mother

• The intended parents choose a surrogate through a registered fertility clinic.
• The surrogate undergoes comprehensive medical and psychological screenings to ensure her suitability.
• Compatibility is assessed through blood tests and genetic screening.

2. Legal Procedures

• A legal contract is signed between the intended parents and the surrogate mother to outline responsibilities and rights.
• Legal processes vary by country and must be completed before the medical procedure begins.
• Parents obtain a legal document confirming their parental rights before or after birth, depending on the legal framework in the country.

3. Medical Preparation

• The surrogate's uterus is prepared using hormone therapy to optimize implantation conditions.
• The intended mother (or an egg donor) undergoes ovarian stimulation to retrieve mature eggs.

4. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer

• Eggs are fertilized with sperm in the laboratory to create embryos.
• A high-quality embryo is selected and transferred into the surrogate’s uterus.
• A pregnancy test is conducted two weeks after implantation.

5. Pregnancy Monitoring

• The surrogate receives routine prenatal care and monitoring to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
• Regular ultrasound scans and medical check-ups are performed throughout the pregnancy.
• Emotional support and psychological counseling are provided as needed.

6. Delivery and Legal Procedures

• The delivery takes place at a designated hospital with specialized care.
• After birth, the baby is handed over to the intended parents following legal documentation.
• The surrogate receives postnatal medical care and psychological support.

Preoperative, Intraoperative, and Postoperative Care

Before Pregnancy

• Comprehensive medical screening for the surrogate.
• Legal contract finalization.
• Psychological counseling for both parties.

During Pregnancy

• Regular medical check-ups and ultrasounds.
• Proper nutrition and lifestyle management.
• Emotional and psychological support for the surrogate.
• Monitoring for pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.

After Delivery

• Postpartum care for the surrogate, including physical and emotional support.
• Legal finalization of parental rights for the intended parents.
• The baby undergoes initial medical check-ups and screening for any health concerns.

Risks and Ethical Considerations

• Medical Risks: Pregnancy complications, hormone side effects, and C-section risks.
• Legal Risks: Surrogacy laws vary by country and must be thoroughly understood before proceeding.
• Emotional Considerations: Psychological effects on the surrogate and intended parents should be addressed through counseling.
• Ethical Concerns: The welfare of the surrogate and child should be prioritized, and ethical guidelines should be followed.