Surrogacy is an option for many people who are looking to start a family. However, it can also bring about physical and emotional risks that impact both the surrogate and her loved ones.
The medical risks associated with a surrogacy pregnancy are similar to other pregnancies, including weight gain, swelling and back pain. Additionally, surrogates are subjected to blood tests and ultrasounds. These can lead to stress, which can have a negative effect on mental health.
1. Infertility
There are a number of reasons why some couples and individuals struggle to conceive. Some may experience a recurrent issue with their fertility, or they have other medical conditions that make pregnancy and carrying to term difficult.
For this reason, some couples turn to surrogacy as an option. Known as gestational surrogacy, this treatment allows intended parents to have biological children by using donor eggs and sperm.
Gestational surrogacy also requires that the egg and sperm donors have passed medical screenings and are healthy. Additionally, intended parents must provide their financial data to the carrier in order to make sure they can afford the process.
As a surrogate, you must be committed to helping other couples achieve their goal of parenthood. This is a challenging journey that requires you to be open-minded and flexible as you navigate the physical and emotional risks associated with this process.
2. Miscarriage
Miscarriage is a common pregnancy condition that affects about 10 to 20 percent of pregnancies. Most miscarriages occur early in the first trimester, before a woman knows she’s pregnant.
It’s a normal part of the pregnancy process, but it can be painful and confusing for many women. Understanding the symptoms, causes and what to do if you have a miscarriage can help you cope with this difficult time.
The risk of a miscarriage can increase for some women if they have certain chromosomal abnormalities or are exposed to specific chemicals, toxins and certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Also, smoking, high alcohol consumption and sexually transmitted diseases can all make a woman more vulnerable to miscarriage.
3. Postpartum Depression
During pregnancy, a woman goes through hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. These can be particularly prevalent after delivery.
The good news is that most women who experience postpartum depression recover with time and treatment. But if you or your partner are experiencing symptoms, it’s crucial to seek help right away.
If left untreated, depression can negatively impact both mother and baby, potentially leading to sleeping and eating problems for the child.
If you’re worried about the possibility of postpartum depression during surrogacy, talk to your doctor. They will be able to assess your risk and offer treatments if needed.
4. Postpartum Haemorrhage
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is excessive bleeding following childbirth. It’s most common during vaginal birth, but can happen with a C-section as well.
PPH happens because your uterus doesn’t contract as it should after childbirth. When your uterus contracts, it helps compress the blood vessels in your pelvic area that deliver blood to your placenta.
If your uterus doesn’t contract strongly enough, the blood vessels that delivered blood to your placenta can continue to bleed and you may have severe bleeding. This can be life-threatening.
Treatment is quick and can save your life. It’s also important to tell your healthcare team if you have a history of haemorrhaging during your pregnancy, so they can help prevent it from happening again in the future.
5. Mental Health Issues
The medical risks associated with surrogacy can be stressful for many women. They include nausea, weight gain, swelling and back pain.
The emotional risks are also significant for many women. They may experience grief, anxiety and depression during this time.
Mental health issues are common, and affect everyone. They can make it difficult for you to have a healthy relationship with yourself or others.
It’s important to seek help for your mental health problems if you notice that they are impacting your quality of life. Talking with a licensed Mental Health Professional is the first step toward getting help.