In today’s digital age, misinformation spreads quickly—especially on social media, where self-proclaimed experts often share opinions as facts. Surrogacy is one topic that’s frequently misunderstood, leading to widespread myths and misconceptions.
At the risk of sounding like one of those “know-it-alls,” we’re here to set the record straight and debunk some of the most common myths about surrogacy.
Myth #1: Surrogates Are “Giving Away” Their Babies
In gestational surrogacy, the baby is not biologically related to the surrogate. She is not “giving away” her baby—she is carrying a baby for the intended parents.
Thanks to advancements in IVF and reproductive law, gestational carriers are not genetically connected to the child. From a legal and biological standpoint, the intended parents are recognized as the child’s parents from the very beginning.
Think of it more like a long-term babysitting role—one filled with love, care, and purpose.
Myth #2: Adoption Is Easier Than Surrogacy
While adoption is a beautiful path to parenthood, it’s not necessarily easier—or more accessible—than surrogacy.
Adoption can be a complex, emotional, and expensive process. Many hopeful parents face legal restrictions, long wait times, and the risk of birth parents changing their minds. For same-sex couples, single individuals, or older prospective parents, adoption may not even be a legal option in some countries.
Surrogacy offers a more predictable legal framework. The intended parents are recognized as the legal parents from the start, and the surrogate has no legal claim to the child. For many, this makes surrogacy a more secure and viable path to parenthood.
Myth #3: Surrogates Struggle to Give Up the Baby
This is a common concern—but it’s largely unfounded.
Gestational surrogates understand from the beginning that the baby is not theirs. They are emotionally prepared and supported throughout the journey. These women are exceptional individuals who feel called to help others experience the joy of parenthood.
At our agency, we work exclusively with gestational surrogates, meaning there is no genetic link between the surrogate and the baby.
Myth #4: Surrogates Do It Just for the Money
Compensation is part of the surrogacy process, but it’s far from the only motivator.
Most surrogates are driven by a deep desire to help others. They understand the emotional pain of infertility and want to make a difference. While the financial aspect is appreciated, it’s not the primary reason women choose to become surrogates.
Pregnancy and childbirth involve real risks. The decision to become a surrogate is rooted in compassion, not just compensation.
Myth #5: Surrogates Never See the Baby Again
In many cases, surrogates and intended parents form lasting bonds. It’s not uncommon for surrogates to stay in touch and even visit the child as they grow.
The level of post-birth contact is entirely up to the surrogate and the intended parents. Many of our surrogates maintain warm, ongoing relationships with the families they’ve helped create.
Myth #6: Children Born Through Surrogacy Face Psychological Issues
Research consistently shows that children born through surrogacy or donor conception grow up just as healthy and well-adjusted as their peers.
A study by Cornell University and others have found no significant psychological differences between surrogacy-conceived children and those conceived naturally. In fact, these children often grow up knowing they were deeply wanted and loved from the very beginning.
Summary
Most myths about surrogacy stem from outdated information or a lack of understanding.
Surrogacy is a powerful, life-changing journey that helps people around the world build the families they’ve always dreamed of. By separating fact from fiction, we can better support intended parents, surrogates, and the children born through this incredible process.
