Surrogacy Unveiled: Doctors Experience and Stories of Hope and Challenges Our Experience of two decades of Gestational surrogacy in India

Abstract

Objective

To focus on the experiences of doctor’s, intending parents, and surrogates with beautiful surrogate babies, including legal issues and the challenges posed by the pandemic.

Study Design

This study adopts a novel strategy by investigating surrogacy from a medical professional's viewpoint. We want to offer our knowledge and wisdom gained from dealing with surrogacy as a doctor, especially in light of the many challenges brought on, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study is to comprehend the role of the doctor in surrogacy and how it relates to intended parents' and surrogate moms' experiences.

Subjects

This study's subjects include the doctor, who is also its principal investigator, as well as intending couple and surrogate mother. While intending parents and surrogate moms contribute further insights into their involvement in the surrogacy process, the doctor's experiences serve as the central narrative.

Main Outcome Measures

In this study we have looked into indications, neonatal outcomes, legal aspects, in house development, management during covid 19 pandemic of all surrogates through our experience at a single center over 5 years.

Results

This study provides insight into the experiences of couples considering surrogacy, the effective management of surrogates during a pandemic, and the impact of surrogacy on the developmental outcomes of children.

Conclusions

The findings highlight the experiences of intending couples during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing prolonged separations, varying perceptions of baby development, and increased anxiety. The successful handling of surrogates in this context, where 19 out of 54 tested positive for COVID-19 but all recovered, underscores the adaptability and success of established protocols. Additionally, the positive developmental progress in children and the prevalence of donor eggs in surrogacy outcomes contribute to a comprehensive understanding of surrogacy. Overall, this study sheds light on the emotional, physiological, and developmental aspects of surrogacy.