How to Become a Surrogate in Indiana
Gestational Surrogacy in IN: A Guide for Prospective Surrogates
If you are a Hoosier considering becoming a surrogate — often referred to by the more traditional term, surrogate mother — there are a few important things to know about the process. This article will provide a guide to the steps involved in becoming a gestational surrogate in Indiana and offer tips on how to navigate the process smoothly.
What is gestational surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is a type of surrogacy in which a woman carries a fertilized embryo that is not biologically related to her. This embryo is created using in vitro fertilization (IVF) and can be created using the intended parents' sperm and egg, or using donor sperm and/or eggs. The surrogate has no genetic connection to the child she is carrying and is therefore referred to as a gestational carrier.
Steps to Becoming a Surrogate in Indiana
Becoming a gestational surrogate in Indiana involves several important steps. The following is a guide for prospective surrogates in Indiana:
Understand the Requirements
Before you embark on your journey as a gestational surrogate in Indiana, it's crucial to understand the legal and medical requirements. Surrogates must typically meet the following criteria:
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Be between 21 and 40 years of age.
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Have a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) within a certain range.
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Have at least one previous successful pregnancy and be raising your child.
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Be a non-smoker and drug-free.
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Be emotionally stable and committed to the process.
Research Surrogacy Agencies
Choosing a reputable surrogacy agency is a crucial step. Research and contact surrogacy agencies in Indiana. Ensure that the agency you select has a good track record and can provide the necessary support and guidance throughout your surrogacy journey.
Consult with a Reproductive Attorney
Consult with a reproductive attorney who specializes in surrogacy in Indiana. They will help you understand the legal aspects of surrogacy, draft a surrogacy contract, and ensure your rights and the intended parents' rights are protected throughout the process.
Medical Evaluation
You will undergo thorough medical and psychological evaluations to ensure you are physically and emotionally fit for surrogacy. The intended parents will also undergo fertility treatments to create embryos.
Match with Intended Parents
A good surrogacy agency will help match you with intended parents who share similar values and expectations. Building a strong relationship with the intended parents is crucial for a successful surrogacy journey.
Legal Process
With the help of your reproductive attorney, you will finalize the surrogacy contract, addressing important issues like compensation, medical expenses, and other details. In Indiana, as in neighboring Ohio and other states in the Midwest such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Missouri, Iowa, the birth certificate will list the intended parents as the legal parents.
Medical Procedures
Once the legalities are in place, you will undergo medical procedures to prepare your body for embryo transfer. This may involve hormone treatments and regular medical check-ups.
Pregnancy and Delivery
Once the embryo is successfully implanted, you will go through a typical pregnancy under the guidance of medical professionals. You will receive ongoing support from your surrogacy agency and intended parents.
Post-Birth Process
After the birth, the baby will be handed over to the intended parents, as specified in the surrogacy contract. Legal procedures will be completed to ensure the baby's legal parentage is transferred to the intended parents.
Emotional Support
Throughout the entire surrogacy process, it's essential to have a strong support system. Consider joining support groups for surrogates or seeking counseling if needed, to help you navigate the emotional aspects of surrogacy.
Becoming a gestational surrogate in Indiana is a rewarding journey, but it's important to thoroughly research, choose the right agency, and have a comprehensive understanding of the legal and medical aspects involved. Your dedication and willingness to help others create a family are truly commendable.
State-Specific Points of Note
Becoming a gestational surrogate in the Hoosier State can be a wonderful opportunity to help intended parents start a family. By following the steps outlined in this guide and working with a trusted surrogacy agency, you can.
How Much do Surrogates Get Paid in Indiana?
Typically, surrogates in Indiana can expect to receive compensation in the range of $30,000 to $50,000, although this can vary depending on a number of factors, including prior experience as a surrogate, medical and lifestyle history, and the specific terms of the surrogacy arrangement being entered into.
This compensation typically includes reimbursement for medical expenses, as well as compensation for time off work, lost wages, and other expenses related to the surrogacy journey.
Surrogacy in Indianapolis
Indianapolis is home to a sizable surrogacy community, with a large number of experienced surrogates who have gone through the process multiple times.
The vibrant surrogacy community in the Railroad City, combined with excellent medical facilities such as Indiana University Health's Riley Maternity Tower, act together to make the surrogacy journey as smooth and successful as possible.
Indiana Surrogacy Law
Indiana's family laws, including its adoption laws, do not prohibit surrogacy.
Some Indiana courts look favorably on surrogacy agreements when a generic link to the intended parents is present. Your surrogacy agency and attorney will understand how to approach this.
Since no statute or published case law prohibits it, gestational surrogacy is permitted and practiced in Indiana.