Types of Surrogacy

What is Commercial Surrogacy, and How Does it Work?

Commercial surrogacy is often the preferred kind of surrogacy for intended parents and surrogates where it is legally allowed. 

Many surrogacy professionals will advise that those interested in surrogacy pursue commercial surrogacy because:

Like all aspects of the surrogacy journey, there are certain things that prospective surrogates like you should consider before deciding to start a commercial surrogacy journey. Contact us today if you want to discuss these surrogacy nuances with a professional.

But, if you want to learn more about commercial surrogacy before talking to a surrogacy specialist, continue reading.

What is Commercial Surrogacy?

Generally speaking, the commercial surrogacy definition is any surrogacy where a woman is compensated beyond her surrogacy- and pregnancy-related expenses. Keep in mind that every surrogacy journey will be unique because each commercial surrogacy is designed for the intended parents’ and surrogate’s needs and preferences.

Altruistic Surrogacy vs. Commercial Surrogacy

Commercial surrogacy exists in contrast to altruistic surrogacy, where a woman does not get base pay for her surrogacy services.

Typically, altruistic surrogacies are completed between family members and friends, while commercial gestational surrogacy is often completed by people who didn’t know each other before their match.

When you work with a surrogacy professional to find intended parents, you will likely receive base compensation for your surrogacy.

How Does Commercial Surrogacy Work?

If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, you probably know that the intended parents will cover all your medical expenses through:

The base compensation aspect of commercial surrogacy is handled similarly:

Your total amount of surrogacy compensation depends on many factors. The average surrogate in a commercial surrogacy earns around $45,000, but surrogacy professionals can give you a better estimate of what to expect in your situation.

Where is Commercial Surrogacy Legal?

While commercial surrogacy used to be legal in countries around the world, new legislation has restricted the availability of commercial surrogacy. In fact, many countries today have banned the practice.

Consider the State You Live in

As a surrogate in the United States, you will likely have the opportunity to complete a commercial surrogacy. However, this depends upon your state’s laws.

Unfortunately, a few states prohibit commercial surrogacy, so you must speak with a local surrogacy lawyer to learn more about the options for surrogacy in your area.

If commercial gestational surrogacy is legal in your state, the details of your process will be agreed upon during the legal contract phase. In this process, your surrogacy attorney will negotiate with the intended parents’ lawyer to make sure your rights and interests are protected throughout your commercial surrogacy. They will help determine what your base compensation will look like, too.

Why is There a Debate About Commercial Surrogacy?

Since surrogacy has existed, there has been a debate over its ethics.  

While commercial surrogacy allows surrogates the opportunity to receive the compensation they deserve, some view this as a negative thing rather than a positive one. Understanding the facts about commercial surrogacy before making any judgments is essential.

Commercial Surrogacy Pros and Cons

If you’re considering being a surrogate in a commercial surrogacy, it’s important to understand the pros and cons associated with your surrogacy circumstances before committing to this path.

Commercial Surrogacy Pros

Cons

Next Steps Before Deciding That Commercial Surrogacy is Right for You

Before committing to commercial surrogacy, discuss your personal goals and expectations with an experienced professional.

A surrogacy specialist can give you a better estimate of:

Contact us today to learn more.

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