3 Myths About Gay Surrogacy

For many LGBTQ couples and singles, the experience of having a family is not different from others. However, the path to planning and starting a family often takes many forms. A majority of this time is spent seeking assistance from specialists in this arena.

Raising awareness, increasing the representation of family-building pathways, and sharing correct information is necessary to inform potential parents and well-wishers of the LGBTQ group.

The following is a list of three myths about gay surrogacy parenting that we’ve attempted to demystify:

Myth #1 –

Both Intended Parents in a Same-sex Relationship are Genetically Linked with The Child.

Only one parent is genetically related to her or his child with LGBTQ same-sex couples with biological family-building. Both intended parents in a same-sex relationship can’t share a genetic link with their child. In this path to family-building, same-sex partners must use either a sperm or an egg donor who will provide their child’s genetics, also called a “gamete donor.”

Myth #2 –

All Egg and Sperm Donors are Anonymous.

For LGBTQ same-sex couples or single females, a sperm donor or egg donors can be either anonymous or known. This person may be a blood relative or friend. Known sperm donors must consent to semen analysis, blood work, discussion with a mental health professional, and a physical exam. A reproductive attorney must also be hired to protect the parental rights and responsibilities of both parties.

A couple or woman may also opt to use a sperm bank. These are licensed facilities with both known and anonymous donors. Before starting the selection process, intended mothers must speak to their general physician to select a reliable sperm bank. Most sperm donor profiles may be viewed online. Once the specimen is selected and purchased, it will be sent to your doctor’s office.

For LGBTQ cisgender couples or single men, the egg donor might be a relative, friend, or sister of the intended father. Whether you use a donor or relative/friend, it is recommended that both parties seek legal counsel and have their contracts executed so that both sets of rights are protected.

Egg donors must also undergo various screenings such as fertility, general health, infectious diseases, substance abuse, and mental illness. Many also undergo counseling.

Myth #3 –

For cisgender, same-sex male couples who opt to use a gestational carrier have their rights, and those of their baby are protected as long as they reside in a surrogacy-friendly state.

The legal aspects of every surrogacy journey must always be considered. Although same-sex marriage is legal in the United States, completing parentage assignments and birth certificates and compensating surrogates varies immensely from state to state. Intended parents often use reproductive attorneys from several states to draw up a preconception contract with their surrogate and any state-specific legalities. This ensures the names of both parents will be listed on the birth certificate. Many reproductive attorneys will also recommend additional legal protection called second-parent adoption. This ensures that the non-biological parent’s rights are also protected.

Let us help you bust more myths about gay surrogacy. Get in touch with Rite Options today.