If you have considered pursuing surrogacy as an option for bringing a child into this world –whether you are planning to be the surrogate mother or the intended parents, one of the first decisions you will have to make will be whether you will go through a surrogate agent or whether you will take the independent route. First of all, let me say that there is correct answer to this question. Which option you choose is the one that you feel best meets your unique needs. Read on to learn about some of the pros and cons to working with a surrogacy agency.
Pro #1: Surrogacy agencies will handle the matching for you.
One of the primary tasks of a surrogacy agency is to ensure that they find the best possible match between the surrogates and the intended parents. This process, when navigated independently, can be very arduous and overwhelming. By working with a surrogacy agency, you would not have to dedicate as much time and energy to this task.
Pro #2: Surrogacy agencies are highly experienced
Surrogacy can be a stressful thing to go through, especially for first-timers. By working with an experienced surrogacy agency, you get the opportunity to benefit from their experience – whether you are the surrogate mother or the intended parents.
Pro #3: Surrogacy agencies will handle setting up appointments
The vast amounts of paperwork, testing, and appointments required for a surrogacy can be overwhelming. If you work with a surrogacy agency, they help you with all of that. This is likely to at least reduce your stress levels and give you more confidence that things are being done properly.
Pro #4: The surrogacy agencies will handle all discussions about compensation
Let’s face it, talking about money can be an uncomfortable thing. Especially in a surrogacy situation. By having the surrogacy agency serve as a mediator in these discussions, you are likely to come to a reasonable decision with your surrogate partner and establish a surrogacy contract that everyone can live with.
Pro #5: The surrogacy agencies would take care of escrow
In surrogacy situations, it is often beneficial and wise to have a third party to handle all of the financial transactions. This is where surrogacy agencies come into play. They would be the ones that take care of all payments, as well as any necessary reimbursements.
Con #1: Surrogacy agencies are pricey
If you are going to pursue this option, be prepared to spend thousands of dollars. When added to the cost of the surrogacy itself, this price tag may be more than many people can afford.
Con #2: Surrogacy agencies have strict policies.
Be sure that the policies of the surrogacy agency are ones that you can live with. Do not expect for them to be open for negotiation. If you are against a policy, you should probably consider a different option.
Con #3: Some surrogacy agencies prove to be biased
Whether it is intentional or not, some surrogacy agencies may operate based on a bias. They may side with either the intended parents (who are the ones with the money) or with the surrogate mother (especially if the owner has served as a surrogate mother).
When it comes to surrogacy, every one’s journey is unique. As I said before, there is no right or wrong choice.