The actress Lily Collins, known for her role in the Netflix series Emily in Paris, announced on Instagram the birth of her baby, Tove, via surrogacy. Her experience has opened a dialogue about this option within assisted reproduction treatments.
What exactly is surrogacy? Who can consider it and what are the most important medical and legal points?
What is surrogacy and what is it for?
Surrogacy involves a woman (the surrogate) carrying a pregnancy for another person or couple, who will be the child’s legal parents. In most cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is used to create the embryo with gametes from the intended parents or donors, and then it’s transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
This process is supported by solid medical studies and legal agreements that protect the health of both the surrogate and the baby.
Who can consider gestational surrogacy?
Some medical and personal reasons for choosing surrogacy include:
- Women without a uterus or with conditions that prevent a safe pregnancy (Asherman’s syndrome, heart disease).
- Individuals with multiple failed implantation attempts or recurrent miscarriages.
- Same-sex couples who want to have a biological child.
- Single individuals who wish to become mothers or fathers.
Each case is evaluated with reproductive medicine specialists to determine if this is the most suitable option.
The role of in vitro fertilization in surrogacy
IVF is essential because it allows the creation of embryos using eggs and sperm from the couple or donors. The main steps are:
- Ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval.
- Laboratory fertilization with partner or donor sperm.
- Culturing and selecting embryos with the best potential.
- Transferring one or two embryos to the surrogate’s uterus.
Additionally, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) helps identify chromosomal abnormalities before transfer, improving success rates.
Legal and ethical aspects of surrogacy
Regulations vary by country. In Mexico, the Procreational Will Law establishes rights and obligations for the surrogate and the intended parents. Contracts cover everything from informed consent to the baby’s legal protection.
In other jurisdictions, surrogacy may be prohibited or require court approval. A clear legal framework ensures a fair process for all parties.
Why is it debated?
After Lily Collins and her husband Charlie McDowell announced that Tove was born via surrogacy, negative comments emerged. Although this technique has allowed thousands of families to fulfill their dreams, the controversy centers on ethics, regulation, and the surrogate’s rights.
The risk of exploitation exists where legal or economic protections are low, but in regulated environments like Mexico, agreements and medical and psychological care ensure a respectful process.
Other alternatives to achieve pregnancy
Besides surrogacy, there are options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) and frozen embryo transfer. Each treatment is chosen based on a personalized diagnosis.
At our assisted reproduction center we have 20 years of experience and over 75,000 babies born. We offer cutting-edge technology and emotional support at every stage of your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is surrogacy safe for the surrogate and the baby?
With proper medical and psychological monitoring, yes. The surrogate undergoes preliminary tests (ultrasounds, cardiac exams, hormone analyses) and an interdisciplinary team monitors her health throughout the pregnancy. Transferring one or two embryos reduces the risk of multiple pregnancies.
For the baby, IVF and PGT tests reduce chromosomal abnormalities, and prenatal care detects any issues early.
How much does a surrogacy treatment cost?
The price varies by country, genetic tests, medical fees, surrogate compensation, and legal procedures. In Mexico, it can range from 500,000 to 1,200,000 MXN. It’s essential to request a detailed quote that includes everything: consultations, medications, psychological support, and legal aspects.
Some clinics offer financing or payment plans. Before deciding, compare options and check each center’s reputation.
What requirements must the surrogate meet?
Generally, she should be between 25 and 35 years old, have a BMI between 18.5 and 30 kg/m², a favorable obstetric history (at least one prior uncomplicated birth), and complete medical tests (serologies, transvaginal ultrasound, coagulation tests).
Her emotional and social health is also evaluated. A certified psychologist ensures she understands the process, her rights and responsibilities, and that she has family support.
How to start the surrogacy process?
First, consult a reproductive specialist for a comprehensive fertility study. If surrogacy is the best option, a legal contract is signed and the search for a surrogate begins in certified programs.
At all times, you will receive medical, legal, and emotional guidance. Avoid self-medication and, before making any decision, consult an assisted reproduction expert.
Sources consulted
- American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Practice Committee Opinion No. 512. Fertility and Sterility, 113(6), 1235–1242. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.02.014
- MedlinePlus. Surrogacy. https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/007375.htm
- Mayo Clinic. In vitro fertilization (IVF). https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/in-vitro-fertilization/about/pac-20384716
- World Health Organization. Infertility definitions and terminology. https://www.who.int/reproductivehealth/topics/infertility/definitions/en/
We know this journey can be challenging, but you are not alone. Every story is unique and deserves close support. If you are considering surrogacy or any other assisted reproduction technique, we recommend consulting an assisted fertilization specialist for the personalized guidance you need.