Independent Surrogacy Arrangements

Last month I posted 14 Mistakes to Avoid For Women Considering Becoming Surrogate Mothers or Gestational Carriers. I have had quite a few questions and suggestions. Over the next few days I will be going through each "mistake" and explaining the reason why it made the top 14!

Your comments, as always, are welcome!

Mistake Number 1-Giving out personal information, especially before a contract is signed, such as social security numbers and release of medical information to anyone but the attorney, psychologist or clinic.

If you are a woman who wants to be a gestational carrier or traditional surrogate independently, without the help of an agency, then you need to really consider what you are getting yourself into. Surrogacy is a life changing endeavour and as great as it sounds in theory, in practice it's a huge undertaking. Financially, the surrogacy process sets back most Intended Parents anywhere from $65,000-$100,000+ and that amount does not come with a guarantee of a take home baby.

If you are considering attempting a surrogacy arrangement independently, there are many issues to consider. Often times, when trying to cut financial corners and when desperation and vulnerability are a part of the picture, some may find themselves in a courtroom fighting for their baby just because one (or more) of these top 10 mistakes were made!

Top 10 Don'ts When Planning a Surrogacy Arrangement

10) Don't work with a woman under the age of 21

9) Don't work with a woman who has never given birth to a child of her own