LGBT Surrogacy Definition
Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals sometimes seek a surrogate mother in order to have a child that is biologically-related to at least one parent. Often, intended parents may utilize eggs or sperm from both partners so that they are not aware of which parent is actually biologically-related to the child. They do this in hopes of avoiding either parent’s attitudes towards the child being affected by biology.
By behaving as parents with equal rights regarding the child, they are more likely to be treated as equal parents in the eyes of those around them. LGBT couples wish to have the same rights afforded to traditional parents and behave in a way that will help them achieve those rights. LGBT surrogacy is becoming increasing acceptable by both society and the legal community.
Conflict of Laws
In states that have enacted laws regarding surrogacy, only certain types have been legally allowed. While some states allow for commercial surrogacy, others only allow for altruistic surrogate contracts.
Specific Agencies
When a LGBT couple chooses to use a surrogate mother to have a child, there are specific agencies that can help. For instance, there are human rights organizations that will help the intended parents find a surrogate agency that will assist them. There are specific agencies that specialize in helping singles and those in the LGBT community achieve a successful surrogate pregnancy. These organizations and agencies will assist in all medical and legal issues.
Many members of the LGBT community will find that they encounter opposition when they attempt to have a child through surrogacy. Unfortunately, this is an added stress to the many other stresses associated with surrogacy. LGBT couples may experience opposition among those close to them, as well as people they encounter throughout the surrogacy process.
Intended parents will want to be sure that they utilize the services of an agency that has experience dealing with opposition and that has a proven success rate in LGBT surrogacy. If intended parents choose the correct agency and have a good support group in place, they will find the process to be a happy and successful one.