Related Experiment Videos
Surrogacy: the experience of commissioning couples
Fiona MacCallum1, Emma Lycett, Clare Murray
1City University, London Family and Child Psychology Research Centre, Northampton Square, UK. F.J.Maccallum@city.ac.uk
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|May 30, 2003
Summary
Commissioning couples found surrogacy a positive experience, often pursued after infertility. Most maintained good relationships with surrogates and disclosed the arrangement to family and friends.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Family Studies
- Psychology
Background:
- This study examines the experiences of commissioning couples undergoing surrogacy.
- Focuses on parental perspectives regarding surrogacy arrangements and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate commissioning couples' motivations for choosing surrogacy.
- To analyze their experiences during pregnancy and post-birth.
- To assess relationships with surrogate mothers and disclosure practices.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 42 couples with a 1-year-old child born via surrogacy was assessed.
- Standardized semi-structured interviews were used to gather data.
- Inquiries covered motivations, surrogate details, pregnancy, and post-birth experiences.
Main Results:
- Surrogacy was typically considered after prolonged infertility or as a last resort.
- Couples reported low anxiety during pregnancy and generally positive relationships with surrogates.
- Most couples maintained contact with surrogates post-birth and disclosed the arrangement to others.
Conclusions:
- Commissioning couples generally viewed their surrogacy experience positively.
- Surrogacy arrangements facilitated by good relationships and open communication.