Calling for Standardised Surrogacy Birth Care Policies: A Brief Report

Surrogacy is increasingly becoming a preferred method for individuals and couples to expand their families. Despite this trend, the surrogacy birth care policies for health care professionals in countries such as Australia remain notably underdeveloped and inconsistent. This study aims to explore surrogacy birth care policies in hospitals in Australia. A random observational survey was conducted in metropolitan hospitals across New South Wales and Victoria. Hospital policies and protocols were reviewed via their websites, with follow-up inquiries made through telephone and email regarding surrogacy birth care policies. One hundred and twelve hospitals were randomly contacted through the maternity wards. Only 10 hospitals were found to have surrogacy birth care policies in place. This short report emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive surrogacy birth care policies in hospitals. Clear guidelines are crucial for respectful care, defining health care roles, and enhancing surrogate birth experiences.