Surrogacy is a life-changing option for many individuals and couples who cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy on their own. However, the financial aspects of surrogacy can be complex and expensive. Understanding the breakdown of costs associated with surrogacy can help intended parents plan and navigate the journey effectively. This article provides an in-depth look at the various expenses involved in the surrogacy process in India, helping intended parents make informed decisions.
Key Components of Surrogacy Costs
Surrogacy in India has undergone significant changes in recent years due to regulatory shifts. The Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021 allows only altruistic surrogacy, meaning that commercial surrogacy is banned, and surrogate mothers are compensated only for medical and related expenses. Below are the major components of surrogacy costs in India:
1. Medical and Screening Expenses
Medical procedures play a crucial role in surrogacy, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), embryo transfer, and prenatal care.
- Fertility treatments and IVF: ₹3,00,000 – ₹6,00,000 per cycle
- Embryo transfer procedure: ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000
- Medications and hormone treatments: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Prenatal care and delivery costs: ₹2,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 (depending on hospital and insurance coverage)
2. Legal Fees
Legal services cover surrogate agreements, parental rights, and birth certificates to ensure a smooth transition for intended parents.
- Cost Range: ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 (varies by complexity and location)
3. Insurance and Medical Coverage
Surrogate medical insurance is a crucial factor in India. A separate surrogacy-specific insurance plan may be required.
- Surrogate insurance premium: ₹2,00,000 – ₹5,00,000
- Medical expenses not covered by insurance: ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,00,000
4. Psychological Support and Counseling
Emotional and psychological support is essential for both the surrogate and intended parents throughout the process.
- Cost Range: ₹25,000 – ₹50,000
5. Travel and Accommodation
If the surrogate is in a different city, travel and lodging costs may be necessary for medical procedures and delivery.
- Cost Range: ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000
6. Miscellaneous Expenses
Additional costs may include:
- Maternity clothing allowance: ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
- Lost wages (for surrogate if she must take unpaid leave): ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Childcare costs (for surrogate’s children if needed during medical appointments): ₹20,000 – ₹50,000
Cost Comparison: India vs. Other Countries
Surrogacy costs in India are significantly lower than in Western countries due to lower medical expenses and legal fees. Below is a comparison:
| Country | Estimated Cost Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| India | ₹10,00,000 – ₹20,00,000 |
| United States | ₹80,00,000 – ₹1,60,00,000 |
| Canada | ₹50,00,000 – ₹80,00,000 |
| Ukraine | ₹30,00,000 – ₹50,00,000 |
| Georgia | ₹35,00,000 – ₹55,00,000 |
Financing and Cost-Saving Strategies
Since surrogacy is a significant financial commitment, intended parents may explore various funding options in India:
- Personal Savings – Many intended parents save for years before pursuing surrogacy.
- Surrogacy Loans – Some banks and financial institutions in India offer loans for fertility treatments and surrogacy.
- Health Insurance Review – Reviewing insurance policies can help identify potential coverage for certain medical procedures.
- Government Initiatives – Some government schemes support fertility treatments, though direct support for surrogacy is limited.
Conclusion
Surrogacy in India comes with its own set of financial considerations due to legal and medical regulations. While altruistic surrogacy has reduced costs compared to commercial surrogacy, there are still substantial expenses that intended parents must plan for. Understanding the cost breakdown helps in effective planning and ensures a smoother surrogacy journey. Careful financial management, legal clarity, and medical support can help make surrogacy a viable option for building a family in India.