In recent years, surrogacy has gained significant attention, particularly as high-profile celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Chrissy Teigen openly discuss their experiences. While many laud the process as a “gift” for those facing fertility challenges, new research suggests that gestational carriers may face increased health risks during pregnancy.
Surrogacy, especially gestational surrogacy, has become a booming industry in the United States, with costs often reaching into the tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. This growing trend is not only popular among celebrities but is also becoming a viable option for various families, including same-sex couples and individuals with fertility issues.
Kim Kardashian, who has welcomed two children through surrogacy, recently highlighted the emotional and personal significance of this method. Similarly, actress Olivia Munn and comedian John Mulaney announced the arrival of their second child via a surrogate, following Munn’s battle with breast cancer. These narratives have contributed to the normalization of surrogacy in popular culture, yet they also raise important questions about the health implications for the women who serve as gestational carriers.
According to a study released recently, gestational carriers may experience a higher risk of severe complications compared to women who conceive through traditional means. The research indicates that these women are more susceptible to conditions such as high blood pressure during pregnancy, postpartum hemorrhaging, and preterm births.
While the study’s authors did not pinpoint the exact reasons for these heightened risks, previous research from Harvard University has suggested that the genetic disconnection between the carrier and the embryo might play a role. This disconnect occurs in gestational surrogacy, where the surrogate carries a child that is not genetically related to her, as the egg used is from a donor or the intended mother.
Surrogacy can be categorized into two types: traditional and gestational. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate uses her own egg, making her the biological mother of the child. However, this method is restricted in several states due to legal and ethical concerns. On the other hand, gestational surrogacy has seen a notable increase in popularity; data shows that the number of gestational carriers in the U.S. rose from just over 700 in 1999 to more than 3,400 in 2023. Between 1999 and 2013, approximately 18,400 infants were born as a result of gestational carrier cycles.
As the surrogacy industry continues to expand, it is crucial to address the health and well-being of gestational carriers. The findings from recent studies highlight the need for comprehensive medical care and support for these women throughout their pregnancies. Ensuring that gestational carriers are well-informed about potential risks and receive appropriate prenatal care is essential for safeguarding their health and the health of the babies they carry.
As more families explore surrogacy as an option, ongoing research and dialogue about the implications of this practice are vital. The experiences of celebrities may shine a spotlight on the emotional aspects of surrogacy, but the health risks faced by gestational carriers must not be overlooked. It is imperative that both the medical community and prospective parents prioritize the safety and well-being of surrogates as they navigate this complex and often challenging journey.
