Common Myths About Being a Surrogate in Canada

Surrogacy is one of the most meaningful ways to help someone build a family, yet it’s often surrounded by misinformation. Many women who are interested in becoming a surrogate have concerns based on myths they’ve heard from friends, social media, or outdated information.

In Canada, surrogacy is carefully regulated, and prospective surrogates undergo medical, psychological, and legal screening before beginning their journey. Understanding the facts can help you make an informed decision.

Let’s explore some of the most common myths about being a surrogate in Canada—and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: Surrogacy Is Illegal in Canada

Fact: Surrogacy is legal in Canada.

Canada allows altruistic surrogacy, meaning a surrogate cannot receive payment for carrying a pregnancy, but she may be reimbursed for eligible pregnancy-related expenses under Canadian law. The process is governed by the Assisted Human Reproduction Act (AHRA) to protect everyone involved.

Myth #2: The Surrogate Is the Baby’s Biological Mother

Fact: In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate is not genetically related to the baby.

The embryo is created through IVF using the intended parents’ or donors’ eggs and sperm before being transferred to the surrogate’s uterus. The surrogate carries the pregnancy but does not contribute her own egg.

This is the most common form of surrogacy practiced in Canada.

Myth #3: A Surrogate Can Decide to Keep the Baby

Fact: Surrogacy involves clear legal agreements and established parentage processes.

Before treatment begins, the surrogate and intended parents typically enter into detailed legal agreements with independent legal representation. While parentage laws vary by province, legal planning helps clarify everyone’s rights and responsibilities throughout the journey.

Myth #4: Anyone Can Become a Surrogate

Fact: Not everyone qualifies.

Most surrogacy programs require applicants to:

• Have experienced at least one healthy full-term pregnancy
• Be in good physical and emotional health
• Meet age and BMI guidelines
• Be a non-smoker
• Pass comprehensive medical and psychological screening

These requirements help promote safe pregnancies for both the surrogate and the baby.

Myth #5: Surrogates Do It Only for Money

Fact: Canadian surrogacy is based on helping others.

Because commercial surrogacy is prohibited in Canada, women do not receive a salary for becoming surrogates. Instead, eligible pregnancy-related expenses may be reimbursed according to Canadian regulations.

Many Canadian surrogates describe their motivation as helping intended parents experience the joy of having a child.

Myth #6: Surrogacy Is Only for Married Couples

Fact: Surrogacy helps many different families.

Canadian surrogacy is available to a wide range of intended parents, including:

• Married couples
• Unmarried couples
• Single parents
• LGBTQ+ individuals and couples
• International intended parents (subject to legal and immigration requirements)

Canada is known for its inclusive approach to family building.

Myth #7: Surrogates Receive No Support

Fact: Surrogates are supported throughout the journey.

Most reputable agencies and fertility clinics provide assistance including:

• Medical coordination
• Case management
• Mental health resources
• Legal guidance
• Ongoing communication
• Postpartum support

Having a strong support team helps make the experience safer and less stressful.

Myth #8: Pregnancy Is Always Easy for Surrogates

Fact: Every pregnancy carries risks.

Although surrogates are carefully screened to reduce medical risks, pregnancy can still involve complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, preeclampsia, or postpartum bleeding. Some research has found higher rates of certain complications among gestational carriers compared with women carrying their own pregnancies. Understanding these risks is an important part of informed consent.

Myth #9: Surrogates Become Emotionally Attached and Cannot Let Go

Fact: Most gestational surrogates understand their role from the beginning.

Surrogates know they are helping another family and usually have no genetic connection to the baby. While pregnancy is naturally emotional, many surrogates describe handing the baby to the intended parents as one of the most rewarding moments of the journey.

Psychological screening and counseling also help prepare surrogates emotionally before treatment begins.

Myth #10: Having a Previous C-Section Means You Can’t Be a Surrogate

Fact: Many women with previous C-sections still qualify.

Eligibility depends on:

• Number of previous C-sections
• Recovery after surgery
• Overall reproductive health
• Medical evaluation by the fertility clinic

Many women with one or two uncomplicated C-sections are approved after medical review.

Myth #11: The Embryo Transfer Is a Major Surgery

Fact: Embryo transfer is a simple outpatient procedure.

The embryo transfer usually takes only a few minutes and is performed using a thin catheter inserted through the cervix.

Most women:

• Do not require anesthesia
• Return home the same day
• Resume light daily activities shortly afterward

Myth #12: You Have to Handle Everything Alone

Fact: Surrogacy is a team effort.

Throughout the journey, surrogates typically work closely with:

• Fertility specialists
• Nurses
• Agency coordinators
• Lawyers
• Counselors
• Intended parents

This collaborative approach helps ensure everyone is informed, supported, and prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is surrogacy legal in every province of Canada?

Ans. Altruistic surrogacy is legal throughout Canada under federal law, although parentage procedures may vary by province.

Q. Can I become a surrogate if I’ve already had children?

Ans. Yes. In fact, having at least one healthy previous pregnancy is generally a requirement for becoming a surrogate.

Q. Are surrogates paid in Canada?

Ans. No. Commercial payment is prohibited, but eligible pregnancy-related expenses may be reimbursed in accordance with Canadian regulations.

Q. Is surrogacy safe?

Ans. Surrogates receive extensive medical screening and prenatal care, but like any pregnancy, surrogacy carries potential medical and emotional risks that should be discussed with healthcare professionals.

Q. Do surrogates receive emotional support?

Ans. Yes. Many agencies and fertility clinics provide counseling and emotional support before, during, and after pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Misinformation can discourage women from exploring surrogacy, but understanding the facts helps replace fear with confidence. In Canada, surrogacy is a carefully regulated process built on medical screening, legal safeguards, and compassionate support for both surrogates and intended parents.

If you’re considering becoming a surrogate, speaking with an experienced surrogacy agency and fertility specialist is the best way to learn whether it’s the right choice for you. With accurate information and the right support, you can make an informed decision about participating in one of the most meaningful journeys of family building.

Ready to take the next step? Call Surrogacy4All at (212) 661-7673 or email info@surrogacy4all.com to book your consultation.