What Is the Purpose of a Surrogate Mother?

By Dr. Kulsoom Baloch

Learn more about Dr. Baloch

Introduction

Surrogacy is a modern solution for people who want to become parents but cannot carry a pregnancy. At the heart of this process is the surrogate mother. But what exactly is her role, and why is she so important? This article explains the purpose of a surrogate mother and how she helps families grow.

What Is a Surrogate Mother?

A surrogate mother is a woman who agrees to carry and give birth to a baby for another person or couple (the intended parents). In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby.

Why Do People Use Surrogates?

• Medical reasons – The intended mother cannot carry a pregnancy due to a health condition or previous surgeries like a hysterectomy.
• Recurrent miscarriage – Some women turn to surrogacy after repeated pregnancy losses.
• Same-sex couples or single parents – Gay male couples and single men require a surrogate to have a biological child.

The Purpose of a Surrogate Mother

• Carrying the pregnancy – The primary purpose is to safely carry the embryo to term and deliver a healthy baby.
• Providing a nurturing environment – The surrogate’s body supports fetal development through all trimesters.
• Helping others start or grow a family – Surrogates offer the gift of life to people who otherwise couldn’t become parents.

What the Role Includes

• Undergoing medical evaluations and hormone treatments
• Receiving an embryo via IVF
• Attending regular prenatal appointments
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout pregnancy
• Delivering the baby and transferring custody to the intended parents

Legal and Emotional Aspects

Surrogacy is a legal agreement between the surrogate and intended parents. Contracts define responsibilities, rights, compensation, and the custody process. Agencies like Surrogacy4All ensure all parties are emotionally and legally supported.

Conclusion

The purpose of a surrogate mother is far more than carrying a baby—it’s about helping others experience the joy of parenthood. At Surrogacy4All, we honor and support the essential role that surrogates play in creating loving families.