What Are the Medical and Emotional Risks of Surrogacy in Canada?

Introduction

While the rewards of becoming a surrogate are profound, it’s important to acknowledge that surrogacy — like any pregnancy — carries both medical and emotional risks. Understanding these risks is critical for any woman considering this journey. At Surrogacy4All, we prioritize informed consent, compassionate care, and complete transparency at every stage.

This in-depth guide outlines the physical, psychological, and emotional risks associated with surrogacy in Canada and explains how Surrogacy4All supports and protects surrogates from start to finish.

Table of Contents

1. Is Surrogacy Safe for the Surrogate?
2. What Are the Common Medical Risks of Surrogacy?
3. What Are the Emotional Risks?
4. How Does Surrogacy Impact Mental Health?
5. How Are Medical Risks Monitored and Managed?
6. What Support Systems Are in Place for Emotional Challenges?
7. What Happens if There Are Complications During Pregnancy or Birth?
8. Are There Long-Term Effects of Being a Surrogate?
9. How Does Surrogacy Affect Relationships and Family Life?
10. What Makes Surrogacy4All a Safe Choice?

1. Is Surrogacy Safe for the Surrogate?

In general, surrogacy is medically safe for women who meet strict health criteria. Candidates go through thorough screenings to ensure they are physically and mentally prepared. Still, as with any pregnancy, risks can occur. These risks are not due to the surrogacy process itself but to pregnancy-related complications.

At Surrogacy4All, your health is the top priority — from preconception through postpartum recovery.

2. What Are the Common Medical Risks of Surrogacy?

As a surrogate, you will undergo fertility treatments and pregnancy. Risks may include:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS): A rare reaction to fertility medications
• Bleeding or cramping: after embryo transfer
• Multiple pregnancy: Sometimes two embryos are transferred, increasing risk
• Gestational diabetes: or **hypertension**
• Cesarean section: (C-section): More likely in surrogacy deliveries
• Preterm labor or bed rest: requirements
• Postpartum hemorrhage or infection

3. What Are the Emotional Risks?

Even with no genetic connection to the baby, surrogates often experience complex feelings. These may include:

• Attachment: to the baby during pregnancy
• Postpartum sadness: or grief after birth
• Unexpected emotional reactions: during the handover
• Feelings of isolation: if family/friends don’t understand surrogacy

These feelings are completely normal. Surrogacy4All prepares surrogates with counseling and peer support networks.

4. How Does Surrogacy Impact Mental Health?

Surrogacy can be both empowering and emotionally intense. Some women feel a sense of loss or identity shifts. Mental health risks include:

• Postpartum depression (PPD)
• Anxiety about medical procedures or delivery
• Stress from navigating the intended parent relationship

That’s why Surrogacy4All includes **mental health evaluations** before and during your journey, and access to **licensed therapists

5. How Are Medical Risks Monitored and Managed?

Every surrogate receives:

• A full medical history review and health screening
• Ongoing monitoring by fertility specialists
• Prenatal care with OB-GYNs familiar with surrogacy pregnancies
• Optional doula support during labor and delivery
• Emergency protocols and insurance coverage in case of complications

Surrogacy4All provides a 24/7 surrogate care team to support you medically and emotionally.

6. What Support Systems Are in Place for Emotional Challenges?

Emotional health is as important as physical well-being. Surrogacy4All offers:

• Access to surrogacy-trained therapists and psychologists
• Group sessions and surrogate support forums
• A dedicated coordinator to check in monthly
• Crisis intervention resources if needed
• Support during postpartum recovery

7. What Happens if There Are Complications During Pregnancy or Birth?

If complications arise:

• You’ll be referred to specialists for high-risk pregnancy care
• Your coordinator will arrange reimbursements for medical leave
• If needed, legal protections are activated to support your rights
• Insurance policies ensure you’re never financially liable

Your comfort and recovery always come first.

8. Are There Long-Term Effects of Being a Surrogate?

For most surrogates, long-term effects are minimal. However:

• Some experience prolonged recovery after delivery
• Rarely, pregnancy-related issues (e.g., C-section scarring) can persist
• Emotional reflection continues for months — often positive

Surrogacy4All offers postpartum follow-up care and resources to ensure your long-term health.

9. How Does Surrogacy Affect Relationships and Family Life?

Communication with your partner, children, and extended family is important. Most surrogates report:

• Greater family pride in their contribution
• Occasional curiosity or concern from peers
• Need for boundaries with outside opinions

Surrogacy4All helps you craft a communication plan for your family and support circle.

10. What Makes Surrogacy4All a Safe Choice?

We go beyond minimum legal and medical requirements. At Surrogacy4All, you receive:

• Comprehensive medical screening and coverage
• Fully documented reimbursement process
• Professional mental health support
• A dedicated case coordinator from day one
• 24/7 availability and emergency assistance
• Legal advocacy to protect your rights
• Optional postpartum doula services

Safety is not just a policy — it’s a promise.

Final Thoughts

Surrogacy is a noble, transformative act — but it’s not without risk. The good news is, when you’re supported by a team that values **your health, your body, and your peace of mind**, it becomes a life-affirming journey.

Surrogacy4All empowers Canadian women to become surrogates with confidence, clarity, and care.

 1-212-661-7177
 info@surrogacy4all.com
 https://www.surrogacy4all.com/become-a-surrogate-in-canada