Surrogacy Linked to Increased Risk of Severe Pregnancy Complications, Study Finds

A recent study has revealed that women who carry surrogate pregnancies may face a higher risk of severe pregnancy complications compared to those who conceive naturally. The findings, published in a leading medical journal, shed light on the potential health risks associated with surrogacy and have prompted calls for further research into the safety protocols surrounding the procedure.

The study analyzed data from over 10,000 surrogate pregnancies across multiple countries and found that surrogates were more likely to experience complications such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Additionally, the research highlighted a greater likelihood of needing cesarean sections, as well as other medical interventions during labour and delivery.

Researchers noted that while surrogacy offers a vital reproductive option for individuals and couples who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, the health risks to surrogates should be more widely acknowledged. Dr. Sarah Thompson, the lead author of the study, stated, “Our findings underscore the importance of providing specialized medical care and monitoring for surrogate pregnancies to ensure both the surrogate and the baby’s health.”

Surrogacy has grown in popularity over the past decade, with thousands of couples and individuals relying on it to build families. However, the medical community is now grappling with the implications of this study, which raises concerns about the long-term health effects for women who act as surrogates.

Medical experts are urging surrogacy clinics to improve pre-screening procedures and offer more comprehensive healthcare support throughout the pregnancy. “It’s crucial that we approach surrogacy with the same level of care and precaution as any high-risk pregnancy,” Dr. Thompson emphasized.

The study also called for more robust ethical guidelines to protect surrogates, ensuring that they are fully informed of the potential health risks before entering into agreements. With surrogacy becoming more accessible globally, experts are advocating for uniform international standards that prioritize the well-being of the surrogates.

This groundbreaking research could lead to changes in how surrogacy is approached both medically and legally, potentially influencing future legislation aimed at better-protecting surrogates from unforeseen risks.