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Surrogate mothers are women who carry a pregnancy for people who are unable to do so themselves or who pursue surrogacy in accordance with the laws of the relevant jurisdiction.
Some couples are unable to have children and, in certain circumstances, may consider surrogacy. In Portugal, this issue is governed by Law No. 32/2006 of 26 July on medically assisted reproduction, subsequently amended, notably by Law No. 90/2021 of 16 December.
The main difference between IVF without surrogacy and IVF as part of a surrogacy program is who carries the pregnancy. In vitro fertilization (IVF) can be used both when the intended mother carries the pregnancy herself and when a gestational carrier carries it.
Many Europeans, including Portuguese citizens, consider South America as a possible destination for fertility treatment. Cultural and linguistic ties make the region appealing, and surrogacy is often among the first options explored by families hoping to have a child.
In 2026, Portugal made substantial changes to its citizenship legislation. These changes affect not only people living in the country but also their children.
In 2026, Portugal made substantial changes to its citizenship legislation. These changes affect not only people living in the country but also their children.
Surrogacy in the United States is regulated at the state level rather than by a single federal law. As a result, the legal framework varies significantly from one state to another. Some states have well-established laws supporting gestational surrogacy, while others impose substantial restrictions or may not recognize certain surrogacy agreements.
Eligibility for surrogacy depends on the country where the program is carried out. In many cases, surrogacy is available to people who have medical contraindications to pregnancy, a history of repeated unsuccessful IVF attempts, or recurrent pregnancy loss. Whether married couples, unmarried partners, same-sex couples, or single people can access surrogacy depends on the laws of the relevant jurisdiction.
Relationships with a surrogate mother are not a side effect of the program, but one of the key factors in its success.
- Surrogate motherhood - how not to be deceived
- The cost of parenthood: an overview of reproductive programs from leading clinics
- Advantages of guaranteed surrogacy programs over programs with guaranteed compensation
- Unique Cases of Giving Birth to Children
Jul 20, 2017
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