When diving into the research of surrogacy and surrogate compensation, you’ll find that there are two main types: compensated and altruistic. Compensated surrogacy is essentially just what we call ‘surrogacy’ here in the states. Some countries may also refer to this as "commercial surrogacy." This is where a surrogate is provided compensation for her being a gestational carrier. 

However, in many states and countries, compensated surrogacy is not legal or practiced. In these instances, altruistic surrogacy might be the only option available. In this guide, you’ll learn the nuances and details of both types.

Altruistic Surrogacy vs Compensated (Commercial) Surrogacy

What is Compensate (or Commercial) Surrogacy?

This is an arrangement between the Intended Parents and the surrogate that includes a monetary component. Compensation for the gestational carrier can vary widely depending on the requirements of the surrogate, the agency involved (if any), as well as the budget of the Intended Parents if they are taking the independent surrogacy route. 

Surrogates are generally compensated with a base pay starting at $40,000 and upwards if they are a first time carrier, even more if it’s their second or third time. Surrogates are also usually reimbursed for all pregnancy related expenses and services, in addition to other possible stipends throughout. 

This type offers a mutually beneficial exchange between the Intended Parents and surrogate. This exchange allows the surrogate to help a pair of hopeful parents, while still being compensated for their time, energy, and strain on their bodies.

The Meaning of Altruistic Surrogacy

So, what is altruistic surrogacy? When discussing altruistic surrogacy, we refer to the exact opposite of compensated surrogacy. The biggest difference? Surrogates are not compensated with a base pay.

However, while the surrogate is not directly receiving payment for her services, she is still reimbursed for all pregnancy related expenses, including medical appointments and transportation. She is also reimbursed for all lost wages.

This type of surrogacy is often set up as an independent surrogacy agreement, instead of with the help of an agency. Surrogates in an altruistic surrogacy also tend to be close friends or family members with the Intended Parents.

Altruistic Surrogacy Cost

Compared to the cost of compensated surrogacy, you’ll notice that there are some big differences in the numbers here when it comes to altruistic surrogacy cost. 

As we touched on earlier, base compensation for surrogates generally start at $40,000. With an altruistic surrogacy, that cost for the Intended Parents is completely eliminated. However, there are still many expenses you’ll be required to cover during the surrogacy process, which, depending on where you live could vary greatly.

For example:

• All medical fees associated with the surrogacy

• Legal professional fees

• Agency fees (if applicable)

• Life insurance

• Health insurance

• Specialists, counselors, or mental health therapists

• Extra fees (travel costs, maternity clothes)

While this version of surrogacy is one of the most affordable, surrogacy in general is expensive and will require some financial planning.

Pros and Cons of Altruistic Surrogacy

What are the Benefits of Altruistic Surrogacy?

You might be wondering why Intended Parents might decide to choose altruistic surrogacy over the more widespread compensated option. Let’s go over some of the possible reasons to take this path.

First of all, it’s simply a more accessible option that is widely available in many states and countries. There are still many places where compensated surrogacy is not legal, so in these cases, altruistic is the only option.

The most obvious benefit of altruistic surrogacy is the huge potential in savings. Unlike compensated surrogacy, Intended Parents do not have to pay the surrogate any base compensation for their services. Costs are even further reduced if the Intended Parents are not working with an agency and choose to take the route of independent surrogacy.

Another benefit is that Intended Parents may have a closer bond with their surrogate, making it a more personal journey if they have a friend or family member carrying the baby.

Last but not least, the process of altruistic surrogacy still is very similar to compensated surrogacy in the way that your surrogate will also still need to obtain legal counsel, mental health evaluations, background checks, and secure health insurance.

What are the "Cons" of Altruistic Surrogacy?

Since the surrogates in these type of arrangements tend to be close family and friends, you will always run the risk of the relationship being compromised. This is a very personal journey, so when combining many (possibly conflicting) strong opinions, emotions, and financial aspects of the arrangement… one wrong move could ruin a relationship in the blink of an eye. This is just one reason why having lawyers and agreements in place is essential ahead of time.

Another possible risk is that Intended Parents may feel uncomfortable making requests of the surrogate because they’re not being compensated. This can work both ways unfortunately. The surrogate may become demanding with her preferences as well, creating an unhealthy dynamic where no one is happy.

Educating Family and Friends About Surrogacy

When introducing the topic of surrogacy to family and friends, it’s best to be open, honest, and come prepared. While you might have singled out a few ideal people in your life that you would love to have help you bring your new family to life, they may or may not be on board with the idea of becoming an altruistic surrogate.

Do your homework and be ready to answer questions about the surrogacy process so they can have a clear picture of what their role would be if they did decide to become involved in your journey.

Consider researching common concerns or questions about the overall process, health risks, legal risks, and how IVF works. Understand and be able to explain what other kinds of commitments they’ll need to make, for example, medical appointments, screenings, willingness to do IVF injections, etc. Sharing the full picture of the surrogacy journey will allow them to start making their own decision on whether they are interested in becoming a part of the process.

Start Your Altruistic Surrogacy Journey

Although altruistic surrogacy has it’s pros and cons, the most important thing is to connect with a surrogate that you feel is a good fit for you and your partner. Standard commercial surrogacy is already a delicate process, but once you bring in a friend or family member, the dynamic changes quickly.

Are you considering taking the altruistic route? It’s just one of the paths that we can help guide you through here at Surrogacy Simplified. Whether you’re wondering if you’re choosing the right surrogate, or just have questions about next steps, we can hold your hand through the entire process (and provide full case management for these journeys as well).

Book your complimentary initial consultation here to get started.