The Surrogate Solution: Building Families Across Borders

June 9, 2025

Globally, the concept of forming a family is evolving. An increasing number of couples and single individuals are opting for contemporary solutions such as surrogacy. It wouldn’t be far-fetched to say that Nigeria is becoming an attractive option for surrogacy, providing renewed optimism for people aspiring to have children.

As more clinics and services emerge, Nigeria’s surrogacy sector is attracting increased interest. Nonetheless, those contemplating this route must be well-versed in the legal regulations, ethical concerns, and societal perspectives surrounding it.

Surrogate parenting is presented as an option for those who are unable to conceive or maintain a pregnancy because of medical conditions, physical issues, or various other factors.

Through extensive assistance encompassing medical, psychological, and legal advice, both intended parents and surrogates can experience a seamless procedure.

The main form of surrogacy is gestational surrogacy, wherein the surrogate (gestational carrier) does not share any genetic connection with the child.

Through in vitro fertilization, embryos are developed using the eggs and sperm from either the intended parents or donors, before being implanted into the surrogate’s uterus.

This is preferred for its clear legal and genetic delineation. Less common, and not explicitly detailed, is traditional surrogacy, which involves the surrogate’s egg, typically via artificial insemination.

Owing to legal and ethical intricacies, fertility centers such as Nordica Lagos concentrate on gestational surrogacy.

A number of Nigerians adhere to conventional viewpoints regarding familial matters; thus, they may view surrogacy as unconventional or strictly off-limits. Differing religious perspectives further complicate this issue—while certain individuals find it acceptable, many consider it ethically dubious, leading to a blend of approval and disapproval within various groups throughout Nigeria.

In Nigeria, familial connections run deep, with children frequently seen as a gift from above. However, surrogacy is testing these age-old customs while simultaneously crafting fresh family stories.

It goes without saying that numerous Nigerian families joyfully embrace surrogacy, welcoming it as a contemporary means of starting a family.

Nigeria is emerging as a preferred choice for surrogacy in Africa, thanks to clinics that frequently offer higher success rates and more specialized services.

Nevertheless, both the legal and ethical terrain along with the regulatory environment continue to evolve. Currently, there isn’t an all-encompassing body of law tailored explicitly for surrogacy; instead, present regulations primarily address issues related to IVF and broader reproductive rights rather than specific surrogacy agreements.

The growth of surrogacy in Nigeria might appear unexpected at first glance; however, with the long-standing use of fertility treatments such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), this development isn’t entirely unforeseen. Nonetheless, choosing surrogacy as a favored method is quite recent, and the sector has expanded quickly.

This expansion can be attributed partially to the increase in fertility clinics along with a higher demand from individuals both inside Nigeria and overseas.

Who qualifies? Surrogacy is typically suggested for women who lack a functional uterus (for instance, because of a hysterectomy or being born without one), those with health conditions that make pregnancy risky (such as serious heart problems), and individuals who have experienced multiple failed IVFs or miscarriages attributed to uterine factors rather than issues related to eggs or sperm. This can include cases where the uterus has been damaged from numerous operations involving fibroids.

The surrogates undergo thorough evaluations of their physical and mental well-being, guaranteeing they comply with both medical guidelines and ethical criteria.

It is heartening that surrogacy is gaining broader acceptance, with numerous Nigerians viewing it as an honorable means of assisting others in having children. Due to the relatively low costs within the country compared to foreign options, increasing numbers of international couples are considering Nigeria as a dependable and budget-friendly choice for surrogacy services.

Several clinics and surrogacy agencies in Nigeria distinguish themselves as reliable centers providing complete services, encompassing both medical processes and legal assistance.

International surrogacy agencies also step in, linking overseas clients with domestic providers.

Surrogacy brings up numerous queries regarding adequate informed consent and the safeguarding of rights.

Ethical surrogacy should always prioritise the surrogate’s well-being, but there are concerns about commercial surrogacy turning into exploitation.

Nonetheless, it is essential to collaborate with trustworthy agencies and legal experts to guarantee that contracts are both equitable and legally enforceable.

Therefore, what is the process of surrogacy like in Nigeria? It usually starts with comprehensive medical examinations for both the prospective parents and the surrogate mother. After they pass these evaluations, the procedure includes In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), during which the eggs are fertilized outside the body and then implanted into the surrogate’s uterus. Throughout this period, she receives continuous healthcare services ranging from hormonal therapies to regular prenatal examination appointments.

Clinic standards vary. In Nigeria, reputable clinics adhere to international guidelines and have reasonable success rates; however, individual outcomes can be affected by factors like age and overall health. Selecting a facility that is fully equipped and staffed with skilled professionals greatly enhances the likelihood of success.

The initial phase involves consultations and screenings. Prospective parents receive fertility evaluations, whereas surrogate candidates are assessed based on both their physical well-being and compatibility. Additionally, psychological counseling helps ensure that everyone involved comprehends the emotional and moral aspects of the procedure.

Eggs and sperm, sourced from the intended parents or donors, undergo fertilization in vitro utilizing methods such as ICSI or PICSI to enhance embryo quality.

Next comes the process of transferring the embryo into the surrogate’s uterus for implantation.

Continuous medical attention is provided to the surrogate to guarantee a healthy pregnancy. In terms of legality, agreements are drafted to outline parental rights, compensate the surrogate appropriately, and define each party’s duties.

Following the delivery, legal procedures finalize the custody arrangements, accompanied by customized care plans designed to offer ongoing emotional and medical assistance. Additionally, psychological counseling aids in navigating the intricate emotions experienced by everyone concerned.

When it comes to surrogacy, education plays a crucial role. Sharing successful cases and precise data helps debunk myths over time. This process is paving the way for Nigerian families seeking alternatives due to infertility issues. Yet, achieving positive outcomes necessitates meticulous adherence to legal regulations, moral principles, healthcare excellence, and societal views.

When contemplating surrogacy, it’s essential to seek reliable advice and make well-considered choices. By taking the appropriate steps, you can construct your family with confidence and responsibility.

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