In honor of Honolulu Pride month, we are going to debunk the top 3 myths when it comes to surrogacy with same-sex couples.
Myth #1: Adoption is the only way for same-sex couples to become parents.
False! While adoption is an amazing option for same-sex couples, surrogacy is another viable option. With surrogacy, same-sex couples may also have the chance to be biologically related to their child.
Myth #2: A Gestational Carrier is related to the child she carries.
False! As we know from our last blog post, gestational carriers have no biological relation to the child they carry. With same-sex couples, one of the intended parents can use their egg or sperm, and then use either an egg or sperm donor to create an embryo through IVF. Once the embryo is created, it is then transferred to the gestational carrier.
Myth #3: There are different laws regarding surrogacy with same-sex intended parents and heterosexual intended parents.
True and False. Depending on what country or state you live in, there can be different laws regarding surrogacy. In the state of Hawaii, there are no specific laws that differentiate between same-sex couples and heterosexual couples as it relates to surrogacy. It is important to consult with a surrogacy attorney in your state to determine what needs to be done to protect your rights and establish parentage of any child born via gestational carrier.
Make sure that your agency works with legal professionals that are experts in family law and assisted reproductive technology. If you reside outside of the United States, ask your agency for referrals to home country attorneys that can help you navigate the immigration requirements for a child born via gestational surrogacy.
At Hawaii Surrogacy Center, we believe in inclusion for all. Everyone should have the chance to build a family. To help someone from the LGBTQ community become a parent, consider being a surrogate: https://www.hawaiisurrogacy.com/surrogates. For more information about becoming a parent, visit https://www.hawaiisurrogacy.com/intended-parents.