If you are a gay couple considering Surrogate options in California there are a few things you should know. Surrogacy is a good choice for gay couples as it allows them to be biologically involved with the child’s birth unlike adoption. Adoption is often preferred however as it gives a couple the chance to provide a loving home to a child in need of a family. If you are leaning towards surrogacy here are a few things to discuss.
Fathering the Child
One of the most difficult decisions associated with surrogacy and two fathers is that only one father can donate the sperm. If you plan to have more than one child than you can simply take turns with each partner providing sperm for each child. There are a number of other options however. One option is to have one father donate the sperm and have a female family member of the other partner provide the egg. This way both men are biologically tied to the child. Another option is to attempt to have twins. This is a little more complicated. It involves each partner finding an egg donor and than each egg is fertilized by both dads. Twins can then be conceived. However in some cases this results in a single pregnancy in which case a test will be required to determine which partner is the biological father. This is not only complicated but can also prove to be disappointing for one of you. You would have to be prepared to deal with the emotional implications of this option.
Legal Issues
The birth certificate can cause a bit of confusion as well. With two fathers and a surrogate in California you will have to decide how you want to complete the birth certificate. You can have both fathers’ and the surrogate mother’s names or one father and the surrogate mother’s name. In California it is the easiest state to make arrangements for birth certificates for surrogacy which means you are legally able to share custody regardless of the fact you are gay parents.
It will take a lot of discussion and consideration to come to an agreement that will make you both happy. Keeping your eyes on the ultimate prize is the best way to come up with terms that will result in a loving family.
To become a surrogate California couples can use for the birth of their child the Centre for Surrogate Parenting Inc. can help. Visit Domain for more information.