Surrogacy
Surrogacy is an arrangement in which a woman (the surrogate) carries and gives birth to a child with the intention that the child will be cared for and raised by another person or couple, known as the intended parent(s).
There are two main types of surrogacy:
Traditional Surrogacy
Traditional surrogacy occurs when the surrogate uses her own eggs and becomes pregnant through insemination using sperm from the intended father or a donor. In this situation, the surrogate is genetically related to the child.
This type of treatment is usually arranged outside of a fertility clinic.
Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy, sometimes referred to as host surrogacy, involves creating embryos through IVF and transferring an embryo to the surrogate’s uterus. The embryo may be created using the intended parents’ eggs and sperm, donor eggs, donor sperm, or a combination of these treatments.
In gestational surrogacy, the surrogate is not genetically related to the child if her own eggs are not used.
Treatment at Hull & East Riding Fertility
Hull & East Riding Fertility is able to provide fertility treatment for patients pursuing gestational surrogacy, subject to clinical assessment and compliance with current regulatory requirements.
Before treatment can commence, all parties involved will be required to attend counselling sessions to discuss the medical, emotional, ethical and legal implications of surrogacy. We strongly encourage intended parents and surrogates to consider independent legal advice before entering into any surrogacy arrangement.
Legal Considerations
Surrogacy arrangements in the UK are governed by specific legal requirements. It is important to understand that the woman who gives birth to a child is recognised as the legal mother at birth, regardless of genetic relationship.
Following the birth, intended parent(s) may apply to the court for a Parental Order, which transfers legal parenthood from the surrogate (and, where applicable, her spouse or partner) to the intended parent(s).
As surrogacy law can be complex and may change over time, we strongly recommend obtaining independent legal advice before starting treatment.
Counselling and Support
Surrogacy can be an exciting but complex journey for everyone involved. Specialist fertility counselling provides an opportunity to discuss expectations, communication, decision-making, pregnancy, birth planning and future relationships between the surrogate and intended parent(s).
Our team is committed to supporting all parties throughout the treatment process and helping ensure that informed decisions are made at every stage.
Further Information
If you are considering fertility treatment as part of a surrogacy arrangement, please contact Hull & East Riding Fertility to discuss your individual circumstances. Our team will be happy to explain the treatment options available and guide you through the next steps, please Contact Us
For further information please also visit the following websites:
https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/explore-all-treatments/surrogacy/
Page Last Modified: 30th June 2026