Whether you are a fan of the Kardashian’s or not, it is hard not to feel for Kim Kardashian as she faces the pain that many other women endure when trying to fall pregnant.
What is sad is that little has been mentioned of how Kanye is feeling in this situation and how they are tackling it together. I anticipate this is due to TV rights more than the reality of the situation.
The press reels have been rife with speculation as to whether Kim will choose the route of surrogacy. She lives her life in the public eye and it appears this issue will be played out there too. It is a sensitive issue and one that I hope will be dealt with in such a way, for her sake and for those who view this programme/read the press.
I understand in a recent episode her mother said that Kim’s little sister would carry for her and her consultant offering to discuss options. It appears she was suggesting gestational surrogacy which is where the surrogate (i.e. Kim’s sister) carries the baby of Kim and Kanye (or by donor sperm/egg). As this involves an embryo transfer it always takes place in a clinical setting.
There is also the other form of surrogacy called straight surrogacy which is when the Surrogate is the biological mother (i.e. the baby is that of the sister’s and Kanye’s/sperm donor).
Surrogacy is not only an option for those struggling with fertility/medical issues it is also an option for lesbian and gay couples creating their own family.
The legal issues which Kim will face are considerably different in America to those here in the UK.
In this country we have strict rules which govern all aspects of fertility treatment and Surrogacy. Surrogacy in the UK is not illegal but surrogacy cannot be for commercial gain. It is intended to be entirely altruistic (selfless).
It is imperative if you are considering Surrogacy in this country or abroad you get legal advice as this area of the law is complex. It is also important to get advice on other aspects such as inheritance rights, employment rights and practical issues to consider.
The world of fertility treatment is developing rapidly. We have joined forces with Simply Fertility, a leading fertility clinic in Essex, to ensure that those considering fertility treatment and surrogacy are able to consider their options in a fully informed way.
As such we would invite you to join us at our free information event on the 10th May 2015 “ The World of Fertility and Surrogacy”. Our speakers will address the pathway options, the legal effects and holistic therapies.