Surrogacy Cost in Delhi: Surrogacy Mother Cost Delhi | Shinefertility

For couples navigating the challenges of infertility, surrogacy emerges as a significant pathway to realizing their dreams of parenthood. Delhi, a vibrant metropolis in India, has established itself as a prominent destination for surrogacy services, recognized for its advanced medical infrastructure and a cadre of experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to assisted reproductive technologies. 

This guide aims to serve as a comprehensive yet easily understandable resource for intended parents seeking clarity on the costs associated with surrogacy in Delhi, taking into account the latest regulations and practical considerations. Recognizing the substantial emotional and financial investment inherent in this journey, this blog post endeavors to provide the necessary information and support to navigate the complexities of surrogacy costs in Delhi.

Estimated Cost Range for Altruistic Surrogacy in Delhi

Navigating the Surrogacy Cost Delhi requires understanding the overall financial scope. Despite the prohibition of direct payments to the surrogate, the process remains a significant financial undertaking due to the comprehensive medical, legal, and insurance requirements mandated by law.

Based on available data from various fertility service providers and analyses, the estimated total cost range for a complete altruistic surrogacy journey in Delhi typically falls between INR 14 lakhs and INR 25 lakhs. Some sources suggest ranges like INR 18-20 lakhs, while others quote lower starting packages (e.g., INR 9 lakhs or even INR 4.8 lakhs), which often exclude substantial components like full surrogate care, legal fees, mandatory insurance, or delivery costs.

It is crucial to reiterate that these figures represent the estimated total cost of the entire legal process, encompassing all permissible medical expenses, insurance premiums, legally mandated reimbursements for the surrogate, and associated procedural fees. They do not include any illegal commercial payments to the surrogate, which are strictly forbidden.

True affordability in this context relates more to finding clinics that offer transparent pricing, efficient processes, and comprehensive support, rather than seeking the absolute lowest price, which might compromise essential care or legal compliance. The wide variation in reported cost ranges underscores the critical need for intended parents to obtain extremely detailed, itemized quotes from potential clinics, scrutinizing exactly what is included and excluded in any offered ‘package’.

Key Factors Influencing Altruistic Surrogacy Costs in Delhi

(Note: Ranges are indicative based on available data and subject to change. Individual circumstances will determine the final cost.)

What is the Average Cost of Surrogacy in Delhi?

Embarking on the surrogacy journey in Delhi involves a significant financial commitment, and understanding the estimated cost range is a crucial first step for intended parents. Research indicates that the overall cost of surrogacy in Delhi can generally range from approximately INR 14,00,000 to INR 25,00,000. It is important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances, the specific fertility clinic chosen, and the particular procedures required.

The cost can fluctuate depending on whether donor gametes are necessary. For instance, surrogacy involving donor eggs may range from INR 16,40,000 to INR 26,00,000, while surrogacy with donor sperm is estimated to cost between INR 15,50,000 and INR 25,70,000. Some clinics also offer packages that include multiple attempts, with the cost for surrogacy in three attempts potentially falling within the range of INR 18,00,000 to INR 25,00,000.

It is worth noting that some clinics might advertise seemingly lower initial costs. For example, SCI IVF Hospital mentions a surrogacy package starting at INR 9,00,000 1, and Birla Fertility suggests a basic cost ranging from approximately INR 4,73,000 to INR 6,10,000. However, these lower figures often represent base packages that may exclude significant components such as surrogate care, delivery charges, or legal fees.

Therefore, intended parents should exercise caution and seek a comprehensive breakdown of all potential expenses to avoid unexpected costs later in the process. Furthermore, the necessity of donor gametes can significantly impact the overall expenditure, reflecting the additional processes and resources involved in their procurement.

The Breakdown: Surrogacy Cost in Delhi

The total cost of surrogacy in Delhi is a culmination of various expenses spanning medical procedures, legal formalities, and the care of the surrogate mother. Understanding these contributing factors is essential for intended parents to plan their finances effectively.

Surrogacy Cost in Delhi: Medical Expenses & Hidden Fees

Medical expenses form a significant portion of the overall surrogacy cost. These include the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) procedures necessary to create the embryo. A basic IVF cycle can range from INR 2,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 4, or even INR 1,14,000 to INR 1,50,000 in some instances. Advanced techniques such as Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), which might be required based on the intended parents’ fertility challenges, can add to the cost, potentially ranging from INR 1,90,000 to INR 3,40,000.

However, some clinics might include ICSI in their overall package. If frozen embryos from a previous cycle are used, the cost of Frozen Embryo Transfer (FET) will also be a factor, typically ranging from INR 1,50,000 to INR 3,00,000. In cases where the male partner has severe sperm issues, procedures like Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA), Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA), or Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) might be necessary, incurring additional charges that can range from INR 2,40,000 to INR 5,00,000. The specific IVF techniques required are therefore a key determinant of the medical expenses.

If the intended parents require donor gametes, this will introduce additional costs. The expense of donor eggs can range from INR 1,40,000 to INR 2,00,000, or even INR 1,70,000 to INR 3,40,000 when considering the full IVF cycle with donor eggs. Similarly, donor sperm can cost between INR 50,000 and INR 80,000, with IVF using donor sperm potentially ranging from INR 90,000 to INR 2,40,000. The use of donor gametes involves screening, potential compensation for the donor’s time and medical expenses (within legal limits), and the administrative fees of the clinic or agency, all contributing to the increased overall cost.

Ensuring the surrogate mother’s health and well-being throughout the pregnancy involves prenatal care and delivery charges. The cost of advanced care for the surrogate during pregnancy can increase the overall expenses. The mode of delivery also plays a role, with a normal vaginal delivery potentially costing up to INR 35,000, while a C-section delivery can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,00,000.

Regular prenatal scans, such as fetal ecos and routine scans, can also contribute to the medical expenses, with costs potentially ranging from INR 50,000 to INR 4,00,000 (though the higher end of this range might be an anomaly). It is important to note that some clinics might exclude delivery charges from their base packages 1, and delivery charges can vary, with some estimates falling between INR 50,000 and INR 1,00,000.

Finally, medications and tests for both the intended parents and the surrogate mother are essential components of the medical expenses. Tests for the surrogate can incur significant charges. Medications for ovarian stimulation in the intended mother or egg donor, as well as drugs and allowances for the surrogate, are also part of the medical costs. Additional medications, such as heparin injections, might be required and charged separately. A detailed breakdown of essential surrogacy tests and their associated costs can provide a clearer picture of this aspect of the expenditure.

Legal Fees in Surrogacy: Essential Costs & Documentation in Delhi

Legal fees are a critical and non-negotiable aspect of the surrogacy process in Delhi. Engaging an experienced surrogacy lawyer to draft the legal agreement is essential. Legal fees are a significant factor influencing the overall cost, particularly for low-cost surrogacy options. These fees cover the cost of legal documentation and ensuring compliance with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act). It is important to note that legal expenses are often excluded from basic altruistic surrogacy plans.

While some clinics might offer free initial legal consultations 5, the overall legal assistance for the surrogacy agreement can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,20,000. These fees encompass the drafting and execution of the surrogacy agreement, which safeguards the rights of both the intended parents and the surrogate, and ensures adherence to the latest legal framework.

Surrogate Mother Cost Factors in Delhi

Even in altruistic surrogacy, where the surrogate mother does not receive financial compensation beyond medical expenses and insurance, intended parents are responsible for covering her reasonable pregnancy-related costs. This includes providing suitable accommodation and nutritious food throughout the pregnancy, with some estimates for surrogate stays and food reaching up to INR 2.5 lakhs.

Clinics might also consider surrogate home charges and nutritional needs. In some cases, the surrogate’s stay, travel, and nutrition are explicitly stated as the responsibility of the intended parents. Additionally, intended parents are expected to provide maternity clothing for the surrogate, and cover other essential needs, potentially including caretaker and maid costs.

Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the surrogate is also a crucial expense, with some clinics mentioning health insurance for three years, and others listing surrogate insurance as a separate cost ranging from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000, or as a responsibility of the intended parents.

Clinics Charges for Surrogacy in Delhi

The choice of fertility clinic and the hospital where the delivery takes place will also impact the overall cost of surrogacy in Delhi. Delhi is home to numerous well-known centres with advanced technologies and experienced experts. These clinics often boast high-calibre facilities. Some surrogacy packages might include hospital facilities and bed charges.

Hospital delivery is typically considered part of the post-pregnancy care for the surrogate, and delivery charges can vary depending on the hospital chosen. Clinics with state-of-the-art infrastructure and highly specialized medical teams may have higher service charges.

Potential Cost for Multiple Attempts or Complications

The initial cost estimate for surrogacy might not cover all eventualities. If multiple IVF cycles are required for successful conception, the overall cost will increase. Severe infertility conditions might necessitate advanced procedures, leading to higher expenses.

The total cost often depends on various factors and the specific medical requirements of the intended parents. Some clinics list additional costs for specific medical needs. Furthermore, unforeseen medical complications during the surrogate’s pregnancy can lead to extra expenses. In cases of multiple pregnancies, such as twins, there might be additional charges for extra stimulations and the increased care required.

Delhi vs. Other Major Indian Cities: A Cost Comparison

When considering surrogacy in India, intended parents often look at cost comparisons across different metropolitan cities. Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai are major hubs for fertility treatments, and their surrogacy costs can vary.

In Mumbai, the estimated cost of surrogacy ranges from INR 10,00,000 to INR 25,00,000. While some sources suggest a range of INR 18-22 lakhs or INR 12-16 lakhs, Saraogi Hospital in Mumbai offers a potentially lower range of INR 10-11 lakhs.

Bangalore presents a cost range for surrogacy between INR 13,00,000 and INR 30,00,000. Some estimates fall in the INR 17-20 lakhs bracket, while others suggest USD 22,000 to USD 30,000 (approximately INR 18-25 lakhs). Fertility World in Bangalore indicates a cost of INR 18-20 lakhs.

Chennai’s surrogacy costs are estimated to range from INR 10,00,000 to INR 26,00,000. While some sources mention INR 17-20 lakhs or INR 15-25 lakhs, Ekmi Fertility in Chennai offers a lower range of INR 10-14 lakhs. Fertility World in Chennai also suggests a cost of INR 18-20 lakhs.

While there is an overlap in the cost ranges across these major cities, Delhi is frequently highlighted as being more affordable compared to developed nations. However, the lower end of the cost spectrum in Mumbai and Chennai might present more budget-conscious options depending on the specific clinic and the inclusions of their packages.

Comparative Surrogacy Cost in Major Indian Cities (INR)

Affordability and Quality: Surrogacy Services in Delhi

Delhi has garnered a reputation for providing relatively affordable surrogacy services. This affordability does not necessarily compromise the quality of care, as Delhi is home to numerous well-regarded fertility centres equipped with advanced technologies and staffed by experienced medical professionals.

While success rates can vary between different clinics, some centres in Delhi claim high success rates. This combination of affordability and quality makes Delhi an attractive option for intended parents, both within India and internationally, who are seeking advanced fertility treatments at a reasonable cost.

Surrogacy in Delhi: Step-by-Step Process & Latest Regulations

The surrogacy process in Delhi, like the rest of India, is governed by the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. This act emphasizes altruistic surrogacy and outlines a structured procedure that intended parents must follow:

1. Initial Consultation and Eligibility Assessment: The first step involves consulting with a registered fertility clinic to understand the surrogacy process, discuss the intended parents’ medical history, and determine their eligibility based on the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021. Key eligibility criteria include being an Indian married heterosexual couple (or a single woman who is a widow or divorcee between the ages of 35 and 45), having a proven medical condition necessitating surrogacy, and meeting specific age requirements (wife between 23-50, husband between 26-55 for couples; 35-45 for single women).
2. Finding an Altruistic Surrogate Mother: Since commercial surrogacy is banned, intended parents must find a willing surrogate who is a close relative, is married, has at least one living child, and is between 25 and 35 years of age. A woman can act as a surrogate only once in her lifetime.
3. Medical Screening and Psychological Evaluation: Both the intended parents and the chosen surrogate mother must undergo thorough medical screenings and psychological evaluations at a registered clinic to ensure they are physically and mentally fit for the surrogacy process.
4. Legal Documentation and Agreements: A formal surrogacy agreement must be drafted by a lawyer. This agreement will clearly state the altruistic nature of the arrangement, outline the medical procedures involved, detail the consent of all parties, and confirm that the surrogate will not receive any commercial compensation beyond medical expenses and insurance. The agreement must comply fully with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.
5. Obtaining Necessary Approvals: Intended parents are required to apply to the appropriate authority, which could be the National or State Surrogacy Board, to obtain a Certificate of Essentiality and a Certificate of Eligibility before proceeding with the IVF process. This application involves submitting various documents, including proof of marriage, medical certificates of infertility, the surrogacy agreement, and comprehensive details about the surrogate’s medical fitness and her relationship with the intended parents.
6. IVF Process and Embryo Transfer: Once all necessary approvals are granted, the IVF process can begin. This typically involves ovarian stimulation of the intended mother (or an egg donor if required and permissible under specific conditions), egg retrieval, fertilization with the intended father’s sperm (or donor sperm), and the subsequent transfer of the resulting embryo into the surrogate mother’s uterus.
7. Pregnancy Care and Monitoring: Throughout the pregnancy, the surrogate mother will receive regular prenatal care and medical monitoring at the chosen fertility clinic. The intended parents are responsible for covering all medical expenses incurred by the surrogate during the pregnancy and for providing her with comprehensive health insurance coverage.
8. Childbirth and Handover: Upon the birth of the child, the baby is legally recognized as the biological child of the intended parents. The birth certificate will bear the names of the intended parents, and the surrogate mother relinquishes all parental rights.
9. Post-Birth Legal Procedures (if any): While the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021, aims to streamline the legal process of establishing parentage, there might still be some post-birth legal formalities or documentation required to finalize the legal transfer of custody, depending on the specific clinic and the guidelines issued by the Surrogacy Boards.

The current surrogacy regulations in India have introduced a more rigorous framework, with a strong emphasis on altruistic arrangements and a mandatory approval process. This underscores the importance for intended parents to be thoroughly informed about the legal requirements and to work closely with fertility clinics that are fully compliant with these regulations.

Affordable Surrogacy Centres in Delhi: How to Choose the Right Clinic for You

Selecting the right surrogacy centre in Delhi is a critical decision that can significantly impact the entire experience. Intended parents should conduct thorough research and consider several key factors:

• Verify Credentials and Registration: Ensure that the fertility clinic is duly registered with the appropriate national and state authorities and that it strictly adheres to the guidelines and regulations set forth in the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.
• Assess Transparency in Costs: Opt for a clinic that provides a clear, detailed, and itemized breakdown of all potential costs involved in the surrogacy process. This should include expenses related to medical procedures, legal fees, surrogate mother care, medications, and any other potential charges. Transparency in pricing is crucial to avoid unexpected financial burdens.
• Inquire About Success Rates: While success rates are not guaranteed and can vary based on individual circumstances, it is advisable to inquire about the clinic’s success rates specifically for surrogacy procedures, and if possible, for cases similar to your own. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand that these are statistical averages.
• Evaluate the Medical Team’s Expertise: Research the qualifications, experience, and specializations of the fertility specialists, embryologists, and other medical professionals associated with the clinic. A highly experienced and skilled medical team can significantly enhance the chances of a successful outcome.
• Understand Legal Support: Confirm whether the clinic has established partnerships or affiliations with experienced surrogacy lawyers who can provide guidance and support throughout the legal aspects of the process, ensuring full compliance with the Surrogacy (Regulation) Act, 2021.
• Confirm Ethical Practices: Choose a clinic that strictly adheres to the principles of altruistic surrogacy and demonstrates a strong commitment to the well-being and ethical treatment of both intended parents and surrogate mothers. Transparency and ethical conduct should be paramount.
• Check for Support Services: Consider clinics that offer comprehensive support services, including counseling and psychological support for both intended parents and the surrogate mother throughout the entire surrogacy journey. Emotional and psychological well-being is crucial for all parties involved.
• Read Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous intended parents to gain valuable insights into their experiences with the clinic, the quality of care, and the overall satisfaction levels.
• Visit the Clinic: If feasible, schedule a visit to the clinic to assess the facilities, meet the staff, and get a firsthand feel for the environment and the level of professionalism.

Financing Options for Surrogacy in Delhi

Financing the surrogacy journey in Delhi can be a significant undertaking for intended parents. However, several options are available to help manage the costs:

• Personal Loans and Medical Loans: Banks and other financial institutions offer personal loans and specific medical loans that can be used to cover the expenses associated with surrogacy. Some fertility clinics may also have partnerships with financial companies to facilitate loan options for their patients.
• Installment Plans Offered by Clinics: Recognizing the financial strain, many fertility clinics in Delhi offer installment payment plans that allow intended parents to spread the cost of the treatment over a certain period. Some clinics might even provide zero-interest EMI options.
• Surrogacy Grants and Financial Aid: While dedicated surrogacy grants are not as common in India as in some other countries, intended parents can explore whether any charitable organizations, non-governmental organizations, or foundations offer financial assistance for fertility treatments, including surrogacy.
• Crowdfunding and Fundraising: Utilizing online crowdfunding platforms or organizing personal fundraising events among friends, family, and acquaintances can be a viable way to gather financial support for the surrogacy journey.
• Insurance: While standard health insurance policies in India typically do not cover the costs of surrogacy, it is still worthwhile to investigate if any specific insurance products or employer benefits might offer coverage for certain aspects of the treatment, such as the IVF procedure or complications related to pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1 What is the typical cost range for surrogacy in Delhi?

Ans. The cost typically ranges from INR 14,00,000 to INR 25,00,000, but can vary based on individual needs and the chosen clinic.

Q.2 What are the main components that make up the cost of surrogacy?
Ans. The main components include medical expenses (IVF, donor gametes if needed, prenatal care, delivery), legal fees, surrogate mother expenses (accommodation, food, insurance), and hospital/clinic charges.

Q.3 Is surrogacy in Delhi more affordable compared to other major Indian cities?
Ans. While costs are comparable, Delhi is often perceived as more affordable than developed nations and potentially on par with or slightly more affordable than some other major Indian cities.

Q.4 What are the legal expenses involved in surrogacy?
Ans. Legal expenses can range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 1,20,000, covering the drafting and registration of the surrogacy agreement and ensuring legal compliance.

Q.5 Since commercial surrogacy is illegal, do I still have to pay the surrogate mother?
Ans. In altruistic surrogacy, you do not pay the surrogate beyond covering her reasonable pregnancy-related expenses such as medical costs, accommodation, food, and insurance.

Q6. What are the medical costs associated with the IVF process and surrogate’s care?
Ans. IVF costs can range from INR 1,14,000 to INR 5,00,000 depending on the techniques used. Surrogate care, including prenatal and delivery, can add significantly to the cost.

Q.7 Are there any financing options available to help with the cost of surrogacy in Delhi?
Ans. Yes, options include personal loans, medical loans, installment plans offered by clinics, and potentially grants or crowdfunding.

Q.8 How do I choose a reliable and ethical surrogacy centre in Delhi?
Ans. Consider factors like the clinic’s registration, transparency in costs, success rates, expertise of the medical team, legal support, ethical practices, support services, patient reviews, and infrastructure.