- Surrogates face nearly double the risk of severe maternal morbidity compared to IVF pregnancies.
- Common issues include postpartum hemorrhage, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
- Research highlights need for personalized care and further study on underlying causes.
A recent study conducted by McGill University, using data from Ontario’s BORN registry, has identified significant pregnancy and postpartum risks for surrogates.
The study also revealed that surrogates tend to be older, more likely to be obese, and often come from lower-income areas, factors that may contribute to increased risks.
Gestational Surrogacy Linked to Higher Pregnancy Risks: Study
The study from McGill University analyzed data from 863,017 singleton births, of which 806 involved gestational surrogates. It found that surrogates were more susceptible to severe maternal morbidity, with a risk rate nearly twice that of women undergoing IVF. Surrogates were also more prone to experiencing severe postpartum hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders, such as preeclampsia.
Demographically, surrogates were often older and more likely to be obese, hypertensive, and nonsmokers. Many also lived in economically disadvantaged areas. While these factors partially explain the higher risk, the study found that the elevated rates of maternal morbidity persisted even after adjusting for these variables.
Additionally, surrogates faced a slightly increased risk of preterm births, which in turn heightened the chances of newborn complications. This emphasizes the need for careful medical oversight throughout the surrogate’s pregnancy to reduce adverse outcomes for both mother and baby.
As surrogacy becomes more common globally, these findings highlight the importance of thorough medical care for surrogates, including tailored pregnancy plans. Ongoing research is critical to uncover the root causes of these elevated risks and improve the safety of surrogacy arrangements.
These findings stress the critical importance of personalized medical care and careful health assessments for surrogates to minimize risks and ensure better outcomes.
“The study underscores the need for continued research into surrogacy’s unique risks and tailored medical care for surrogates.”
