Navigating Surrogacy in Indiana: A Guide for LGBTQ+ Intended Parents
Surrogacy offers a powerful path to parenthood for many LGBTQ+ families, but in Indiana, the journey comes with unique legal and emotional considerations. At Indiana Fertility Institute (IFI), we’re proud to support all families—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—as they pursue their dreams of parenthood. This guide explores what gay surrogacy means in Indiana, how the process works, and why IFI is a trusted partner for LGBTQ+ intended parents.
What Is Gay Surrogacy—and How Does It Work in Indiana?
Gay surrogacy refers to the process by which same-sex male couples or single gay men build their families through gestational surrogacy. This typically involves several key components, each playing a vital role in the journey to parenthood:
An Egg Donor
Because neither partner in a male couple produces eggs, an egg donor is needed to create embryos. Donors may be anonymous or known, and they undergo medical and genetic screening to ensure healthy egg quality. The choice of donor can also influence legal considerations, especially if the donor is known and wishes to retain any rights. IFI works with trusted donor agencies to help intended parents find a match that aligns with their values and preferences.
A Gestational Carrier (Surrogate)
The gestational carrier is the person who carries the pregnancy but has no genetic link to the child. This distinction is important because it simplifies legal parentage and emotional boundaries. In Indiana, while surrogacy contracts are technically unenforceable under Indiana Code 31-20-1-1, gestational surrogacy is still practiced widely. The surrogate undergoes medical screening and psychological evaluation to ensure readiness for the journey. IFI collaborates with reputable surrogacy agencies to facilitate safe and ethical matches.
IVF to Create Embryos Using One Partner’s Sperm
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is used to fertilize the donor’s eggs with sperm from one or both intended fathers. Often, couples choose to fertilize half the eggs with each partner’s sperm to create embryos from both genetic lines. The resulting embryos are then screened and one is selected for transfer to the surrogate. IVF is a critical step that allows for genetic connection and medical control over the process, and IFI’s lab team ensures high standards of care and success rates.
Legal Steps to Establish Parentage
Indiana’s legal framework around surrogacy is complex. Although surrogacy contracts are not enforceable, courts routinely grant parentage orders to intended parents—including LGBTQ+ couples—especially when one parent is genetically related to the child. However, in cases where neither parent has a genetic link (e.g., using donor sperm), additional legal steps such as second-parent adoption or stepparent adoption may be required. Working with an experienced attorney is essential to ensure that both parents are legally recognized and protected.
The Surrogacy Process for LGBTQ+ Intended Parents
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Choosing a Surrogate and Egg Donor: IFI partners with reputable agencies to help intended parents find a gestational carrier and donor who align with their values and goals.
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Medical Screening and IVF: After matching, IFI’s fertility specialists guide you through medical evaluations, IVF procedures, and embryo transfer.
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Legal Steps: Because Indiana does not enforce surrogacy contracts, establishing parentage requires strategic planning. Courts may grant pre-birth orders if one parent is genetically related, but most LGBTQ+ couples must pursue post-birth adoption or stepparent adoption to secure legal rights.
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Support Throughout the Journey: IFI offers emotional, medical, and logistical support every step of the way, ensuring that intended parents feel informed and empowered.
Your Journey, Our Commitment: Why IFI Is the Right Partner for LGBTQ+ Surrogacy in Indiana
At Indiana Fertility Institute, we believe every family deserves compassionate, expert care—especially those navigating the unique path of LGBTQ+ surrogacy. Our team is deeply committed to inclusivity, offering culturally competent support tailored to the needs of gay intended parents. From your first consultation to the moment you hold your baby, we’re here to guide you with empathy and expertise.
We also understand that surrogacy in Indiana requires thoughtful legal navigation. That’s why we collaborate with attorneys who specialize in LGBTQ+ family law, ensuring your rights are protected and your journey is as smooth as possible. Learn more about the legal framework and requirements surrounding gestational surrogacy here.
Ready to take the next step? Contact IFI today to schedule a consultation and begin your journey to parenthood with a team that celebrates and supports you every step of the way.