Need-based Reproductive Health Care Program in Iranian Surrogate Mothers; A Qualitative Study

Surrogate mothers assist infertile couple by caring their baby. Assessments show differences on various aspects of reproductive health matters compared to normative pregnancy. The aim of this study was to develop a reproductive health care program for surrogate mothers.

This was an exploratory study with the qualitative-quantitative sequencing design. Primarily, through a qualitative approach, surrogate mothers, care providers, and policymakers of reproductive health services were selected purposefully. The data were gathered through semi-designed interviews. Then, the researcher explained surrogate mothers’ needs about reproductive health care, and a care program draft was designed by integrating results of the qualitative study and reviewing the literature and guidelines. At the end of the study, reproductive and sexual health care program was designed using Delphi method.

The surrogate mothers' reproductive health needs were summarized in four main categories: surrogate mothers' extra-care, educational needs, psychological support, and protecting against surrogacy social and familial consequences. The reproductive health care program for surrogate mothers was developed in six sections: primary screenings of surrogacy volunteer, pre-pregnancy, during embryo transfer, during pregnancy counseling and training, and follow-up postpartum care.

Providing reproductive health care for surrogate mothers involves multiple unique challenges. The health care providers must carry out proper services to surrogate mothers.