Nigerian surrogate mother shares her experience with financial hardship and emotional challenges

A Nigerian surrogate mother has spoken out about her journey into surrogacy, driven by financial difficulties and an irresponsible partner, particularly after the loss of her second child. In a YouTube episode on Cruise TV, she detailed the emotional, financial, and psychological aspects of carrying children for other families. She described surrogacy as one of her hardest decisions, highlighting the emotional attachment that develops during pregnancy despite knowing the child is not hers. She became a gestational surrogate through IVF, meaning she had no biological connection to the babies. Her partner's failure to provide for their family, coupled with her inability to work during her second pregnancy and the subsequent death of her baby due to complications, led her to this path. She initially declined financial compensation beyond medical care, accommodation, and allowances, a decision she now regrets. The surrogate mother stated she would not encourage her daughter to pursue surrogacy due to the emotional and health risks. She also mentioned relocating during a pregnancy to avoid stigma and often telling people the baby had died when questioned. She noted that surrogate mothers face psychological challenges even with counseling and called for stronger regulation of surrogacy to protect mothers from exploitation and ensure adequate support.