Surrogate Mother in Greece

What is Surrogate?

Surrogacy is a medically assisted process that allows women with serious health issues to have a child through another woman carrying the pregnancy. At Fertulity, we approach every case with respect, transparency, and scientific precision. According to the applicable Greek law, the mother is legally recognized as the one who provides the genetic material and not the gestational carrier.

Surrogacy Process & Steps

Surrogacy is a multi-step process that combines medical expertise with legal validity to safely and transparently achieve the goal: the birth of a child by parents who are unable to carry a pregnancy.

How does the surrogacy process begin?

The process starts with the creation of an embryo through in vitro fertilization, using the genetic material of the intended parents or a donor. The embryo is not implanted in the biological mother but in a third-party woman, known as the surrogate mother, who carries the child without having a genetic connection to it. The selection of the appropriate woman is done either through the family/friend circle or with the help of organized structures such as assisted reproduction centers.

Selection of the surrogate mother

The woman who will carry the pregnancy must meet specific medical and psychological criteria. Typically, she is between 21–45 years old, has a history of normal pregnancies and deliveries, no serious health problems, and a stable social and family environment. If the surrogate is married, her husband's written consent is required. The selection can be made by the couple themselves or with the mediation of the center, which also handles the legal safeguarding of the agreement.

Medical and psychological evaluations

Before the IVF treatment begins, both the intended parents and the surrogate mother undergo full medical and psychological evaluation. These include blood tests, screening for infectious diseases (such as HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, chlamydia, etc.), as well as vaccination coverage check. At the same time, the psychological assessment evaluates the stability, temperament, and capacity of the surrogate to carry a child that is not hers, while a similar evaluation is done for the future parents.

Legal procedure before starting

Before IVF begins, signing a legal contract by all parties is mandatory. The contract clearly states that the surrogate will hand over the child to the parents after birth, clarifies the responsibilities and obligations during the pregnancy, defines financial terms (compensation, expenses, payments), and foresees scenarios such as pregnancy termination, medical issues, or complications. Approval of the surrogacy procedure by the Court of First Instance is essential and precedes any medical procedure.

Preparation and embryo transfer

Once medical and legal checks are completed, the Assisted Reproduction Center synchronizes the surrogate's cycle with the embryo transfer window. The lab-created embryo is implanted in the surrogate’s uterus and pregnancy begins. From that point on, she is closely monitored by a specialized team of doctors, with regular checkups until delivery.

Ongoing support at every stage

Throughout the process, scientific and psychological support is critical and continuous. The surrogate mother is in contact with the medical and legal team, while the intended parents receive guidance for every stage until the final legal recognition of parenthood and the return home with the child.

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Surrogacy Cost

Surrogacy costs are shaped by many factors and vary per case, as it is a complex process that includes medical, legal, and psychological services. Therefore, there is no single price that applies to all cases. Instead, total expenses depend on the specifics of each case, the choice of the surrogate, the couple’s medical needs, and compensation agreements.

What does the cost usually include?

The total cost may include:

Medical tests and IVF cycle preparation

Embryo transfer and medication support

Psychological evaluation and counseling

Legal proceedings and legal fees

Compensation and fees for the surrogate mother

Transportation and accommodation expenses, if needed

Pregnancy monitoring and delivery expenses

Is surrogacy affordable?

For some couples, the cost may seem high. However, it's important to consider the multi-level support and specialized care offered at each stage. At Fertulity, we approach every case with full transparency and dignity, offering personalized information and financial guidance

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Surrogacy Requirements

Surrogacy requires strict compliance with specific medical, legal, and administrative criteria to protect all parties involved and ensure a smooth process.The age of the woman acting as the surrogate is one of the main restrictions. Specifically, the gestational carrier must be between 25 and 54 years old. For women aged 50 to 54, special approval is required from the National Authority of Medically Assisted Reproduction, reflecting the need for stricter medical control at these ages.Additionally, there is a limit on the number of previous cesarean sections. The candidate may not have undergone more than two C-sections, as this increases medical risk in a future pregnancy. The evaluation is personalized by the attending physician, who certifies the woman's ability to carry the pregnancy safely.

It is worth noting that there is no time or quantitative limit on the number of embryo transfers a surrogate may undergo. The process may be repeated, either with the same or a new court decision, offering flexibility to intended parents.Lastly, proof of residence or stay in Greece is required, either from the applicant or the surrogate mother. This can be any official document or even a solemn declaration. This requirement ensures that the process falls under Greek legal jurisdiction.Complying with the above conditions is necessary so that surrogacy is carried out with full medical safety, legal validity, and respect for human dignity.

Psychological & Ethical Dimensions

Surrogacy is a process that deeply affects the emotional well-being of both the woman carrying the pregnancy and the intended parents. For the surrogate mother, carrying a child she will not raise herself requires clear emotional boundaries, stability, and prior psychological preparation. At the same time, intended parents often experience anxiety, uncertainty, and questions about emotional bonding with the child to be born.

Having a psychologist present throughout the process is critical. Support must be systematic for both the surrogate and the couple, to strengthen resilience and prevent emotional challenges or tension. Topics such as the post-birth separation phase, pregnancy anticipation, and communication between parties are areas that require attention and expert management.

On an ethical level, surrogacy raises crucial questions: from a woman’s ability to offer her body for others to the need to distinguish altruism from commercialization. Transparency, respect for everyone’s will, and full legal protection are the pillars for maintaining ethical balance and the dignity of the process.

Surrogacy & Same-Sex Couples

Surrogacy is one of the most important options for same-sex couples who wish to have a child with a genetic link. The ability to start a family is not about sexual orientation, but about the intention, stability, and commitment to offer love and care to a child. Through surrogacy, same-sex couples gain a meaningful opportunity to become parents and create their own family.

The surrogacy experience for same-sex couples comes with unique emotional journeys. Choosing the right surrogate, communication among all parties, and the anticipation of pregnancy are aspects that require support and preparation. Having a team of professionals that respects diversity and approaches each couple with sensitivity and professionalism is essential for a smooth process.

At Fertulity, we deeply believe in every person's right to create a family with love, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. We provide specialized support to same-sex couples who wish to pursue surrogacy, with absolute respect, scientific expertise, and complete confidentiality. Our goal is to walk alongside them on a life journey that begins with trust and ends with the birth of a new family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Surrogate Motherhood and Surrogacy

How long does the surrogacy process take in total?

The duration depends on many factors, such as finding the right surrogate mother, medical testing, legal proceedings, and successful embryo transfer. Generally, the process can take 8 to 14 months. If repeated IVF attempts are needed, the duration may extend.

Can the surrogate mother retain legal rights to the child?

No. Under the current process, the mother of the child is the one who receives legal approval before embryo transfer. The surrogate mother has no legal rights or obligations toward the child after birth. This protection is strengthened by the defined legal procedures and the clear agreement of all involved.

Who covers the surrogate mother's medical expenses?

All medical costs related to pregnancy, delivery, tests, and support of the surrogate are covered by the intended parents. These expenses are part of the total agreement and tailored according to the needs and agreed services.

How often can the couple see the surrogate mother during pregnancy?

The frequency of contact is determined individually, based on the agreement between the parties. Many couples choose to stay in regular contact with the surrogate, following the progress of the pregnancy closely. Others prefer a more discreet relationship, respecting the surrogate’s privacy. In any case, expert guidance is recommended for a healthy relationship.

Can a woman become a surrogate more than once?

Yes, provided she meets the medical and psychological criteria and has not exceeded the maximum allowed number of pregnancies or cesarean deliveries. Participation in another surrogacy process is assessed by the attending physicians and requires new legal and medical approval.

Is it possible to store embryos for a future attempt?

Yes. Fertilized embryos can be frozen and stored for future use. This option gives intended parents the ability to try again if pregnancy is not achieved the first time or if they wish to have a sibling later.

Our Doctors

In an era where fertility requires knowledge, care, and substantial guidance, FertUlity is not an impersonal clinic. It is two people who look you in the eye and accompany you step by step on the journey you dream of.

Dr. Chrysostomos (Makis) Papadopoulos Obstetrician – Gynecologist, MD, PhDc, MIC I

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Dr. Chrysostomos Papadopoulos - Specialist in Infertility, Endocrinology & Menopause in Athens

Dr. Maria Oikonomou Obstetrician – Gynecologist

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FertulityThrough the Words of our Parents

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      EXCELLENT  
   Based on 12 reviews 
    
 
 
 
   
 
 
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   Μαρια 
 26 days ago
 
 
  The word "thank you" to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is too small to describe the gratitude we feel for this man. I am pregnant after IVF, having succeeded on the first attempt, and we owe this exclusively to our doctor. First Contact & Communication: From the very first contact, he won us over with his kindness, enthusiasm and willingness to dedicate as much time as we needed. Willing to explain everything in every detail, he solved every question we had in depth — not even a professor to students would analyze them with such patience and contagiousness! Scientific Training: He is an excellent scientist, with deep knowledge of the subject, a perfectionist and focused professional who leaves absolutely nothing to chance. He designed the right treatment for us, solving every problem down to the last detail, making us feel that whatever problem arises, it is certain that it will be solved. HUMANITY & SUPPORT: The most important thing, however, is his humanity. Communication with him was Immediate and he always had as much time as you needed on the phone to solve every question. He showed a deep, real interest, embracing us not just as a doctor, but as if he were our brother. We highly recommend him to every couple starting this journey. He deserves blind trust! We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the greatest miracle of our lives!

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   Alexandra 
 52 days ago
 
 
  I don't often write reviews, but I feel that Mr. Makis truly deserves it. From the very first moment, he made me feel safe and confident. He listened carefully to what was on my mind, answered every question I had, and explained everything in a simple way, always based on scientific data. Many times, he even sent me relevant scientific studies so that I could better understand why he was suggesting a particular approach. But what stood out to me the most was that he didn't stop at the appointment. He followed up, was genuinely interested in my progress, and was available when I needed him. This is something you rarely encounter. Fortunately, he returned to Greece. He is one of the few doctors who, beyond their knowledge, remain above all human beings. He makes you feel like he sees you as a person and not as just another incident.

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   Matina 
 69 days ago
 
 
  A big thank you to Dr. Makis Papadopoulos who supported us from day one, who checked every little detail, who explained to us every move-step, every test, every medication for the reason we were doing it and what we would achieve. With incredible experience, knowledge, a lot of patience (because we had two other failed attempts with another doctor) and trust, within 8 months he adapted the protocols for our case and we achieved the positive result and we hold in our arms a priceless diamond. Above all, a rare person, calm and always available to listen to our concerns and reassure us. I highly recommend him!

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   Eva 
 93 days ago
 
 
  Thanks to Dr Makis Papadopoulos, I am now holding my two beautiful babies in my arms! He is a true expert. Professional with a human centric approach, friendly and empathetic, always available to answer our (many many) questions. I trust Dr Makis blindly and, honestly, I cannot recommend him enough!
  
 
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   Ivy 
 100 days ago
 
 
  My experience with Dr. Makis took me from a clinical stagnation to an incredible breakthrough, highly recommend Dr. Makis! Navigating the exhausting world of IVF, you know how devastating it is to watch your protocol dosages go up while your results go down. After three intense, high-dosage cycles with a previous clinic, I was left feeling incredibly discouraged. Despite escalating medications and growth hormones, my blastocyst yield was dwindling, culminating in a heartbreaking round with zero blastocysts. I knew I needed a doctor who didn't just follow a standard script, but who truly understood the nuances of egg quality and customized protocols. That is when I found Dr. Makis. Dr. Makis completely revolutionized my treatment plan. Instead of just pushing maximum dosages, he took a highly strategic, tailored approach. The result? Quality over pure protocol size. While my previous doctors kept increasing the medication dosages (which yielded fewer or zero blastocysts), Dr. Makis completely changed the strategy. He lowered the heavy stimulation, introduced smart egg-quality support (like melatonin), changed the protocol style entirely, and achieved a 700% increase in blastocysts compared to my best previous rounds. Beyond the incredible results, Dr. Makis brings a level of expertise, precision, and reassuring care that is rare to find. He looks at you as an individual, not a statistic, and knows exactly how to pivot when traditional routes fail. If you are looking for a specialist who can turn a difficult prognosis into an overwhelming success, look no further than Dr. Makis. I am incredibly grateful for his care.
  
 
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   Olga 
 111 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos was excellent, professional, and very reassuring throughout the entire process. Thanks to his expertise and guidance, we were able to identify the issue early and take the appropriate steps from the beginning. He took the time to explain everything clearly, answered all our questions with patience, and made us feel comfortable and confident throughout our journey. We truly appreciated his caring approach, professionalism, and dedication. Highly recommended!
  
 
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   Euaggelia 
 122 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist and above all a rare person! He is an approachable and smiling doctor, with excellent medical knowledge, who from the first moment I met him made me feel comfortable and trust him completely, answering every question I had with patience and documenting every answer with scientific studies and articles! The most important thing, however, is that Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is always there on the other end of the line to listen to you and reassure you without a trace of haste, a doctor who truly cares and makes you feel like he is your own person! Makis, thank you very much for everything!!! I am very lucky to have met you!

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   Anastasia 
 129 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent scientist with a human-centered interest. Our collaboration was excellent from the very beginning and he made me feel confident and secure by explaining every step of the process in great detail. I highly recommend him!

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   Fay 
 131 days ago
 
 
  Dr Makis Papadopoulos is very professional, caring and attentive. Very thorough in explaining the whole process throughout every step. Thank you! Highly recommended!!
  
 
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   Christina 
 134 days ago
 
 
  I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an outstanding gynecologist and scientist. We first connected in the summer of 2024, while he was based in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, following a particularly challenging period for us. Prior to meeting him, we had gone through repeated unsuccessful attempts of stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, those approaches relied largely on standardized protocols, without sufficient personalization to address the specific needs of my case. From the very beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human-centered approach and his willingness to dedicate time to truly understand our situation in depth. With strong, up-to-date scientific knowledge, he approaches every case holistically, focusing on individualized treatment and adapting protocols to the patient's unique needs. Throughout our collaboration, which now spans approximately two years (with a few breaks on our side), he has consistently been available, supportive, and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence and helped us stay positive even during difficult phases of the journey. Beyond his scientific expertise, what truly sets him apart is his genuine care for the person behind each case: his empathy, honesty, and continuous effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I are deeply grateful for his support and guidance, and we now feel ready and optimistic to move forward to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone seeking a gynecologist with true expertise, professionalism, and compassion. I would like to share my experience with Dr. Makis Papadopoulos, an excellent gynecologist and scientist. We met in the summer of 2024, when he was in Germany, through a mutual acquaintance, after a particularly demanding period for us. Before meeting him, we had gone through repeated failed attempts at stimulation and fertilization with other gynecologists. Unfortunately, the approaches that had been followed were mainly based on standardized protocols, without the necessary individualization to the specifics of my case. From the beginning, Dr. Makis stood out for his human approach and his willingness to spend time to understand our case in depth. With modern knowledge and scientific training, he approaches each issue multidimensionally, emphasizing the individualization of treatment and adapting the protocols to the real needs of the patient. During our collaboration, which now spans about two years (with short breaks on our part), he was always available, supportive and clear in his guidance. He inspired confidence in us and helped us remain optimistic even in difficult phases. In addition to his scientific competence, what sets him apart is his genuine interest in the person behind each case: his empathy, his honesty and his constant effort to achieve the best possible outcome. My husband and I thank him warmly for his support and guidance and we now feel ready and optimistic to move on to the next final stage. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a gynecologist with real knowledge, professionalism and humanity.

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   Faidra 
 135 days ago
 
 
  Dr. Makis Papadopoulos is an excellent gynecologist and above all an excellent person! I truly thank him for his support and care during the egg freezing process. Although my case was particularly demanding, he stood by me with patience, knowledge, great experience and real interest. Our communication was direct and human, while his availability at the many appointments made me feel safe at every step. The protocols were designed specifically for me, aiming for the best possible result, while also taking into account the cost of the medications. I recommend him with all my heart to every woman who wants to trust someone for something so important and sensitive for her.

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   Iliana 
 137 days ago
 
 
  I highly recommend Dr. Makis, he is an incredible specialist. My journey was far from easy, encountering several challenges that  made the process feel overwhelming at times. What sets him apart is his willingness to go beyond standard procedures. He developed a specialized, custom protocol, tailored to my situation, which ultimately made all the difference. Beyond his technical expertise, his calm and clear communication kept me grounded throughout the process. I am so grateful for his persistence and high level of care!

Why choose FertUlity?

Because every fertility journey deserves the right support. At FertUlity, we provide science-based fertility care with a human approach. We support every path, from fertility assessment and preservation to modern assisted reproduction.

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