With the advancement of modern medicine, surrogacy has become an option for many families who are unable to conceive naturally. As an international city, Hong Kong's medical standards and legal system make it one of the key destinations in the global surrogacy market. Although commercial surrogacy is expressly prohibited by law in Hong Kong, legal surrogacy for the public good is practiced under a strict legal framework. Families choosing Hong Kong for surrogacy can enjoy top-notch reproductive medical technology, a professional team of doctors and sound legal protection. In this article, we will introduceLegality of Hong Kong surrogacy, IVF treatment process, technical advantages and embryo handlingetc. to help readers fully understand Hong Kong surrogacy.
Is surrogacy legal in Hong Kong?
Commercial surrogacy is not legal in Hong Kong!
Hong Kong's surrogacy laws strictly differentiate between commercial surrogacy and surrogacy for the public good.Under section 17 of the Human Reproductive Technology Ordinance, commercial surrogacy is expressly prohibited in Hong Kong.In other words, any surrogacy through payment of money to a surrogate mother is illegal. The laws of Hong Kong are very strict in regulating surrogacy, with offenders facing high fines and imprisonment. For example, the maximum penalty for a first offense is HK$25,000 and 6 months imprisonment, while repeat offenders in serious cases may face a fine of HK$100,000 and imprisonment for up to 2 years.
However, surrogacy for the public good is permitted by the laws of Hong Kong. Pro bono surrogacy refers to surrogacy by a woman who is willing to help in the event that the couple is unable to conceive due to physiological health reasons, etc. However, the embryos therein must come from the couple, and neither donor eggs nor eggs of the surrogate mother can be used. In addition.Sex selection is not permitted under Hong Kong lawSurrogacy can therefore only be used to solve infertility problems and not for other purposes, such as choosing the sex of the child.
The laws of Hong Kong not only protect the rights and interests of surrogate mothers, but also provide legal protection for couples involved in surrogacy. The surrogate mother must be voluntary and will be fully taken care of medically and psychologically throughout the process. All medical expenses during the surrogacy process are borne by the commissioning parents, and the health of the surrogate mother will be monitored by specialized doctors.
Then for those who want to complete the surrogacy in Hong Kong, it is not practical to complete the whole process directly in Hong Kong locally, butEmbryos can be transferred to a country where surrogacy is legal after completion of embryo culture in Hong Kong, such as the one that will be mentioned in this articleSurrogacy in the United Statesrespond in singingSurrogacy in KyrgyzstanThe
Why should I get my embryos done in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong leads the world in fertility care, which makes it the destination of choice for many families to get their embryos done. The following are the main reasons for choosing Hong Kong:
Hong Kong IVF Advantages
Hong Kong has an international reputation for its IVF technology.Particularly in embryo culture and screening techniques. Many international families choose Hong Kong for IVF treatment not only because of the advanced technology, but also because of the high success rates offered by the medical facilities in Hong Kong. For example, Hong Kong's Baldwin Hospital offers IVF treatments with a high success rate ofSuccess rates for women under 35 years old are as high as 521 TP3T, while women over 40 years old can have success rates of 201 TP3T. In addition, Hong Kong medical institutions also provide embryo genetic screening (PGT-A, PGT-M), which effectively reduces the occurrence of genetic diseases and greatly improves the treatment ofSuccess rate up to 80%The
Hong Kong IVF Embryo Process
IVF in Hong Kong is highly favored by patients around the world, especially for couples who require in vitro fertilization (IVF). The entire process of IVF to make embryos usually consists of multiple stages, each of which is medically operated and monitored with precision. Below is the detailed process of IVF for embryos in Hong Kong:
Stage 1: Examination and first consultation before the course of treatment
Before starting the Hong Kong IVF procedure, a thorough physical examination is first required. The key purpose of this stage is to assess the patient's fertility and IVF success rate through the examination.
- health checkup: Patients are required to complete basic examinations in Hong Kong or at a hospital near their place of residence. These examinations include:
- echography: Used to check the health of the ovaries and uterus and to rule out any abnormalities that could affect pregnancy.
- Hormone level check: Includes blood hormone testing to assess the function of the ovaries and suitability for IVF treatment.
- sperm analysis: For male patients, a semen sample is provided for analysis to check sperm count, motility and morphology.
- Online First Consultation Option: For patients who are not in Hong Kong, IVF centers in Hong Kong (e.g. Baldwin Medical Care) provide online first consultation service. Patients can communicate with their doctors via a telemedicine platform to obtain treatment advice and confirm their treatment plan.
Based on the results of the examination, the doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan for the patient and explain to the patient the various aspects of the course of treatment, as well as the possible risks and expected results.
Phase II: Healing process (approximately 2-3 weeks)
Once in the treatment phase, patients will go through a series of procedures, and the exact treatment cycle may vary depending on the individual's medical condition.
Day 1 of menstruation: start of ovulation induction cycle
On the first day of the menstrual cycle, the patient will need to speak with their doctor and begin preparing to enter the ovulation stimulation cycle. At this time, the doctor will create a specific medication regimen for the patient based on their physical condition.
Days 2-4 of menstruation: interviews and medication adjustments
The patient meets with the doctor for an interview, examination and evaluation. Based on the results of the ultrasound and blood tests, the doctor begins stimulating the ovaries with ovulation injections to promote the growth of multiple follicles at the same time. Typically, patients will need to receive medication for about 10-12 days.
Follow-up every 2-4 days: drug dosage and follicular growth monitoring
During the process of ovulation induction, patients need to have regular follow-up appointments under the supervision of the doctor. The doctor will monitor the growth of the follicles through ultrasound and blood tests and adjust the dosage of medication accordingly. This process ensures synchronized maturation of multiple follicles in the ovaries, increasing the probability of successful conception during the egg retrieval procedure.
Day 12 of menstruation: egg-breaking injection and scheduling of egg retrieval surgery
When the follicles tend to mature, the doctor will determine the best time for egg retrieval based on the test results. At this stage, the patient will need an egg-breaking injection at the designated time to ensure that the follicle ruptures and is ready to move on to the egg retrieval procedure.
Menstrual day 14: Egg retrieval procedure
Approximately 36 hours after the egg-breaking injection, the patient will need to undergo an egg retrieval procedure. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and the doctor will remove multiple follicles by guiding the needle through a vaginal ultrasound. The procedure is usually simple and patients recover quickly.
Also, the patient's partner will need to provide a semen sample. The sperm and egg will be fertilized in vitro in the laboratory.
Stage 3: Post-egg retrieval embryo culture
the process of fertilization
After egg retrieval, the egg and sperm will undergo in vitro fertilization in the laboratory. Usually, doctors choose to combine the sperm with the egg naturally (IVF), but for male patients with poor sperm quality, they may choose intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), in which a single sperm is injected directly into the egg to increase the chances of fertilization.
embryo culture
After fertilization, the embryos continue to be cultured in the laboratory, usually for three to five days. During this time, laboratory staff check the development of the embryos through a microscope to ensure that only the healthiest embryos are selected.
Embryo quality assessment
During the embryo culture process, the laboratory assesses the quality of each embryo. Healthy embryos will continue to develop, while those with abnormal development will be eliminated.
Stage 4: Embryo transfer
After embryo culture and screening, the doctor will choose the best transfer option for the individual patient.
Fresh Embryo Transfer
If conditions permit, the highest quality embryos are transferred directly to fresh embryos on days 3-5 after fertilization. The transfer procedure is usually non-invasive and similar to a routine gynecological examination, and the patient does not need to be hospitalized.
Embryo Freeze Transfer
Embryos can also be frozen for preservation prior to transfer if desired. Frozen embryos are usually transferred at the right time (e.g. after the patient has recovered). This method is used for patients who may not be able to have an immediate embryo transfer for health reasons.
Transplantation after genetic screening
For some high-risk patients (e.g., those who are older or have a genetic disorder), genetic screening of embryos (PGT-A or PGT-M) may be an option. With screening, doctors can ensure that the transferred embryos are genetically healthy and reduce the risk of passing on genetic diseases. Screening usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Stage 5: Pregnancy testing after embryo transfer
Confirmation of pregnancy
On the 14th day after the embryo transfer, the patient is required to visit the hospital for a blood test to confirm the pregnancy. If the test result is positive, it means that the embryo has been successfully implanted and has entered the pregnancy stage.
Early pregnancy monitoring
After the pregnancy is confirmed, the patient will continue to receive regular checkups from the doctor to ensure a healthy pregnancy. This phase includes ultrasounds to confirm the development of the embryo and to rule out risks such as ectopic pregnancy.
Explanation of IVF Technology in Hong Kong
Below is a comparison table of IVF techniques in Hong Kong, showingsecond generation of in vitro fertilization (IVF)respond in singingThree-generation in vitro fertilization (IVF)Differences between technologies:
| sports event | In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) | Three-generation IVF (PGD/PGT) |
|---|---|---|
| Application | For most women, especially those with good ovarian function and routine infertility | For women at risk of genetic disorders, recurrent miscarriages, older age or risk of chromosomal abnormalities |
| Ovulation Promotion and Egg Collection | Ovulation is induced by medication, and in vitro fertilization (IVF) is performed after egg retrieval, usually with about 15 eggs. | Ovulation induction and egg retrieval are the same as for second generation IVF, but an embryo biopsy is performed to screen for genetic abnormalities |
| mode of fertilization | Using the traditional method of in vitro fertilization (IVF), sperm and egg combine naturally in a petri dish | Using the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) method, sperm is injected directly into the egg for men with sperm problems or for embryo screening when precise localization is needed. |
| embryo culture | Embryos are cultured in the laboratory for 3-5 days and the healthiest embryos are selected for transfer | Embryo culture is the same as second generation IVF, but embryos are genetically screened for chromosomal and genetic issues prior to transfer |
| Embryo genetic screening | No embryo genetic screening | Perform genetic screening of embryos, such as PGT-A (chromosome screening) or PGT-M (screening for single gene disorders) |
| success rate | Success rates are high, but are affected by a woman's age, ovarian function, etc. Success rates for women under 30 years of age are about 52% | Screening for unhealthy embryos through genetic screening has a higher success rate, especially for women who are older or have genetic issues. Up to 80% or more |
| Transplantation method | Embryo transfers are usually fresh embryo transfers | Fresh embryos can be transferred, or embryos can be frozen and then transferred, or embryos can be genetically screened and then transferred |
| cost | Relatively low, usually includes costs of ovulation induction, egg retrieval, embryo culture and transfer | Higher costs due to additional procedures such as genetic screening of embryos, chromosome analysis, etc. and higher technical requirements |
| population (esp. of a group of people) | For female patients in general, especially those with mild infertility, tubal problems or male infertility in the family | For families with genetic disorders, a history of recurrent miscarriages, older age, or a desire to screen for embryo quality |
| risk control | No additional genetic screening, embryo selection at transfer relies heavily on its quality and developmental potential | Genetic screening can effectively avoid hereditary diseases and chromosomal abnormalities, reducing the failure rate and the risk of passing on genetic diseases |
| Length of treatment | Usually takes 2-3 weeks, including egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo culture and transfer | In addition to egg retrieval and embryo culture, genetic screening is required, usually requiring an additional 1-2 weeks for embryo screening and cryopreservation |
Key Points of Comparison:
- second generation of in vitro fertilization (IVF)(IVF) is usually indicated for couples who have difficulty fertilizing their eggs and sperm, and the doctor assures fertilization by helping the sperm get to the egg through the technique of injection of a single sperm (ICSI). It is suitable for most infertility patients, but does not involve genetic screening of the embryo, is usually more economical, and the success rate is closely related to the woman's age and ovarian function.
- Three-generation in vitro fertilization (IVF)(PGT/PGD) focuses more on genetic screening of embryos and is suitable for women with genetic disorders, a history of recurrent miscarriages or older women. By screening chromosomes and genes, healthy embryos can be more accurately selected, thus increasing pregnancy success and reducing the transmission of genetic diseases.
Hong Kong IVF Doctor Team
Hong Kong has a first-class team of doctors, many of whom have extensive experience and expertise in the field of reproductive medicine. For example, Prof. Leung Ka Hong and Dr. Ho Wing Chiu are internationally renowned experts in reproductive medicine, and their extensive experience and advanced treatment options have attracted many international patients. Doctors in Hong Kong are not only proficient in reproductive technology, but also focus on the overall health of their patients, helping them achieve successful pregnancies through scientific and personalized treatment plans.
How to handle the embryos after they are ready in Hong Kong?
Upon completion of embryo culture, medical institutions in Hong Kong offer patients a variety of options, including cryopreservation of embryos, embryo transfer and embryo transportation.
Upon completion of embryo culture, healthcare providers in Hong Kong offer patients a variety of flexible options, includingEmbryo cryopreservation, embryo transfer and international transportation services. For those families who wish to take their embryos to other countries for surrogacy, Hong Kong's healthcare system also provides easy international transportation. Below are the possible ways of handling the embryos after they are ready in Hong Kong:
1. Transportation of embryos to Kyrgyzstan
In recent years, Kyrgyzstan has become an emerging surrogacy destination, attracting many families from around the world seeking surrogacy services. Kyrgyzstan has a relatively liberal legal framework that allows for the legal existence of commercial surrogacy and provides certain legal protections for surrogate mothers and employers. The cost of surrogacy in the country is relatively affordable, typically ranging from US$60,000 to US$80,000, depending on the client's needs and services.
Surrogacy services in Kyrgyzstan offer a wide range of options depending on the needs of different clients. For example, some clients may choose to specify a gender or wish to have twins, and some surrogacy services offer "all-inclusive" guarantees. These different needs will affect the final surrogacy cost. Surrogacy services in Kyrgyzstan are not only affordable, but the legal guarantees during the process provide a higher level of security for international families.
Surrogacy services in Kyrgyzstan usually includeEmbryo acceptance, surrogate mother selection, pregnancy management and deliveryThe surrogate mother will be given the opportunity to have a medical check-up and psychological evaluation of her health. All processes are conducted under the supervision of local specialized medical institutions, and surrogate mothers are given rigorous physical health checks and psychological evaluations. As more and more families around the world choose Kyrgyzstan as a surrogacy destination, the surrogacy market in the country is gradually developing and improving.
Recommended Reading:How to transfer embryos to Kyrgyzstan
2. Sending embryos or sperm eggs to the United States
Hong Kong also offers a convenient solution for those who wish to obtain U.S. status: sending embryos or sperm eggs via international shipping to a U.S. fertility center for surrogacy. After the embryo culture is completed at the medical institution in Hong Kong, you can choose to have the embryos frozen and shipped to a partner U.S. fertility center to arrange the surrogacy process. This process is coordinated by the Hong Kong medical facility throughout the entire process to ensure that all medical and legal procedures are carried out smoothly.
In the U.S., the surrogate mother receives professional pregnancy management and delivers the baby at the appropriate time. After the birth of the surrogate baby, the parents have two choices: either to travel to the United States to pick up the child in person, or to choose to have the child returned to Hong Kong by hand. It is worth mentioning thatChildren born in the U.S. will automatically receive a U.S. green cardThis means that the child can work and study in the United States in the future, and even in theRelative immigration opportunities for parents after age 21, bringing immigration advantages to the entire family.
Fertility centers and surrogacy agencies in the United States often work with attorneys to ensure that the child's legal status and related procedures are properly handled to protect the rights of both parents and the child. In this way, families can enjoy quality surrogacy services in the United States while being fully protected legally.
Recommended Reading:Hong Kong to USA Surrogacy Tips
3. Embryo cryopreservation and subsequent processing
Apart from shipping embryos to other countries, medical institutions in Hong Kong also provide embryo cryopreservation service. This service is available to families who wish to delay pregnancy or who have produced excess embryos during IVF treatment. Frozen embryos are able to be thawed and used at any point in the future without compromising the quality of the embryos.
During embryo cryopreservation, medical institutions in Hong Kong use advanced freezing technology to ensure that the embryos remain in optimal condition during freezing. The use of frozen embryos is not bound by a time limit, so families can have the transfer at a more suitable time, avoiding missed pregnancy opportunities due to time and health constraints.
In addition, medical centers in Hong Kong offer embryo genetic screening (e.g. PGT-A and PGT-M), which can screen for potential genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities, thus ensuring healthier embryos for transfer and further improving the success rate of pregnancy.
Through these flexible options, Hong Kong offers a diverse range of surrogacy solutions for international families, whether through international transportation, cryopreservation, or local embryo transfer.
Summary:
Surrogacy abroad through IVF in Hong Kong offers many unique advantages as a legal method of fertility. Hong Kong's medical institutions are international leaders in IVF technology, embryo culture and genetic screening, while its strict legal system ensures that the rights and interests of all parties involved in the surrogacy process are protected. Although commercial surrogacy is not legal in Hong Kong, surrogacy for the public good provides a legal way to help families who are unable to conceive naturally to realize their dreams of having children. Choosing Hong Kong for surrogacy not only allows you to enjoy top-notch medical services, but also ensures that the entire process complies with international standards and Hong Kong's legal requirements. Hong Kong is undoubtedly an ideal destination for families wishing to choose surrogacy.
