9 April 2025

UK Surrogacy Reform: Where Are We Now?

The UK’s surrogacy laws remain outdated despite proposed reforms, but London Women’s Clinic continues to support intended parents through ethical surrogacy, a new partnership with Nappy Endings, and ongoing advocacy for legislative change.

Surrogacy is increasingly recognised as a key pathway to parenthood, transforming countless lives by enabling those who cannot conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves to build families of their own. However, surrogacy arrangements in the UK continue to be governed by outdated legislation, despite promising reform proposals introduced by the Law Commissions of England, Wales, and Scotland nearly two years ago.

Surrogacy Legislation: Current Status

In March 2023, the Law Commission released draft reforms proposing significant changes aimed at safeguarding all parties involved: surrogates, intended parents, and, crucially, children. These changes included a new "pathway to parenthood," allowing intended parents to be recognised as legal parents from birth, so long as necessary screenings and counselling occur before conception.

Despite initial interest and enthusiasm, these reforms have stalled in the corridors of power. Political complexities and competing priorities have left the draft bill in legislative limbo. The proposed Surrogacy Register, intended to support surrogate-born children's rights to trace their genetic origins, and new regulations for surrogacy organisations remain on hold.

Yet, hope is not lost. The bill isn't dead, merely paused. Advocacy from the fertility community, surrogacy experts, and intended parents continues to place gentle pressure on policymakers, maintaining momentum for eventual reform.

Rapid Growth and Inclusive Care at LWC

Despite the legislative challenges, we are delighted to be able to share exciting milestones reflecting our ongoing commitment and success in surrogacy care:

We are rapidly approaching 150 births through surrogacy—marking a significant achievement in helping families grow.
Nearly half of our surrogacy cycles now support same-sex male couples, underlining our commitment to inclusivity and diverse family structures.
Remarkably, in the past three years alone, we have supported twice as many surrogate cycles as we did in the previous seven years combined, demonstrating surrogacy’s growing prominence and the trust families place in LWC.

Continuing Commitment to Ethical Surrogacy

At London Women's Clinic, we remain deeply committed to ethical, safe, and supportive surrogacy practices. Our surrogacy programme continues to thrive, and we have recently celebrated our 100th baby born through surrogacy. We're proud of our diverse families, including a growing number of same-sex male couples who seek our expert guidance on their journeys to parenthood.¹

Navigating International Surrogacy Challenges

While international surrogacy offers options for intended parents, it presents significant legal and logistical challenges. Recent cases have highlighted issues such as delays in passport issuance, complications with citizenship, and the need for parental orders to transfer legal parentage to UK intended parents. These complexities underscore the importance of carefully navigating international arrangements with expert legal advice and careful planning.

Surrogacy Services Available in the UK: LWC Collaboration with Nappy Endings

Given these international complexities, many intended parents find reassurance and support by choosing UK-based surrogacy services. We're delighted to announce our collaboration with Nappy Endings, a UK-based surrogacy agency renowned for its compassionate and deeply personalised approach to surrogacy. Founded by Rachel Westbury—a remarkable four-time surrogate herself—Nappy Endings offers dedicated emotional, practical, and fertility support to intended parents and surrogates.

This collaboration signifies a unified effort to expand our mutual support networks, combining London Women’s Clinic’s clinical expertise with Nappy Endings' empathetic, personal care. Together, we are dedicated to making the UK surrogacy journey smoother, clearer, and more accessible, providing an ethical and reassuring alternative to international surrogacy.

Rachel Westbury shared, “We're excited about this collaboration, which brings together compassionate care with outstanding medical support. Together, we’ll provide an even more reassuring, secure journey for families navigating surrogacy."

While we eagerly await legislative movement, our new partnership with Nappy Endings allows us to strengthen our commitment to supporting intended parents and surrogates today. We'll continue advocating for reform, sharing stories of resilience and hope, and enhancing the surrogacy experience for everyone involved.²

Meet Us at The Familymakers Show

You can meet experts from both London Women’s Clinic and Nappy Endings at the Familymakers Show in Brighton on 10th May. Our dedicated surrogacy team will be there, to help you learn about how we can support your journey. For more details, visit familymakers.co.uk.

Stay connected through our events, webinars, and stories from our wonderful surrogacy families here. Together, we look forward to celebrating many more joyful arrivals.

Want to know more?

To learn more about our surrogacy programmes or our partnership with Nappy Endings, visit our website or contact our dedicated surrogacy team for support.

You can read LWC-published research on surrogacy at the key references below:

Ahuja, K. K., Mostyn, B., Simons, E. G., Bowen-Simpkins, P., Madani, T., Homa, S., & Watts, E. (2023). First clinical report of 179 surrogacy cases in the UK: Implications for policy and practice. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 46(4), 777–784. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.05.027
Ahuja, K. K. (2022). Shared intent in third-party donation will underpin the success of new surrogacy laws. Reproductive BioMedicine Online, 45(4), 639–641. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.09.003

All of our blog posts are written, edited, or produced by the London Women's Clinic Content Team. This is a collaboration between our expert writers, health editors, and the leading researchers and senior doctors at our Harley Street clinic.

‘We have two beautiful children - our family wouldn't exist without LWC Brentwood. Can't recommend them highly enough; IVF is an emotional rollercoaster regardless of your journey and we were supported at every step. Pricing is transparent and easy to understand, with payment plans available that made accessing any treatment and medication very flexible and affordable. The clinic became such a part of our lives for that short time, the care and support is so important and LWC Brentwood were brilliant. Maybe we will see them again for number 3!’

Victoria Hayman

10 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to the entire team for supporting me throughout my IVF journey. I am delighted to share that I had a positive pregnancy test following my very first IVF cycle fresh embryo transfer, and I am now 9 weeks pregnant! The staff at the LWC Colchester satellite clinic are very supportive, approachable and always do their best to help you at every stage of the journey. I would definitely recommend LWC Colchester to anyone considering fertility treatment. A special thank you to Dr Timea Kovats, a highly experienced, knowledgeable and to the wonderful staff Jackie, Annette, Tracey. Their excellent guidance, expertise, care and supportive approach played a significant role in making my first IVF cycle successful. I am truly grateful for their dedication, encouragement and support throughout this journey. I am equally grateful to all the staff at Colchester satellite clinic and the London main clinic for their care and support throughout the entire process. Thank you once again for helping us achieve such a special milestone in our lives. We will always be grateful for your support! ❤️’

jigu

10 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘Friendly, experienced and professional team. Supported throughout the entire process and would highly recommend.’

Mizzee West

10 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘The nursing team are so friendly and so supportive. Made everything so much better and easier to go through egg freezing.’

Megan Godber

10 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘We had a great experience as the team here are very knowledgeable and caring and they made us feel taken care of throughout! Big shout out to Rute & Trianni for their care and support 😊’

Chiamaka Nelson

9 November 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘The team here are very kind and helpful and made the journey completely painless! They kept us informed throughout the process and were always responsive when we had questioned’

Aruna Nelson

9 November 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘They've given us wonderful service very easy to be around. Very good communication, and very good at helping us out with everything they've done so far.’

Jessica Norman

9 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘We had a fantastic experience with LWC, Dr Rimington’s passion and expertise were second to none and we strongly believe that he is the reason for our success. All the staff were lovely, helpful and kind - we will definitely use LWC again’

Hannah Hale

9 November 2026, LWC Brighton

‘I honestly cannot recommend this fertility clinic highly enough. From the very beginning, the care, compassion and support we received were absolutely exceptional. Going through fertility treatment is an incredibly emotional journey, with so many ups and downs, but the team made us feel supported, listened to and genuinely cared for every step of the way. Nothing ever felt like too much trouble, and every member of staff we encountered was kind, understanding, professional and reassuring. What really stood out was how personal the experience felt. We never felt like just another number. The team took the time to answer our questions, put our minds at ease and guide us through what can sometimes feel like an overwhelming process. We are incredibly grateful for everything they have done for us and will never forget the part they have played in helping us grow our family. We now have our little miracles, and we couldn't be more thankful. If you're considering fertility treatment, I would wholeheartedly recommend LWC. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for helping make our dream come true! ❤️’

Emma Hayman

8 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘Had a really positive experience visiting the Oxford Clinic. Nurse Manager Liv, took time to make me us feel at ease and explained how the appointment will go. Thank you!’

Kinga Arcana-Jones

7 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Everyone my partner and I have interacted with at the Oxford clinic has been warm, friendly and knowledgeable. They’ve really helped make a very daunting process easier to go through and I’m very glad we chose this clinic!’

Jess Palmer

5 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Very friendly staff and a lovely inclusive environment, had a wonderful experience here. Highly recommend for anyone looking at fertility preservation.’

T Ilagan

5 November 2026, LWC Oxford

‘As an LGBTQ couple we found LWC Colchester incredibly supportive, no question was too much. They were friendly and welcoming, with modern facilities, and made your journey feel very personalised. We would highly recommend them for your fertility journey.’

Jasmine Colman

5 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘A massive thank you to Dom and Dr Vasquez for all of their help throughout the process!’

James Purcell

5 November 2026, LWC Tunbridge Wells

‘Me and my husband can’t thank everyone at London Women’s Clinic enough for all the care and support throughout our recent treatment. Everything went really well, and we are so grateful to all the doctors and the entire team for looking after me. A special thank you to Mimi, Dr Barbara, Caroline, Trina and Elena from Embryology team and the Theatre Team - Rose, Martin and Amy F. Everyone was so kind, helpful and reassuring, and it really made a difference. Thank you all for everything. ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️’

IsadelandCyril

4 November 2026, LWC Harley Street

‘I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the entire team who supported us throughout our IVF treatment. ❤️ A special thank you to Ana-Maria,our nurse, for her kindness, patience, compassion and professionalism. She was always so caring, understanding and supportive, making us feel reassured and comfortable during such an emotional and challenging journey. We would also like to thank Dr Gill from the bottom of our hearts for his professionalism, dedication, expertise and the confidence he gave us throughout the entire process. IVF is not just a medical treatment; it is an emotional journey filled with hope, challenges and many feelings. Having such wonderful people by our side made everything so much easier. Thank you for your care, support and dedication. We truly appreciate everything you have done for us and would wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone beginning their IVF journey. Thank you for being part of our journey! ❤️’

Alexandru Predescu

3 November 2026, LWC Harrow

‘I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to the entire team who supported us throughout our IVF treatment. ❤️ A special thank you to Ana-Maria,our nurse, for her kindness, patience, compassion and professionalism. She was always so caring, understanding and supportive, making us feel reassured and comfortable during such an emotional and challenging journey. We would also like to thank Dr Gill from the bottom of our hearts for his professionalism, dedication, expertise and the confidence he gave us throughout the entire process. IVF is not just a medical treatment; it is an emotional journey filled with hope, challenges and many feelings. Having such wonderful people by our side made everything so much easier. Thank you for your care, support and dedication. We truly appreciate everything you have done for us and would wholeheartedly recommend you to anyone beginning their IVF journey. Thank you for being part of our journey! ❤️’

Mihaela-Clemansa Predescu

3 November 2026, LWC Harrow

‘Simply Brilliant .’

Ramachandran Jeyamohan

3 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘I feel so blessed and grateful to have been under the lovely nurse Katie and Dr Kovats’s care. Everyone I encountered in the clinic on or off line was friendly, reassuring, thoughtful, and patient with me. I could feel the genuine care from Katie and Dr Kovats. I feel very reassured knowing they'd be there with me every step of the way; it is a great relief to have medical professionals like them on my side. They listened attentively, were reassuring, explained what I need to know thoroughly and were very approachable. Thank you to Carina, the friendly clinic coordinator, for always answering my emails promptly and being so helpful with all the questions I threw at her. Also, to the lovely staff member with blonde hair (I’m so sorry I forgot your name!) who did the ultrasound scan, thank you for being so attentive and making me feel relaxed. The clinic has a calm, relaxing vibe and is very clean. I have had a wonderful experience with the clinic and would highly recommend the team to anyone on their fertility journey!’

T Yang

3 November 2026, LWC Brentwood

‘We have used London Women's Clinic twice in the last two years for successful egg retrieval and two subsequent frozen embryo transfers. We have always been met with care, compassion and a personal approach. Every step from the initial consultation right through to the 7 week scan has been professional and polite, always accommodating our needs and timings. We can't thank the team enough for giving us such support towards creating our family.’

Lucy Richards

2 November 2026, LWC Tunbridge Wells

‘Myself and my husband owe it all to london womens clinic, they were amazing from start to finish. We previously were under another clinic and decided to make the change due to many reasons and we are so glad we did. They treat everyone as individuals, not everyones fertility journeys are the same. The small team at Colchester make it so personable not to mention how amazing all 4 women are that work here, their knowledge empathy and listening skills simply cannot be found at any other clinic. The list goes on as to why I would recommend LWC but everyone likes a to the point review. They genuinely care they dont treat you like a number and they help you through every hurdle that occurs. Our little boy wouldn't be possible without these 4, each of them play a bigger part than they realise. 💙’

Ellen Turrell

2 November 2026, LWC Colchester

‘Wonderful punch of people, caring, competent, and efficient in all they do. It feels we are all in a mission together and they are invested in the success of our pregnancy. Thank k you 🙏’

Yasmine Mora

30 October 2026, LWC London Bridge

‘I couldn’t speak more highly of the London Women’s Clinic Oxford! From the moment you walk in you are greeted with such a warm welcome. The reception area is bright and welcoming and the receptionist is lovely. All of the staff are so friendly, helpful and polite. Going through this journey can be emotional, so having such a wonderful supportive, caring clinic to visit makes all the difference. Everyone goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and looked after. I feel so lucky to have such a lovely team supporting me along the way. Thank you all! 🍀💗’

Louise

30 October 2026, LWC Oxford

‘Incredible service and professionals. They made me feel comfortable and safe the entire journey. Thank you!’

Luciana Lombardi

30 October 2026, LWC Cambridge

‘I had an absolutely amazing experience at LWC from start to finish! There are literally no wait times so we were able to get started pretty much straight away after consultation. The process was seamless, with a lot of flexibility if you need to change appt time. Nurses are amazing and so supportive. Special shout out to Kate and Chris who were so kind and made the whole experience so much better. Also the nurses on the ward were absolutely amazing but I can’t remember their names. I’m now discharged as I’m pregnant from my first try! However I will look forward to returning in the future for my second embryo which is currently frozen 😊’

Kathryn Jessica

27 October 2026, LWC Bromley