In the captivating realm of reality television, Kris Jenner, the matriarch and mastermind behind the Kardashian-Jenner empire, is known for her dynamic roles and surprising revelations. Recently, she found herself at the centre of an unexpected conversation about surrogacy during a heartfelt episode of The Kardashians. At 68, Kris's casual involvement in a surrogacy discussion has ignited widespread debate about the ideal age for surrogacy.
The Context of Kris's Surrogacy Proposal
The June 13 episode of The Kardashians brought to light a tender moment between Khloe Kardashian and her best friend, Malika Haqq. Malika expressed a profound desire to expand her family, despite not having a partner. She wanted to give her son, Ace, a sibling, leading to an emotional conversation about various family planning options. Initially considering sperm donation and even asking Rob Kardashian for assistance, these ideas did not come to fruition.
Turning to Kris Jenner for advice seemed natural. Kris, who is Ace's godmother and a mother of six, empathised deeply with Malika's yearning for a larger family. Reflecting on her own experiences, Kris shared, “I know what it must feel like to want a sibling for your baby because I always had that feeling deep down in my heart and my soul.” Her words underscored her lifelong commitment to family.
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The Surrogacy Suggestion and Its Implications
In a moment of light-heartedness, Malika playfully proposed that Kris could be her surrogate. “You can carry for me, you can be my surrogate,” Malika suggested. Although Kris humorously declined, saying, “No, it’s okay. But if I really thought that I could carry it for you and it would be born OK, I would do it in two seconds,” the conversation highlighted the complexities and challenges of pregnancy later in life.
This candid exchange, filmed in October 2023, reflects the evolving dynamics of family planning within the Kardashian-Jenner circle. The family has often shared intimate aspects of their lives on the show, sparking public discussions on various social and personal issues. Kris's light-hearted yet serious discussion about surrogacy at her age has raised important questions about the ideal age for surrogacy and the considerations involved.
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Understanding the Ideal Age for Surrogacy
As per Dr Sonal Kumta, Senior Consultant Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fortis Hospital Mulund, surrogacy is a significant journey that requires careful consideration of various factors, with age being one of the most crucial. Prospective surrogates must meet several requirements to ensure the health and safety of both the surrogate and the baby. While age alone may not disqualify a woman from becoming a surrogate, it is a critical factor due to the potential health risks associated with advanced maternal age.
Age Recommendations for Surrogates
Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) adheres to the guidelines set by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), which recommends that gestational surrogates be between 21 and 45 years old. Although exceptions can be made for surrogates older than 45, all involved parties must be informed of the increased risks of pregnancy at an advanced age. The fertility clinics partnering with SPS typically impose an upper age limit of 40 for surrogates, reflecting a consensus on minimizing health risks.
The ASRM's recommendations stem from a desire to protect the health of both the surrogate and the baby. Women over a certain age are at higher risk for complications such as hypertension and preeclampsia, conditions that can endanger both mother and child.
Additional Requirements for Surrogates
Beyond age, surrogates must fulfil other criteria to embark on their surrogacy journey. At SPS, these requirements include having had at least one easy pregnancy and delivery, being at a healthy weight, being a non-smoker, having reliable transportation, and being financially stable. Prospective surrogates should also have at least one child of their own living with them and possess a genuine desire to help another family. Completing one's own family before becoming a surrogate is strongly recommended, ensuring that the surrogate’s personal family goals are met before undertaking this altruistic role.
The Broader Conversation on Surrogacy and Age
Kris Jenner’s surrogacy offer, albeit in jest, has brought to light important discussions about the ideal age for surrogacy. As advancements in reproductive technology continue, the boundaries of age in surrogacy are continually tested. However, adhering to established medical guidelines ensures the best outcomes for all parties involved. Kris’s conversation with Malika serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of family planning and the importance of informed, compassionate decisions in the journey of surrogacy.
Bottomline
In conclusion, while the ideal age for surrogacy is generally considered to be between 21 and 45, each surrogacy journey is unique, and the health and well-being of both the surrogate and the baby must remain the top priority.