After eight rounds of IVF, a midwife surrogate gave a couple their last chance at a biological child. This is the story of Narzny McKinney, who struggled with infertility for years and finally found hope through Sarah Turner, a midwife and mother of three who became her surrogate.
Narzny and her husband Roy had two precious embryos left after eight unsuccessful IVF cycles. “We were eight years down the line at this point and I just didn’t want to risk anything going wrong,” Narzny said. “It was a tough decision but it was absolutely the right thing to do.” The couple signed up to two UK surrogacy agencies and began attending social events where prospective parents meet potential surrogates. However, soaring demand made it difficult to find anyone other than other parents in the same position.
The Surrogacy Journey
After two years of waiting, the agency Nappy Endings called to say Sarah Turner had volunteered. Sarah, a midwife, said: “I’d always felt very lucky that I was able to have low-risk pregnancies. I thought I would always really like to help somebody that couldn’t do it as easily.” The two couples hit it off instantly, and Sarah became pregnant with one of the last two embryos at age 41.
Options for Intended Parents
Many couples consider going abroad for surrogacy due to lower costs or shorter wait times, but that can be logistically challenging. Below is a comparison of surrogacy paths:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| UK Agency Surrogacy | Legal clarity, emotional support, local coordination | Long wait times, limited surrogates |
| International Surrogacy | Shorter waits, potentially lower costs | Complex legalities, travel, language barriers |
| Known Surrogate (Friend/Family) | Trust, shared bond | Emotional complexity, relationship risks |
Key Takeaways from This Story
- Persistence pays off – after multiple IVF failures, surrogacy can be a viable path.
- Build strong relationships – a supportive surrogate like Sarah who involves the intended mother makes the journey smoother.
- Use agencies and events – networking can lead to a match, even if it takes time.
- Consider emotional and logistical factors – domestic surrogacy may be simpler than going abroad.
Sarah made sure Narzny was involved throughout the pregnancy, even buying her a bracelet to symbolize their bond. This story highlights the power of surrogacy and the difference a dedicated midwife surrogate can make.
FAQ
What is a midwife surrogate?
A midwife surrogate is a woman who works as a midwife and also acts as a gestational carrier for intended parents. Her medical background can provide additional reassurance during the pregnancy.
How much does surrogacy cost in the UK?
UK surrogacy typically costs £10,000–£20,000 in agency fees and expenses, though intended parents also cover medical costs and reasonable surrogate expenses. It's often cheaper than international surrogacy.
Is surrogacy legal in the UK?
Yes, surrogacy is legal in the UK, but it is largely unregulated. Commercial surrogacy is banned; only reasonable expenses can be paid. Parental orders are granted after birth to transfer legal parenthood.
For anyone facing infertility, the journey of Narzny and Sarah shows that with the right surrogate, a dream of parenthood can come true. If you're considering surrogacy, consult agencies and legal experts to find your path.