Priyanka Chopra's Surrogacy Journey: Everything You Need to Know

Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas's journey to parenthood took a unique path, welcoming their daughter Malti Marie via surrogacy in January 2022. This decision, while bringing immense joy, also opened them up to public scrutiny and speculation. Let's delve into Priyanka's surrogacy journey, addressing common questions and exploring what parents can learn from their experience.

The Decision Behind Surrogacy

Priyanka has publicly stated that she and Nick chose surrogacy due to "medical complications." While she hasn't disclosed specific details, she emphasized that surrogacy was a "necessary step" for them. It's important to remember, as Priyanka pointed out, that everyone's journey is personal, and speculating about someone's medical history is never appropriate.

"You don't know me. You don't know what I've been through. And just because I don't want to make my medical history, or my daughter's, public doesn't give you the right to make up whatever the reasons were,” Priyanka said.

Surrogacy is indeed a rare procedure, usually sought by couples in whom the female is unable to deliver a baby safely or by gay men hoping to start a family of their own.

The NICU Experience and Protecting Malti

Malti Marie's arrival was also met with challenges. She was born prematurely, a trimester before her due date, and spent over 100 days in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Priyanka recalled the emotional toll of those early days, not knowing if Malti would make it.

This experience has made Priyanka fiercely protective of Malti. She's been vocal about her disappointment with those who criticized her decision to use a surrogate and has made it clear that her daughter is off-limits when it comes to gossip. The couple has also been careful about sharing Malti's photos online, prioritizing her privacy.

What is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy refers to a way of assisted reproduction that helps intended parents have a baby when they're otherwise unable to do so. There are generally two types of surrogacies:

Traditional Surrogacy: In this, the surrogate is inseminated with the intended father's sperm and is the biological mother of the child.

Gestational Surrogacy: In this, an embryo is created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) using the intended mother's or a donor's egg, and the intended father's or a donor's sperm is implanted in the surrogate's uterus. The surrogate is not biologically related to the child.

What Parents Can Learn from Priyanka and Nick's Journey?

Embrace Your Unique Path: Every journey to parenthood is different. Whether it involves surrogacy, adoption, or other assisted reproductive technologies, the most important thing is creating a loving and supportive environment for your child.

Prioritize Your Child's Well-being: Like Priyanka, be fiercely protective of your child's privacy and well-being. Shield them from negativity and create a safe space for them to grow and thrive.

Be Open and Honest (When Appropriate): While Priyanka chose not to share the specifics of her medical complications, she was open about the fact that surrogacy was a necessary step for her family. Honesty, when you're comfortable, can help break down stigmas and create a more understanding environment.

Find Gratitude in the Journey: Despite the challenges, Priyanka has expressed immense gratitude for the surrogacy process and the "generous, kind, lovely, and funny" surrogate who carried Malti. Focusing on gratitude can help you navigate the ups and downs of parenthood with a more positive outlook.

It's Okay to Ask for Privacy: Priyanka and Nick requested privacy during the early days of parenthood. It's okay to set boundaries and protect your family's personal life, especially in the age of social media.

Every Decision is About the Child: With seven cameras in her baby’s room, PC said that there is “nothing more satisfying than seeing her face as soon as her eyes open."

Conclusion

Priyanka and Nick's surrogacy journey highlights the diverse ways families are created today. It's a reminder that the path to parenthood isn't always easy, but with love, resilience, and a focus on your child's well-being, anything is possible.