MATERNAL INSTINCT’ - SAFE AND LEGAL ROUTES TO PARENTHOOD

24th July 2026

MATERNAL INSTINCT’ - SAFE AND...

The recent Netflix true‑crime documentary Maternal Instinct has been trending both on the platform and across social media, bringing renewed attention to a deeply disturbing criminal case in Texas. The documentary revisits the story of a woman who, after faking her own pregnancy, was ultimately convicted of murdering a pregnant mother and cutting her unborn baby from her womb in a shocking attempt to pass the child off as her own.

While the details of the case are deeply distressing, it highlights an important and often overlooked issue: the lengths some individuals may go to when facing barriers to parenthood.

This case is ultimately one of criminal wrongdoing. However, it brings awareness to the emotional complexities surrounding fertility and the desire to become a parent. Crucially, it underscores the importance of safe, lawful and supported routes to parenthood.

ROUTES TO PARENTHOOD AT MSB

For individuals and couples navigating fertility challenges, there are a number of established and legally regulated pathways available in the UK.

Adoption

Adoption provides a structured and legally recognised route to parenthood, offering stability and permanence for children and adoptive families alike.

The process involves comprehensive assessments, background checks, and ongoing support from local authorities or accredited agencies. It is designed to ensure the best possible outcomes for both the child and the prospective parents, and therefore is a very thorough process.

Surrogacy

Surrogacy offers another route to parenthood, where a surrogate carries a child on behalf of intended parents.

In the UK, surrogacy agreements are not legally binding. However, the law provides a clear framework through parental orders, which transfer legal parenthood from the surrogate to the intended parents after the child’s birth.

Because of the legal and practical complexities involved, early legal advice is strongly recommended to help avoid uncertainty and ensure the process runs smoothly.

Other options

In addition to adoption and surrogacy, there are other options available, including:

· Donor conception (using donated sperm or eggs); and

· Fertility treatment, such as IVF.

Each option comes with its own legal, medical and emotional considerations, making it important to obtain clear guidance from the outset.

WHY LEGAL SAFEGUARDS MATTER

What these lawful routes have in common is structure: clear legal processes, professional oversight, and safeguards designed to protect everyone involved, particularly the child.

Seeking appropriate legal advice ensures that:

· parental rights are properly established;

· the welfare of the child is prioritised; and

· all parties are protected throughout the process.

HOW MSB CAN HELP

Navigating the legal and emotional aspects of building a family can feel overwhelming, particularly when dealing with complex processes such as adoption or surrogacy.

At MSB, our family law team supports individuals and families at every stage of their journey to parenthood. We provide clear, practical advice on eligibility, legal requirements, and the steps needed to secure parental rights.

Our focus is on ensuring that your chosen route to parenthood is as smooth and supported as possible.

If you would like advice on adoption, surrogacy, or any other aspect of family law, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our specialist team.