A woman who was born without a womb has asked South Essex Health Authority to pay for her to have a baby by surrogacy.

The 28-year-old married woman, known only as Mrs K, will have her application discussed at tomorrow's (Thursday's) health authority meeting. But it is unlikely she will have her wish granted.

The treatment, including IVF treatment and "reasonable expenses" to the surrogate mother would be in the region of £15,000.

It is the first time the authority has received such a request.

Director of public health, Mala Rao, chairs the priority-setting working group. In her report, compiled with the help of non-executive director Janet Hawes, Dr Rao said the group was concerned about evidence concerning the long-term effects on surrogacy on the health of the child, the surrogate and her family and the commissioning couple.

As yet, there is no national Code of Practice from the Department of Health to guide health authorities in reaching a decision.

The report states: "As a result of the group's concerns regarding the health and social effects on the child and the absence of national guidance, it felt unable to recommend that surrogacy be funded."

The group is also concerned that if it gives approval to this application, it could open the floodgates to many more requests.

By Pat Stone

Reporter's e-mail: pat.stone@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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