Legal parenthood

After treatment at a UK licensed clinic, the person giving birth is the legal mother. A spouse or civil partner is usually the second parent; an unmarried partner needs the correct parenthood consent forms signed before treatment. Donors are not legal parents when donating through a licensed clinic. Seek legal advice in complex cases.

Also known as: legal parent, parentage

Last reviewed: 23 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.