3 Things to Know About Gestational Surrogacy

Many people experience infertility or are in a position that carrying a child to term is not possible. Because of this, they look for alternatives to have a child that is genetically related to them. Gestational surrogacy is the best option.

If you are researching your options for having a child of your own or are a prospective surrogate wanting to provide the gift of parenthood, gestational surrogacy may be right for you. This guide will explain:

  • The gestational surrogacy process
  • How gestational surrogacy works
  • How gestational surrogacy may be right for you
  • And more

Anytime you have questions about the gestational surrogacy process or anything surrogacy-related, you can fill out this online form to get more information and speak with a trained professional about the gestational surrogacy process. In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about the most common option for surrogacy.

1.     What is Gestational Surrogacy?

During gestational surrogacy, which is sometimes referred to as “host surrogacy,” the surrogate has no biological relation to the child she carries to term. The embryo is created through IVF (in vitro fertilization), in which the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors are combined and then transferred to the surrogate.

This type of surrogacy allows intended parents to have a genetically related child. The surrogate is not biologically related to the child, so she never has parental rights to the child. Because of this, the gestational surrogacy process is much less legally complicated. This is due to the fact the child is already legally recognized as the intended parent’s and does not require the termination of parental rights from the surrogate.

Gestational surrogacy is an excellent option for intended parents who:

  • Want to have a genetic relationship with their child
  • Have experienced infertility issues
  • Are single intended parents
  • Are same-sex couples
  • Are intended parents who are not capable of carrying a child to term themselves

If you are interested in learning more about gestational surrogacy, fill out this form to speak with a trained professional and to get answers to any questions you may have. Keep reading to learn more about the gestational surrogacy process and how it may be the best option for you.

2.     How Does Gestational Surrogacy Work?

When you choose gestational surrogacy, you are highly encouraged to work with a surrogacy professional from a trusted agency. Whether you are an intended parent or a prospective surrogate, they will be able to guide you through the entire process.

Although no two surrogacy journeys are the same, most will follow the six steps it takes to complete a successful. These steps are outlined below:

Step 1. Meet screening and eligibility requirements: Before you can begin your surrogacy journey, you must first meet the eligibility requirements and complete all required screening processes before being able to advance. Medical information, background information, and more will all be reviewed to determine your ability to be a surrogate or an intended parent during this step. 

Once you have been approved, you will then begin searching for a match.

Step 2. Match with a surrogacy partner: It may seem self-explanatory, but you cannot complete a successful gestational surrogacy without finding a match. Based on your preferences, your professional will be there to provide you with potential matches and help you search for your ideal partner. Once you feel comfortable and confident, you will select a surrogate or intended parent and move to step 3. 

Step 3. Create your surrogacy contract: The surrogacy contract is one of the most important pieces of information throughout the process. This is essentially the agreement for your surrogacy goals and discusses things like prenatal care, compensation, the type of relationship you hope to have during and after the pregnancy, and so much more. Developing a contract both sides agree on and are comfortable with is a key component of a successful surrogacy process and relationship.  The contract is an essential way to ensure surrogates and intended parents are protected throughout the process.

Your surrogacy professional and attorney will guide you through this step.

Step 4. Begin the medical procedure: Each gestational surrogacy will differ, and there may be additional medical steps to complete prior to the embryo transfer. Working with your surrogacy agency, you will determine the clinic in which this process will take place and more.

Step 5. Start pre-delivery planning: Once there has been a successful embryo transfer and pregnancy has occurred, all parties can begin planning the delivery of the baby. Depending upon your surrogacy contract, this may include updates, visits, involvement in pre-delivery doctor visits, and more.

Step 6. Delivery and post-birth legalities: Depending upon your state laws, once the child has been delivered, there may be legal documents that need to be completed. Your surrogacy attorney will walk you through this process step by step to ensure all legal aspects are being taken care of properly. Depending upon the type of relationship you agreed upon or wish to have, you may also continue building your relationship with the intended parents or surrogate.

These are the steps it takes to complete a gestational surrogacy. Keep in mind there may be additional or fewer procedures involved, depending upon your specific situation. A surrogacy professional will walk you through each step and educate you on the process, to help limit any confusion or concerns you may have. 

3.     Is Gestational Surrogacy Right for You?

Because it limits the legal and emotional complications traditional surrogacy can bring, gestational carriers and intended parents can both benefit from the gestational surrogacy process. For these reasons and more, gestational surrogacy is the most commonly chosen type of surrogacy today. 

With such an important decision as surrogacy, you’ll want to make sure you have the best information and resources by your side before making your choice. Whether you are an intended family or a prospective surrogate, weighing the pros and cons of gestational surrogacy vs. traditional is essential to do.

We encourage you to fill out this form to speak with a surrogacy professional and to get more information about gestational surrogacy. It is not the right option for everyone, but it may be the best path for you!