Gestational surrogacy occurs when a woman carries and delivers a pregnancy for a person or couple through a process known as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF). Gestational surrogates have no biological relation to the baby they are carrying, as the egg and/or sperm come from the intended parents or donors. Gestational surrogacy, or IVF surrogacy, is the most common type of surrogacy because at least one parent is usually related to the baby, and the gestational carrier has no parental rights, making the process less legally complicated.
How Does Gestational Surrogacy Work?
In gestational surrogacy, the embryo is created through IVF using the eggs and sperm of the intended parents or donors. The embryo is then transferred to the surrogate, who will carry out the pregnancy. After delivery, the surrogate passes the baby over to the intended parents, who will begin the journey of raising their new baby and growing their family.
The gestational carrier usually has no legal or parental rights to the child, as outlined in the surrogacy contract. Legal steps are taken to ensure the intended parents are recognized as the legal parents of the child. This may involve obtaining a pre-birth or post-birth order, depending on local laws.
Gestational Surrogacy Process
Because gestational surrogacy is the most common type of surrogacy, the process runs much smoother than other methods.
The steps of the gestational surrogacy process include:
- Application – The first step of surrogacy begins with an application. Both the surrogate and the intended parents must complete an application to begin the surrogacy journey.
- Screening – Surrogates must go through an extensive screening process to ensure they are in the right physical and mental state to undergo a pregnancy. Intended parents will also go through a slightly different screening process to ensure they are ready for the surrogacy and everything that comes afterward.
- Matching – Once the applications and screening steps are complete, the surrogate will be matched with the intended parents based on mutual goals and preferences.
- Legal Arrangements – Before beginning with any medical procedures, both parties must sign a legal contract to ensure the intended parents’ rights are protected throughout the pregnancy.
- Medications– The intended mother or egg donor will begin treatment with medication to stimulate her ovaries. An egg retrieval procedure will then be performed, and viable eggs will be transported to a laboratory, where they will be combined with sperm to form an embryo. The surrogate will also receive a detailed calendar of medications to be taken every day for the next few weeks.
- IVF Procedure– Once the surrogate begins her medications, the embryo transfer will occur approximately 3-5 weeks later. The laboratory staff will select one or two embryos, and a physician will use a long catheter to place them into the surrogate.
- Pregnancy– 10-14 days after the embryo transfer occurs, a blood test will be conducted to determine whether the surrogate has become pregnant. About two weeks after that, the surrogate’s first ultrasound will occur.
- Delivery– The final stage in the surrogacy journey is the delivery. The gestational carrier will deliver the baby in a local hospital and then pass it on to the intended parents.
Gestational Surrogacy Cost
Surrogacy is a difficult and time-consuming commitment that can be quite costly for the intended parents. The total cost of gestational surrogacy can range from $75,000-$100,000. This cost includes all necessary medical expenses such as medications and procedures, legal expenses, and surrogate compensation.
Surrogates also receive a monthly allowance for any pregnancy-related expenses, as well as counseling for emotional support during the pregnancy. These additional expenses can impact the overall cost of your surrogacy. Many of these expenses vary depending on your state and environment. In addition, intended parents should consult with a surrogacy professional as insurance may not cover some of these expenses. It’s important to discuss your financial situation beforehand so that you can plan accordingly.
Gestational Surrogacy Laws
Gestational surrogacy is often less complex than other forms of surrogacy because the surrogate has no biological relation to the baby she is carrying. However, although it is rare for a gestational carrier to experience an emotional attachment to the baby, it is still essential for the intended parents to consult with a legal professional to protect their rights.
Additionaly, surrogacy laws are determined by each country and state. Your professional attorney can create a contract accordingly to help you complete the surrogacy process without complication.
Pros and Cons of Gestational Surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy is the most common of the types of surrogacies and is, therefore, usually the first choice for intended parents. Here are some of the most common benefits and challenges of gestational surrogacy:
Pros of IVF Surrogacy
- Surrogacy allows infertile couples, single parents, and members of the LGBT community to have a second chance at completing their families.
- Gestational surrogacy still allows intended parents to be genetically related to their child.
- IFV surrogacy is the least legally complicated form of surrogacy.
- When working with an agency, gestational surrogacy has a high success rate so you can have peace of mind that the process will go smoothly.
- Surrogacy allows intended parents and surrogates to form meaningful connections and foster lifelong bonds.
Cons of IVF Surrogacy
- Gestational surrogacy can be quite expensive for intended parents.
- Gestational surrogacy requires intended parents to let go of some control as they are not the ones carrying the baby and may not be able to experience the entire process of pregnancy.
Making Your Decision
Surrogacy is a complex process that requires the assistance of many different professionals, including legal, medical, and financial workers. These professionals help make the surrogacy process a smooth and safe journey for all. Gestational surrogacy is the least complicated of the different types of surrogacies. This form of surrogacy is the most common as it has a high success rate with fewer difficulties. When considering surrogacy, intended parents must understand the process and consider the pros and cons to prepare for their journey.