Gestational surrogacy is a type of assisted reproductive technology that allows intended parents to have a child through the use of a surrogate mother. In this method, the surrogate carries the intended parents’ embryo created through in-vitro fertilization (IVF) and gives birth to the baby. This process has gained popularity over the years and is now widely used as a solution for infertility and other reproductive issues. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about gestational surrogacy.
The History of Gestational Surrogacy
The first successful gestational surrogacy took place in 1985. The surrogate mother was Mary Beth Whitehead, who carried a baby created through IVF using the intended father’s sperm and the surrogate’s egg. The legal battle that followed after the birth of the baby led to the formation of the first legal guidelines for surrogacy. Since then, gestational surrogacy has come a long way, and now, there are specific laws and regulations for surrogacy in different parts of the world.
Who Can Benefit From Gestational Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy is an option for individuals or couples who cannot conceive due to various reasons, such as infertility, medical conditions that make pregnancy risky, or same-sex couples. It is also an option for women who have undergone a hysterectomy or have a medical condition that prevents them from carrying a pregnancy.
Types of Gestational Surrogacy
There are two types of gestational surrogacy: traditional and gestational. Traditional surrogacy involves using the surrogate’s egg and the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm. In contrast, gestational surrogacy uses the intended mother’s egg or a donor egg and the intended father’s sperm or donor sperm.
Gestational Surrogacy Process
The gestational surrogacy process involves several steps, including:
- Finding a Surrogate: Intended parents can find a surrogate through a surrogacy agency, a surrogacy lawyer, or by searching for a surrogate themselves.
- Screening: The surrogate undergoes a thorough medical and psychological evaluation to ensure she is physically and mentally fit to carry a pregnancy.
- Legal Agreements: Intended parents and the surrogate sign a legal agreement outlining their roles and responsibilities.
- IVF Treatment: The intended mother or donor undergoes IVF treatment to retrieve her eggs, which are then fertilized with the intended father’s or donor’s sperm.
- Embryo Transfer: Once the embryos are created, they are transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.
- Pregnancy and Birth: The surrogate carries the pregnancy to term and gives birth to the baby.
Risks and Challenges
Gestational surrogacy involves some risks and challenges, including:
- Medical Risks: There are risks associated with IVF treatment and pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancy, multiple pregnancies, and gestational diabetes.
- Legal Risks: There can be legal issues surrounding surrogacy, such as custody battles, termination of pregnancy, or disputes over payments.
- Emotional Challenges: The surrogate may have emotional challenges throughout the pregnancy and after the birth of the baby, and intended parents may struggle with the concept of not carrying their child.
Success Rates
The success rates of gestational surrogacy depend on several factors, such as the age and health of the intended mother or donor, the quality of the sperm and eggs used, and the experience of the IVF clinic. According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, the live birth rate for gest
ational surrogacy using fresh embryos in the United States is around 49% for women under 35 years old, 42% for women aged 35-37, 31% for women aged 38-40, and 22% for women over 40 years old.
Costs
Gestational surrogacy can be an expensive process, and the cost varies depending on several factors such as location, the experience of the IVF clinic, and the surrogate’s compensation. According to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the average cost of gestational surrogacy in the United States ranges from $90,000 to $150,000.
Legal Issues
Surrogacy laws vary in different parts of the world, and it is essential to consult with a lawyer before beginning the surrogacy process. In the United States, surrogacy laws vary from state to state, and some states have strict laws while others have no laws at all. It is essential to understand the laws in your state to avoid any legal issues.
Conclusion
Gestational surrogacy is a viable option for individuals or couples who cannot conceive naturally. It is a complex process that involves medical, legal, and emotional challenges. It is essential to work with a reputable surrogacy agency and consult with a lawyer before beginning the process. Despite the challenges, gestational surrogacy has helped many people achieve their dream of becoming parents.
