The gestational surrogacy process is the most common type of surrogacy pursued by individuals and couples who cannot have a baby independently. The reasons may be close to home or well-being, yet regardless of the reason, gestational surrogacy has helped many of these couples develop their families.
If you are thinking about becoming a gestational surrogate or choosing this method to have a baby, we recommend learning about the process.
What is gestational surrogacy?
In this form of surrogacy, the woman carrying the baby is also called a gestational carrier. She is biologically unrelated to the baby. Through in vitro fertilization, the sperm and eggs from the intended parents and or donors are transferred into the surrogate’s womb (after fertilizing it in a lab). In this type of surrogacy, one and or both intended parents are genetically related to the baby. This is the reason gestational surrogacy is far less lawfully unpredictable.
What types of people pursue gestational surrogacy?
People who are experiencing fertility issues often consider this path. Other people who might consider gestational surrogacy are:
- same-sex couples
- single parents
- people who prefer their child does not share a genetic link with the surrogate
- any woman is unable to carry a baby to term safely
What does gestational surrogacy entail?
Gestational surrogacy is the most typical surrogacy in the United States. It involves finding a reliable surrogacy agency, finding a suitable surrogate, completing legal documents and signing contracts, and then undergoing IVF procedures.
How do intended parents start the process?
Intended parents may search for a surrogacy opportunity by themselves and consult an attorney specializing in reproductive law. However, many prefer to work with surrogacy agencies who can assist with the entire process.
What happens after a surrogate match is found?
After a suitable surrogate is identified, each party works with an attorney to identify legal responsibilities and risks, including the surrogate’s compensation. Once both parties have agreed to the terms in the contract and signed the documents, the actual surrogacy process will begin.
What are the laws concerning gestational surrogacy?
Surrogacy is still a relatively new option for parents. State laws for this route vary considerably. It would help if you were well versed in your particular state’s laws regarding gestational surrogacy.
What’s involved in the fertility process?
Using sperm and eggs from the intended parents and or donors, an embryo is created in the IVF lab. Once formed, it is transferred into the surrogate’s womb. If the eggs and sperm are obtained from the intended parents, the baby will be entirely genetically related to them. If a donor’s egg or sperm is used, only one of the intended parents will share a baby’s genetic link. Sometimes both the egg and sperm are obtained from donors, in which case neither of the intended parents will share a genetic link with their baby.
Once the embryo is implanted, the surrogate will carry the baby like a routine pregnancy. The intended parents often choose to remain involved in the pregnancy process by attending doctor appointments and staying in touch with their surrogate.
What occurs after the baby is born?
Once the baby is born, they are given to the intended parents who possess complete legal custody. The gestational surrogate is reimbursed for her commitment.
How much does gestational surrogacy cost?
The cost of gestational surrogacy varies according to many factors. However, this can be between $75,000 to $150,000. This accounts for counseling fees, attorney fees, medical expenses, surrogate’s living expenses, compensation, and agency fees. Intended parents must work closely with their surrogacy agency to determine the exact figure and budget accordingly.
The gestational surrogacy process is a long and sometimes challenging route. However, it provides hope to many intended parents who would never be able to start a family.
To learn more about the gestational surrogacy process, contact Rite Options.
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