What Is Surrogacy: Traditional vs Gestational Surrogacy

Surrogacy Definition: What Is Surrogacy?

Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction in which a woman agrees to carry and give birth to a child for another individual or couple. It’s a path to parenthood for people who are unable to conceive or carry a pregnancy themselves, often due to medical, biological, or personal reasons.

In the surrogacy arrangement, the person who carries the pregnancy is called the surrogate (or gestational carrier in some cases), and the individuals who intend to raise the child are known as the intended parents. The entire process is carefully planned, ethically guided, and often legally regulated, especially in the United States, where laws can vary significantly by state.

Surrogacy can be emotionally powerful, legally complex, and deeply fulfilling for all parties involved. It’s more than just a medical process—it’s a collaborative journey toward building a family.

How Does Surrogacy Work?

1. Initial Consultation and Screening

Surrogacy agencies or fertility clinics first screen both intended parents and surrogate candidates. This step includes medical evaluations, psychological assessments, background checks, and legal briefings to ensure everyone is physically and emotionally prepared.

2. Legal Contracts

Both parties sign a legal agreement that outlines expectations, financial arrangements, and parental rights. Each party should have independent legal counsel.

3. Fertility Treatment and Embryo Transfer

In gestational surrogacy, embryos are created using IVF, often with the intended parents’ or donors' genetic material. One or more embryos are then transferred to the surrogate’s uterus.

4. Pregnancy and Support

The surrogate receives regular medical care and emotional support. All parties typically maintain open communication and updates, depending on their agreement.

5. Birth and Legal Parentage

After birth, legal procedures ensure the intended parents are recognized as the legal guardians. This can involve pre-birth orders, post-birth adoption, or direct legal recognition.

Gestational Surrogacy vs. Traditional: What's the Difference?

Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy means the surrogate has no genetic connection to the baby. An embryo is created via IVF and implanted into the surrogate’s uterus.

Key points:
• The surrogate is biologically unrelated to the child.
• Most commonly used in the U.S.
• Legally more straightforward.
• Preferred by parents who want a genetic connection to the child.

Traditional Surrogacy

In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate is the biological mother. Her egg is fertilized via IUI or IVF.

Key points:
• The surrogate is both the genetic and gestational mother.
• Legal complications are more common.
• Less popular in the U.S.
• Involves more complex emotional and legal boundaries.

Which Is More Common: Gestational or Traditional Surrogacy?

More than 95% of surrogacy arrangements in the U.S. are gestational. This simplifies both the legal and medical process. Traditional surrogacy is rare and sometimes restricted due to legal complexity.

For more information, visit hhs.gov or nih.gov.

Why Choose Surrogacy To Grow Your Family?

Infertility or Medical Conditions

Surrogacy provides hope for those affected by infertility, uterine issues, or medical treatments like chemotherapy.

Same-Sex Couples

Enables same-sex male couples to have a genetically related child through donor eggs and a surrogate. Also possible for some female couples using reciprocal IVF.

Single Parents by Choice

More single individuals are choosing surrogacy to build families on their own terms.

Genetic Link Preference

Surrogacy allows one or both intended parents to maintain a biological link, unlike in adoption.

The U.S. offers a structured surrogacy environment with coordinated efforts between clinics, agencies, and reproductive law experts. For more information, explore cdc.gov or usa.gov.

Conclusion

Surrogacy is a deeply personal, life-changing path to parenthood. Understanding the difference between traditional and gestational surrogacy is key to making informed, empowered decisions.

While traditional surrogacy still exists, gestational surrogacy has become the gold standard in modern reproductive medicine. It provides legal clarity, medical precision, and a beautiful route to family.

If you're considering surrogacy in the U.S., work with a reputable agency, certified legal professionals, and trusted medical experts. The journey might be complex—but for many, it ends with the most rewarding outcome of all: a child of your own.