The rise in technology has created many opportunities in medicine, for example, the increase in assisted reproduction technology which offers an opportunity for couples with reproductive issues to get children. The specialists at the New York Fertility Institute offer various techniques, including the option of getting a surrogate to help carry a fetus and deliver a baby for ‘unable’ parents.
What is surrogacy?
This form of assisted reproduction leverages technology to implant an embryo in a gestational surrogate who will carry the fetus until birth. This method is usually an option for couples who wish to become parents but cannot independently, primarily due to infertility issues or other factors.
What you need to know before getting a surrogate
The idea of surrogacy is still a controversial topic in many states. It is essential to be aware of the different surrogacy laws in the specific country you are in to prepare you and your partner for the hassles you will undergo during the process.
What are the different kinds of surrogate mothers?
The woman that carries and delivers the baby can be a:
- Traditional surrogate
- Gestational surrogate
Who is a traditional surrogate?
This is a woman who accepts to be artificially inseminated with male sperm, carry the fetus and then deliver it for the couple to raise. The sperm can come from the male partner, who automatically becomes the biological father to the baby.
This method is perfect for situations where the female partner cannot donate her eggs or no female to donate her eggs like same-sex male couples. The surrogate, therefore, becomes the baby’s biological mother.
Who is a gestational surrogate?
This technique leverages the use of another technology known as In Vitro fertilization (IVF). This process involves extracting an egg from the female partner or donor and fertilizing it with donor sperm or from the male partner. After the cells have replicated, usually in a lab, the doctor in charge will place it into the surrogate’s uterus, who then carries the fetus until full term. The baby is not genetically linked to the surrogate since she does not donate the egg used and therefore is not the baby’s biological mother.
When is surrogacy an option for you to grow your family?
There are many reasons for considering surrogacy, depending on a couple’s position. For women who have had a hysterectomy or with medical conditions affecting the uterus, it may be hard carrying a baby, and getting a surrogate could help you grow your family. For gay men, traditional surrogacy is an option to get children. However, they may also choose an egg donor.
The surrogacy process is unique for every family. The most important thing is to find an institution that understands your needs as a couple and helps make the experience as smooth as possible. The New York Fertility Institute offers to counsel couples and surrogates considering surrogacy, supporting them throughout the legal processes of regulating the surrogacy agreement. Schedule your appointment today to get a consultation and begin your surrogacy journey.
