With the popularity of surrogacy, many people have questions and misconceptions about this unusual journey.
A common question is whether the baby is genetically related to the surrogate. The short answer? If you are a gestational surrogate, there is NO genetic connection between the surrogate and the baby.
Let’s dive into this topic below.
Gestational surrogacy versus traditional surrogacy
To address this important question, let’s break down the difference between two types of surrogacy: traditional and gestational.
Traditional surrogacyin which the surrogate mother is both the egg donor and the surrogate, results in a genetic link between the surrogate and the baby—but today, this process has become less common than gestational surrogacy.
In gestational surrogacy, the mother’s egg or a donor egg is fertilized with the father’s sperm or donor sperm, and the embryo is implanted in the surrogate’s uterus using in vitro fertilization (IVF). In this case, there is no genetic relation between the surrogate and the baby.
How surrogacy works at SPS
At Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS), we work exclusively with gestational surrogates.
As a gestational surrogate, your role is to provide a nurturing environment for the embryo to grow. This commitment ensures a safe and healthy pregnancy, strengthening the parents’ dream of starting a family.
Embarking on this journey also offers you a unique opportunity to play an important role in bringing a family’s dreams to life…and it’s a great way to achieve many life goals. (Read “Why Being Alternate Is An Amazing Way To Start 2023”)
Two more common questions
Now that we’ve answered a frequently asked question, let’s tackle some more concerns that may be on your mind as you navigate the world of surrogacy.
1. What if the intended parents change their minds along the way and decide they don’t want the baby?
This is high unlikely. Intended parents have endured a long and emotional journey trying to have a baby. Choosing surrogacy is often the realization of their long-cherished dream, making any thought of changing their minds incredibly rare.
Furthermore, surrogacy involves legal agreements that outline everything from pre-birth parental orders, giving both parties a firm understanding of their rights and responsibilities.
2. What if the surrogate wants to keep the baby?
Rest assured, there is NO need to worry about it. Here’s why:
First, as we discussed above, gestational surrogacy has become more common than traditional surrogacy, which means there is no biological relationship between the surrogate and the child—and no basis for claiming parental rights.
Second, regardless of genetic ties, both parties (and their lawyers) agree to legally binding agreements that lay out all the details, including a pre- or post-birth parentage order that establishes the parental rights. In many cases, the names of the intended parents will be entered on the hospital birth certificate.
Third, it is incredibly rare for an alternate like to “keep” the baby. Surrogacy is a partnership. Surrogates and intended parents develop a close bond during pregnancy, and surrogates are very excited for the intended parents when the baby arrives.
We’ve been doing this for 30 years and helped bring over 900 babies into this world…and it’s never been a question.
We hope this information gives you a clear understanding and a sense of ease as you navigate the world of surrogacy!
do you hope be a surrogate in California? Follow the links below!
Learn More About Surrogacy at Surrogacy Services
Surrogate Parenting Services is proud to celebrate more than 30 years of helping make dreams come true! Founded in 1990, Surrogate Parenting Services (SPS) is a full service surrogacy agency which offers both parties an exceptionally supportive environment throughout the surrogacy relationship. We are passionate about creating ideal matches between surrogates and intended parents, so the journey is fulfilling for both parties and the future child is brought into this world in the best possible circumstances.
Learn more about our Surrogacy Program online or by calling (949) 363-9525.
