Global Market Insights reported a projected growth in the surrogacy market of 24.5% from 2023 to 2032. This process allows people to become parents who may not have had the chance otherwise.
There are two main types of surrogacy, traditional and gestational. Each option has unique characteristics and considerations.
Traditional surrogacy
Traditional surrogacy involves a surrogate mother who is genetically related to the child she carries. In this method, the intended father’s sperm fertilizes the surrogate’s egg through artificial insemination. This creates a biological connection between the surrogate and the child. Traditional surrogacy is an option for those who may not have a healthy egg of their own to contribute to the process.
Gestational surrogacy
Gestational surrogacy occurs when the surrogate mother has no genetic relationship to the child she carries. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization, implant an embryo created outside of the surrogate’s body. Technicians fertilize the intended parents’ egg and sperm or donor egg and sperm in a lab first. The surrogate acts like the vessel only to grow the embryo and birth the child.
Key differences
One key difference lies in the legal and emotional complexities associated with traditional surrogacy. Since the surrogate has a genetic connection to the child, issues regarding parental rights and responsibilities may arise. In this situation, a legal agreement to outline the expectations and roles of all parties is mandatory to avoid problems.
Gestational surrogacy tends to have a more straightforward legal framework because there is no genetic relationship with the surrogate. This can simplify matters and contribute to a more streamlined and predictable surrogacy journey.
Both traditional and gestational surrogacy have their merits. The choice between them depends on the preferences and circumstances of the intended parents. Understanding the nuances between these two methods is essential for those exploring surrogacy as an option on the path to parenthood.