There are two types of surrogates, gestational and traditional. Both types are just as safe as traditional pregnancy but are very different.
A Gestational Surrogate is the most common type of surrogacy. A Gestational Surrogate carries a child that is not related to her in any way. The embryo is usually created through the intended mother’s egg and intended father’s sperm using in vitro fertilization or IVF. It is then transferred to the surrogate, who acts as a human incubator, carrying the parent’s baby through to birth. Sometimes the mother’s eggs or father’s sperm cannot be used. In this case, a donor’s egg or sperm is used, and this is called traditional surrogacy.
A Traditional Surrogate acts as both egg donor and surrogate. Traditional Surrogates are impregnated by a process called intrauterine insemination or IUI. A doctor takes sperm from the intended father and transfers it into the uterus of the surrogate. Then after, natural fertilization of the egg takes place.
Surrogate Mom Responsibilities & Requirements
When you choose to become a surrogate, you are making a decision that will change your life and the lives of many people. Surrogacy is one of the most amazing gifts that you can give someone but it does come at a cost for you. Surrogacy can be a long and challenging process that will require you to be strong, selfless, and determined. That is why so many people decide that it isn’t the right path for them to take.
Still, if you want to be a surrogate, you need to know the responsibilities and requirements that come with being a part of this process.
Throughout the process, you will have to go through different tests and qualifications. Just because you pass the initial test does not mean that you will pass all of them, unfortunately. There are some general phases you can expect:
You will have to fill out an application. The initial application will ask you about the qualifications mentioned above as well as a few other questions about you, your health, and why you want to be a surrogate. After you submit an initial application, you will generally be contacted by a surrogacy official who will move you onto the next step. The application may include social and medical history. If it doesn’t, this is typically the second from you will have to fill out. This one will include information about your health history, familial history, and even your personality.
Once you pass this step, you will need to have a physical examination. This will go over general health items as well as fertility based items. You may have to meet with a fertility specialist as well and get lab work. At the same time, you will need to have an at home assessment, where you will talk to a social worker to discuss your goals and motivations for pursuing surrogacy. The social worker will be with you throughout your entire process.
Throughout the process, you may also need to take background checks for you and anyone else who lives your home. You may also need to have a mental health evaluation.
This might seem a bit overwhelming, but it is necessary and important for you to do. One thing to remember is that the intended parents are going through a large number of tests as well.