When Gestational Surrogacy is Necessary
When another woman's uterus is "borrowed" for the purpose of carrying an embryo and delivering a baby for another woman or couple, this procedure is called a gestational surrogacy. Gestational surrogacy, or simply surrogacy, primarily utilizes in vitro fertilization or intrauterine insemination techniques, depending on health circumstances surrounding those involved with the surrogacy.
Who Should Consider Surrogacy?
Surrogacy is considered a viable option if: - You still have your ovaries to provide eggs but have had your uterus removed
- You have a medical condition that puts your health at risk if you were to become pregnant (polycystic ovary syndrome, autoimmune diseases, being over 35)
- You and your partner have suffered repeated IVF implantation failures
Steps Towards Completing a Gestational Surrogacy Procedure
At our New York Fertility Clinic, we will discuss the following steps in greater detail before beginning a gestational surrogacy treatment program: - Gestational surrogates can be obtained through our fertility clinic or may be a relative or friend specifically chosen by you. All surrogates are meticulously put through a screening process that includes blood testing, complete medical assessment and genetic and psychological evaluations. In addition, surrogates should have had a least one successful pregnancy free of complications.
- Consent forms must be signed by all parties involved with a surrogacy plan. Possible legal issues are discussed and clarified before they are put in writing, signed and finalized.
- Women providing their eggs for implantation in the surrogate mother are stimulated for in vitro fertilization using medications that promote development of multiple eggs.
- Surrogates are given medications that suppress their menstrual cycle while encouraging development of uterine linings conducive to a successful implantation.
- Upon maturation of the woman's follicles, our doctor will perform an egg retrieval procedure to remove eggs from the ovaries.
- Eggs are then fertilized in our laboratory using the partner's sperm (or donor sperm).
- Within three to five days, embryos develop to a stage where they can be transferred to the uterus of the surrogate. Implantation should occur rapidly upon transference.
What is Traditional Surrogacy?
Gestational surrogacy differs from traditional surrogacy because the surrogate mother does not undergo in vitro implantation of a woman's eggs. Instead, traditional surrogates are artificially inseminated by an anonymous donor or the intended father of the baby. Children born from a traditional surrogacy are essentially "adopted" by the person or couple following the signing over of parental rights by the traditional surrogate mother.
Discuss Surrogacy with Our New York Fertility Clinic
If you have been thinking about starting a family using surrogacy, don't hesitate to call us today to schedule a consultation appointment with our caring, experienced fertility specialist who can help you decide whether surrogacy is right for you.
