Gestational Carrier vs Surrogate: Key Differences Explained

Gestational carriers carry embryos not genetically linked to them, while surrogates use their own eggs. Medical conditions like hysterectomy or severe endometriosis may necessitate gestational carriers. Gestational carrier cycles increased by 28% since 2007, with agencies handling 75% of placements.

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Key Takeaways

Genetic vs Biological Role in Gestational Carrier vs Surrogate

Surrogates are genetically linked to the child via egg donation, while gestational carriers have no biological relation to the embryo they carry. This distinction affects legal agreements and emotional considerations for intended parents.

Medical Conditions Requiring Gestational Carrier Use

Women with uterine removal (hysterectomy), cervical/uterine cancer, severe endometriosis, or non-functional uteruses may require gestational carriers. IVF is used to fertilize eggs (from intended parents or donors) and implant embryos into the carrier.

Gestational Carrier Success Rates and Financial Risk Mitigation

Shady Grove Fertility offers a 100% financial refund program if gestational carrier cycles fail to result in a live birth (exclusions apply). Overall success rates remain high due to advanced IVF techniques and experienced medical teams.

Agency-Driven Gestational Carrier Selection Process

75% of couples rely on fertility agencies to find gestational carriers, while 25% use personal connections like relatives. Agencies screen carriers for health, psychological stability, and legal compliance to ensure safe outcomes.

Gestational Carriers in LGBTQ+ Family Building

Same-sex male couples can use gestational carriers with donor eggs (from a partner’s relative or donor) to create genetic ties to both intended fathers. Recent cases show siblings donating eggs to maintain familial genetic links.

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