The woman who carries and gives birth to a child conceived through donor eggs is considered the real and biological mother.
While the egg donor provides the genetic material, the recipient mother experiences pregnancy, childbirth, and all the hormonal and physiological changes associated with motherhood. Therefore, the legal and emotional bond established during gestation and after birth solidifies her role as the mother.
Understanding the Roles
It's essential to distinguish between the genetic and gestational roles in this context:
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Egg Donor: Provides the egg. She has a genetic link to the child, but no legal or parental rights or responsibilities. The donor is often anonymous.
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Recipient Mother (Gestational Mother): Carries the pregnancy and gives birth. She is the legal and societal mother. The experience of carrying, birthing, and raising the child establishes the maternal bond.
Why the Recipient is the Mother
Several factors contribute to recognizing the recipient mother as the child's real mother:
- Gestation: The recipient mother's body nourishes and sustains the developing fetus for nine months. This intimate connection profoundly impacts both mother and child.
- Childbirth: The act of giving birth creates an undeniable bond and marks a significant transition to motherhood.
- Legal Recognition: Legal frameworks typically recognize the woman who gives birth as the legal mother, especially when donor agreements are in place.
- Parenting: The recipient mother raises the child and provides love, care, and guidance, shaping their development.
Addressing Potential Confusion
While the egg donor contributes genetic material, her role is limited to that donation. The recipient mother fully experiences the journey of motherhood. The term "real" mother can be emotionally charged, but in donor egg situations, the woman who carries, births, and raises the child is undoubtedly the mother.
