When a woman carries another woman's egg, she is acting as a gestational surrogate. This means she carries and delivers a baby for another person or couple. The intended parents' egg (or a donor egg) is fertilized via in vitro fertilization (IVF) and then implanted into the gestational carrier's uterus. The surrogate is not genetically related to the child; she only provides the womb for gestation. This is the most common type of surrogacy.
Understanding Gestational Surrogacy
- The Process: The intended parent's egg (or donor egg) is fertilized with sperm (either from the intended parent or a donor) in a laboratory using IVF. The resulting embryo is then implanted into the surrogate's uterus.
- Genetic Relationship: The child is genetically related to the intended parents (if their egg and/or sperm is used), not the gestational carrier.
- Legal Considerations: Surrogacy agreements are legally complex and vary by jurisdiction. It's crucial for all parties to have legal representation to establish parental rights and responsibilities.
Examples of Gestational Surrogacy
- A lesbian couple: One woman provides the egg, and the other carries the pregnancy. This is known as reciprocal IVF.
- A heterosexual couple: The female partner provides the egg, and a surrogate carries the pregnancy.
- A single intended parent: A single woman uses a donor egg and a surrogate to carry the pregnancy.
Contrast with Traditional Surrogacy
It's important to differentiate gestational surrogacy from traditional surrogacy. In traditional surrogacy, the surrogate also provides the egg, resulting in a genetic relationship between the child and the surrogate. Gestational surrogacy avoids this genetic connection.
Resources and Further Information
For more detailed information, refer to these resources:
