Breaking the Stigma: Traditional vs. Gestational Surrogacy

Breaking the Stigma: Traditional vs. Gestational Surrogacy

Surrogacy is a method of assisted reproduction where a woman carries and gives birth to a child for another person or couple. While it has been around for centuries, it has only recently gained more attention and acceptance in society. However, there are still many misconceptions and stigmas surrounding surrogacy, particularly when it comes to traditional surrogacy versus gestational surrogacy. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between these two types of surrogacy and break the stigma surrounding them.

Traditional Surrogacy

Traditional surrogacy, also known as genetic or partial surrogacy, is when the surrogate mother uses her own egg to become pregnant. This egg is fertilized with the intended father’s sperm through intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilization (IVF). As a result, the surrogate mother is both the biological and gestational mother of the child.

One of the main stigmas surrounding traditional surrogacy is the perceived lack of control over the genetic makeup of the child. Since the surrogate mother is using her own egg, there is a possibility that she may have a genetic connection to the child. This can lead to concerns about the surrogate mother wanting to keep the child or having a difficult time giving the child up after birth. However, it is important to note that all parties involved in the surrogacy process sign a legal contract outlining their rights and responsibilities, and the intended parents have full legal custody of the child.

Another stigma surrounding traditional surrogacy is the potential for emotional attachment between the surrogate mother and the child. This is often fueled by the belief that the surrogate mother is “giving up” her own child. However, most surrogate mothers enter into the process with a clear understanding that the child is not biologically theirs and that they are helping another family create a family. In fact, many surrogate mothers have their own children and are excited to help others experience the joy of parenthood.

Gestational Surrogacy

Breaking the Stigma: Traditional vs. Gestational Surrogacy

Gestational surrogacy, also known as full surrogacy, is when the surrogate mother carries the pregnancy but is not genetically related to the child. In this process, the intended parents’ egg and sperm are fertilized in a laboratory through IVF, and the resulting embryo is then transferred to the surrogate mother’s uterus.

One of the main stigmas surrounding gestational surrogacy is the perceived lack of emotional connection between the surrogate mother and the child. Since the surrogate mother is not genetically related to the child, some may believe that she may not bond with the child as she would with her own biological child. However, many gestational surrogate mothers have reported feeling a strong emotional connection to the child throughout the pregnancy, as they carry and nurture the child for nine months.

Another stigma surrounding gestational surrogacy is the belief that it is only for the wealthy. With the high costs of IVF and surrogacy, many may assume that only the wealthy can afford this option. However, there are various financial options and resources available, such as surrogacy agencies and grants, to make gestational surrogacy more accessible to those who may not have the financial means to pursue it.

Breaking the Stigma

Both traditional and gestational surrogacy have their own unique processes and challenges, but they both serve the same purpose – to help create families. As with any family-building option, there are risks and challenges involved, but the end result is often worth it for the intended parents. It is important to understand that surrogacy is a selfless act and not a means for financial gain. Surrogate mothers are motivated by the desire to help others and to make a positive impact in someone’s life.

In recent years, there has been a shift in public perception of surrogacy, with more people understanding and accepting it as a viable option for building families. However, there is still a long way to go in breaking the stigma surrounding traditional and gestational surrogacy. By educating ourselves and others about the process and the motivations behind it, we can help break down these stigmas and support those who choose surrogacy as their path to parenthood.

In summary, traditional and gestational surrogacy are two different methods of assisted reproduction that have their own unique processes and challenges. Traditional surrogacy involves the surrogate mother using her own egg, while gestational surrogacy involves the use of the intended parents’ egg and sperm. Both types of surrogacy are viable options for those who cannot carry a child on their own, and it is important to break the stigmas surrounding them and support those who choose surrogacy as their path to parenthood.