The Difference Between the Terms Gestational Carrier and Surrogate
The Difference Between the Terms Gestational Carrier and Surrogate
Wanting to help intended parents grow their family is an amazing decision! Yet, it’s not one to be taken lightly. It’s important that you do as much research as possible before signing any contracts or entering into any legal agreements. One of these aspects is making sure that the intended parents you work with are on the same page as you and choosing you for the right reasons. You’ll also want to make sure that you understand the various terms associated with surrogacy mean, and what they entail.
For instance, the terms “gestational carrier” and “surrogate” may be used interchangeably, but each one has a crucial distinction. But don’t worry. That’s what we’re for. Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Las Vegas is here to make sure that you are well-informed and feel confident before you move forward. Let’s explore together the difference between the terms gestational carrier and surrogate.
What are the Key Differences?
When researching the terms “gestational carrier” and “surrogate,” the biggest difference you’ll find is the relationship each woman has to the child, and the type of surrogacy each woman is involved in.
- A “gestational carrier” is a woman helping intended parents through gestational surrogacy. She is implanted with a fertilized embryo through IVF. Because the embryo is created from the intended parents’ egg and sperm respectively, she shares no biological connection with the child.
- A “surrogate,” on the other hand, is almost the opposite. She is a woman who is helping intended parents have a family through another type of family planning known as traditional surrogacy. Unlike a gestational carrier, her egg is used with the intended parent’s sperm to conceive a child; thus, giving her a biological connection to him or her.
Why is this Distinction Important?
Using gestational carriers via gestational surrogacy is widely accepted across the United States, and a service that we offer at Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Las Vegas. We feel this is the best choice for intended parents wanting to grow a family while still sharing a genetic connection to their child. There are also less legal complications between gestational carriers and intended parents, ensuring that everyone’s best interests remain in the forefront of the agreement.
On the flip side, with surrogates through traditional surrogacy, there are many legal complexities that add to the already emotional process of the surrogacy journey. The surrogate is the child’s biological mother, and can fight for custody or refuse to give the child to their intended parents. Because of this, traditional surrogacy has become illegal across the United States and is no longer recognized as a form of family planning.
Note for Gestational Carriers
If someone has asked you to be either a gestational carrier or surrogate for them, whether this be a stranger or a friend or family member, that’s amazing! Many women say that helping intended parents’ dreams come true is the most emotionally and spiritually gratifying journey you can ever have. Yet, it’s still important to understand the differences between gestational carrier and surrogate before making a final decision. Take the time to research and learn all you can. Talk to one of our social workers. Seek advice from our legal counsel. Double check that you live in a “surrogacy-friendly” state This will help you make the most well-informed decision and ensure a positive and successful surrogacy journey overall!
Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Las Vegas has been providing adoption and surrogacy services across in Las Vegas since 2012. For information more general to Nevada, please visit our mother site Adoption Choices of Nevada. For information specific to Reno, please visit our sister site Adoption and Surrogacy Choices of Reno. You can also call us to speak to someone now. Contact Us 24/7: CALL OR TEXT 702-474-4673
Melissa N. Martínez is exceptionally hard-working, creative, and passionate about her writing. From a very young age, she found the writing gave her the voice that she needed. Currently, she is working on writing a fantasy novel which she wished to publish someday. She hopes to one day share her writing with others and create worlds that can comfort them in their time of need.
When she is not curled up with a good book you can find her spending time playing with her dog Zelda, watching television, or baking. She has recently moved from the island of Puerto Rico to Minnesota with her husband and dog.