What is a Gestational Carrier?
A gestational carrier, or surrogate, is a woman who carries and gives birth to a baby for another person or couple. Embryos are created using the intended parents' gametes (autologous IVF), donor eggs, donor sperm, or a combination of autologous and donor tissue through in vitro fertilization (IVF). Then, these embryos are inserted into the surrogate’s uterus, hopefully resulting in a successful pregnancy. The gestational carrier has no genetic relation to the baby.
Who Can Use a Gestational Carrier?
A person or couple may consider using a gestational carrier if the intended mother:
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Has no uterus
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Has a structural issue that prevents the uterus from carrying a successful pregnancy
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Has a medical condition that prevents her from safely carrying and delivering a child
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Has a history of recurrent pregnancy loss
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Has a history of multiple unexplained IVF failures
Additionally, gestational surrogacy is an option for intended male single parents and LGBTQ+ couples who cannot produce eggs or carry a pregnancy.
How Does the Gestational Surrogacy Process Work?
First, you'll choose a surrogacy agency who will help you find a gestational carrier to go on this journey with. At Advanced Fertility Center Chicago, our goal is to support you each step of the way. Our team will work closely alongside your surrogacy agency and Reproductive Law experts to ensure you obtain the necessary legal documentation to start treatment at our clinic. Once all legalities are in place, you can begin the IVF process.